Planet Golf News for Monday, December 16, 2024

Jake Knapp, Patty Tavatanakit win 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational | Lanto Griffin fires a 63 at Dye’s Valley to win PGA Tour Q-School | Shaun Norris of South Africa wins Alfred Dunhill Championship by a single shot

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PGN News Team
December 16, 2024

Monday, December 16, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

The past week in golf brought thrilling finishes, emotional victories, and moments of inspiration as players closed out their 2024 seasons and set the stage for an exciting 2025. From a dynamic mixed-team victory in Florida to a dramatic comeback in South Africa, here’s a closer look at the biggest stories making waves in the golf world.

Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp stole the spotlight at the Grant Thornton Invitational in Naples, Florida, delivering a wire-to-wire performance that showcased teamwork and grit. Playing a unique format that combined PGA and LPGA players, the duo’s opening scramble score of 58 set the tone for the event. Their consistent play across alternate shot and modified fourball formats sealed a one-stroke victory over Jeeno Thitikul and Tom Kim. Their final tally of 27-under par not only earned them the trophy but also a $1 million payday, capping off a spectacular season for the pair. The event, only in its second year, continues to grow in prestige, offering a refreshing mix of collaboration and competition. This format truly highlights how diverse skill sets can thrive when blended, with players like Nelly Korda and Daniel Berger sharing insights that go beyond the scorecard.

Meanwhile, at the famed TPC Sawgrass, the PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry delivered its own brand of drama as six players earned their coveted PGA Tour cards for 2025. Leading the pack was Lanto Griffin, whose final-round 63 secured his spot at the top. Veterans like Griffin and rookies such as Matthew Riedel and Takumi Kanaya demonstrated resilience under pressure, navigating a grueling 72-hole test that offered no margin for error. The stakes were sky-high, with 171 players vying for just a handful of cards, making every birdie – and every misstep – feel monumental. This return to Q-School as a direct path to the PGA Tour continues to inject excitement into the sport, proving that hard work and determination can unlock the doors to golf’s biggest stages.

Across the globe, South African Shaun Norris delivered a stirring victory at the Alfred Dunhill Championship in Malelane. Starting the final round six shots back, Norris unleashed a stellar 5-under 67 that included an eagle and five birdies. His clutch play on the back nine, coupled with some late stumbles from leader Ryan van Velzen, clinched his second DP World Tour title by a single stroke. For Norris, this triumph was deeply personal, coming after a challenging year where his family’s support was crucial. Set against the stunning backdrop of Leopard Creek, bordering Kruger National Park, the tournament was a reminder of golf’s ability to inspire not just through skill but through perseverance.

As the year winds down, the golf world is abuzz with what lies ahead. Tiger Woods is set to return at the PNC Championship alongside his son Charlie, bringing excitement to fans eager to see him back in action. Meanwhile, Jessica Korda is eyeing a 2026 return after a maternity break, and Charley Hull’s viral moments and stellar performances in 2024 hint at a breakout season to come. Joel Dahmen’s reflections on life after Netflix fame add a human touch to the whirlwind of professional golf, reminding us all that balance is key – whether you’re chasing titles or managing newfound stardom.

With these stories fueling anticipation, 2025 promises to be another blockbuster year for golf. From fresh faces taking their first steps on the PGA Tour to established stars continuing to shine, the future of the game has never looked brighter.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Patty Tavatanakit, Jake Knapp Win Second Edition of the Grant Thornton Invitational

Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp won the Grant Thornton Invitational, finishing one stroke ahead of Jeeno Thitikul and Tom Kim. The duo showcased strong teamwork and impressive putting skills, securing their victory with a final score of 27-under par. Tavatanakit expressed excitement about her performance and the partnership with Knapp as they look forward to the next season.

Meet the six players who earned their TOUR cards at 2025 PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry

Six players earned their PGA TOUR cards at the 2025 Q-School, including Lanto Griffin, who shot a final-round 63, and newcomers Takumi Kanaya, Will Chandler, and Matthew Riedel, showcasing their skills under pressure to secure their spots for the upcoming season.

Alfred Dunhill Championship: Shaun Norris wins on home soil in South Africa to claim his second DP World Tour title

Shaun Norris won the Alfred Dunhill Championship in South Africa, claiming his second DP World Tour title by coming from six shots behind, finishing with an eagle and five birdies. His nearest competitor, Ryan van Velzen, faltered on the final hole, allowing Norris to secure a one-shot victory. Norris expressed gratitude for his family's support during a challenging year.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments from this past weekend

Patty Tavatanakit, Jake Knapp go wire-to-wire at Grant Thornton

Grant Thornton Invitational - Tiburon Golf Club - Naples, FL

The 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational concluded on Sunday at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida, with Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp securing a wire-to-wire victory. The duo maintained their lead throughout the tournament, which featured a unique format combining PGA and LPGA Tour players.

Tavatanakit and Knapp started strong with an impressive 58 in the opening scramble format and continued their momentum through the alternate shot and modified fourball rounds. Their consistent performance over the three days earned them the top prize of $1 million from the $4 million purse.

The tournament, in its second year, showcased 16 mixed pairs competing in various formats. Defending champions Lydia Ko and Jason Day put up a good fight but couldn't replicate their success from the previous year. Other notable teams included Nelly Korda paired with Daniel Berger, and Lexi Thompson with Rickie Fowler.

The event, played on the Gold Course at Tiburon Golf Club, provided an exciting conclusion to the golf calendar year, highlighting the collaborative spirit between the PGA and LPGA Tours. The mixed format continues to generate interest and support for growing the game of golf, making it more inclusive and appealing to a broader audience.

Grant Thorton Invitational Stories

Jessica and Nelly Korda enjoy some sister time at Grant Thornton Invitational

Jessica and Nelly Korda enjoyed quality time at the Grant Thornton Invitational, celebrating the Purple Paladin program. They shared their journey in golf, influenced by their parents, and maintain a close bond despite busy schedules.

Top LPGA, PGA Tour players reveal what they learned from each other at Grant Thornton

Top LPGA and PGA Tour players shared insights during the Grant Thornton Invitational, learning from each other's games, with highlights including Jason Day's admiration for Lydia Ko's accuracy and Nelly Korda's appreciation for Daniel Berger's finesse on the greens.

Grant Thorton Invitational Videos

These golfers survived PGA Tour Q-School to earn 2025 tour cards

PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry - TPC Sawgrass - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

The final round of the PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL has concluded with some exciting results. Lanto Griffin emerged as the winner of the tournament, securing his PGA Tour card for the 2025 season. This victory marks a significant achievement for Griffin, as it guarantees his return to the top tier of professional golf.

The tournament, which took place from December 12-15, 2024, saw 171 players competing for a limited number of PGA Tour cards. The top five finishers and ties earned automatic promotion to the PGA Tour for the 2025 season, making the competition incredibly intense.

Among the notable performances was that of Takumi Kanaya, the top money winner on the Japanese professional men's golf tour. Kanaya made a strong push in the penultimate round, moving up to third place with a 2-under 68, putting himself in contention for a PGA Tour card going into the final day.

The tournament was played across two courses: TPC Sawgrass' Dye's Valley Course and Sawgrass Country Club. The challenging format included no cut, with players competing over 72 holes to determine their fate for the upcoming season.

This year's Q-School marked a continuation of the format reintroduced in 2023, where PGA Tour cards were once again awarded at the Final Stage, adding to the event's significance and drama. The results of this tournament will have a profound impact on the careers of the successful players, offering them the opportunity to compete at the highest level of professional golf in the 2025 season.

PGA Tour Q-School  Stories

Scenes from PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry's final day show meaning of a PGA TOUR card

Emotions ran high at the PGA TOUR Q-School as six players earned their TOUR cards, with Lanto Griffin leading at 9-under. The event showcased resilience and determination, with players like Hayden Buckley and Alejandro Tosti overcoming challenges to secure their spots for the upcoming season, while others faced heartbreak just short of their goals.

PGA Tour Q-School  Videos

Norris wins at Leopard Creek to take second DP World Tour title

Alfred Dunhill Championship - Leopard Creek CC - Malelane, South Africa

South African Shaun Norris staged a remarkable comeback to win the 2024 Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek Country Club in Malelane, South Africa. Starting the final round six shots behind the leader, Norris fired an impressive 5-under 67 to finish at 13-under-par, claiming victory by a single stroke.

Norris' final round included an eagle and five birdies, with only a double-bogey on the seventh hole marring his scorecard. His strong performance put him in the clubhouse lead, and he watched as his challengers faltered on the challenging closing stretch.

Ryan van Velzen, another South African, had a chance to force a playoff on the 18th hole but found the water with his approach shot. His resulting bogey dropped him into a tie for second place at 12-under-par, alongside England's John Parry and Sweden's Marcus Kinhult, who had led after the third round.

This victory marks Norris' second DP World Tour title, following his win at the 2022 Steyn Championship. The 42-year-old was visibly emotional after securing the win, acknowledging the challenges he has faced over the past year and expressing gratitude for the support of his family.

The Alfred Dunhill Championship, known for its unique setting near Kruger National Park, once again provided drama and excitement in its final round, with Norris emerging as the champion in front of a home crowd.

Alfred Dunhill Championship Stories

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Winner's bags: Grant Thornton Invitational winners Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp

Patty Tavatanakit and Jake Knapp won the Grant Thornton Invitational, showcasing their Titleist and PXG gear, including Tavatanakit's Scotty Cameron putter and Knapp's Ping driver. They secured victory with strong performances on the final holes.

Shaun Norris WITB: 2024 Alfred Dunhill Championship

Shaun Norris won his second DP World Tour title at the Alfred Dunhill Championship, overcoming a six-shot deficit with a final round of 67, using a Callaway Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Driver. His victory follows another win in Japan just two weeks prior.

I tried it: This piece of equipment is a must for golf travel

Traveling golfers can benefit from using the Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2, a portable massage gun that helps relieve tension and improve mobility after long journeys, enhancing performance on the course.

Overheard in the Club House

Tiger Woods is back next week. Here's what else is coming

Tiger Woods will play in the PNC Championship with his son Charlie, marking his return to golf. Upcoming events include the Crypto Showdown featuring top players, the Mauritius Open, and new docuseries on LIV golf and TGL's Boston franchise.

Multiple-Time LPGA Tour Winner Eyes 2026 Return

Jessica Korda, a six-time LPGA Tour winner, aims to return to competitive golf in 2026 after taking time off for maternity and recovering from a back injury. She last played in May 2023 and is currently assessing her readiness to return after the birth of her child in February 2024.

Charley Hull went viral in 2024. Is a breakout season next?

Charley Hull gained viral fame in 2024 after a video of her smoking a cigarette while signing autographs circulated online, boosting her popularity and Instagram following. She performed well in tournaments, including a victory at the Aramco Team Series and a notable win over Nelly Korda at the Solheim Cup, sparking interest in a potential rivalry as she aims for a breakout season in 2025.

'Saying no is a powerful thing': What Joel Dahmen learned from Netflix fame

Joel Dahmen discusses the challenges of managing newfound fame from Netflix's "Full Swing," emphasizing the importance of saying no to opportunities to focus on what truly matters and improve his performance on the PGA Tour.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

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Latest FedExCup Standings

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UPCOMING TOURS

PGA TOUR Schedule 2025

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2025 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LIV Golf Schedule 2025

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2025 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LPGA Tour Schedule 2025

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2025 including the Previous winners and Purse.

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