Planet Golf News for Friday, October 18, 2024

Joel Dahmen gets max penalty for too many clubs in his bag at Shriners Children's Open | Three Players Hold Narrow Lead After First Round at BMW Ladies Championship | Julien Guerrier goes low to lead in Andalucía

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PGN News Team
October 18, 2024 • Reading Time: 20 minutes

Friday, October 18, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

This week in the golf world has been full of drama, exciting performances, and a few unexpected twists.

Joel Dahmen had a tough go at the Shriners Children’s Open after a shocking four-shot penalty for carrying an extra 4-iron in his bag. Dahmen’s score, originally a 72, was bumped up to a 76, making it much harder for him to make the cut and hold on to his PGA Tour card. Understandably frustrated, Dahmen explained that he often brings extra clubs for testing. This incident, though, could make his bubble status on the PGA Tour even more precarious.

In another shake-up, Jordan Spieth has dropped out of the top 50 in the world rankings for the first time since early 2021. After struggling with form and recovering from a wrist surgery, the former world No. 1 now finds himself ranked 51st. Spieth is currently focused on healing and getting back into the groove, with fans eager to see if he can return to his old dominant self.

Meanwhile, Jimmy Dunne, a key figure behind the PGA Tour’s deal with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has been appointed to the board of Troon Golf. Troon manages close to 1,000 golf clubs globally, and Dunne is excited to bring his leadership skills to the company. It’s another step in his already impressive career blending golf and business.

On the tournament front, Taylor Pendrith made headlines at the Shriners Children’s Open in Las Vegas. Pendrith fired a scorching 61 in his opening round, tying his career low, and grabbed a three-shot lead. He racked up ten birdies without a single bogey, putting himself in a strong position for the rest of the event. Defending champion Tom Kim had a rockier start, sitting at 2-under after a shaky round, and now has his work cut out for him if he hopes to three-peat. The field is stacked with big names like Rickie Fowler, Jason Day, and Matt Kuchar, so it’s shaping up to be a thrilling weekend.

Over on the LPGA Tour, the BMW Ladies Championship in South Korea kicked off with Ashleigh Buhai, Hannah Green, and Jenny Shin all tied for the lead after firing matching 8-under 64s. The competition is fierce, with a host of other top players lurking just behind them. The event has drawn a star-studded field, including Olympic medalists and multiple major champions, making it a must-watch as the weekend unfolds.

Across the Atlantic, Julien Guerrier stormed to the lead at the Andalucía Masters on the DP World Tour with a blistering 10-under 62. He flirted with a rare sub-60 round but ultimately had to settle for the lead. Jon Rahm, despite not having the best opening round, is still making waves by fulfilling his Ryder Cup eligibility requirements.

As for the seniors, the PGA Tour Champions’ Dominion Energy Charity Classic gets underway in Virginia today, with Glen Day fighting to secure a spot in the upcoming Charles Schwab Cup playoffs.

With high-stakes action in both men’s and women’s golf, equipment controversies, and leaderboard shake-ups, it’s been a week to remember. Stay tuned—there’s sure to be more excitement as the tournaments progress!

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Dahmen, on tour bubble, hit with 4-shot penalty

Joel Dahmen received a four-shot penalty at the Shriners Children's Open after discovering an extra 4-iron in his bag, impacting his chances to retain his PGA Tour card. The penalty turned his score from 72 to 76, complicating his effort to make the cut. Dahmen expressed frustration over the incident, noting he typically travels with more than 14 clubs for testing purposes.

Jordan Spieth falls out of the top 50 in the world ranking for the first time in more than 3 ½ years

Jordan Spieth has fallen out of the top 50 in the world golf rankings for the first time since March 2021, now ranked 51st. After a series of poor performances and a wrist injury that required surgery, he has struggled since a strong showing in April 2023. Spieth is currently sidelined and focusing on recovery, aiming to return to form in the future.

Jimmy Dunne, who helped broker original PGA Tour-PIF deal, named to board of one of golf's major players

Jimmy Dunne, known for his role in brokering the PGA Tour's deal with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, has been appointed to the board of Troon Golf, which manages nearly 1,000 golf clubs worldwide. Dunne, a prominent Wall Street figure and passionate golfer, expressed enthusiasm for contributing to Troon's growth and innovation in golf-related hospitality. His extensive background includes co-founding Sandler O'Neill & Partners and advising on major financial transactions. Troon President Tim Schantz welcomed Dunne, highlighting his leadership and commitment to excellence.

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Taylor Pendrith flirts with sub-60 round, shoots sizzling 61 to lead at 2024 Shriners Children's Open

Shriners Children’s Open - PGA Tour - TPC Summerlin - Las Vegas, NV

The 2024 Shriners Children's Open is currently underway at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas, Nevada. Canadian golfer Taylor Pendrith has taken an early lead with an impressive opening round of 10-under 61, matching his career-low score. Pendrith's stellar performance included ten birdies and no bogeys, giving him a three-shot advantage over a group of players tied at 7-under.

Defending champion Tom Kim, aiming for his third consecutive title at this event, had a rocky start but managed to recover. After being 3-over through five holes, Kim rallied to finish his round at 2-under. However, he'll need to make up ground on Friday to ensure he makes the cut and keeps his hopes alive for a three-peat.

The tournament has attracted several notable PGA Tour champions, including Rickie Fowler, Cameron Champ, Jason Day, Matt Kuchar, and Gary Woodland. These additions to the field have heightened the competition and excitement surrounding the event.

In an interesting equipment note, Beau Hossler is playing with two 5-irons in his bag, one of which is actually strengthened to 4-iron loft but still labeled as a 5-iron. Hossler explained that this unique setup allows him to achieve his preferred offset look while maintaining consistent gapping in his iron set.

As the tournament progresses, players will be vying not only for the title but also for crucial FedExCup Fall points. With the leaderboard tightly packed behind Pendrith, the coming days promise exciting golf action at TPC Summerlin.

Shriners Children’s Open Stories

Shriners Children’s Open Videos

Buhai, Green and Shin lead in South Korea after 8-under 64s in first round

BMW Ladies Championship - LPGA - Seowon Valley Country Club, Gyeonggi-do, Korea

The 2024 BMW Ladies Championship is underway at the Seowon Valley Country Club in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, featuring a star-studded field of LPGA Tour players. After the first round, three players have taken the lead, each carding impressive 8-under 64s: Ashleigh Buhai of South Africa, Hannah Green of Australia, and Jenny Shin of South Korea.

Close behind the leaders is South Korea's Haeran Ryu, who shot a 7-under 65. The leaderboard remains tight, with six golfers tied at 6-under and eleven players, including tournament favorite Lydia Ko of New Zealand, sitting at 5-under.

The tournament boasts a strong field, with eight of the top ten LPGA Tour players participating and 17 of this season's 18 winners in attendance. Notable absentees include American Nelly Korda, who withdrew due to a neck injury, and 2021 champion Jin Young Ko.

This year's event carries extra significance as it features Olympic medalists from the recent Paris Games. Gold medalist Lydia Ko and silver medalist Esther Henseleit are both competing, adding to the tournament's prestige. Additionally, all four reigning major champions are in the field, promising an exciting competition.

The BMW Ladies Championship, now in its sixth edition, has become a highlight of the LPGA Tour's Asian swing. The Seowon Hills Course, a par-72 layout measuring 6,666 yards, is hosting the event for the second consecutive year, providing a challenging test for the world's best female golfers.

As the tournament progresses, fans can expect fierce competition with many of South Korea's top talents vying for victory on home soil. The presence of multiple major champions and Olympic medalists ensures that this year's BMW Ladies Championship will be a closely watched event in the world of women's golf.

BMW Ladies Championship Stories

BMW Ladies Championship Videos

Charles Schwab Cup bubble watch: Arkansas’ Glen Day eyes spot in hometown Simmons Bank Championship

Dominion Energy Charity - PGA Tour Champions - The Country Club of Virginia - Richmond, VA

The Dominion Energy Charity Classic, a PGA TOUR Champions event, is set to take place beginning today at The Country Club of Virginia in Richmond, Virginia. This tournament marks the first event of the Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs, featuring a field of 69 top senior golfers competing for a $2.3 million purse, with the winner taking home $350,000.

Dominion Energy Charity Stories

Andalucia Masters: Jon Rahm makes poor start but fulfils Ryder Cup eligibility requirement as Julien Guerrier leads

Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucia Masters - DP World Tour - Real Club de Golf Sotogrande - Andalucia, Spain

The Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucía Masters is currently underway at the Real Club de Golf Sotogrande in Andalucía, Spain. After the first round, Julien Guerrier of France has taken the lead with an impressive 10-under-par 62. Guerrier's outstanding performance included a blistering front nine, where he shot a 29, and he maintained his momentum on the back nine. His round raised hopes of potentially carding only the second 59 in DP World Tour history, though he ultimately fell short of that mark.

Following closely behind Guerrier is England's Dan Brown, who sits one shot back after carding a 63. Brown's round was particularly notable for his exceptional play on the back nine, which he completed in just 29 strokes. Spain's Jorge Campillo is in third place, two strokes behind the leader.

The tournament has attracted several high-profile players, including two-time major winner Jon Rahm. However, Rahm struggled in the opening round, finishing with a 70 that left him eight shots off the lead. Despite his difficulties, Rahm's participation is significant as it fulfills his requirement to remain eligible for next year's Ryder Cup.

Other notable performances include Tom McKibbin, Jordan L. Smith, and Fabrizio Zanotti, who all shot 5-under-par 67s to position themselves well after the first day.

The event, now in its tenth edition, is part of the DP World Tour schedule and continues to draw a strong field of international golfers. As the tournament progresses, players will be battling not only for the title but also for crucial points in the Race to Dubai standings.

Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucia Masters Stories

Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucia Masters Videos

The Ryder Cup (Sept 22-28, 2025)

The real sin of $750 Bethpage Ryder Cup tickets isn’t the price

The $750 ticket price for the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black is criticized not just for its cost but for undermining the course's legacy of inclusivity and accessibility. The PGA of America defends the price increase as a reflection of market forces and the costs of hosting a major event, but this move is seen as a betrayal of Bethpage's ethos, which has historically welcomed golfers of all backgrounds. The article raises concerns about the implications of such pricing on the event's reputation and the broader golf community.

'We View Ourselves As A Tier One Event' - Ryder Cup Organizer Defends Huge Ticket Price Rises

The PGA of America defends significant ticket price increases for the Ryder Cup, asserting its status as a "Tier One" event comparable to major sports finals. Tickets for competition days are priced at $750, with practice day tickets at $423.64. Championship director Bryan Karns cites high demand and the event's all-day nature, including food and beverages, as justifications for the pricing. He emphasizes the unique experience attendees can expect, likening it to a Disney-like value proposition.

Current World No. 1535: "I've still got one more Ryder Cup in me"

Chris Wood, a former European Ryder Cup member, believes he has one more appearance left in the contest despite struggling with chronic anxiety and loss of form. At 36, he aims to regain his competitive edge and earn his card back after a challenging period in his career. Wood reflects on his mental health journey and expresses optimism about his future in golf, stating he still feels capable of contributing at a high level, including another Ryder Cup appearance.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Beau Hossler explains why he's using two 5-irons at Shriners Children’s Open

Beau Hossler uses two 5-irons in his bag at the Shriners Children’s Open, with one being a "specialty 5-iron" designed for offset. He explains that the second 5-iron is modified to have a stronger loft and increased offset, effectively functioning as a 4-iron. Hossler is hands-on with his equipment, applying lead tape to his clubs for optimal weight and feel. Currently, he ranks 65th in the FedExCup Fall standings after achieving three top-10 finishes in 2024.

3 drives every golfer needs and how to hit them without changing your swing

To improve your golf game, three essential tee shots are recommended: a high bomb, a stock draw, and a fairway finder. Adjusting ball position and tee height allows you to change spin rate and trajectory without altering your swing. For a high bomb, tee the ball high and position it near your front instep. For a stock draw, move the ball back slightly and lower the tee. For a fairway finder, position the ball even further back and tee it lower to achieve a lower flight. Aim adjustments are necessary based on the shot type to ensure proper ball flight.

This is the 25th year since Titleist introduced what would become the most popular ball in golf

The Titleist Pro V1 golf ball, introduced in October 2000, has become the most popular ball in golf, with over 4,000 professional victories attributed to it. Initially launched at the PGA Tour’s Invensys Classic, it quickly gained traction, leading to an early retail release due to high demand. The Pro V1's design combines the spin and control of traditional balls with the distance of modern ones, and it remains a staple in professional golf, with the latest versions being introduced for the 2025 season.

Best golf jackets for cold weather golf in 2024

As temperatures drop, it's essential to have the right golf jackets for cold weather. This list features top picks from brands like Radmor, Sun Day Red, Malbon Golf, and more, including styles like puffer jackets, pullovers, and windbreakers, suitable for both on and off the golf course. Notable options include the Radmor Chappie Recycled Jacket, Sun Day Red Insulated Grid Jacket, and TravisMathew Venture Sherpa Jacket, among others.

Overheard in the Club House

This small change to Lydia Ko's setup led to big wins in 2024 and a place in the LPGA Hall of Fame

Lydia Ko's recent success in golf, including three victories and a consistent top-10 finish in her last six tournaments, is attributed to a small change in her setup: teeing the ball lower with her driver. This adjustment has improved her fairway accuracy significantly, allowing her to hit 91% of fairways at the Kroger Queen City Championship and 88% in her last three LPGA starts. Ko's strategic change has proven effective, contributing to her performance in the 2024 BMW Ladies Championship and her place in the LPGA Hall of Fame.

Watch this Massachusetts high school golfer finish his career off the perfect way — with a hole-in-one

Owen McCall, a high school golfer from Marshfield, Massachusetts, concluded his career in a remarkable fashion by achieving a hole-in-one during his final match on Senior Day. Despite initial worries, McCall's tee shot landed perfectly in the cup, marking his first hole-in-one. The moment was captured on video by the Marshfield Student Broadcasting team. McCall, who served as a captain and was praised for his leadership, leaves behind a successful season for the Rams, who finished with a 12-4 record.

Arizona And Northwestern Take College Honors At The Home Of Golf

Northwestern University and the University of Arizona won the men's and women's titles respectively at the St Andrews Links Collegiate event. Northwestern triumphed in the men's matchplay with a 4.5-1.5 victory, while Arizona matched that score in the women's competition. Coaches praised their teams for their resilience in challenging weather conditions, highlighting the significance of competing at the historic Old Course. St Andrews secured third place in both events against Howard University, which marked its first participation in the tournament.

Scottie Scheffler to make another appearance on ESPN's College GameDay at Georgia vs. Texas

Scottie Scheffler will appear on ESPN's College GameDay as a guest picker during the highly anticipated game between Texas and Georgia. This follows his previous appearance where he received the Jack Nicklaus Award for being the 2022 PGA Tour Player of the Year. The announcement was made by Kirk Herbstreit on the Pat McAfee Show, and Scheffler's participation adds to the show's tradition of featuring notable golf figures.

All that Presidents Cup testiness? Here's Scottie Scheffler's take

Scottie Scheffler discussed the recent Presidents Cup controversy on GOLF's Subpar, highlighting the competitive spirit and drama of the event, including his spirited celebration after a birdie putt and interactions with opponents. He acknowledged that the heightened emotions were expected in such a charged team environment and emphasized that the competitive banter added to the enjoyment of the event.

Why Tiger Woods only wears glove on certain short-game shots

Tiger Woods wears a glove for certain short-game shots, particularly bunker shots, to maintain grip and control. While gloves can limit feel on shorter shots, Woods finds that wearing one during harder swings, like those from bunkers, prevents the club from twisting in his hand, providing added security and stability.

Rickey Howler, Tiger Woofs and Doggie Pepper: Doggone it! Rescue puppies given some of the cutest golfer pun names

A Good Samaritan rescued an emaciated dog and her ten puppies in Missouri, naming them after famous golfers like Rickie Fowler and Tiger Woods. The rescue, coinciding with a fundraising golf tournament, highlights the cuteness of the names such as Doggie Pepper and Inbee Bark. Fortunately, all the animals found a foster home shortly after their rescue.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

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Latest FedExCup Standings

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UPCOMING TOURS

PGA TOUR Schedule 2024

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

LIV Golf Schedule 2024

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

LPGA Tour Schedule 2024

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

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