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- Planet Golf News for Saturday, January 11, 2025
Planet Golf News for Saturday, January 11, 2025
Patrick Fishburn, Denny McCarthy share lead at Sony Open in Hawaii | Notable PGA Tour players to miss the cut at the 2025 Sony Open | Britain & Ireland takes 31⁄2-11⁄2 lead over Continental Europe in Ryder Cup warmup event for Europeans
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Saturday, January 11, 2025
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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]
Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes
Good Morning,
Ah, the golf world is buzzing again—par for the course, if you’ll pardon the pun. Let’s start with the Sony Open in Hawaii, where Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy are tied for the lead at a cozy 10-under. These two are putting on a masterclass in hot putters and consistent play, leaving everyone wondering if the palm trees in Honolulu are swaying for them. But don’t count out Zach Johnson, who’s strutting around like it’s 2015. The man hasn’t won in a decade, but he’s showing us all that exemptions and grit are a dangerous combination. Meanwhile, Billy Horschel and Daniel Berger missed the cut, joining a parade of talent packing their bags early. The cut line was 3-under, and apparently, some players thought Hawaii’s beaches were a more forgiving playing field.
On the DP World Tour, the Ryder Cup warm-up known as the Team Cup kicked off in Abu Dhabi. Great Britain & Ireland took a commanding 3.5-1.5 lead over Continental Europe, with Tyrrell Hatton and Tommy Fleetwood doing their best to make it look like the Europeans were playing with pool noodles instead of clubs. Captain Justin Rose must be feeling smug, as the matches march toward a conclusion that already smells like victory for his squad. Continental Europe did manage a solitary win, but hey, it’s the taking part that counts, right?
In LPGA news, legend Amy Alcott is showing us what true class looks like. She shared her harrowing experience of evacuating her Los Angeles home due to the devastating Palisades Fire. While her house survived, many in her community weren’t as lucky. Amy’s poignant reflection on the importance of memories over material possessions reminds us all that trophies, no matter how shiny, don’t define a life well-lived.
Let’s not forget some spicy gossip from the LIV Golf world. Eugenio Chacarra has gone from a $16 million LIV payday to airing grievances about the league not delivering anything beyond cash. While that sum would make most of us forget how to complain, Chacarra is pining for majors and ranking points, which LIV doesn’t quite deliver. He’s essentially saying, “Thanks for the money, but where’s the prestige?” Ouch.
In other LIV drama, Sergio Garcia has signed 22-year-old Luis Masaveu to his Fireballs GC team. Is Masaveu the next big thing or just cannon fodder? Time will tell, but at least the name “Fireballs” continues to sound like a brand of cinnamon whiskey rather than a golf team.
Back to equipment nerds: Brooks Koepka’s beloved 3-iron is still holding on by a thread, even after being battered since 2016. The club looks like it’s been through a war zone, but hey, if it’s good enough for five major wins, why replace it? Meanwhile, Denny McCarthy swapped his putter for a new Scotty Cameron and immediately tied for the lead at the Sony Open. Coincidence? He doesn’t think so.
And finally, in the “feels” department, Grayson Murray’s legacy continues to inspire players like Gary Woodland. Murray’s openness about mental health has left a profound impact, reminding us all that even in a sport as solitary as golf, connection matters.
So, there you have it. A little drama, a lot of skill, and just enough humanity to remind us why we care about this maddening game. Now go work on your swing—or just pour another drink and watch the pros do it instead.
Today’s Top Golf News
Major Golf Tournaments happening this weekend
Sony Open in Hawaii - PGA Tour - Walalae Country Club - Honolulu, HI
The second round of the 2025 Sony Open in Hawaii concluded with Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy tied for the lead at 10-under par. Both players showcased strong performances, with Fishburn capitalizing on early momentum and McCarthy recovering from a slow start to finish strong. The cut line was set at 3-under 137, allowing 76 players to advance to the weekend. Notable players such as Billy Horschel, Chris Kirk, and Austin Eckroat failed to make the cut, joining a list of 15 participants from last week's Sentry Tournament of Champions who also missed out. With eight other competitors at 8-under or better, the leaderboard remains competitive heading into the final rounds.
Sony Open Stories
Sony Open Videos
Team Cup - DP World Tour - Abu Dhabi Golf Resort, Abu Dhabi, UAE
In the first round of the Team Cup, Great Britain and Ireland established a commanding lead over Continental Europe with a 3½-1½ score at the Abu Dhabi Golf Resort. The day featured fourball matches where notable performances included Tommy Fleetwood and Aaron Rai defeating Francesco Molinari and Matteo Manassero 4&2, while Tyrrell Hatton and Tom McKibbin won their match 3&2 against Antoine Rozner and Julien Guerrier. Justin Rose, serving as the playing captain for Great Britain and Ireland, watched his team dominate the day's matches, with only one match ending in a draw. The tournament, a Ryder Cup-style event, is part of the DP World Tour and serves as preparation for players ahead of the upcoming Ryder Cup in September.
Team Cup Stories
Team Cup Videos
Upcoming: TGL (Tuesday, January 14th)
Today’s Best Golf Videos
What’s in the Bag (WITB)
Overheard in the Club House
UPCOMING TOURS
Marie Birdie is a female-founded and owned golf and active wear brand for tween and teen girls. Our mission is to inspire, delight, and empower girls to enjoy an active lifestyle while playing golf. Now available at select PGA Tour Superstores.
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