Planet Golf News for Sunday, October 13, 2024

Matt McCarty takes lead at Black Desert in his 2nd PGA Tour start | Mao Saigo sets 54-hole record at LPGA Shanghai

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PGN News Team
October 13, 2024

Sunday, October 13, 2024

PlanetGolfNews + Marie Birdie

Marie Birdie is a clothing brand dedicated to providing young women with the sense of empowerment and individuality. Now available at select PGA Superstores.

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

This weekend’s golf news is packed with excitement, from jaw-dropping performances to the next generation making their mark in front of golf legends. Let’s dive into the standout moments from both established stars and rising talents in the world of golf.

First up, we have 12-year-old Emery Johnson, who stole the show at the U13 National Car Rental PGA Jr League Championship with a spectacular hole-in-one. And this wasn’t just any ordinary ace. With PGA Tour star Tony Finau and his son watching, Johnson nailed a 132-yard shot, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Broadcast live on ESPN, this was a moment the young golfer, and likely many fans, will never forget. While Team Georgia is leading the pack, Utah and Florida are close behind, but Johnson’s ace will undoubtedly be the highlight of the event.

Over in Utah, the inaugural Black Desert Championship has been heating up, with Matt McCarty leading the field after an outstanding 7-under 64 on Saturday. Playing only his second PGA Tour event, McCarty has a two-stroke lead at 19-under, thanks in part to a stellar front nine, where he went 6-under in a five-hole stretch, including an eagle on the seventh. However, with names like Stephan Jaeger, Kevin Streelman, and Joe Highsmith right on his heels, Sunday’s final round is bound to be a battle. Highsmith had an unforgettable day himself, carding a 62, his best round ever. With McCarty aiming for his first PGA Tour win and a ticket to the Masters on the line, this final round promises some intense action.

Across the globe in Shanghai, Japan’s Mao Saigo is looking poised to secure her first LPGA Tour victory at the Buick LPGA Shanghai. Saigo shot a second straight 7-under 65, but China’s Ruoning Yin isn’t letting her relax just yet. Yin’s blistering 9-under 63 puts her just one shot behind, setting the stage for a thrilling final day. With big names like Sei Young Kim and Yealimi Noh still in the mix, the final 18 holes will determine who walks away with the win—and a hefty piece of the $2.1 million purse.

Meanwhile, on the PGA Tour Champions circuit, Padraig Harrington has built a solid three-shot lead at the SAS Championship. This North Carolina event is the last of the regular season, and the competition is fierce as players jostle for position heading into the Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs. Harrington is up against a tough field that includes past champions like Bernhard Langer and Ernie Els, but with his current form, he’s looking like the man to beat.

In Europe, Sweden’s Jesper Svensson is leading the FedEx Open de France at Le Golf National, heading into Sunday with a one-stroke advantage. A consistent round of 67 kept him in the driver’s seat, though Denmark’s Thorbjorn Olesen and England’s Sam Bairstow are right behind him. The field is packed with talent, including a standout performance by 16-year-old Ukrainian Lev Grinberg, who is making waves despite a triple-bogey setback. Sunday promises more drama as the contenders vie not only for the title but also for valuable Race to Dubai points.

In off-the-course news, Tiger Woods’ clothing brand, Sun Day Red, just launched its first pop-up shop at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links. Fans can snag exclusive gear featuring the famous Pebble Beach logo, but the brand is currently in a legal tangle over its trademark, which may complicate things down the line.

And finally, a fun fact to shake up any stereotypes about golf: contrary to popular belief, the sport isn’t just for the older crowd. Recent data shows the average age of golfers is now 43.5, and there are more players aged 18-34 than over 65. The younger generation is hitting the links in droves, proving that golf is evolving into a sport for all ages.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

PGA Jr League Player Makes Epic Hole-In-One In Front Of PGA Tour Star

During the u13 National Car Rental PGA Jr League Championship, 12-year-old Emery Johnson from Utah made his first hole-in-one, impressively hitting a 132-yard shot that went directly into the hole. The event, attended by PGA Tour star Tony Finau and his son, was broadcast on ESPN. Johnson described the moment as thrilling, noting the support from his teammates during the celebration. Team Georgia leads the tournament after day one, with Utah and Florida close behind.

Major Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

Black Desert Championship - PGA Tour - Black Desert Resort Golf Course - Ivins, UT

Matt McCarty leads third round of 2024 Black Desert

The inaugural Black Desert Championship at Black Desert Resort Golf Course in Ivins, Utah, saw an exciting day of play with Matt McCarty emerging as the leader heading into the final round. McCarty, in only his second PGA Tour start, shot an impressive 7-under 64 on Saturday, bringing his total to 19-under 194 and securing a two-stroke lead.

McCarty, a 26-year-old from Scottsdale, Arizona, showcased his skills on the Tom Weiskopf-designed course, which is uniquely carved out of an ancient black lava field. He had a particularly strong performance on the front nine, playing a five-hole stretch in 6 under par, highlighted by an eagle chip-in on the par-5 seventh hole.

Following closely behind McCarty are Stephan Jaeger, Joe Highsmith, Kevin Streelman, and Harris English, all two strokes back at 17-under. Jaeger, who already has a PGA Tour victory this year at the Houston Open, shot a 68 on Saturday.

Joe Highsmith had a standout day, carding a 62, which he described as "probably one of the best rounds I've ever played in my entire life golfing". The conditions became more challenging on the back nine with some crosswinds, adding to the difficulty of the course.

Other notable performances include Harry Hall at 15-under after a 64, and Kurt Kitayama, Chad Ramey, and Beau Hossler all at 14-under. The tournament, which marks the PGA Tour's return to Utah after a 61-year absence, has been characterized by low scores despite some breezy conditions.

As the tournament heads into its final round, all eyes will be on McCarty, who is aiming for his first PGA Tour win. The young golfer acknowledged the significant opportunities that come with a victory, including a two-year exemption and a spot in the Masters. With such high stakes and a competitive field, the final round of the Black Desert Championship promises to be an exciting conclusion to this inaugural event.

Black Desert Stories

Black Desert Championship Videos

Buick LPGA Shanghai - LPGA - Qizhong Gardent Golf Club - Shanghai, China

Mao Saigo holds one-shot lead after 3rd round 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai

The third round of the Buick LPGA Shanghai at Qizhong Garden Golf Club in Shanghai, China, saw some exciting developments on Saturday. Japan's Mao Saigo continued her impressive performance, shooting a 7-under 65 for the second consecutive day to take the lead at 18-under par. Saigo, an LPGA Tour rookie, is now in prime position to secure her first tour victory.

Hot on Saigo's heels is China's own Ruoning Yin, who fired the lowest round of the day with a spectacular 9-under 63. Yin's remarkable performance put her just one shot behind the leader, thrilling the home crowd and setting up an intriguing final round battle.

South Korea's Sei Young Kim, who had set the pace with a blistering 62 in the opening round, remains in contention. She posted a solid 69 in the third round, placing her in third position at 15-under par, three shots off the lead.

American Yealimi Noh is holding steady in fourth place at 13-under par after a 68 in the third round. A group of players, including Nasa Hataoka, Minjee Lee, and Lucy Li, are tied for fifth at 11-under par, keeping their hopes alive for a final day charge.

The leaderboard remains tight, with several players within striking distance of the lead. This sets the stage for an exciting final round on Sunday, as Saigo aims to maintain her advantage while Yin seeks to make history as a home winner4. With the tournament's $2.1 million purse and the prestige of an LPGA victory on the line, the closing 18 holes promise to deliver high-stakes drama and world-class golf at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club.

Buick LPGA Shanghai Stories

Buick LPGA Shanghai Videos

SAS Championship - PGA Tour Champions - Prestonwood CC, Cary, NC

Pádraig Harrington holds three-shot lead ahead of final round on Champions Tour

The second round of the 2024 SAS Championship at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, North Carolina concluded today, providing golf fans with another exciting day of PGA Tour Champions action. The tournament, which marks the end of the regular season for the PGA Tour Champions, has drawn a strong field of competitors vying for the $2,100,000 purse, with $315,000 going to the winner.

As the players battled it out on the 7,237-yard par-72 course, the leaderboard began to take shape. While specific scores and positions are not available, the competition is undoubtedly fierce, with several notable players in contention. Charles Schwab Cup leader Ernie Els, who won this event in 2020, is among the top contenders, along with other World Golf Hall of Fame members like Padraig Harrington and two-time SAS champion Bernhard Langer.

The tournament has also seen strong performances from other top-ranked players in the Charles Schwab Cup standings, including Steven Alker, Stephen Ames, and Richard Green, who entered the week ranked second, third, and fourth, respectively. These players are not only competing for the SAS Championship title but also jockeying for position in the upcoming Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs.

As the tournament heads into its final round tomorrow, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion. The players will be looking to challenge the course records, including the impressive 18-hole score of 60 set by Fred Couples in the final round of 2022. With so much at stake, including playoff positioning and a significant prize purse, golf fans can expect a thrilling finish to this year's SAS Championship.

SAS Championship Stories

SAS Championship Videos

FedEx Open de France - DP World Tour - Le Golf National - Paris, France

Jesper Svensson holds one-stroke lead going into final round

The third round of the 2024 FedEx Open de France at Le Golf National in Paris saw Sweden's Jesper Svensson take the outright lead heading into the final day1. Svensson carded an impressive four-under 67, which included five birdies and just one bogey, to reach 13-under par overall1. His consistent play, hitting 16 of 18 greens in regulation, propelled him to a one-stroke advantage over his nearest competitors.

Denmark's Thorbjorn Olesen and England's Sam Bairstow share second place at 12-under par1. Bairstow had a particularly strong showing, posting a six-under 65 that featured a chip-in eagle on the 14th hole. Just behind them at 11-under are English players Joe Dean and Dan Bradbury, who remain very much in contention.

The day saw some movement among the leaders, with overnight co-leaders Thomas Detry and Dan Bradbury experiencing different fortunes. While Bradbury managed to stay near the top with a two-under 69, Detry struggled with a one-over 72, dropping him into a tie for 15th place alongside Justin Rose, five shots off the lead.

Former world No. 1 Justin Rose, who started the day just two shots off the lead, couldn't capitalize on his strong position. He posted a round of 70, which saw him fall back in the standings, now sitting five strokes behind Svensson.

An interesting storyline developed with 16-year-old Ukrainian Lev Grinberg, who is playing in just his fifth DP World Tour event. Despite a triple-bogey on the 15th hole where he found the water twice, Grinberg managed to card a 70 and sits tied for 30th at six-under par.

As the tournament heads into its final round on Sunday, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion. Svensson, eyeing only his second DP World Tour victory, will need to fend off a host of challengers, including experienced players like Olesen and Rose, as well as up-and-coming talents like Bairstow and Bradbury. With the Ryder Cup qualification process ongoing and valuable Race to Dubai points on offer, there's much more than just the trophy at stake for the competitors.

FedEx Open de France Stories

FedEx Open de France Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Tiger Woods' Clothing Brand Announces Opening Of First Pop-Up Shop In Iconic Golf Location

Tiger Woods' clothing brand, Sun Day Red, has opened its first pop-up shop at Pebble Beach Golf Links, a significant location for Woods. The shop features a full inventory of golf and lifestyle apparel, including exclusive merchandise with the Pebble Beach logo. Woods expressed excitement about the shop, linking it to his personal connection to the venue. However, the brand is currently involved in a legal dispute with Tigeraire over trademark issues related to its logo.

Overheard in the Club House

1X PGA Tour Winner Compares Himself to Scottie Scheffler With a Unique Twist at Black Desert Championship: ‘I’ve Done It’

Lanto Griffin humorously compared himself to Scottie Scheffler, claiming the title of the "Scottie Scheffler of making cuts" after successfully making the cut at the Black Desert Championship. Griffin highlighted his consistent performance in tournaments, noting that he has made significant putts to secure his place, similar to Scheffler's winning strategy. Despite not winning the championship, Griffin's ability to make the cut showcases his skill, as he carded impressive scores during the tournament.

Patrick Reed & LIV Golf Co’s Bizarre ‘Uber’ Tricks Find Zero Love From Fans: ‘No Getting Off Easy’

LIV Golf pros, including Patrick Reed and Kevin Na, humorously responded to the question, "What’s your fake Uber Ride Job?" in a social media video, sharing creative and funny answers. However, the community's reaction was largely critical, with fans referencing Reed's past controversies and questioning the golfers' recognition and relevance. The lighthearted video did not resonate well with many viewers, leading to jabs at the golfers and the LIV Golf League.

Is this outlandish indoor course the future of golf design?

City Golf, an innovative indoor golf course in Tianjin, China, combines virtual and real-world play across 106,000 square feet with 18 screens and synthetic greens. Developed by GolfZon, it aims to provide a unique urban golfing experience and is part of a growing trend in golf entertainment venues. The company plans to expand this concept to major cities worldwide, tapping into the golf-as-lifestyle market with additional amenities and services.

Think golfers are old? 1 stat may surprise you

The perception that golf is primarily for older individuals is challenged by recent statistics showing that the average age of golfers has decreased from 44.6 to 43.5 years. In 2023, there were more golfers aged 18-34 than those over 65, with 6.3 million in the younger demographic compared to 5.4 million over 65. Additionally, golf participation among those aged 65 and older has increased by 64% in the past decade, indicating a growing diversity in the age of golfers. Overall, more people are playing golf than ever, with over 500 million rounds expected in 2024.

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 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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