Planet Golf News - February 6, 2024

The LIV Golf Las Vegas tournament offers a prize money payout of $25 million, with the winner of the individual event receiving $4 million and the winning team earning $3 million. The tournament is backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund and features a 54-player field. Notable players in the field include Joaquin Niemann, Jon Rahm, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau. [golfmonthly.com]

LIV Golf has imitated the PGA Tour for their upcoming Vegas fixture in three ways. Firstly, they have scheduled their event to coincide with the Super Bowl, a tactic used by the WM Phoenix Open. Secondly, they have created a "Party hole" similar to the famous par-3 16th hole at the WM Phoenix Open. Lastly, LIV Golf is aligning their major events with the schedule of the PGA Tour, targeting the same weekends for their tournaments. [essentiallysports.com]

Shane Lowry playfully taunts his golf friend Billy Horschel, a West Ham fan, after Manchester United's 3-0 victory over West Ham. Lowry shared a photo of the result on Instagram with a caption directed at Horschel. This is not the first time Lowry has teased Horschel, as he previously did so after a match between the two teams in 2022. Lowry has also been on the receiving end of playful banter from Tommy Fleetwood. [thesun.ie]

DP World Tour star Pablo Larrazabal mocks the PGA Tour for reducing its signature event to a 54-hole finish due to bad weather at Pebble Beach. Larrazabal highlights that the DP World Tour always plays 72-hole tournaments and takes a dig at the PGA Tour's cost. The tweet reflects concerns about the ongoing framework agreement between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and Saudi PIF. [golfmagic.com]

Joaquin Niemann won the LIV Mayakoba title but fell in the world rankings, highlighting a long-standing issue with the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) in LIV Golf. Despite the win, LIV Golf events do not acquire world ranking points, causing players to drop in the rankings. Niemann expressed his frustration and hopes to catch the attention of major championships' governing bodies to earn an invite and become a major champion. [mirror.co.uk]

Wyndham Clark praises Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, and Patrick Cantlay for their efforts in ensuring the PGA Tour makes the right moves. Clark decided not to join LIV Golf after receiving the chance, crediting others who stayed on tour and worked towards effective decision-making. Cantlay and Woods also had offers from LIV but chose to stay on the PGA Tour. LIV Golf's changes to the sport, including the format and infusion of money, influenced the PGA Tour to make policy changes and make LIV Golf less enticing to golfers. [sportskeeda.com]

Rory McIlroy had a disappointing performance at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, resulting in his lowest OWGR point accumulation in a decade. His bottom-half finish and indifferent gameplay affected his ranking, earning him the lowest points for his career, except for when he missed the cut. Meanwhile, Wyndham Clark and Ludvig Aberg saw significant improvements in their rankings after their performances at the Pro-Am. [essentiallysports.com]

The 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am ended with a 54-hole finish due to heavy rain and strong gusts, leading to Pablo Larrazabal mocking the PGA Tour and comparing it to the 54-hole LIV Golf format. Wyndham Clark finished at the top of the leaderboard, winning $3.6 million out of the $20 million prize purse. [sporskeeda.com]

Joaquin Niemann's dream of competing in major golf tournaments has been mocked by a PGA Tour pro, sparking criticism from LIV Golf fans. Niemann expressed his desire to win majors after his recent win at Mayakoba, but was met with a one-word jab from Michael Kim. The comment has divided the golf community, with some defending Niemann and others hoping for positive news from the merger talks between the PGA Tour and PIF. [essentiallysports.com]

Golfer Michael Kim downplays the importance of caddies, stating that they are just one variable among many in a golfer's performance. He mentions that Rory McIlroy could have won four majors with any caddie, including himself. Despite suggestions to change his caddie, McIlroy has no plans to part ways with Harry Diamond, with whom he has a long-standing relationship. [sportskeeda.com]

Jessica Korda, a six-time LPGA Tour winner, has announced the birth of her first child, a son named Greyson. She shared the news on her social media platforms along with an image of her and her husband's hands holding the hand of their newborn. Congratulations poured in from well-known figures in the golf community. This comes just over a week after Jessica's sister, Nelly, won the LPGA Drive On Championship. Jessica had originally announced her pregnancy in August and has now begun her journey into motherhood after overcoming injuries. [golfmonthly.com]

Jerry Kelly, a longtime PGA Tour member, shares his perspective on the major changes happening in the PGA Tour and golf. He expresses hesitancy about the Strategic Sports Group's investment in the PGA Tour and believes the money should be used to build up the game for future generations. Kelly also discusses the USGA and R&A rollback of the golf ball, stating that it is meant to benefit elite golfers and courses, not amateurs. He reassures amateurs that they won't notice any difference and advises them not to worry about it. [fansided.com]

With more big-money signings for LIV and billions of dollars being pumped into the PGA Tour, Golfshake's Derek Clements is feeling just a little bit dispirited by what he's seeing in the men's professional game. Sharing his latest View From The Fairway, Derek describes a story that reminded him of what things were once about. [golfshake.com]

This article discusses the drop in world rankings for LIV Golf players since joining the circuit. It highlights players like Paul Casey, Bryson DeChambeau, Sergio Garcia, and others who have seen significant declines in their rankings. The article emphasizes the importance of world ranking points for qualifying for major tournaments and explores the impact of LIV Golf on players' rankings. [golfmonthly.com]

This article discusses the need for the world rankings and major golf tournaments to recognize LIV Golf. The recent wins by Joaquin Niemann and Wyndham Clark highlight the confusion and inconsistencies in the current system. The article argues that LIV Golf players deserve recognition and invites the majors to consider inviting LIV tournament winners or top finishers on the season-long points list. This would ensure that the best players in the world are competing in the major championships. [golfmonthly.com]

Anthony Kim, a former professional golfer, withdrew from the PGA Tour in 2012 and never returned, leaving behind a mysterious legacy. Despite his limited success on the course, his potential and enigmatic persona garnered a cult following. Recent reports suggest that Kim may be making a comeback with LIV Golf. This article explores the enduring mystery surrounding Kim's departure and speculates on his future in the sport. [golfdigest.com]

Joaquin Niemann's exclusion from three Majors despite winning the Mayakoba tournament is addressed by LIV Golf analyst Jerry Foltz, who expresses disappointment and believes Niemann deserves a spot. Niemann himself expresses his disappointment at not being able to participate in the Majors. Despite this, he won a substantial amount by winning the Mayakoba tournament, defeating Sergio Garcia in a playoff round and earning $4,000,000. [sportskeeda.com]

Caddying at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am provides insights into the character of USGA president Fred Perpall. Perpall, known for his people skills and work ethic, is relatively new to golf but has quickly developed a passion for the game. The article highlights Perpall's personal story, his dedication to improving his golf game, and his ability to connect with people. The author also shares his own experience caddying for Perpall and reflects on the charm and beauty of Pebble Beach. [golf.com]

Joaquin Niemann expressed his desire to play and win a major championship after winning the LIV Golf Mayakoba. Fans had mixed reactions, with some acknowledging that he knew the consequences of joining the PIF-sponsored league. Currently, Niemann is only eligible to compete in the Open Championship in 2024. [sportskeeda.com]

PGA Tour star Viktor Hovland has withdrawn from the Phoenix Open, sparking speculation about his potential move to LIV Golf. While fans speculated about his future, Hovland clarified that he withdrew to work on his game and seek advice from his new coach before the Genesis Invitational. Hovland's decision to withdraw added fuel to the rumors surrounding LIV Golf, but he remains focused on improving his form for the upcoming tournaments, including The Masters. [golfmagic.com]

Bryson DeChambeau teases the possibility of Paige Spiranac caddying for him at the LIV Golf Vegas event. They have collaborated on videos before, with Spiranac caddying for DeChambeau in a practice round. Spiranac's boyfriend remains unknown, and DeChambeau is currently dating Lilia Schneider. DeChambeau's caddie in 2024 is Greg Bodine. The LIV Golf Vegas event has been rescheduled to start on Thursday and conclude on Saturday. [golfmagic.com]

Fans react to Wyndham Clark's decision to reject LIV Golf and maintain his legacy on the PGA Tour. Clark's reasons were met with mixed reactions, with some fans criticizing his demand for $100m and others questioning the validity of his legacy. Despite the controversy, Clark recently won his third PGA Tour event at the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, solidifying his position on the Tour. [sportskeeda.com]

Viktor Hovland's withdrawal from the WM Phoenix Open has sparked speculation among fans about a potential move to LIV Golf. While the reason for his withdrawal has not been confirmed, fans have linked it to Hovland potentially joining LIV Golf, with some referring to him as the "Future Cleeks co captain" and others stating "Vik to Liv confirmed." Hovland, one of the top players in the world, had previously declined an offer to join LIV Golf and become co-captain of the Cleeks GC team. [sportskeeda.com]

Wyndham Clark made several club swaps, including a new Odyssey Ai-One putter, TaylorMade Qi10 3 wood, Mizuno Pro FliHi driving iron, and Vokey SM10 wedges. Ping's new S159 wedges are popular among players. Center-shafted putters are trending again on the PGA Tour. Rory McIlroy discussed his switch to a soon-to-be-released TaylorMade golf ball and praised its performance. Mitsubishi introduced new putter shafts with various flex options. Scottie Scheffler is testing Olson putters. [golf.com]

The Commercial Bank Qatar Masters at Doha Golf Club offers a prize fund of $2.5m, with the winner receiving $425,000. This year's prize money is the same as the Bahrain Championship. The 2024 DP World Tour season also includes added incentives, such as $200,000 for each winner of the five Global Swings phases and bonuses for the top 10 players in the Race To Dubai Rankings. Sami Valimaki was the winner of the 2023 edition, beating Jorge Campillo in a playoff. [golfmonthly.com]

Brett Coletta emerged as the winner of the Vic Open, defeating Jordan Zunic in a head-to-head duel. Coletta shot a remarkable 7-under-par 65 in the final round to claim his third Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia title and move up to second place on the Order of Merit. Andrew Martin finished tied for second with Zunic, while Jed Morgan had a strong performance with an 8-under-par 64. Coletta expressed his excitement and hopes to continue his success in bigger events like the PGA and the Australian Open. [pga.org.au]

The PGA TOUR's Pathway to Progression has announced the field for the inaugural Bridgestone Collegiate Invitational, featuring top-level NCAA Division I men's golf programs, historically Black colleges and universities, and high-ranking individual golfers from underrepresented communities. The event will take place on March 25-26 at Silverado Country Club in Napa, California, and will be a 54-hole team and individual stroke-play event. The individual winner will earn an exemption into a 2024 Korn Ferry Tour event. The Bridgestone Collegiate Development Program aims to enhance opportunities for golfers from HBCUs and underrepresented communities. [pgatour.com]

Andy Barbin Sr. and his older brother Harry Barbin, both PGA professionals, have passed on their love for golf to their four sons. The Barbin family runs Chesapeake Bay Golf Club in Maryland, with each family member involved in various aspects of the business. The brothers, Andrew Jr., Zach, Austin, and Evan, have all played competitive golf and are on their way to becoming PGA members themselves. They enjoy playing and competing together and are proud of their shared passion for the game. [pga.com]

Jon Rahm and his Legion XIII team won the LIV Golf Mayakoba on their debut, beating Bryson DeChambeau's Crusher GC by one shot. Rahm praised his team and stated that they are a force to be reckoned with. In terms of winnings, Legion XIII received $3 million for the team portion, while Joaquin Niemann won $4 million in the individual portion. [sportskeeda.com]

In the early days of golf, there was no limit to the number of clubs a golfer could carry. However, as the number of clubs players carried increased, golfing authorities decided to impose a limit to maintain the need for skill and prevent the less affluent players from being disadvantaged. Since January 1, 1938, golfers have been allowed to carry a maximum of 14 clubs during a round. [golfmonthly.com]

A TPC golf course stands for Tournament Players Club and is a chain of private golf courses operated by the PGA Tour. These courses are designed to accommodate large crowds at high-profile tournaments and are owned by the PGA Tour. TPC Sawgrass is the most famous TPC course and hosts The Players Championship. There are 32 TPC courses, mainly in the United States, that have frequently hosted events on the Korn Ferry Tour and the PGA Tour Champions. [bunkered.co.uk]

Golfer's elbow, also known as Medial Epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by pain from the elbow to the wrist on the inside of the arm. It is caused by inflammation of the tendons connecting the elbow to the wrist due to repetitive wrist and arm motions. Treatment options include rest, ice, compression, elevation, anti-inflammatory medications, braces, splints, physiotherapy, steroid injections, and massages. Prevention methods include stretches, strengthening forearm muscles, maintaining correct form, and using proper equipment. [golfmonthly.com]

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, affecting around 10% of the UK population. Tiger Woods recently withdrew from The Masters due to this injury. The condition is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that supports the foot's arch. Non-surgical treatment options include rest, ice, compression, elevation, physiotherapy, night splints, and anti-inflammatory medication. Surgical treatment may involve calf lengthening or plantar fascia release. Stretching exercises and wearing appropriate footwear can help prevent and alleviate symptoms. [golfmonthly.com]

In this episode of Playing From The Tips, the focus is on the Phoenix Open, LIV Vegas, and the Players Series Sydney. The podcast hosts preview and provide tips for these events, with a record of 10 top-10s from the previous week. [golfaustralia.com.au]

In 2024, golf drivers are focusing on increasing the moment of inertia (MOI) to resist twisting on off-center hits. Major golf equipment makers like Ping and TaylorMade are offering their highest MOI drivers ever. More companies are using weight-saving materials like carbon fiber in drivers, allowing engineers to redistribute mass into performance-enhancing locations. Several driver makers are offering multiple models in 2024, each suited to golfers looking for different specific traits. To find the best driver, it's recommended to work with a custom fitter and use a launch monitor to compare different clubs. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

PUMA Golf and Rickie Fowler have collaborated with DJ Kygo and Palm Tree Crew to release the latest PUMA x PTC collection. Inspired by Fowler's SoCal roots and Kygo's tropical lifestyle, the collection includes shirts, hoodies, caps, socks, shoes, women's looks, and a Limited-Edition COBRA driver. The collection will be showcased at the WM Phoenix Open, where Fowler will compete and host the N9NE Lounge. PUMA, PTC, Rickie, and Kygo will also host a hospitality lounge at the tournament. The collection is available on the PUMA and Palm Tree Crew websites and select retail locations. [golfmagic.com]

The PXG Black Ops metal woods, including drivers, fairway woods, and hybrids, offer high performance with new face materials, geometry, and manufacturing processes designed for consistency and distance. The Black Ops Tour-1 driver, in particular, stood out for its ability to reduce spin and improve aim, while the Black Ops 3-wood was praised for its easy launch and control. The Black Ops 5-wood offered extra height and spin, making it a good fit for those who prefer to hit high. The Black Ops line is suitable for golfers of all handicaps. [golf.com]

The Cleveland Halo XL Full-Face irons are visually striking with their large head profile and unique sole design. They feature full-face grooves and performed well in terms of distance and ball flight. The sole design allows for a variety of swing types, but performance in rough lies may be a slight concern. Overall, these irons aim to make the game easier and they deliver on that mission. [golfmonthly.com]

The TravisMathew Coastal Cloud Hoodie is a versatile and comfortable piece of golf apparel. Made with FiberSoft fabric, it offers a soft and breathable feel. The clean design and subtle branding make it suitable for both on-course and casual wear. The hoodie comes in 5 colorways and retails at $159/£119. [golfmonthly.com]

Dylan Frittelli won the Bahrain Championship using Callaway and Odyssey technology, including the Ai Smoke Driver and Chrome Tour X Golf Ball. The Ai Smoke Driver features a sophisticated face with sweet spots all over, while the Chrome Tour X Golf Ball offers distance, workability, and spin. Frittelli also used an Odyssey putter and had a successful performance with Callaway equipment. [golfmagic.com]

Wyndham Clark won the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am with a record-setting Saturday 60 at Pebble Beach Golf Links. He used the Odyssey Ai One Jailbird Cruiser mallet putter, Titleist TSR3 driver, Titleist Pro V1x ball, TaylorMade Qi10 3-wood, Mizuno Pro Fli Hi and Titleist 620 CB irons, and Titleist Vokey SM10 and Vokey WedgeWorks wedges. [golfdigest.com]

PGA Tour star Rory McIlroy and LIV Golf winner Joaquin Niemann were both penalized with two-stroke penalties during their respective rounds in Mexico and California. McIlroy's penalty was due to a rule change regarding dropping the ball, while Niemann's penalty was for taking too much relief from a cart path. Despite the penalties, Niemann went on to win the LIV Golf title. [thesun.ie]

In 1999, a ruling on a loose impediment involving a one-ton boulder and Tiger Woods during the Phoenix Open caused controversy in the golf world. Despite some feeling it gave Woods an unfair advantage, the ruling was aligned with the official Rules of Golf. The incident still sparks discussion and is remembered as one of the most bizarre scenes in professional golf history. [pgatour.com]

There is a brand new golf course coming to London this summer - and it's set to be a cracker. The Inspiration Club will be launched on June 1, 2024 and this unique golf course is set to offer an unparalleled golfing experience in the heart of London. [golfshake.com]

The Lions Municipal Golf Course in Austin, Texas, known as Muny, is at risk of being sold for development. The course, one of the oldest public golf courses in Texas and the first desegregated public course in the South, is currently operating on a five-month rolling lease after the city's lease expired in 2019. Supporters, including golf legend Ben Crenshaw, are fighting to preserve the course due to its historical and social significance. However, the land, which could be worth over $750 million, could be used for high-density housing, commercial offices, and upscale retail stores. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Slowing down your backswing in golf may not be beneficial. According to golf instructor Jon Tattersall, a balanced blend of speed in the backswing and downswing is more effective for consistent results. Slowing down the backswing can lead to over-acceleration in the transition, causing mishits. Instead, focus on finding a balanced swing speed and tempo for better ball-striking ability. [golf.com]

Golf Monthly Top 50 Coach Barney Puttick shares three tips to escape from trees during a golf round: choose the right club to keep the ball under the branches, get creative when beside a tree by possibly playing one-handed with your back to the target, and consider flipping the club around and playing left-handed. Practicing these escape shots can help avoid high scores. [golfmonthly.com]

Camelback's Ambiente Course in Phoenix underwent a major renovation in 2013, improving playability and flood resiliency. The course offers a links-golf experience and is highly recommended for visitors to the Phoenix area. With wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens, it provides an enjoyable yet challenging round of golf. [golf.com]

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.