Planet Golf News for Sunday, November 17, 2024

Nelly Korda recovers from a 6-shot deficit and cuts Charley Hull's lead to one in LPGA | Leaders shoot 62, Wesley Bryan ties course record and more from third round of 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship | Rory McIlroy gunning for two trophy double in Dubai as McKibbin makes big move

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PGN News Team
November 17, 2024

Sunday, November 17, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

So far, he weekend in golf has been packed with high-stakes drama, thrilling comebacks, and record-breaking performances, setting up some nail-biting finales across major tournaments.

In Florida, the LPGA’s The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican brought a tense third-round showdown as Charley Hull narrowly held her lead, finishing just one stroke ahead of Nelly Korda and Rose Zhang. Korda, who came from a six-shot deficit, and Zhang, a rising star, both kept Hull in their sights, promising an epic final round. Players, including Korda, expressed frustration over playing in near darkness, adding to the intensity of an already fierce battle. The tournament also carries significant stakes beyond the title, as only the top 60 players will qualify for the CME Group Tour Championship, fueling additional motivation as the season draws to a close.

Meanwhile, at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, Wesley Bryan delivered a breathtaking performance in wild winds, tying the course record with a 10-under 61. This achievement placed him just three shots behind leaders Andrew Novak and Rafael Campos. Bryan’s resilience in rough conditions, including gusts up to 30 mph, showcased his mastery of the elements and thrilled fans who had missed him in the PGA Tour’s spotlight. Novak and Campos, the latter fresh from the birth of his child, share the lead going into the final day, promising an exciting close. The tournament is especially crucial for players like Bryan, who is eyeing a top-125 FedEx Cup Fall finish for a secure PGA Tour card.

The DP World Tour Championship in Dubai offered its own edge-of-the-seat action, with Rory McIlroy, Rasmus Hojgaard, and Antoine Rozner all sharing the lead at 12-under. McIlroy’s consistent play keeps him in contention for a double trophy haul: the tournament title and his sixth Race to Dubai victory. Hojgaard made an impressive start, scoring six birdies in his first eight holes, while Rozner’s clutch eagle on the 18th showed he’s ready to battle. With only one day left, several elite players, including Joaquin Niemann and Tyrrell Hatton, are in hot pursuit, but McIlroy seems set to cap off a spectacular year with both titles if he can maintain his form.

Off the course, the Bryan Brothers reunited for the first time in over a decade at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, marking a nostalgic moment for fans and players alike. Wesley, still competing, advanced to the weekend, while George missed the cut, though both expressed joy at sharing the experience once again. Their bond and teamwork captured the essence of the game beyond scorecards.

In other news, the LPGA announced plans for a women’s version of the PGA Tour University, providing aspiring female golfers with a clearer pathway to the professional ranks. This initiative, which includes ranking systems and points for amateurs and college players, aims to address gaps in development opportunities for women’s golf and promises to strengthen the LPGA’s future.

It’s been a weekend of record pursuits, career milestones, and new chapters in golf, as players battle for titles and the season-long honors that signify the sport’s highest achievements. With final rounds approaching in Florida, Bermuda, and Dubai, golf fans are in for a thrilling finish to an action-packed week on the green.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Nelly Korda recovers from a 6-shot deficit and cuts Charley Hull's lead to one in LPGA

Nelly Korda cut Charley Hull's lead to one shot after recovering from a six-shot deficit in the LPGA tournament. Korda made two long birdies but missed a crucial putt on the 18th, finishing with a score of 67. Hull maintained her lead with a 68 despite a bogey on the final hole. The final round promises a competitive showdown between Korda and Hull, with both players expressing frustration over finishing in near darkness due to delays.

'Really Special' Bryan Bros React To Playing In First Tournament Together In '12 Years'

The Bryan Brothers, George and Wesley, played together in a professional tournament for the first time in 12 years at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. Wesley advanced to the weekend with rounds of 67 and 72, while George missed the cut with scores of 75 and 73. George expressed the experience as "really special," highlighting the significance of competing alongside his brother. Wesley aims to secure a fully exempt PGA Tour card by finishing in the top 125 of the FedEx Cup Fall standings, emphasizing the importance of strong performances in the upcoming rounds.

Tyrrell Hatton fined and rebuked for breaking club, cursing in Dubai

Tyrrell Hatton faced fines and criticism for his behavior during the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai, where he broke a club and cursed after poor shots. His actions, including snapping his iron and swearing on camera, prompted broadcaster Ewen Murray to label him a "terrible influence" on younger players. The European tour confirmed that Hatton's conduct violated its code of conduct, leading to disciplinary action. Despite starting the round close to the lead, he ended three shots behind the leaders.

Report: LPGA To Launch Women’s Version Of PGA Tour University

The LPGA is set to launch a women's version of the PGA Tour University, providing two programs for college players and amateurs to transition to professional golf. One program will allow all amateurs to earn points towards LPGA membership over three years, while the other will rank college players based on their performance in tournaments. Unlike the PGA Tour University, the top player in the LPGA program is expected to earn an Epson Tour card rather than an LPGA Tour card. This initiative aims to address criticisms of the current LPGA system and offer clearer pathways for aspiring female golfers.

Major Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

Wesley Bryan ties course record with tremendous 61 in treacherous winds at Butterfield Bermuda Championship

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

The third round of the 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship at Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton, Bermuda saw some exciting developments on Saturday. Andrew Novak from the United States and Rafael Campos from Puerto Rico surged to the top of the leaderboard, both shooting impressive 9-under 62s to share the lead at 16-under par heading into the final round.

Justin Lower, who held the 36-hole lead after consecutive rounds of 65, struggled on the back nine with a 1-over 36. Despite this setback, he remains in contention, sitting alone in third place at 15-under par, just one stroke behind the leaders.

The day’s most remarkable performance came from Wesley Bryan, who tied the course record with a stunning 10-under 61. Bryan’s round included two eagles and six birdies, narrowly missing a chance to break the record on his final hole. This exceptional score propelled Bryan up the leaderboard, placing him just three shots off the lead.

Bryan’s round was particularly impressive given the challenging conditions, with winds gusting up to 30 miles per hour. His ability to navigate the windy conditions showcased his skill and adaptability on the course.

The leaderboard remains tight heading into Sunday’s final round, with several players in contention for the title. Novak and Campos will be looking to maintain their momentum, while Lower aims to reclaim his lead. Bryan’s record-tying performance puts him in a strong position to challenge for his second PGA Tour victory, his first since the 2017 RBC Heritage.

As the tournament enters its final day, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, with players battling not only for the title but also for crucial FedExCup points and potential Tour card implications for the 2025 season.

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Stories

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Videos

Hull Holds On, Enters Final Round at The ANNIKA with One-Stroke Lead Over Korda and Zhang

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

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican tournament at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida, saw an exciting third round on Saturday. As the day came to a close, Charley Hull managed to hold onto her lead, entering the final round with a one-stroke advantage over Nelly Korda and Rose Zhang.

Hull’s performance has been consistent throughout the tournament, and she maintained her position at the top of the leaderboard despite facing tough competition. Nelly Korda, the world’s top-ranked player, made a strong push during the third round, finishing just one stroke behind Hull. Rose Zhang, another formidable contender, also kept pace with the leaders and shares second place with Korda.

The day’s play extended into the evening, with Hull and Korda finishing their rounds in near-darkness. Korda expressed frustration with the late start time of the third round, calling it “poor planning” and noting that it affected the players’ performance and comfort.

Further down the leaderboard, several players made significant moves. Gaby Lopez, who started the week outside the top 60 in the CME points list, shot an impressive 68 to move into the top 10. This puts her in a strong position to qualify for the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship, which features a substantial $11 million purse and a record $4 million winner’s check.

The tournament is not just about individual performances but also serves as a crucial qualifier for the CME Group Tour Championship. Only the top 60 players on the CME points list after this event will qualify for the season finale in Naples, Florida. This has added an extra layer of tension to the competition, with players like Alexa Pano, Mi Hyang Lee, and Carlota Ciganda all hovering around the bubble positions.

As the tournament heads into its final round on Sunday, all eyes will be on Hull, Korda, and Zhang as they battle for the title. With such a close leaderboard and the added pressure of CME qualification, the concluding day promises to deliver intense and thrilling golf action at the Pelican Golf Club.

The ANNIKA Stories

LPGA: Two-time major winner penalized for leaving training aid in her bag at The Annika, where she trails by six

Minjee Lee received a two-stroke penalty at The Annika tournament for accidentally leaving a training aid in her bag, resulting in a double bogey on the first hole. Despite this setback, she managed to recover with four birdies and an eagle but ended the round with another double bogey and a bogey, finishing the day at 1-under 69 and six strokes behind the leader, Charley Hull.

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican is Big Part of Parity Week by Gainbridge

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican celebrated Parity Week, expanding it to a month-long initiative supporting women's athletics. Key events included the Women's Leadership Summit featuring prominent female leaders and athletes, such as Annika Sorenstam and Caitlin Clark. Clark participated in her first LPGA pro-am, highlighting the importance of collaboration among female athletes. The event aims to enhance interest in women's sports and runs concurrently with the Billie Jean King Cup throughout November.

The ANNIKA Videos

DP World Tour Championship: Rory McIlroy shares lead with Rasmus Hojgaard and Antoine Rozner in Race to Dubai finale

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

The DP World Tour Championship in Dubai has reached an exciting climax as three players share the lead heading into Sunday’s final round. Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, Denmark’s Rasmus Hojgaard, and France’s Antoine Rozner are all tied at 12-under-par after Saturday’s third round at the Jumeirah Golf Estates.

McIlroy, a four-time major champion, carded a four-under 68 in his third round, featuring six birdies and two bogeys. He is not only in contention for the tournament victory but also on the verge of securing his sixth Race to Dubai title, needing only a top-11 finish to clinch the season-long crown.

Hojgaard made a blistering start to his round, notching six birdies in his first eight holes. He maintained his composure on the back nine with ten consecutive pars to finish with a bogey-free 66. Rozner, who began the day as the sole leader, kept pace with a 69, highlighted by a dramatic eagle on the par-five 18th hole to rejoin the leaders.

Two shots behind the leading trio are Joaquin Niemann of Chile and Jesper Svensson of Sweden, both at 10-under-par. England’s Tyrrell Hatton sits alone in sixth place at 9-under, despite a moment of frustration that led to him breaking a club after a poor approach shot on the 14th hole.

The leaderboard remains tight, with several players still in contention. Notable names within striking distance include Shane Lowry of Ireland and Adam Scott of Australia, both at 7-under-par.

McIlroy expressed mixed feelings about his round, noting disappointment with his play over the final five holes but acknowledging his strong position heading into Sunday. He emphasized the opportunity to end the year on a high note and potentially claim both the tournament trophy and the Race to Dubai title.

The final round promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the European Tour season, with the winner set to receive a $3 million prize. Additionally, the Race to Dubai champion will earn a $2 million bonus, while the top-10 non-PGA Tour members in the standings will secure playing privileges on the PGA Tour for the upcoming season.

With so much at stake and a tightly packed leaderboard, golf fans can anticipate an exciting finish to the 2024 DP World Tour Championship on Sunday.

DP World Tour Championship Stories

DP World Tour Championship Videos

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Rasmus Hojgaard WITB November 2024: His Golfing Essentials Explored

Rasmus Hojgaard, a five-time DP World Tour winner, showcases his golfing essentials, including the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoker Triple Diamond driver, Apex Utility Wood, and Callaway Opus wedges. He maintains an impressive driving distance average and ranks 42nd in strokes gained off-the-Tee. His putting is aided by the Odyssey Ai-One Milled putter, and he uses Chrome Tour X balls for optimal performance. Hojgaard's equipment choices significantly contribute to his success on the course.

How Ping improved the Blueprint irons into Blueprint S and T | Fully Equipped

Ping has improved its Blueprint irons with the introduction of the Blueprint S and T models, which offer enhanced playability and options for golfers. The Blueprint S features a cavity-back design for better control and precision, while the Blueprint T is a traditional muscle-back iron that maintains workability and feel. Both models can be combined with Ping's i230 irons, allowing players to create a customized set that suits their needs. The improvements aim to provide golfers with more forgiving and versatile options compared to the intimidating original Blueprint iron.

Overheard in the Club House

Lydia Ko brought to tears in Golf Channel booth by LPGA Hall of Fame tribute video

Lydia Ko was moved to tears during a tribute video at the Golf Channel, celebrating her induction into the LPGA Hall of Fame. The emotional moment included messages from fellow golfers and her sister, highlighting the importance of relationships over accolades. At 27, Ko became the youngest player to enter the Hall under current criteria, reflecting on her journey in golf and the bonds it has created in her life.

Lydia Ko Admit to ‘Pressure’ as She Pours Her Heart Out About the ‘Crazy’ LPGA Uphill Climb Amid Struggles

Lydia Ko, following her Olympic gold medal win, has achieved the necessary points for LPGA Hall of Fame induction. Despite a challenging season with only three wins and a struggle with self-doubt, she emphasizes the importance of her journey and personal growth over accolades. Ko reflects on the pressure of competition and her pride in overcoming past lows, highlighting her resilience in the face of challenges in her career.

Teenager Miles Russell's first pro season is likely over, how did he fare?

Miles Russell, a 16-year-old golfer, likely concluded his first professional season after missing the cut at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. Despite a promising start to the season, including becoming the youngest player to make the cut on the Korn Ferry Tour, he struggled with his short game and missed the cut in several events. His overall performance included shooting under par in seven of eleven rounds, with a scoring average of 69.64 and a cumulative score of 18-under par.

Ryder Cup Star To Make First Competitive Start In Two Months Following Surgery

Ludvig Aberg, the Ryder Cup star, is set to make his competitive return at the RSM Classic after undergoing knee surgery two months ago. Aberg, who won his first PGA Tour title at the same event last year, had been sidelined due to a torn meniscus. Despite earlier withdrawals for precautionary reasons, he achieved several top 10 finishes this season. The RSM Classic marks his comeback as he aims to secure his PGA Tour playing rights for 2025.

"It's so much more simple" – Rory McIlroy discusses the latest changes in his swing

Rory McIlroy discussed recent changes to his golf swing, describing it as "much more simple" and emphasizing the importance of keeping his swing aligned on the correct path. He noted that these modifications have led to greater consistency in his game, particularly in minimizing misses. Competing in the 2024 DP World Tour Championship, McIlroy is currently tied for second place after strong rounds of 67 and 69, and he is focused on winning the tournament while also leading the Race to Dubai rankings.

Rory McIlroy admits of having no ‘empathy to understand why people chose LIV Golf’

Rory McIlroy expressed a lack of empathy towards players who joined LIV Golf, acknowledging the divide it has created in the sport. He hopes for a future where all golfers can play together again. McIlroy, who remains with the PGA Tour, is preparing for a match against LIV players Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka, emphasizing the excitement for golf fans rather than sending a message with the event.

Watch: John Rahm Comes Agonizingly Close To Ace In YouTube Match

Jon Rahm recently showcased his golfing skills in an 18-hole match at Grayhawk Golf Club, where he nearly achieved a hole-in-one on the fifth hole, but the ball hit the flagpole and bounced back. Despite this close call, Rahm won the match 3&2 against his opponents. His recent successes include winning twice in his first LIV Golf season and becoming a father. The match video has garnered nearly 500,000 views on YouTube shortly after its release.

This dwarf Bermuda grass is a hot desert trend, and a famous California course has made the switch

The Pate Course at Rancho La Quinta Country Club has undergone significant renovations, including the transition from Tifdwarf Bermuda to MiniVerde grass for all 18 greens, which offers better color retention and minimal overseeding requirements. The course also features new Augusta White sand in its bunkers, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. The changes aim to improve playability and member satisfaction, with plans for further upgrades on the Jones Course next summer.

PGA Tour pro drops one of the wildest opinions of 2024: 'If a top 10 player was here...'

PGA Tour pro Justin Lower expressed strong opinions during the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, suggesting that play should have been suspended due to severe winds, particularly on the back nine. He argued that if a top 10 or top 15 player were present, officials would have halted play, highlighting a perceived disparity in treatment between higher-ranked players and others. Lower, currently one shot behind the leaders, emphasized the challenges posed by the wind, stating that conditions were not conducive to fair play.

Hatton called ‘terrible influence’ after snapping his club - but fans are divided

Tyrrell Hatton faced criticism for his behavior at the DP World Tour Championship after he snapped his club in frustration, leading commentator Ewen Murray to call him a "terrible influence" on young golfers. While some fans condemned his actions as disgraceful and childish, others defended his right to express himself, arguing that his talent justifies his behavior. After the third round, Hatton was in sixth place, three shots behind the leaders.

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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