Planet Golf News for Monday, November 18, 2024

Emotional Rafael Campos seals first PGA Tour title at Bermuda Championship | Nelly Korda outduels Charley Hull to win 2024 The Annika driven by Gainbridge at Pelican | Rory McIlroy wins sixth race to Dubai title of his career to end year on a high

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PGN News Team
November 18, 2024

Monday, November 18, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

Rory McIlroy capped his season with a storybook ending, taking home the DP World Tour Championship title and clinching his sixth Race to Dubai crown—a record that ties him with the great Seve Ballesteros. McIlroy’s 15-under-par finish edged out Denmark’s Rasmus Højgaard by two strokes, wrapping up a challenging season on a triumphant note. Despite setbacks earlier in the year, McIlroy’s dedication saw him not only claim his fourth win of the season but also solidify his legacy in European golf. His determination and resilience showed as he recovered from an early bogey with a string of four birdies, holding strong through the final holes for a sweet victory in Dubai.

On the LPGA side, Nelly Korda demonstrated why she’s at the top of her game, seizing her seventh LPGA win of the year at The Annika driven by Gainbridge at Pelican. After a rough start, Korda turned up the heat, sinking five consecutive birdies and ultimately finishing three strokes ahead of Charley Hull and Jin Hee Im. Korda’s impressive season has been one for the books, with her recent win pushing her earnings past the $4 million mark for 2024. As she heads into the CME Group Tour Championship, there’s a real possibility she could match Lorena Ochoa’s record of eight wins in a single season.

Meanwhile, Rafael Campos achieved a personal and professional milestone by winning his first PGA Tour title at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. Campos’s emotional victory came just days after the birth of his daughter, making the win even more meaningful. After a tough year of missed cuts and uncertainty, his three-shot triumph brought him from 147th to 80th in the FedEx Cup standings, securing his PGA Tour card and a slot in the 2025 Masters. For Campos, this win was a career-saving moment, and he joins Chi Chi Rodriguez as only the second Puerto Rican golfer to win on the PGA Tour.

This season’s storylines have been full of resilience, triumph, and the sweet taste of redemption for these top golfers. With McIlroy and Korda both closing out the year on incredible highs and Campos rising above a year of struggles, it’s clear that golf fans have a lot to celebrate as the season wraps up.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Rory McIlroy caps sixth Race to Dubai title win with two-stroke victory at 2024 DP World Tour Championship

Rory McIlroy won the 2024 DP World Tour Championship, securing his sixth Race to Dubai title with a two-stroke victory over Rasmus Højgaard. McIlroy's final-round score of 69 brought his total to 15 under par. This victory marks McIlroy's fourth win of the season and ties him with Seve Ballesteros for the most Race to Dubai titles. Despite a challenging year, McIlroy expressed pride in his achievement, highlighting the significance of being compared to a legend like Ballesteros. Højgaard finished second in the Race to Dubai, earning his PGA Tour playing privileges for 2025.

Nelly Korda Holds Off Charley Hull For Seventh LPGA Tour Title Of Year

Nelly Korda secured her seventh LPGA Tour title of the year by overcoming Charley Hull in the final round of the Annika Driven by Gainbridge at Pelican. Despite a shaky start, Korda rallied with five consecutive birdies, ultimately winning by three shots. Hull struggled to maintain her lead, while Jin Hee Im also made a late push but finished behind Korda. This victory is particularly notable as it follows Korda's recovery from injury.

On verge of losing PGA Tour card, Rafael Campos gets first win at 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship

Rafael Campos achieved his first PGA Tour victory at the 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship, overcoming a challenging year and personal struggles, including the recent birth of his first child. He moved from 147th to 80th in the FedEx Cup standings with his win, securing a $1,242,000 prize and a spot in the 2025 Masters. Campos reflected on his journey, emphasizing the importance of job security and the emotional weight of his victory, which he described as the best week of his life.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments that ended yesterday

Emotional Rafael Campos seals first PGA Tour title at Bermuda Championship

Butterfield Bermuda Championship - PGA Tour - Port Royal Golf Course - Southampton Parish, Bermuda

Rafael Campos secured his first PGA Tour victory at the 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship on Sunday, November 17, at Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton Parish, Bermuda. The Puerto Rican golfer finished with a total score of 19-under par, shooting a 3-under 68 in the final round to claim a three-shot victory over Andrew Novak.

Campos’ win was particularly emotional and significant, coming just six days after the birth of his first child. He had been struggling with his form, missing 13 cuts in his last 15 starts, and entered the tournament at 147th in the FedExCup standings. This victory propelled him to 80th in the standings, securing his PGA Tour card for the upcoming seasons.

The win brings Campos numerous benefits, including a $1,242,000 winner’s check, an invitation to the 2025 Masters, and job security through the 2026 season. He becomes the 14th first-time winner on the PGA Tour this season and only the second Puerto Rican to win on Tour, following in the footsteps of Chi Chi Rodriguez.

Andrew Novak finished in second place at 16-under par. Justin Lower, who had led after the second round, tied for fifth place at 14-under par. Mark Hubbard and Adrien Dumont de Chassart shared third place.

The tournament was played in challenging conditions, with steady winds up to 35 MPH during the final round. Campos managed to maintain his composure and pull away from the field, particularly with consecutive birdies on the 10th and 11th holes.

This victory marks a remarkable turnaround for Campos, who nearly missed out on his PGA Tour card last year and was on the verge of losing it again this season. His win in Bermuda not only secures his future on the Tour but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring golfers in Puerto Rico and beyond.

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Stories

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Videos

Nelly Korda outduels Charley Hull to win 2024 The Annika driven by Gainbridge at Pelican

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican - LPGA - Pelican Golf Club - Belleair, FL

Nelly Korda emerged victorious at The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican, securing her seventh LPGA Tour win of the 2024 season. The tournament, held at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, concluded yesterday with Korda delivering an impressive performance.

Korda finished the tournament at 14-under-par 266, clinching a three-shot victory over her closest competitors. Her final round of 67 included a remarkable streak of five consecutive birdies on the back nine, which propelled her to the top of the leaderboard and ultimately sealed her win.

The victory marks Korda’s 15th career LPGA Tour title and solidifies her dominant position in women’s golf. With this win, she has surpassed $4 million in earnings for the 2024 season and pushed her career earnings over $13 million.

Charley Hull, who held the lead after three rounds, finished in a tie for second place at 11-under-par 269. Joining Hull in the runner-up position were Jin Hee Im and Weiwei Zhang. For Zhang, the strong finish was particularly significant as it secured her LPGA Tour card for the 2025 season.

Rose Zhang and Linn Grant shared fifth place, finishing at 10-under-par 270. Their performances added to the excitement of the final full-field event of the LPGA Tour season.

The tournament, which featured a purse of $3,250,000, saw Korda claim the winner’s share of $487,500. This victory puts Korda in a position to potentially match Lorena Ochoa’s 2007 record of eight wins in a single season, with the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship coming up next week.

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican also held significance for players vying for spots in the upcoming CME Group Tour Championship, as well as those looking to secure their tour status for next season. The top 60 players in the Race to the CME Globe standings will qualify for the season finale in Florida.

As the LPGA Tour season nears its conclusion, Korda’s dominant performance at Pelican Golf Club has set the stage for an exciting finish to what has been an exceptional year for the American golfer.

The ANNIKA Stories

How Did One Pro Secure A $1 Million Payday Without Playing The Penultimate LPGA Tour Event?

Jeeno Thitikul secured a $1 million payday by winning the Aon Risk Reward Challenge without participating in the LPGA event "The Annika Driven By Gainbridge At Pelican." Despite not playing, her average score of -0.900 under-par on selected holes was enough to claim the prize, finishing ahead of Haeran Ryu. Meanwhile, Nelly Korda won the LPGA event and leads in the Race to CME Globe standings.

Annika Sorenstam Shares Passion with Every Tip

Annika Sorenstam engaged with 40 young girls from local junior golf programs during a clinic at Pelican Golf Club, sharing her passion for the game and teaching fundamentals like grip and swing techniques. The event was part of her foundation's "Share My Passion" program, where winners were selected based on essays about their love for golf. Sorenstam, known for her earlier shyness, showcased her teaching skills and generosity, providing tips to both young golfers and professionals alike, emphasizing the importance of returning to fundamentals regardless of experience.

The ANNIKA Videos

Rory McIlroy Wins DP World Tour Championship To Clinch Double Victory In Dubai

DP World Tour Championship - DP World Tour - Jumeirah Golf Estates - Dubai, UAE

Rory McIlroy capped off his 2024 season in spectacular fashion by winning the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. The Northern Irishman shot a final-round 69 to finish at 15 under par, securing a two-shot victory over Denmark’s Rasmus Hojgaard.

This win not only gave McIlroy his third DP World Tour Championship title but also clinched his sixth Race to Dubai crown, equaling the legendary Seve Ballesteros’ tally. McIlroy’s victory was hard-fought, as he started the day in a three-way tie for the lead with Hojgaard and Antoine Rozner.

McIlroy’s performance was characterized by resilience and clutch play. After a shaky start with a bogey on the first hole, he rallied with four consecutive birdies from the second to the fifth holes. Despite some mid-round struggles, including bogeys on the 9th and 13th holes, McIlroy finished strong with crucial birdies on the 16th and 18th to seal the win.

The victory earned McIlroy a substantial $3 million prize, part of the tournament’s $10 million total purse. This win marks his fourth worldwide victory of the season and cements his status as one of the most successful European golfers in recent history.

Shane Lowry and Adam Scott shared third place with Antoine Rozner at 11 under par. Tyrrell Hatton finished solo sixth at 10 under.

McIlroy’s triumph in Dubai completes a remarkable season for the 35-year-old, who has now won the Race to Dubai for three consecutive years. His emotional reaction to matching Ballesteros’ record highlighted the significance of this achievement in the context of European golf history.

The DP World Tour Championship not only concluded the 2024 season but also determined the final standings for PGA Tour cards, with several players securing their spots for the upcoming season based on their Race to Dubai rankings.

DP World Tour Championship Stories

DP World Tour Championship Videos

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

What clubs does Bermuda Championship winner Rafael Campos play? Winner's bag

Rafael Campos won the Bermuda Championship using a full bag of Titleist gear, including a Titleist GT2 driver, GT2 fairway wood, U505 utility iron, T150 and 620 MB irons, Vokey Design wedges, and a Scotty Cameron putter. His victory marked his first PGA Tour win, achieved with a final-round score of 68.

Odyssey makes presence known with unique putter design

Odyssey has introduced the Ai-One Square 2 Square putter lineup, designed to compete in the zero torque market. This new design features a center of gravity positioned under the shaft axis to reduce head twisting, making it easier to return the putter face to square. The lineup includes three models and incorporates a forward press to enhance performance for players struggling with face rotation. Retailing at $299.99, these putters utilize AI-driven contours to improve accuracy on off-center strikes.

Overheard in the Club House

Tyrrell Hatton wears ‘be nice’ glove after foul-mouthed rant in Dubai

Tyrrell Hatton faced criticism for his foul-mouthed outburst during the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, where he expressed frustration over course conditions and broke a club. Following his behavior, he wore a glove with the message 'Be Nice' in an apparent attempt to convey a message to the tour. Commentators labeled him a "terrible influence" on younger players, and the DP World Tour announced that he would be fined for breaching their Code of Conduct.

DP World Tour Championship - Rory McIlroy feels only two players had better years in 2024

Rory McIlroy considers his 2024 season a success despite emotional challenges, winning four times and securing his sixth Race to Dubai title. He believes only Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler had better years, citing their major victories. McIlroy emphasizes the personal significance of his achievements, stating he has at least another decade to compete at a high level and aims to continue pursuing titles like the Race to Dubai.

Tearful Rory McIlroy gives emotional interview after season-ending Dubai win

Rory McIlroy expressed deep emotions during a tearful interview after winning the DP World Tour Championship, marking his fourth victory of the year. Overwhelmed by relief and the significance of tying Seve Ballesteros' record, McIlroy reflected on his tumultuous year in professional golf, acknowledging both his achievements and the challenges he faced. He emphasized the personal meaning of his victory, despite external perceptions, and looked forward to the future with hope.

Two LIV Golfers Claim Victory In Worldwide Events As Five Claim Top 10s

LIV Golfers Lucas Herbert and Dean Burmester claimed victories in recent worldwide events, with Herbert winning the New South Wales Open and Burmester dominating the Vodacom Origins of Golf. Additionally, several other LIV players performed well, including Cameron Smith and Branden Grace, while Tyrrell Hatton and Joaquin Niemann finished in the top 10 at the DP World Tour Championship. Other notable performances included Scott Vincent and Jinichiro Kozuma at the Dunlop Phoenix event in Japan.

Rasmus Hojgaard, Matteo Manassero among 10 who lock up PGA Tour status for 2025

Rasmus Hojgaard and Matteo Manassero are among ten players securing PGA Tour status for 2025 through the DP World Tour's pathway system. Rory McIlroy won the Race to Dubai title, while Antoine Rozner and Tom McKibbin claimed the final spots for dual eligibility. Other players earning PGA Tour membership include Thriston Lawrence, Paul Waring, Jesper Svensson, Niklas Norgaard, Thorbjorn Olesen, Rikuya Hoshino, and the aforementioned Hojgaard and Manassero.

FedExCup Fall update: Wesley Bryan is bubble boy with one event remaining

Wesley Bryan is currently in the crucial 125th position in the FedExCup Fall standings after finishing T17 at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. With one event remaining, he aims to secure his spot in the top 125 to gain fully exempt status for the 2025 PGA TOUR. Other notable movements include Rafael Campos jumping to No. 80 after a victory, while Henrik Norlander and Daniel Berger slipped out of the top 125. Bryan's performance will be pivotal in the upcoming RSM Classic as he seeks to maintain his position amidst tight competition.

Rory McIlroy's reaction to DP World Tour pro earning PGA Tour card speaks volumes

Rory McIlroy celebrated Tom McKibbin's achievement of earning his first PGA Tour card for 2025 with a warm embrace after the DP World Tour Championship. McKibbin, who finished T11 with a final-round 72, expressed excitement about joining the PGA Tour, noting his preference for challenging courses. McIlroy, a mentor to McKibbin, congratulated him and offered encouragement as he prepares for this new chapter in his career.

Rory McIlroy urges golf critics to stop bashing caddie Harry Diamond: 'It's not warranted...'

Rory McIlroy defended his caddie Harry Diamond during his victory speech at the DP World Tour Championship, urging critics to stop bashing him. McIlroy, who won the championship for the third time, expressed his gratitude for Diamond's support over the past seven years, stating that the criticism is unwarranted. He emphasized their strong friendship and dismissed suggestions that he needs a new caddie, despite not having won a major title with Diamond on his bag.

Sahith Theegala Gifts Caddie $50,000 Watch After Best Season To Date

Sahith Theegala gifted his caddie, Carl Smith, a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona watch worth $50,000 after a successful season where Theegala finished third in the FedEx Cup standings, earning $8.5 million. Theegala expressed gratitude for Smith's hard work and support throughout their time together, which has included significant wins and career earnings of nearly $19 million. Smith's emotional reaction highlighted the importance of appreciation in their working relationship.

McIlroy earns Woods comparison after showing true colours at season finale

Rory McIlroy earned comparisons to golf legends Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus after winning the DP World Tour Championship, marking his sixth Race to Dubai title. Despite a challenging season with several near-misses, McIlroy's impressive performance included a strong finish with four consecutive birdies, ultimately securing a two-shot victory. He expressed pride in matching Seve Ballesteros' record, highlighting the significance of Ballesteros to European golf and the Ryder Cup.

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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