Planet Golf News for Sunday, November 10, 2024

Justin Lower goes low, Nico Echavarria looks to go back-to-back and more from 2024 World Wide Technology Championship | A Lim Kim wins Lotte Championship in Hawaii for 2nd LPGA Tour title | Bernhard Langer grabs lead at 2024 Charles Schwab Cup Championship | Closing double-bogey derails Rory McIlroy's charge in Abu Dhabi

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PGN News Team
November 10, 2024

Sunday, November 10, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

A thrilling week in golf is wrapping up with victories, heartbreaks, and comebacks as tournaments across the globe are keeping fans on edge. A Lim Kim stole the spotlight at the LOTTE Championship in Hawaii, clinching her second LPGA title with an impressive 18-under 270 finish. She held off Russian rookie Nataliya Guseva, who was pushing to become Russia’s first LPGA champion. Kim’s win secures her a place in the LPGA season finale, adding another highlight to her career. The tournament also marked what might be the swan song for veteran Angela Stanford, a sentimental moment for many as the Texan hinted it could be her final LPGA appearance.

Over at the PGA Tour Champions, the legendary Bernhard Langer showed he’s still got it, carding his age with a 67 in the Charles Schwab Cup Championship’s third round to claim a one-stroke lead heading into Sunday. At 67, Langer’s resilience is unmatched, and he’s in position to extend his incredible streak of 18 consecutive seasons with a victory. Meanwhile, Steven Alker surged to second with a scorching 63, positioning himself to challenge for both the tournament win and the season-long Schwab Cup.

In Cabo San Lucas, the World Wide Technology Championship entered its final day with a three-way tie at 16-under, as Justin Lower, Carson Young, and Nico Echavarria battled for the title. Lower’s 63 on Saturday showed his grit, putting him in contention for his maiden PGA Tour win. However, the leaderboard is still tightly packed, promising an exciting finish with plenty of FedEx Cup points and a $7.2 million purse up for grabs.

Across the globe in Abu Dhabi, the HSBC Championship is also coming to a thrilling close. England’s Paul Waring holds a narrow one-stroke lead, but hot on his heels are Niklas Norgaard and a pack of seasoned players, including Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood. Rory McIlroy, despite a late-round stumble, remains in the mix but has work to do to close the five-stroke gap.

The golf world is also buzzing with news off the course. Luke Donald, European Ryder Cup captain, pulled out of the World Wide Technology Championship due to a back injury, while Stewart Cink continues to navigate his dual role on the PGA Tour and Champions Tour without committing fully to retirement. In Abu Dhabi, Tyrrell Hatton charmed fans with his candid commentary, while Jason Day shared his thoughts on LIV Golf’s choice not to pursue him as a recruit, citing his injury history.

Adding a touch of nostalgia, a golf memorabilia auction is featuring incredible items like John Daly’s 1995 claret jug and historical clubs dating back to the 1500s. And in a sad twist, a new statue of Old Tom Morris in St. Andrews fell victim to vandalism, a disheartening moment for golf’s history enthusiasts.

As the tournaments reach their climaxes and players jostle for top spots, fans are in for a treat with golf action spanning Hawaii to Abu Dhabi.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

A Lim Kim Wins LOTTE Championship in Hawaii for 2nd LPGA Tour Title

A Lim Kim from South Korea won the LOTTE Championship in Hawaii, securing her second LPGA Tour title with a final score of 18-under 270. She finished two strokes ahead of Nataliya Guseva, who aimed to be the first Russian LPGA winner. Kim's victory boosts her ranking in the Race to CME Globe, ensuring her spot in the season finale. Other notable performances included Auston Kim in third place and Angela Stanford, who may have played her final LPGA event.

2-time Masters winner confirms 2025 event will be his last. Here's why

Bernhard Langer, a two-time Masters winner, confirmed that the 2025 Masters will be his last due to the increasing difficulty of the course as he ages. Despite a successful return to competitive golf, including a recent 64 at the Charles Schwab Cup Championship, he remains resolute about his decision to retire, citing the challenges of hitting longer clubs into par-4s. Langer expressed gratitude for his career achievements and emphasized that he will continue to play as long as he feels competitive and healthy.

European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald withdraws from 2024 World Wide Technology Championship

Luke Donald, the European Ryder Cup captain, withdrew from the 2024 World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico due to a back injury. He had a two-day total of 3 under par before calling it a tournament after 13 holes in the third round. This was his only made cut in six starts for the year.

Major Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

Justin Lower fires 63, grabs share of third-round lead at Cabo

World Wide Technology Championship - PGA Tour - El Cardonal at Diamante - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The third round of the 2024 World Wide Technology Championship at El Cardonal at Diamante in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, has produced a thrilling three-way tie at the top of the leaderboard. Justin Lower, Carson Young, and Nico Echavarria are all knotted at 16-under par heading into the final round.

Justin Lower made the biggest move of the day, firing an impressive 9-under 63 to vault up the leaderboard. His round was characterized by precision and aggressive play, allowing him to capitalize on the scoring opportunities presented by the course.

Carson Young, who had set a course record in the previous round, continued his strong play with a 5-under 67. Young’s consistent performance over the first three days has put him in an excellent position to contend for his first PGA Tour victory.

Nico Echavarria, who shared the lead after two rounds, maintained his position at the top with a solid 4-under 68. Echavarria, fresh off a win at the recent Zozo Championship, is looking to go back-to-back and cement his status as one of the tour’s rising stars.

The leaderboard remains tightly packed behind the leaders, setting the stage for an exciting final round. With the course continuing to yield low scores, players will need to stay aggressive and make birdies to have a chance at capturing the title.

As the tournament enters its final day, the $7.2 million purse and valuable FedEx Cup points are on the line. The three co-leaders will be looking to separate themselves from the pack, while those in close pursuit will be aiming to make a Sunday charge at El Cardonal.

World Wide Technology Championship Stories

World Wide Technology Championship Videos

Major champion A Lim Kim edges Russian rookie to claim second LPGA title at Lotte Championship

LOTTE Championship pres. by Hoakalei - LPGA - Hoakalei Country Club - Ewa Beach, HI

A Lim Kim emerged victorious at the Lotte Championship presented by Hoakalei, securing her second LPGA Tour title. The tournament, held at the Hoakalei Country Club in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, concluded on Saturday with Kim delivering an impressive performance.

Kim finished the tournament with a 4-under 68 in the final round, which was enough to clinch a two-stroke victory over her closest competitor, Nataliya Guseva. The 29-year-old South Korean golfer started the day with a one-stroke lead and maintained her composure throughout, breaking a streak of six pars with a crucial birdie on the par-5 18th hole to seal her win.

Nataliya Guseva, who was aiming to become the first Russian winner in LPGA Tour history, put up a strong challenge but ultimately settled for second place. The 21-year-old former University of Miami golfer finished with a 69 in the final round, ending the tournament at 18-under 270.

Auston Kim secured the third position with a total score of 15-under after shooting a 67 in the final round. Nasa Hataoka also carded a 67, finishing just one stroke behind Auston Kim in fourth place. Yuri Yoshida from Japan and Ryann O’Toole tied for fifth place at 13-under, with rounds of 69 and 70 respectively.

This victory significantly boosted A Lim Kim’s standing in the Race to CME Globe, propelling her to 62nd place and securing her spot in the 60-player season finale, which offers a substantial $4 million prize to the champion.

The tournament also marked a potentially emotional farewell for Angela Stanford, who tied for 26th at 5-under. The 46-year-old Texan, with seven tour wins to her name, hinted that this might have been her final appearance on the LPGA Tour, concluding her illustrious career with a round of 71.

LOTTE Championship Stories

LOTTE Championship Videos

Bernhard Langer grabs lead at 2024 Charles Schwab Cup Championship, while Steven Alker tops points race

Charles Schwab Cup Championship - PGA Tour Champions - Phoenix Country Club - Phoenix, AZ

Bernhard Langer, the 67-year-old German golf legend, has once again defied age and expectations by shooting his age in the third round. Langer carded a 4-under 67 at Phoenix Country Club, propelling him to the top of the leaderboard with a one-stroke lead. This marks the 22nd time Langer has shot his age or better on the PGA Tour Champions, showcasing his remarkable consistency and skill.

Langer, who holds the Champions Tour record with 46 career victories, is now in position to extend his impressive streak of winning at least one event for 18 consecutive years. This potential victory would be particularly significant for Langer, as he has yet to win in 2024, making it the first season in his Champions Tour career without a win.

Defending champion Steven Alker made a significant move up the leaderboard with an outstanding round of 63. Alker, who entered the week second in the Charles Schwab Cup standings behind Ernie Els, is now in sole possession of second place in the tournament. His performance has put him in a strong position to potentially overtake Els for the $1 million season-long bonus.

Richard Green matched Alker’s low round of the day with a 63 of his own, moving into third place at 11-under par. Alex Cejka sits in fourth at 10-under after shooting a 68, while Jerry Kelly rounds out the top five at 9-under following a solid 66.

Stewart Cink, who had led the tournament after each of the first two rounds, struggled on Saturday with a 75, dropping him to sixth place at 8-under par. His back nine was particularly challenging, as he shot a 4-over 39.

Ernie Els, who came into the week leading the Charles Schwab Cup standings, finds himself tied for 14th after a disappointing 71. This opens the door for Alker to potentially claim both the tournament victory and the overall Charles Schwab Cup.

As the tournament heads into its final round, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the PGA Tour Champions’ 2024 season. With Langer seeking to extend his winning streak and Alker aiming for a double victory, Sunday’s play promises to be filled with drama and high-stakes golf at Phoenix Country Club.

Charles Schwab Championship Stories

Charles Schwab Championship Videos

Paul Waring leads in Abu Dhabi despite ‘average day’

Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship - DP World Tour - Yas Links - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, a DP World Tour event taking place at Yas Links in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is nearing its conclusion with an exciting final round set for Sunday. As the tournament enters its final day, England’s Paul Waring holds a slim one-shot lead at the top of the leaderboard. Waring, who set a course record earlier in the tournament, has seen his once-comfortable five-stroke advantage diminish over the course of the third round.

Hot on Waring’s heels is Niklas Norgaard, who sits just one stroke behind the leader. The chasing pack includes some notable names, with Shane Lowry, Tommy Fleetwood, Thorbjorn Olesen, and Sebastian Söderberg all tied for third place, three shots off the lead.

World No. 3 Rory McIlroy, who entered the tournament as a pre-tournament favorite, remains in contention but faces an uphill battle. After a promising charge during the third round that saw him close the gap significantly, McIlroy encountered a setback on the 18th hole. His tee shot found the water, resulting in a bogey that dropped him back to a tie for 13th place, five shots behind Waring.

The tournament, which boasts a substantial $9 million purse, has attracted a strong field of players vying for the $1.53 million winner’s share. As one of the penultimate events on the DP World Tour calendar, it carries significant implications for the Race to Dubai standings.

The final round promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the championship, with several players still in contention for the title. Golf fans can expect an exciting day of play as the leaders navigate the challenging Yas Links course in pursuit of victory at this prestigious DP World Tour event.

Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Stories

How Are The LIV Golfers Getting On At The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship?

At the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, Paul Waring leads the tournament, followed closely by Niklas Norgaard. LIV Golfers Tyrrell Hatton, Joaquin Niemann, and Adrian Meronk are competing, with Hatton currently in 7th place at 14-under par. Niemann is in 18th at 12-under, while Meronk is tied for 35th at 9-under. The tournament is crucial as it is the first event of the DP World Tour playoffs, with top players aiming for qualification for the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Videos

Today’s Best Golf Videos

Overheard in the Club House

Tyrrell Hatton has golf fans in stitches with cameraman exchange: "What are you looking at?"

Tyrrell Hatton entertained golf fans with a humorous exchange with a cameraman before the third round of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, joking about the close proximity of the camera. He expressed his good spirits following a recent victory and attendance at a teammate's wedding. Additionally, he commented on the ongoing discussions regarding the PGA Tour's deal with LIV Golf's financiers, indicating uncertainty about the situation's developments.

Fact Check: Has 51YO Stewart Cink Completely Retired from PGA Tour?

Stewart Cink, who began his PGA Tour career in 1997, has not retired from the regular tour despite playing primarily on the PGA Tour Champions since turning 50. In the 2024 season, he participated in 15 events but struggled, finishing 173rd in the FedExCup standings. However, due to his past successes and earnings, he remains eligible to play in the 2025 season through career money exemptions or cuts made, while also having the option to focus on the Champions Tour.

John Daly's claret jug and 'oldest' club top an extraordinary golf auction

The Golden Age Premier Auction, running from November 7 to 17, features 73 unique golf memorabilia lots, including John Daly's 1995 Open Championship claret jug, currently bid at $30,164, and a historical square-toed iron dating back to the 1500s, with a bid of $12,968. Other notable items include Rocco Mediate's silver medal from the 2008 U.S. Open and various Masters collectibles, highlighting the rich history and value of golf memorabilia.

Bryan Brothers To Play In PGA Tour’s Butterfield Bermuda Championship

Wesley and George Bryan will compete in the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, part of the PGA Tour's FedEx Cup Fall stage. Wesley aims to improve his ranking to secure a spot in the top 125 for exempt status in 2025, while George is participating through a sponsor's exemption. The event features a 120-player field, including notable golfers like Kevin Yu and Francesco Molinari, and takes place from November 14 to 17.

WWT co-leader laments coming upheaval for PGA Tour: 'I hate the changes'

Justin Lower, a PGA Tour player, expresses concern over upcoming changes to the tour that will reduce field sizes and the number of cards awarded, which he believes threaten his career stability. Despite his recent success, including a career-best round, he worries that these changes will make it harder for players like him to maintain their positions. The tour's Policy Board is set to vote on these changes soon.

Jason Day on lack of LIV Golf offer: 'I don't blame them'

Jason Day revealed he never received a formal offer from LIV Golf, which he attributes to concerns over his injury history. Although he explored the possibility in 2022, he ultimately decided to stay with the PGA Tour, where he has recently found success again after overcoming chronic back issues. Day expressed hope for unity between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, acknowledging the absence of players who have joined LIV.

'Very Sad' - Recently Unveiled St Andrews Statue Of Old Tom Morris Vandalised

A statue of Old Tom Morris, the founding father of golf, was vandalized shortly after its unveiling in St Andrews, with the clubhead snapped off. Golf historian Roger McStravick condemned the act as "mindless" and is reviewing CCTV footage for evidence. The incident drew reactions from notable figures, including golfer Billy Horschel, who expressed sadness over the vandalism. This event is part of a troubling trend of vandalism affecting golf courses in Scotland.

All the golf courses used on the 2024 PGA Tour Champions schedule, from longest to shortest

The shortest golf course sits along the Southern California coast. The longest is in the Middle East.

First look: Tiger Woods-designed Legacy Club, a 'Shadow Creek' in the Baja desert, to be grassed in next 60 days

The Legacy Club, designed by Tiger Woods in Cabo San Lucas, aims to create an exclusive golf experience with only 250 members. The course will feature lush vegetation, water features, and a unique design that contrasts with the surrounding desert. Grassing is set to begin in the next 60 days, with the club expected to host the World Wide Technology Championship by 2027. The initiation fee is $300,000, with annual dues of $60,000, and Woods is anticipated to be a regular presence at the club.

Need a new gambling game with your buddies? Try this

Jeff Ma, a former MIT blackjack player and current chief digital officer at Troon Golf, suggests a new gambling game for friends involving a draft of top golfers. Participants select eight golfers, and if one wins a major in the next five years, the others pay $500. The game emphasizes patience and immediate payment after a tournament ends, making it a fun long-term betting option.

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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