Planet Golf News for Thursday, January 2, 2025

Lydia Ko becomes a Dame in New Year’s honors in New Zealand | Xander Schauffele hoping to get back into swing of things at The Sentry | Viktor Hovland comes off a 4-month break in search of his swing and breaks a toe in Hawaii

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PGN News Team
January 02, 2025

Thursday, January 2, 2025

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

The 2025 golf season has arrived, and it’s already serving up a healthy dose of drama, triumph, and a sprinkling of chaos. The Sentry Tournament of Champions is kicking things off in Maui, where the Plantation Course at Kapalua will host a field of 60 elite players. Known for its scenic views and absurdly low scores, this birdie-fest is a favorite for players and fans alike. With defending champion Chris Kirk, Xander Schauffele, and Collin Morikawa headlining, the $20 million purse is sure to inspire some dazzling play. Opening day (today) looks sunny, and the weekend forecast promises a return to clear skies, so perhaps the weather drama will be short-lived. Fingers crossed that Mother Nature doesn’t steal the spotlight.

Speaking of drama, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is out of The Sentry after a Christmas dinner mishap involving broken glass and his hand. It’s not exactly the heroic injury story you’d expect from the top-ranked golfer in the world, but here we are. Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, and Tommy Fleetwood are also sitting this one out, leaving the door wide open for someone like Xander Schauffele to step up. Schauffele, however, is grappling with an “uncomfortable” remodeled swing. If he can adjust in time, this could be his moment to shine—or at least to look slightly less stressed on the course.

Meanwhile, Lydia Ko continues to cement her status as golf’s ultimate overachiever. In addition to her Olympic gold medal, LPGA Hall of Fame induction, and three major wins, she’s now been named Dame Lydia Ko, the youngest New Zealander to receive this honor. If you’re feeling unaccomplished, you’re not alone. Ko described the recognition as “unbelievable,” and honestly, her year sounds like it belongs in a feel-good sports movie.

Back on the PGA Tour, Viktor Hovland has returned from a four-month break and promptly injured his toe in Hawaii. It’s unclear how, exactly, one breaks a toe on a tropical island, but Hovland is nothing if not optimistic about bouncing back. Hopefully, his swing recovery goes smoother than his step count.

For those of us who prefer watching golf drama from the couch, the PGA Tour has revamped its Fantasy Golf experience for 2025. New features include a “team captain” option for double points and an auto-swap feature for players who miss the cut. It’s the perfect solution for fans who hate seeing their fantasy dreams crushed by a bad Thursday.

And then there’s Tiger Woods, who remains as enigmatic as ever. While his full 2025 schedule is still under wraps, it’s likely we’ll see him at the Farmers Insurance Open, the Genesis Invitational, and maybe even the U.S. Open. With five TGL events also on his calendar, Woods shows no signs of slowing down, even as he continues to manage his physical limitations. Whether he’s contending or just showing flashes of brilliance, Tiger always brings the buzz.

Off the course, equipment changes are shaking things up. Max Homa has signed a new deal with Cobra Puma Golf, leaving his old setup behind for shiny 3D-printed irons and some fresh Puma kicks. Meanwhile, Collin Morikawa is sticking with TaylorMade and hopes to turn his winless 2024 into a banner year. Both players are starting 2025 with high expectations, and all eyes will be on their performance in Maui.

So here we are, just days into the new year, and golf is already serving up its usual blend of glamour, grit, and good old-fashioned unpredictability. Whether it’s Lydia Ko’s historic accolades, Scheffler’s hand injury, or Hovland’s questionable footwork, there’s plenty to talk about as the season gets underway. With picturesque vistas, high stakes, and a field full of hungry competitors, the 2025 Sentry Tournament of Champions is the perfect way to start what promises to be another thrilling year in golf.

Today’s Top Golf News 

The Sentry 2025: Will Bad Weather Spoil the Party at PGA Tour Season Opener?

The 2025 PGA Tour season will commence with The Sentry event in Hawaii, featuring a competitive field of 60 top players, including stars like Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa. While the opening day is expected to have favorable weather conditions, with mild temperatures and minimal chance of rain, potential disruptions may arise later in the week due to predicted rain and thunderstorms. However, the weekend forecasts suggest a return to pleasant weather, promising a smooth conclusion to the tournament. Overall, The Sentry is set to be an exciting event, despite some weather-related uncertainties.

Lydia Ko gets one more honor to end 2024, and this one is a doozy

Lydia Ko, the 27-year-old golfer from New Zealand, concluded an extraordinary year by being honored with the title of Dame, marking her as the youngest New Zealander to receive this civil honor. Recognized as the country’s most successful golfer with 30 professional wins, including three major titles, Ko expressed her gratitude for the accolade, reflecting on the significance of such an opportunity. In 2024, she achieved remarkable milestones, including winning an Olympic gold medal and securing her place in the LPGA Hall of Fame, solidifying her legacy in the sport.

25 burning questions for the 2025 golf season

Key questions for the 2025 golf season include the future of players like Scottie Scheffler and Viktor Hovland, leadership changes in the PGA and LPGA Tours, potential major championship outcomes, and the impact of LIV Golf on the Ryder Cup dynamics. The growth of golf as a sport and fan engagement also remains a central theme.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

PGA Tour tees off 2025 schedule in Kapalua

The Sentry - PGA Tour - Kapalua Resort - Kapalua, HI

The Sentry, the opening event of the 2025 PGA Tour season, is set to take place from beginning today at the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort in Maui, Hawaii. This prestigious tournament, formerly known as the Tournament of Champions, has evolved into a signature event with a limited field of 60 players and a substantial $20 million purse, with $3.6 million going to the winner.

The field consists of PGA Tour winners from the previous year and the top 50 players from the 2024 FedExCup standings. Notable participants include Xander Schauffele, Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, and defending champion Chris Kirk. However, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler will be absent due to a hand injury sustained during Christmas dinner.

The Plantation Course, designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, offers a unique challenge as the Tour’s only par-73 layout. Stretching 7,596 yards, it features dramatic elevation changes and ocean views, often resulting in some of the longest drives seen all year. The course is known for its wide fairways and large Bermudagrass greens, making it one of the easiest on the Tour over the past five years.

The Sentry is expected to be a high-scoring affair, with an average winning score of -24 since 2010. This “birdie-fest” will test players’ abilities to navigate uneven lies, large green complexes, and occasional coastal winds. The tournament not only marks the beginning of the new golf season but also continues its tradition of supporting local community charities, having generated over $9 million since moving to Maui in 1999.

As the first of eight signature events in 2025, The Sentry sets the stage for an exciting year of golf, offering players a chance to start their season strong in the picturesque setting of Hawaii.

The Sentry Pre-Round Briefing

The 2025 Sentry Tournament of Champions: Golf’s Birdie-Filled Return to Paradise

After the holiday break, golf fans are eagerly anticipating the 2025 PGA TOUR season opener at the Sentry Tournament of Champions, held on the stunning Plantation Course at Kapalua in Maui. As snow blankets much of the mainland, the 60-player field will enjoy sunny skies and balmy 80-degree weather, competing on a course renowned for its scenic beauty and record-breaking scoring opportunities.

The Course: A Birdie Paradise

The Plantation Course, a unique par-73 layout stretching 7,596 yards, has consistently been the easiest course on the PGA Tour. Elevation changes and rolling fairways make its length deceptive, while wide fairways (43 yards on average) and massive greens (8,700 square feet) set the stage for low scores. In fact, the past four winners have each finished at least 25-under par, making this event a birdie fest that demands precision with wedges and prowess on the greens.

Field Highlights and Betting Favorites

The tournament’s 60-player field includes the top 50 from the 2024 FedExCup standings, along with winners from the past year. Notable withdrawals of Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy have left the betting field wide open, with several players poised to capitalize on the absence of these heavyweights.

Top Picks:

• Ludvig Åberg (+1600): A rising star recovering from a knee injury, Åberg’s recent T6 finish at the Hero World Challenge highlights his strong form. His elite driving and solid putting make him a prime contender.

• Sungjae Im (+2000): Consistent with top finishes at Kapalua, Im’s well-rounded game positions him as a favorite to finally clinch another PGA TOUR victory.

Value Plays:

• Cameron Davis (+11000): Coming off a competitive Australian summer, Davis’ past top-10 finish at Kapalua suggests he could surprise the field.

• J.T. Poston (+650 for Top 5): Known for excelling in birdie-friendly events, Poston finished T5 here last year and could deliver again.

Rising Stars to Watch

• Matt McCarty (+550 for Top 10): A Korn Ferry Tour standout turned PGA TOUR winner, McCarty’s exceptional putting and scoring average could translate into success on his Kapalua debut.

• Sepp Straka (+160 for Top 20): The European Ryder Cup star’s penchant for going low makes him a strong sleeper pick.

History and Prestige

As the PGA TOUR’s first event of the calendar year for the 72nd consecutive season, the Sentry boasts a $20 million purse, with the winner taking home $3.6 million and 700 FedExCup points. Defending champion Chris Kirk returns after his emotional 2024 victory, while stars like Xander Schauffele and Justin Thomas look to reclaim past glory. The event also commemorates iconic moments, like Tiger Woods’ dramatic 2000 playoff victory against Ernie Els, which launched one of the greatest seasons in golf history.

Broadcast Schedule

• Golf Channel: Thursday and Friday, 6–10 p.m. EST; Saturday and Sunday, 6–8 p.m. EST. NBC and Peacock: Saturday and Sunday, 4–6 p.m. EST. PGA TOUR Live on ESPN+: Starting at 12:30 p.m. EST daily.

What to Expect

With picturesque vistas, low scores, and top-tier talent, the 2025 Sentry Tournament of Champions promises a thrilling start to the season. Whether it’s seasoned champions or emerging stars, one thing is certain: birdies will be in abundance, and the Plantation Course will once again deliver unforgettable moments in paradise.

The Sentry Top Stories

New PGA Tour season starts at Kapalua without its best player

The new PGA Tour season starts without its best player. Scottie Scheffler has had to withdraw from The Sentry at Kapalua after minor surgery to get glass shards out of his right hand from a broken glass at Christmas dinner.

Xander Schauffele hoping to get back into swing of things at The Sentry

Xander Schauffele is adjusting to a remodeled swing as he prepares for The Sentry tournament, taking advantage of Scottie Scheffler's absence. Despite feeling uncomfortable with the changes, he remains confident after last year's successes and aims to improve his game further, while also eyeing a chance to overtake Scheffler in the rankings.

4 PGAT stars skipping The Sentry 2025 despite qualifying ft. Rory McIlroy

Four PGA Tour stars, including Scottie Scheffler (hand injury), Rory McIlroy (other commitments), Shane Lowry, and Tommy Fleetwood (Team Cup), will miss The Sentry 2025, missing out on a $20 million purse and 700 FedEx Cup points.

Yes, Jordan Spieth's caddie is working for Max Homa in Maui. No, it's not what you think

Jordan Spieth's caddie, Michael Greller, is working for Max Homa at The Sentry tournament in Maui, which has sparked curiosity but is not what it seems.

Xander Schauffele gets candid about his 'uncomfortable' struggles ahead of The Sentry 2025

Xander Schauffele opens up about his challenges leading up to The Sentry 2025, sharing his feelings of discomfort and the struggles he faces as he prepares for the tournament.

Ryder Cup (Sept 25-28, 2025)

Schauffele says Ryder Cup pay for Americans is going to charity and 'we're going to take crap'

Xander Schauffele expressed that the compensation for American players participating in the Ryder Cup, which includes a $300,000 donation to charity and a $200,000 stipend, is primarily aimed at charitable contributions rather than personal gain. He emphasized that while this decision may lead to criticism, the intention is to make a positive impact and give back to the community. Captain Keegan Bradley also confirmed his commitment to donating his stipend to charity, indicating that the players' focus remains on representing their country and enhancing the Ryder Cup experience. Schauffele noted that the ongoing discussions around pay have intensified the rivalry and excitement surrounding the event, scheduled for September 2025 at Bethpage Black in New York.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Max Homa signs multi-year club and shoe deal with Cobra Puma Golf

Max Homa has officially signed a multi-year endorsement deal with Cobra Puma Golf, transitioning from his previous sponsorships with Titleist and Footjoy. This announcement comes after a challenging year in which Homa did not secure a win on the PGA Tour and fell in the rankings. Excited about the partnership, Homa expressed confidence in the technology and design of Cobra's equipment, emphasizing the performance benefits he expects to gain. As part of his new setup, Homa will utilize a mix of Cobra clubs, including a unique set of 3D-printed irons, and will debut the new Puma Ignite Elevate 2 Tour golf shoe.

Major golf brand shows off Collin Morikawa's new gear for the 2025 season

World No. 4 Collin Morikawa is set to debut new TaylorMade gear as he begins the 2025 PGA Tour season at the Sentry in Maui. Although not the favorite to win, Morikawa has strong odds and will compete against notable challengers like Xander Schauffele and Justin Thomas. Despite a winless 2024, he finished second in the FedEx Cup race and had eight top-10 finishes, showcasing his potential for a successful 2025 season. Golf insider Bill Bowman predicts a promising outing for Morikawa, especially with family and friends in attendance, and notes that he has historically performed well at this event.

Overheard in the Club House

Viktor Hovland comes off a 4-month break in search of his swing and breaks a toe in Hawaii

Viktor Hovland returns to competition after a 4-month break but suffers a toe injury in Hawaii. Despite the setback, he remains optimistic about his swing and aims to regain confidence following a challenging previous season.

PGA Tour refreshes its fantasy golf product for 2025

The PGA Tour has announced a series of updates to its Fantasy Golf game for the 2025 season, aimed at enhancing user experience and engagement. Key changes include the introduction of a "team captain" feature that allows players to earn double points, and an automatic swap feature for players who miss cuts. The Tour has also revamped its website and app, introducing a real-time scoreboard for better interaction. Winners of the quarterly and season-long competitions will receive gift cards to the PGA Tour Superstore, emphasizing the Tour's partnership with the retailer. These updates reflect the growing trend in fantasy sports, as the PGA Tour seeks to modernize its offerings and attract a broader audience.

After runner-up finish at PNC, what might Tiger Woods' schedule look like in 2025?

Tiger Woods is expected to play in five TGL events and may kick off his year at the Farmers Insurance Open. He is likely to participate in the Genesis Invitational, Players Championship, Masters, and possibly the U.S. Open, while the PGA Championship remains uncertain. He will also play in the Hero World Challenge if possible.

Tiger Woods comments on death of former Golfweek/USA Today reporter Steve DiMeglio

Tiger Woods paid tribute to former Golfweek reporter Steve DiMeglio, who passed away at 63 after battling cancer. Woods maintained a close relationship with DiMeglio, checking in on him during his illness and cherishing their time together at tournaments.

"That's what the best players do": Xander Schauffele gives his take on succeeding in professional golf

Xander Schauffele shares insights on achieving success in professional golf, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges and learning from experiences. He reflects on his personal struggles as he prepares for The Sentry 2025.

Rules Guy: Can an embedded ball be denied free relief?

A ball driven straight into the ground is not considered embedded, so free relief isn't allowed. If the ball is still in the teeing area, it can be re-teed without penalty. For unplayable lies in a difficult bunker, players must drop the ball under specific rules, incurring a penalty stroke.

Those we lost in the world of golf in 2024

In 2024, the world of golf mourned the loss of several significant figures, including Hall of Famers, champions, and beloved personalities from various backgrounds. Notable among them were Carl Paul, who founded Golfsmith; Jack Burke Jr., a two-time major winner; and Carl Weathers, known for his iconic film roles. The year also saw the passing of artists like Toby Keith, along with influential figures in golf such as Stephanie Sparks, Ronald Green, and Susie Maxwell Berning. Each individual left a unique mark on the sport and their contributions will be remembered by fans and communities alike.

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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