Planet Golf News for Sunday, December 8, 2024

Thomas seizes one-shot lead over Sheffler at Hero World Challenge | Aldrich Potgieter takes three-shot lead into final round of Nedbank Golf Challenge

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PGN News Team
December 08, 2024

Sunday, December 8, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

It’s been an action-packed weekend in the golf world, with excitement spanning from the Bahamas to Saudi Arabia and South Africa. Let’s dive into the highlights.

At the Hero World Challenge, Justin Thomas showed everyone why he’s one of the best in the game. With a bogey-free 66, he leads the tournament at 17-under, putting himself in prime position to snag his first win since the 2022 PGA Championship. Hot on his heels is Scottie Scheffler, just one stroke behind after a steady 69. The day’s show-stopper, though, was Tom Kim. Despite a rocky start to the tournament, Kim fired an incredible 10-under 62, including 12 birdies, to storm into third place. A late double-bogey on 17 didn’t keep him down for long—he finished with a birdie on 18, earning him a well-deserved round of applause. With Keegan Bradley lurking at 13-under and a pack of hungry challengers close behind, the final round promises to be a nail-biter.

Meanwhile, over in South Africa, the Nedbank Golf Challenge delivered its own drama. Twenty-year-old Aldrich Potgieter, playing in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, delivered a flawless 6-under 66 to claim a three-shot lead heading into the final day. His round included a jaw-dropping eagle on the 14th, setting the stage for what could be a breakthrough victory on the DP World Tour. Defending champion Max Homa couldn’t maintain his earlier form, leaving him four shots back, tied for fourth. With only 17 players under par, the tournament is Potgieter’s to lose—but anything can happen in “Africa’s Major.”

In Saudi Arabia, Joaquin Niemann stole the show at the PIF Saudi International, clinching the title in a dramatic three-way playoff. Tied at 21-under with Caleb Surratt and Cameron Smith after regulation play, Niemann sealed the deal on the second playoff hole with a clutch birdie. His win not only earned him the $1 million prize but also propelled him back into the world’s top 100 rankings. While the tournament concluded the Asian Tour’s International Series, it also highlighted the growing tension between traditional tours and LIV Golf. With Niemann already a LIV player, no new contracts were awarded through the series rankings—a detail that’s left some players in limbo.

Speaking of LIV, big changes are in the air. Greg Norman confirmed he’s stepping down as CEO, with speculation pointing to Scott O’Neill as his replacement. Despite challenges like securing a U.S. TV deal, Norman remains optimistic about LIV’s impact on the sport. Meanwhile, Kevin Na’s Iron Heads GC teased some major roster shake-ups for the 2025 season, while Talor Gooch expanded his off-course portfolio, adding a second sports franchise to his growing empire.

Back on the women’s side, the LPGA Q-Series kicked off with Yu Liu leading after an impressive opening round. With only 25 cards up for grabs this year, competition is fierce as players vie for their shot at LPGA status. Elsewhere, Nelly Korda continued to make headlines, ranking among the top-earning female athletes of 2024 with a cool $14.4 million in earnings.

And for fans of golf history, the re-opened World Golf Hall of Fame in Pinehurst is a must-see. Featuring interactive displays and iconic memorabilia like Jack Nicklaus’s 1-iron, it’s a fitting tribute to the legends of the game.

As the weekend wraps up, all eyes are on the Hero World Challenge and the Nedbank Golf Challenge. Will Justin Thomas finally break his drought? Can Aldrich Potgieter hold his nerve? Stay tuned—it’s going to be an unforgettable finish.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Justin Thomas leading, Tom Kim surging at Hero World Challenge

Justin Thomas leads the Hero World Challenge with a bogey-free 66, totaling 17-under par, while Tom Kim surged to third place with a remarkable 10-under 62. Scottie Scheffler is in second at 16-under after a 69. Kim, who struggled initially, has shown strong improvement, and despite a double-bogey on the 17th, he finished with a birdie on 18. Keegan Bradley is fourth at 13-under, with Akshay Bhatia and Sahith Theegala tied for fifth at 12-under.

Why No-One Has Earned A 2025 LIV Golf Card Via The International Series Rankings

No player has secured a 2025 LIV Golf card through the International Series Rankings, as Joaquin Niemann, who topped the rankings, is already a LIV member. Consequently, the spot does not pass to the next highest player, Ben Campbell. Eligible players from second to eighth place will enter the LIV Golf Promotions Event, which now offers only one spot for the next season. Niemann narrowly led Peter Uihlein by 14 points, while Campbell and John Catlin finished third and fourth, respectively. The status of reserves Campbell and Catlin for the 2025 season remains uncertain.

Greg Norman Confirms He’s Being Replaced As LIV Golf CEO

Greg Norman has confirmed that he will be replaced as CEO of LIV Golf, with speculation about Scott O’Neill taking over. Despite this change, Norman stated he will remain involved with LIV Golf and emphasized the positive impact the organization has had on professional golf. He acknowledged challenges faced, including difficulties in securing a TV deal in the US, but believes LIV Golf has contributed positively to the sport's ecosystem.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

Justin Thomas with big drives and a few big putts takes 1-shot lead over Scheffler in the Bahamas

Hero World Challenge - PGA Tour - Albany GC - New Providence, Bahamas

The third round of the 2024 Hero World Challenge at Albany Club in Nassau, Bahamas, saw Justin Thomas surge to the top of the leaderboard. Thomas carded a bogey-free 6-under 66, putting him at 17-under 199 overall. His impressive performance included excellent driving with a 46-inch driver and crucial long putts on the back nine. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler remains hot on Thomas’s heels, just one stroke behind after shooting a 3-under 69. The day’s most remarkable round came from Tom Kim, who shot a stunning 10-under 62 with 12 birdies, propelling him into solo third place at 15-under overall. Kim’s performance was particularly noteworthy given the windy conditions. Keegan Bradley also had a solid round, shooting a 68 to stay within four shots of the lead. As the tournament heads into its final day, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion with Thomas seeking his first win since the 2022 PGA Championship and several top players still in contention for the title.

Hero World Challenge Stories

Hero World Challenge Videos

Aldrich Potgieter takes three-shot lead into final round of Nedbank Golf Challenge

Nedbank Golf Challenge - DP World Tour - Gary Player CC - Sun City, South Africa

In the third round of the 2024 Nedbank Golf Challenge at Gary Player Country Club in Sun City, South Africa, 20-year-old Aldrich Potgieter emerged as the surprise leader. Potgieter delivered a stunning bogey-free 6-under 66, which included four birdies and an eagle on the par-5 14th hole, propelling him to the top of the leaderboard at 7-under overall. This impressive performance gave him a three-shot lead heading into the final round. Francesco Laporta of Italy and Matthew Jordan of England are tied for second place, three strokes behind Potgieter. Defending champion Max Homa struggled to maintain his earlier momentum, shooting a level-par 72 and falling four shots off the lead. Homa is now in a three-way tie for fourth place with England’s Jordan Smith and France’s Romain Langasque. The day also saw Julien Guerrier, who had been the halfway leader, slip to five shots behind after a disappointing three-over 75. With only 17 players in the 66-player field under par going into the final round, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the tournament, as Potgieter aims for his maiden DP World Tour victory in front of a supportive home crowd.

Nedbank Golf Challenge Stories

Nedbank Golf Challenge Videos

PIF Saudi International

Niemann wins PIF Saudi International and rankings title

The final round of the 2024 PIF Saudi International at Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia concluded with a thrilling three-way playoff. Joaquin Niemann emerged victorious, securing both the tournament title and the International Series Rankings crown. Niemann, who started the day with a one-shot lead, closed with a 4-under 67, finishing regulation play tied at 21-under with Caleb Surratt and Cameron Smith. Surratt matched Niemann’s final round score with a 66, while Smith made a remarkable charge from five shots back, firing a blistering 9-under 62. The playoff saw all three players birdie the first extra hole. On the second playoff hole, Niemann clinched the victory with a brilliant birdie, sinking a 12-inch putt after an exquisite lob shot. This win earned Niemann the US$1 million prize and significantly boosted his world ranking, moving him from 124th to a provisional 73rd. The tournament’s exciting finish marked a fitting end to the Asian Tour’s International Series, with Niemann’s victory preventing any non-LIV Golf players from earning a LIV Golf contract for the 2025 season through the International Series standings.

PIF Saudi Stories

PIF Saudi Videos

Ryder Cup (Sept 25-28, 2025)

Mixed US messages on Ryder Cup pay give Europe the moral high ground

The U.S. Ryder Cup players face scrutiny over potential payments, with discussions of $400,000 each for participants stirring controversy. Rory McIlroy's willingness to play for free contrasts with Tiger Woods' advocacy for compensation tied to charitable donations. Despite players like Scottie Scheffler expressing indifference to payment, the optics of charging high ticket prices while discussing player compensation raise moral questions. European captain Luke Donald capitalizes on this divide, framing the Ryder Cup as a contest of glory versus money, challenging the American players' stance on compensation.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Why Bridgestone’s new blade iron is so intriguing | Fully Equipped

Bridgestone's new 200 series irons, including the 220 MB, 221 CB, and 222 CB+, have garnered attention for their performance. Co-host Kris McCormack, who typically uses cavity back irons, found surprising success with the muscle back 220 MBs, noting their consistent ball flight and responsiveness. He highlighted the improved feel and control compared to his current set, although further testing is needed on the golf course to assess turf interaction.

Golf merchandise spotlight: Original Penguin is almost 70 years old, but still cutting edge

Original Penguin, a golf merchandise brand established in 1955, combines retro heritage with modern lifestyle trends. This year, the company emphasizes conservative prints and silhouettes, as discussed by sales director Pete Gibbons at the PGA of America’s 2025 Merchandise Summit. The brand aims to maintain a fun approach while honoring traditional golf aesthetics.

Overheard in the Club House

Soren Kjeldsen Creates History At PGA Tour Champions Q-School, As Five Players Wrap Up Cards For 2025

Soren Kjeldsen made history at the PGA Tour Champions Q-School, finishing with a record margin of victory and securing his place on the Champions Tour. He carded impressive rounds of 64, 65, 65, and 66, finishing eight shots ahead of second-placed Freddie Jacobson. Five players earned their cards for the 2025 season, while notable players like Angel Cabrera and Boo Weekley missed out.

LPGA Q-Series final qualifying stage is 5 days, 90 holes with 25 cards on the line

The 2024 LPGA Q-Series final qualifying stage takes place in Mobile, Alabama, spanning five days and 90 holes, with only 25 cards available for LPGA status in 2025. The event features a cut to the top 65 and ties after the fourth round. Yu Liu leads after Day 1 with a score of 9-under 62, while the format has been adjusted from previous years, reducing the number of cards from 50 to 25 to emphasize full-season performance. Notable participants include Saki Baba and Alena Sharp.

Nelly Korda is one of three LPGA stars among highest-paid female athletes in 2024

Nelly Korda, along with Jeeno Thitikul and Lydia Ko, is among the highest-paid female athletes in 2024, ranking eighth with total earnings of $14.4 million, including $10 million from endorsements. Thitikul and Ko ranked 12th and 15th, respectively, with earnings of $9.1 million and $6.7 million. Other notable athletes include Coco Gauff, Simone Biles, and Caitlin Clark.

LIV Golfer Talor Gooch Buys Up Second Sports Franchise

Talor Gooch has expanded his sports investments by purchasing the Mississippi Blues Angling Club, adding to his earlier investment in the Oklahoma Wildcatters. Conducted through his company FJS Ventures, the total investment in these teams ranges from $20 million to $30 million. Gooch, who earned over $36 million in 2023 from LIV Golf, is also considering further investments in other sports leagues.

Kevin Na's LIV Golf Team Teases New Signings

Kevin Na's LIV Golf team, Iron Heads GC, is set to make three new signings for the 2025 season, as teased on their official account. Speculation surrounds the futures of current players Danny Lee, Jinichiro Kozuma, and Scott Vincent, with Vincent's position in jeopardy after finishing in the Drop Zone. Despite a challenging 2024 season, Iron Heads GC showed improvement in the Team Championship. The off-season is active with other teams also making changes, including Dustin Johnson's 4 Aces GC and the potential for new signings from the PGA Tour.

Cool things we saw in 2024: The re-opened World Golf Hall of Fame

The re-opened World Golf Hall of Fame in Pinehurst, North Carolina, offers an intimate and modern experience, showcasing a vast collection of golf memorabilia. Visitors can explore personal lockers of 170 inductees, including iconic items like Jack Nicklaus’s 1-iron and Nancy Lopez’s Girl Scout sash. The Hall features interactive touchscreens for learning about members and includes spaces for future inductees, enhancing the connection to golf history and its legends.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

Latest FedExCup Standings

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

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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