Planet Golf News for Thursday, November 14, 2024

Caitlin Clark 'larger than life' among legends at The Annika pro-am | McIlroy aims for glory on happy hunting ground in Dubai | Looking to cap special season, Nelly Korda returns after issue with migraines, neck injury

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PGN News Team
November 14, 2024

Thursday, November 14, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes (or so)

Good Morning,

The golf world is buzzing with action as players strive to cap their seasons with memorable finishes, while exciting stories from tournaments across the globe bring fresh highlights to fans. In the LPGA, Nelly Korda’s return to competition has captivated attention. After being sidelined by migraines and a neck injury, Korda is back on the course, determined to end her successful year with a strong performance at the $11 million season finale in Naples. Known for her poise, Korda is ready to contend in the Race to CME Globe, wrapping up a season that’s already earned her LPGA Player of the Year honors.

Meanwhile, basketball star Caitlin Clark is stealing the spotlight in her LPGA debut at the ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge Pro-Am. The WNBA sensation brought her talent—and humor—to the tournament, even laughing off a wayward tee shot. Clark, who plays golf as a hobby with a 16 handicap, impressed the crowd with her love for the game, mingling with fans and showcasing the broader appeal of women’s sports. Her participation with legends like Annika Sorenstam and Nelly Korda is not only a boost for golf but also a signal of the growing visibility of women’s sports.

Over in Bermuda, players on the PGA Tour are contending with fierce winds and intense pressure at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship. Held at the picturesque Port Royal Golf Course, this penultimate event offers a crucial chance for players on the FedEx Cup bubble to secure their PGA Tour cards for next season. Among them are Joel Dahmen, Daniel Berger, and Hayden Springer, all vying to keep their tour status intact. With gusts reaching up to 35 mph, the weather is adding another layer of challenge, putting even the strongest players to the test. Defending champion Camilo Villegas returns to Bermuda, adding emotion to the event after last year’s triumph amid personal tragedy. The tournament offers a hefty $6.9 million purse, with $1.242 million going to the winner, making it one of the final opportunities for players to climb the standings.

In Dubai, the DP World Tour Championship is underway, where Rory McIlroy needs just a solo 11th place to secure his sixth Race to Dubai title. McIlroy enters with high expectations as he chases yet another career milestone, all while major champions like Adam Scott and Justin Rose add star power to the field. With a $3 million prize on the line, this season-ending event also offers a $6 million bonus pool, adding to the drama as top players from around the world vie for PGA Tour cards for 2025. McIlroy, reflecting on a season marked by near-misses in majors, seems ready to leave his mark on a year that he candidly rates as “solid but stinging.”

Another significant update in golf involves the ongoing debate around Ryder Cup player compensation. Reports suggest that the U.S. Ryder Cup players may receive $400,000 each for participating in the 2025 event. The news has reignited discussions about balancing tradition with the financial reality of modern sports, with European players generally favoring pride over pay. This development follows a growing trend in professional sports where athletes are increasingly advocating for direct compensation.

On the LIV Golf front, the league has announced its expanded 2025 schedule, featuring ten events, including tournaments in new locations like Korea and Indianapolis. The event in Indiana is expected to bring an economic impact of up to $29 million, reflecting LIV’s focus on creating fan experiences and promoting local engagement. This ambitious schedule marks LIV’s continued push for global growth as it competes with traditional tours.

From junior golf to the Korn Ferry Tour, golf’s future stars are also making waves. Stanford alum Karl Vilips was named the Korn Ferry Tour’s Rookie of the Year, while Matt McCarty took Player of the Year honors, both securing PGA Tour status for next season. This new generation of players, including high school prodigies benefiting from NIL deals, shows that the talent pool is deeper than ever.

With both legends and rising stars taking the stage, the current season’s end promises thrilling stories, fierce competition, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Looking to cap special season, Nelly Korda returns after issue with migraines, neck injury

Nelly Korda aims to finish the LPGA season strong after recovering from a neck injury and migraines that sidelined her during the Asian swing. Despite the challenges, she has returned to the course and is focused on performing well in the final events, including the $11 million season finale in Naples, with the ultimate goal of winning the tournament.

Watch The Moment Caitlin Clark Almost Hits Fans With Tee Shot At The Annika Pro-Am

Caitlin Clark, during her participation in the Annika Pro-Am, humorously expressed her main goal was to avoid hitting anyone with her golf ball. Despite a near miss on her tee shot, she recovered well and showcased her golfing skills, including a solid approach and a successful putt. Clark, who identifies as an "average golfer" with a handicap of around 16, enjoys playing golf and dedicates time to practice, acknowledging the ups and downs of her game. The event is part of the LPGA Tour, with Nelly Korda competing for the Race To CME Globe title.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Dahmen, Berger headline bubble boys fighting for PGA Tour cards

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

The 2024 Butterfield Bermuda Championship tees off today at Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton Parish, Bermuda. This PGA Tour event marks the penultimate tournament of the 2024 season, with players vying for crucial FedEx Cup points and Tour cards for the 2025 season.

The tournament carries significant weight for many participants, as it’s one of the last opportunities for players to secure their position in the top 125 of the FedEx Cup standings, which guarantees full-time PGA Tour status for next year. Notable players on the bubble include Hayden Springer, currently sitting at No. 125, and others like Joel Dahmen, Daniel Berger, and Alex Smalley, who are just inside the cutoff.

Camilo Villegas returns as the defending champion, having won last year’s event in an emotional victory following personal tragedy. The field also includes other past Bermuda champions such as Seamus Power, Lucas Herbert, and Brendon Todd.

Weather is expected to play a significant role in this year’s tournament. Strong winds with sustained speeds of 20-25 mph and gusts up to 35 mph are forecast for the opening round, potentially making scoring difficult. The challenging conditions are likely to continue throughout the event, with an organized weather system bringing potentially heavy rain and gusty winds expected to arrive Friday night into Saturday morning.

The tournament boasts a purse of $6.9 million, with $1.242 million going to the winner along with 500 FedEx Cup points. Port Royal Golf Course, a Robert Trent Jones Sr. design, will host the event for the sixth consecutive year. The par-71 course stretches 6,828 yards and typically allows for low scoring, though the expected windy conditions may change that this year.

As the PGA Tour season nears its conclusion, the Butterfield Bermuda Championship promises to be a crucial and potentially dramatic event, with players battling both the elements and each other in pursuit of victory and Tour status.

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Stories

Caitlin Clark tees it up with Nelly Korda, proves she is human

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

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge, the penultimate event on the LPGA Tour schedule, is set to begin today at the Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida. This prestigious tournament has attracted a star-studded field, including 18 of the top 25 players in the world rankings.

One of the highlights of the event was yesterday’s Pro-Am, which featured an unexpected guest: WNBA star Caitlin Clark. The 22-year-old basketball phenom joined world No. 1 golfer Nelly Korda and tournament host Annika Sorenstam for a nine-hole round that drew significant attention from spectators. Clark’s participation brought a buzz to the course, with crowds lining up to watch her play and seek autographs afterward.

Despite her limited golfing experience, Clark held her own on the course, even sinking a putt from what she jokingly referred to as “3-point range.” Her presence at the event has been seen as a positive step for women’s golf, bringing additional attention and potentially new fans to the sport.

Nelly Korda, who is making her return to competitive golf after a minor neck injury, praised Clark’s relaxed demeanor and natural talent on the course. Korda herself is looking to cap off a successful season, having already clinched LPGA Player of the Year honors and leading the Race to CME Globe standings.

As the tournament proper begins, all eyes will be on the world-class field competing for victory in this important late-season event. With its mix of top-ranked players, special guests, and a challenging course, The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge promises to deliver exciting golf action in the lead-up to the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship.

The ANNIKA Stories

The ANNIKA Videos

McIlroy aims for glory on happy hunting ground in Dubai

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

The DP World Tour Championship, the season-ending event of the DP World Tour, is set to tee off at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, UAE today. This prestigious tournament marks the culmination of the Race to Dubai and features the top 50 available players in the season-long standings.

Rory McIlroy enters the event as the clear favorite, holding a commanding lead in the Race to Dubai rankings. The Northern Irishman needs only a solo 11th place finish or better to secure his sixth Race to Dubai title, which would equal Seve Ballesteros’ record. McIlroy’s closest challenger, Thriston Lawrence, must win the tournament outright and hope for McIlroy to finish lower than 11th to have any chance of overtaking him.

The field is stacked with talent, including major champions Adam Scott, Justin Rose, and Shane Lowry. Other notable players include Tommy Fleetwood, Billy Horschel, and Robert MacIntyre. However, some high-profile names will be absent, including last year’s champion Nicolai Højgaard, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Jon Rahm, who qualified but chose not to participate.

The tournament carries significant weight beyond the prestigious trophy and the $3 million winner’s prize. The top 10 finishers in the Race to Dubai standings will share a $6 million bonus pool, with the overall winner receiving $2 million. Additionally, the top 10 DP World Tour members not otherwise exempt will earn PGA Tour cards for the 2025 season, adding extra motivation for many in the field.

DP World Tour Championship Stories

DP World Tour Championship Videos

The Ryder Cup (Sept 22-28, 2025)

U.S. Ryder Cup players set to be paid in 2025 at Bethpage Black

U.S. Ryder Cup players are set to receive approximately $400,000 each for the 2025 event at Bethpage Black, marking a shift from previous charitable contributions. This decision follows ongoing debates about player compensation in team competitions, with some players expressing concerns over being exploited as events generate significant profits. European players have stated they do not support receiving payments. The change reflects a long-standing desire among American players for direct compensation, a sentiment echoed by figures like Tiger Woods.

Is Latest Ryder Cup Pay Report Really That Big A Deal?

A report suggests that Ryder Cup players may receive $400,000 for competing, reigniting the debate over money versus pride in the event. While some American players feel this undermines the spirit of the Ryder Cup, European players express pride in representing their tour without payment. The PGA of America argues that the payments could ensure top players participate, which benefits the event and its fans. Ultimately, the discussion reflects a changing landscape in professional sports where financial compensation is increasingly common, even among wealthy athletes.

Breeding Greed Or Moving With The Times? Golf Monthly Staff Debate Apparent Inevitability Of Ryder Cup Pay

The debate over whether Ryder Cup players should be paid continues, with arguments for and against. Proponents argue that the significant revenue generated by the event should be shared with the players, while opponents believe that the honor of representing one's country should outweigh financial compensation. Currently, Team USA players receive $200,000, half of which goes to charity, while Team Europe players receive unique gifts. A recent report suggests that American players may soon receive $400,000 each, raising concerns about the implications of monetizing such a prestigious event. The Golf Monthly team shares mixed opinions, highlighting the tension between tradition and the realities of modern sports economics.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Caitlin Clark's gold Nike golf shoes turn heads at The Annika LPGA pro-am

Caitlin Clark drew attention at The Annika LPGA pro-am with her custom gold Nike Infinity Tour 2 golf shoes. Playing alongside top players like Nelly Korda and Annika Sorenstam, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity and enjoyed the experience of competing with them, highlighting the support for women's sports by Gainbridge.

3 easy ways a launch monitor can keep your game sharp this offseason

A launch monitor can enhance your golf game during the offseason by measuring carry distances for each club, analyzing dispersion to the target, and allowing for powerful swings without sacrificing control. Utilizing technology like launch monitors helps golfers maintain skills and improve their performance even when practicing indoors.

Overheard in the Club House

Karl Vilips started 2024 at Stanford. Now he's the Korn Ferry Tour's Rookie of the Year

Karl Vilips, who started 2024 at Stanford, has been named the Korn Ferry Tour's Rookie of the Year after a successful transition to professional golf. He graduated from Stanford, excelled on the Korn Ferry Tour with a win at the Utah Championship, and secured PGA Tour membership for the 2025 season, finishing 19th on the points list with seven top-25 finishes in ten starts.

Matt McCarty named 2024 Korn Ferry Tour Player of the Year

Matt McCarty was named the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour Player of the Year, receiving the Jack Nicklaus Award unanimously. At 26, he topped the tour's points list with three wins and nine top-10 finishes, achieving a scoring average of 68.38. His performance secured him a promotion to the PGA Tour, where he won in his second start and earned fully exempt status for 2025, including spots in the U.S. Open and Players Championship.

Charlie Woods opens Florida high school state championship with solid round

Charlie Woods, son of Tiger Woods, completed his first round at the Class 1A Florida high school state championship with a score of 78, placing 55th individually. His team, the defending champions, is tied for 9th place after the first day. Woods recorded a birdie on the 14th hole but faced challenges with double bogeys on the 5th and 17th holes. The team aims to defend their title despite needing to improve on the second day.

The New Kids of NIL: Top junior golfers are making money like the pros

Top junior golfers are capitalizing on new NIL opportunities, earning significant endorsements and changing the landscape of competitive golf. Following a 2021 Supreme Court ruling, young athletes can now secure lucrative deals, with players like Blades Brown and Nick Dunlap making headlines. These athletes are not only gaining financial support but also valuable networking experiences, reshaping the traditional amateur status and paving the way for future earnings in professional golf.

College golf signing day: Top women's players, classes for Class of 2025

The Class of 2025 college golf signing day saw significant activity, with Duke securing top players Rianne Malixi and Avery McCrery, while Scarlett Schremmer chose Texas A&M. The early signing period has introduced new grant-in-aid agreements, affecting recruitment dynamics amid roster limits. The top 25 players and top 10 classes were highlighted, showcasing the competitive landscape of women's college golf.

Jourdan: As impending roster limits loom, college golf recruiting hangs in the balance

The impending NCAA roster limits for college golf, set to begin in fall 2025, are causing significant disruption in recruiting, particularly for the Class of 2025. Many athletes who thought they had secured spots are now facing uncertainty as schools adjust to the new limits, which may result in hundreds of players needing to find new opportunities. While elite players may not be affected, the changes could benefit mid-major programs by providing access to talented players who would have otherwise competed at higher-tier schools. The landscape of college golf is shifting, with potential for increased playing opportunities at lower-tier programs, but many recruits may struggle to find a place to play.

LIV Golf releases second part of 2025 schedule, including three U.S. events

LIV Golf announced six additional events for its 2025 schedule, totaling 10 of the expected 14 events. Notable tournaments include LIV Golf Dallas, LIV Golf Andalucia, and the inaugural LIV Golf Korea and Indianapolis events. The schedule reflects LIV Golf's global expansion, with a focus on new markets and returning venues, aiming to build on last year's successes.

Indianapolis golf course expecting $21 million economic impact from 2025 LIV Golf event

The LIV Golf tournament will take place at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield, Indiana, from August 15-17, 2025, featuring top players and expected to generate a $21-$29 million economic impact on the local economy. The event will include fan engagement activities and improvements to the golf course. Local officials emphasize the opportunity to showcase the community and boost local businesses during the tournament.

LIV Golf Announces Inaugural Korea Tournament In 2025 Schedule Update

LIV Golf will host its inaugural tournament in South Korea at Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Korea from May 2-4, 2025, as part of its expanding global schedule. CEO Greg Norman highlighted this event as a significant milestone for the league's growth in Asia. The 2025 schedule also includes events in Dallas, Valderrama, and the UK, with some US tournaments expected to be removed from the schedule. The announcement follows a successful 2024 season with record attendance at new venues.

DP World Tour Q-School Set To Enter Seventh Day After Suspension

The DP World Tour Q-School is entering its seventh day due to severe weather in Tarragona, Spain, causing a suspension of play. The fifth round will resume on Thursday, with only the top 20 players earning a DP World Tour card for the 2025 season. Edoardo Molinari leads the tournament, while several players are vying for the remaining spots, amidst concerns over the weather following recent record rainfall in the region.

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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