Planet Golf News for Thursday, December 12, 2024

Tony Finau withdraws from 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational | Tiger Woods was Google's most-searched golfer for 20 years. Someone beat him out in 2024 | NCAA Div 1 Champion, World No.14 And LET Winners Amongst 26 Players Who Secured 2025 LPGA Tour Cards

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PGN News Team
December 12, 2024

Thursday, December 12, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

The world of golf is buzzing with stories that remind us just how dynamic this sport can be. From injury setbacks to groundbreaking moments, here’s a snapshot of what’s been making waves recently in the golf universe.

Tony Finau, beloved for his consistent play and amiable demeanor, has had to bow out of the 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational as he continues to recover from knee surgery. This marks his second missed event, following his absence at the Hero World Challenge. While fans will miss seeing him paired with Nelly Korda, Daniel Berger steps in to fill the spot. Berger, who’s back in form after a long recovery from back issues, is set to team up with Korda in this unique mixed-gender event. Finau, meanwhile, is eyeing a comeback at The Sentry in January, and we’re all rooting for him to return strong.

In other exciting news, Scottie Scheffler has dethroned Tiger Woods as Google’s most-searched golfer in 2024, ending Woods’ remarkable 20-year streak. Scheffler’s seven wins this year, coupled with a headline-grabbing arrest during the PGA Championship, have certainly kept him in the spotlight. Despite this shift in search trends, Tiger’s legacy remains untouchable, with Augusta National still the most Googled golf course—a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.

Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy is championing unity in a special televised match that pits PGA Tour stars against LIV Golf players. Set to pair with Scottie Scheffler, McIlroy will take on Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka. The match isn’t just about competition; it’s a gesture toward healing the rift that’s divided golf fans in recent years. Could this event pave the way for more collaboration between the tours? Both players and fans seem to hope so.

The competitive spirit is alive and well beyond just the pros. The PGA Tour Q-School is in full swing, offering a lifeline to 171 players vying for a shot at PGA Tour cards for the 2025 season. This intense, career-defining event at TPC Sawgrass promises to deliver drama and inspiration as dreams are either realized or deferred.

And speaking of dreams, Miyu Yamashita is living hers after dominating the LPGA Q-School to secure her spot for the 2025 season. Joining her are 25 other players, including the remarkable Japanese twins Chisato and Akie Iwai, whose family story and impressive skills add a heartwarming layer to the competition.

On the international stage, the Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek is delivering its usual mix of stunning golf and breathtaking wildlife views. Defending champion Louis Oosthuizen is aiming for a repeat, while Ryder Cup hopefuls like Tom McKibbin are seizing this opportunity to make their mark.

From Tiger’s waning Google reign to Rory’s efforts to unite the sport, it’s clear that golf is in a state of evolution. With rising stars emerging, seasoned pros redefining their paths, and global competitions delivering thrills, there’s never been a better time to be a fan of this great game.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Tony Finau withdraws from 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational

Tony Finau has withdrawn from the 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational due to knee surgery recovery, and will be replaced by Daniel Berger in the mixed event. Finau clarified that his withdrawal is not related to rumors about joining LIV Golf.

Teams Confirmed For GB&I vs Europe Team Cup Match

The teams for the GB&I vs Continental Europe Team Cup match in January 2025 have been confirmed, with Justin Rose and Francesco Molinari as captains. The event will take place at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort from January 10-12, featuring a mix of experienced and young players. Notable participants include Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, and the Hojgaard twins. The match serves as a preparatory event for the Ryder Cup, with insights expected to influence team selections for the upcoming clash at Bethpage Black.

Tiger Woods was Google's most-searched golfer for 20 years. Someone beat him out in 2024

In 2024, Scottie Scheffler surpassed Tiger Woods as the most Googled golfer for the first time in 20 years, driven by his seven tournament wins and a notable arrest during the PGA Championship. Woods, who had dominated searches since 2004, fell to second place due to limited tournament participation. The top searched golf-related term was "golf courses near me," with Augusta National Golf Club being the most searched course. Other notable golfers in the top searches included Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau.

Rory McIlroy says LIV Golf and PGA Tour match is giving back to fans of a divided sport

Rory McIlroy believes a televised match between players from LIV Golf and the PGA Tour aims to bridge the divide in golf and entertain fans. He will partner with Scottie Scheffler against Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka, emphasizing the importance of bringing top players together. McIlroy noted that while the match highlights the lack of collaboration outside the majors, it represents an effort to improve the sport's unity. Both Scheffler and Koepka expressed a desire for more competition between the tours, with hints of future collaborations.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Tony Finau withdraws from second straight event after knee surgery

Grant Thornton Invitational - Tiburon Golf Club - Naples, FL

Tony Finau has withdrawn from the 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational, which is set to begin on Friday at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida. Finau, who was originally paired with Nelly Korda, cited ongoing recovery from recent knee surgery as the reason for his withdrawal. This marks Finau's second consecutive tournament withdrawal, following his absence from the Hero World Challenge last week.

In a statement, Finau expressed his disappointment at having to miss the event, mentioning that playing with Korda in 2023 was one of the highlights of his year. He underwent knee surgery on October 15 to address a torn meniscus and clean up some cartilage.

Daniel Berger will replace Finau as Nelly Korda's partner for the mixed-gender event. Berger, who recently returned to competitive golf after an 18-month absence due to back issues, finished tied for second at The RSM Classic in his last tournament appearance.

Finau is now aiming to make his return to competition at The Sentry tournament in Maui during the first week of the new year.

Grant Thorton Invitational Stories

Adorable story behind Allisen Corpuz-Sahith Theegala team at Grant Thornton Invitational

Sahith Theegala and Allisen Corpuz, both successful golfers, share a charming backstory that dates back to their childhood when they met at the Junior World golf tournament in San Diego. Both won their respective divisions that year, and their families have maintained a close friendship since. This connection adds a unique narrative to their participation as a team at the Grant Thornton Invitational, highlighting their enduring bond and shared journey in golf.

Top-ranked pro quits PGA Tour Q-School to sign with LIV Golf

PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry - TPC Sawgrass - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

The PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry is set to begin today at TPC Sawgrass' Dye's Valley Course and Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. This event marks the Final Stage of Q-School, where 171 golfers will compete for their professional futures. The top five finishers and ties will earn PGA TOUR cards for the 2025 season, with the remaining players receiving varying levels of Korn Ferry Tour and PGA TOUR Americas membership based on their finish.

The tournament will be played over 72 holes, with golfers playing two rounds at each course. After the second round, the field will be re-paired for the weekend, with the top half playing at Sawgrass Country Club and the bottom half at Dye's Valley Course, swapping for the final round.

Notable participants include former PGA TOUR champions and emerging talents such as Pierceson Coody, Scott Piercy, Nick Watney, and Sean O'Hair. The field is diverse, featuring international stars, NCAA standouts, and experienced players looking to secure their playing privileges for 2025.

This event is crucial for many players, as it represents a chance to alter their careers significantly. With PGA TOUR cards on the line, the Q-School Final Stage promises to be an intense and competitive affair, potentially changing lives and shaping the future of professional golf.

PGA Tour Q-School  Stories

McKibbin hopes to end memorable year as king of the pack

Alfred Dunhill Championship - Leopard Creek CC - Malelane, South Africa

The Alfred Dunhill Championship, a co-sanctioned event on the DP World Tour and Sunshine Tour, is set to take place at Leopard Creek Country Club in Malelane, South Africa beginning today. This prestigious tournament, with a prize fund of €1.5 million, continues the DP World Tour's Opening Swing in South Africa.

Defending champion Louis Oosthuizen will return to Leopard Creek, aiming to become only the third player in the event's history to successfully defend his title. He faces strong competition from fellow South African golfers, including Thriston Lawrence, Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Erik van Rooyen, and Dean Burmester.

The championship has a rich history, having hosted former World Number One golfers, Major winners, and Ryder Cup players since its inception in 2000. Notable past champions include Adam Scott, Justin Rose, and Charl Schwartzel, who all won their first professional titles at this event.

Leopard Creek, a par 72 course measuring 7,249 yards, offers a unique golfing experience as it borders Kruger National Park, providing players and spectators with the opportunity to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, hippos, and elephants during the tournament.

The field will feature a mix of established DP World Tour players and rising stars from the Sunshine Tour, as well as several Challenge Tour graduates making their first starts of the new campaign. With Ryder Cup points up for grabs, European challengers like Laurie Canter, David Ravetto, and Tom McKibbin will also be vying for success at this picturesque and challenging course.

Alfred Dunhill Championship Stories

Ryder Cup (Sept 25-28, 2025)

Rory McIlroy's Ryder Cup teammate looking for LIV Golf move

Chris Wood, Rory McIlroy's former Ryder Cup teammate, is seeking to join the LIV Golf setup for 2025 after struggling in recent years. He aims to regain his competitive edge and has been working hard to overcome personal challenges. Wood is participating in a qualifier in Saudi Arabia, where success could secure him a spot on the LIV roster, inspired by other seasoned players like Lee Westwood and Justin Rose.

Tyrrell Hatton named as only LIV star at Ryder Cup warm-up

Tyrrell Hatton will participate in the Ryder Cup warm-up event, the Team Cup, in Abu Dhabi, aiming to secure a spot on Luke Donald's team for the Ryder Cup in New York. The event features ten players from Continental Europe and ten from Great Britain and Ireland, with captains Francesco Molinari and Justin Rose. Hatton is currently the only LIV player involved, as other notable players like Jon Rahm are not participating. The competition format includes various match play sessions over three days, providing players a chance to impress the captain.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

Overheard in the Club House

NCAA Div 1 Champion, World No.14 And LET Winners Amongst 26 Players Who Secured 2025 LPGA Tour Cards

Miyu Yamashita won the LPGA Tour Q-School, securing her spot for the 2025 season with a total score of 27-under-par. Alongside her, 25 other players, including Chisato Iwai and Pauline Roussin-Bouchard, also earned LPGA Tour cards. Notable misses included Bronte Law and Sophia Popov. Rising stars Julia Lopez Ramirez and Adela Cernousek, both from the amateur circuit, successfully turned professional and finished in the top 25.

Japanese twins headline 26 players who earned 2025 LPGA status at Final Qualifying

The LPGA Final Qualifying event concluded with 26 players earning LPGA status for the 2025 season, highlighted by Japanese twins Chisato and Akie Iwai, and Miyu Yamashita. The tournament faced delays due to rain, with Yamashita finishing at 27 under par, while Chisato and Akie finished at 21 and 16 under, respectively. Notable players include NCAA champion Adela Cernousek and several international competitors, each bringing unique achievements and backgrounds to the upcoming season.

Ahead of Showdown, Brooks Koepka envisions LIV v. PGA 'Ryder Cup style'

Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau are set to elevate the stakes in "The Showdown," an exhibition featuring LIV Golf players against PGA Tour stars Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. Koepka envisions a Ryder Cup-style competition that could enhance fan engagement and bridge the gap between the two tours amid ongoing merger discussions. The match will take place at Shadow Creek Golf Course, incorporating various formats, and Koepka believes it could showcase the top talents from both sides, emphasizing the competitive spirit and potential of LIV players.

Scottie Scheffler Beats Xander Schauffele And Rory McIlroy To Record-Equalling PGA Tour Player Of The Year Award

Scottie Scheffler has been named the PGA Tour Player of the Year for the third consecutive season, achieving this honor with 91% of the vote from his peers. In 2024, he secured nine titles, including a second Masters victory and an Olympic Gold Medal, while earning over $60 million in prize money. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan praised Scheffler's historic season and his ability to compete against the best players in the world.

Rory McIlroy's awkward relationship with 'd***' almost cost his golf reputation

Rory McIlroy's reputation as golf's "Mr. Nice Guy" was nearly tarnished after a confrontation with Patrick Cantlay's caddie, Joe LaCava, during the 2023 Ryder Cup. McIlroy expressed frustration over LaCava's actions while he was lining up a putt, leading to a heated exchange that continued into the parking lot. He described his relationship with Cantlay as "average at best" and criticized LaCava for changing since teaming up with Cantlay. McIlroy later communicated with Tiger Woods about the incident, indicating ongoing tensions.

PGA Tour pro 'pleads the 5th' when asked this by fellow player during airport Q&A

During a Twitter Q&A, PGA Tour pro Michael Kim dodged a question from fellow player Ben An about his top three golf coaches, humorously stating, "I plead the 5th." This interaction occurred while Kim was experiencing a travel delay, showcasing his candid nature and engagement with fans on social media.

Baycurrent Inc. named title sponsor of PGA Tour's Japan event

Baycurrent Inc. has become the title sponsor of the PGA Tour's Baycurrent Classic in Japan, which will be held at Yokohama Country Club. This multi-year agreement aims to strengthen the connection between the PGA Tour and Japanese golf fans, enhancing the tournament's contributions to the sport's growth in Japan and Asia. PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan and Baycurrent president Yoshiyuki Abe expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and the event's potential impact.

It might be the scariest shot in golf. Here's how to pull it off

To successfully execute a short-sided bunker shot from a downhill lie, open the face of your highest lofted wedge, lower your hands, and slide back your trail foot. It's crucial to resist the urge to tilt your right shoulder down; instead, keep your shoulder plane parallel to the slope. Trust your technique and commit fully to the shot for the best results.

How do mid-round rulings affect pace of play? New data reveals insights

New data from a USGA survey reveals that mid-round rulings in golf tournaments are typically resolved quickly, averaging 2 minutes and 14 seconds per ruling. Despite public perception that these decisions slow down play, most rulings are straightforward and handled efficiently, allowing other players to continue their game. Familiarity with the rules can enhance the enjoyment of recreational golfers as well.

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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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