Tuesday, December 17, 2024

PlanetGolfNews + Marie Birdie

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

The golf world has been buzzing lately, and there’s no shortage of drama, intrigue, and big events to keep fans glued to their screens. At the heart of it all is the Crypto.com Showdown, a head-to-head clash between PGA Tour and LIV Golf stars in Las Vegas. This high-stakes, made-for-TV spectacle is fueling speculation about whether this could be a step toward reconciliation between the two rival tours. With Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler representing the PGA and Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka flying the LIV flag, it’s not just about the multimillion-dollar purse—paid entirely in cryptocurrency—but about the growing rivalry that feels more Ryder Cup than exhibition match. Brooks Koepka himself compared the vibe to the storied international team competition, which adds even more spice to this showdown at Shadow Creek Golf Course.

But is this event a sign of true reunification? The short answer is—probably not just yet. While it’s a fun opportunity to see the best from both sides duke it out, the real resolution lies in the ongoing negotiations behind the scenes. Rory McIlroy, ever the optimist and voice of reason, has expressed hope for progress, but only time will tell whether this rivalry can evolve into a true collaboration for the good of the game.

Speaking of the Ryder Cup, there’s a brewing controversy across the pond. The U.S. team has decided to pay its players a $500,000 package—$200K for them and $300K earmarked for charity. While it might sound like a win-win, critics argue this move jeopardizes the spirit of the event, which has always been about national pride over paychecks. This shift could dampen the competitive spark that has defined the Ryder Cup for generations. Team Europe, meanwhile, might just sit back and capitalize on what some are calling “American greed.” Whether this new pay structure will change the tournament’s culture remains to be seen, but it’s certainly dividing fans and purists alike.

On a brighter note, the always heartwarming PNC Championship is just around the corner. Set in Orlando at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, this family-focused event is back with star-studded pairings, including Tiger Woods and his son Charlie. Tiger’s return to competitive golf—his first since The Open and yet another surgery—adds an extra layer of excitement. Other fan favorites like Bernhard and Jason Langer, John Daly and son John Daly II, and Nelly Korda with her father Petr are also teeing it up. This unique 36-hole scramble format lets golf legends share the stage with family members, creating moments that fans cherish year after year. For those of us who still get a little teary-eyed watching Tiger and Charlie fist-bump their way around the course, this event is can’t-miss television.

Meanwhile, across the globe, the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open is set to wrap up the DP World Tour’s Opening Swing. Held at the stunning Mont Choisy Le Golf, this event not only features a boosted prize purse but also offers young South African talents a chance to shine on the international stage. Defending champ Antoine Rozner is back, hoping to become the first two-time winner, but the competition is fierce. It’s also a fantastic showcase for Mauritius as a premier golf destination, with its breathtaking scenery and growing reputation for world-class events.

Finally, let’s not forget the Woods vs. Norman Jr. chatter that’s been swirling. Greg Norman’s son recently suggested a friendly wager—1 bitcoin, no less—on a face-off against Tiger and Charlie. While it’s unlikely to happen, it’s a fun thought experiment that highlights how far the PNC Championship’s spotlight reaches.

As we look ahead, whether it’s heated rivalries like PGA vs. LIV, traditions under fire like the Ryder Cup, or heartwarming family events like the PNC, there’s no shortage of storylines to keep golf fans entertained. The sport feels at a crossroads in many ways, balancing its rich traditions with modern demands and challenges. One thing’s for sure: the next few weeks—and years—will be anything but boring.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

• The untold story of the unlikely bond between Alejandro Tosti and Jay Monahan - golfweek.usatoday.com

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Crypto.com Showdown - Shadow Creek Golf Course, Las Vegas, NV

The Crypto.com Showdown, set to take place tomorrow, Tuesday, at 6 p.m. ET, is generating significant buzz in the golf world. This high-stakes event will feature four of golf's biggest names competing at the prestigious Shadow Creek Golf Course in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The competition pits PGA Tour representatives Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler against LIV Golf's Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka in an 18-hole match. The format is divided into three six-hole segments: best ball, alternate shot, and singles. This unique structure blends elements of traditional international team golf into a single match-play event.

What sets this event apart is the prize: the winning team will receive a multimillion-dollar purse paid entirely in CRO Cronos cryptocurrency, marking a first in professional sports. The event will be broadcast across multiple channels, including TNT, TBS, truTV, and streamed on Max.

The commentary team features a star-studded lineup, including Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Trevor Immelman, and David Feherty, with Bubba Watson and Lauren Jbara providing on-course reporting.

Brooks Koepka has likened the atmosphere to that of a Ryder Cup, highlighting the growing rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. This rare opportunity to see top players from both tours compete outside of major tournaments has sparked considerable interest among golf fans.

As the event approaches, anticipation builds for this unique clash of golf titans at one of Nevada's most exclusive and highly-ranked courses.

• The Crypto.com Showdown Betting Preview: PGA Tour vs. LIV Golf Odds and Prediction

• McIlroy/Scheffler vs. Koepka/DeChambeau: Prediction, Betting Odds, Rules, and How to Watch

• How To Watch The Showdown: Live Stream, TV Channels For Scheffler & McIlroy vs Koepka & DeChambeau

Crypto.com Showdown Stories

• The 'Crypto.com Showdown': Which Major Champion Has the Edge? - bleacherreport.com

• Bryson DeChambeau daggers Rory McIlroy in brutal fashion ahead of The Showdown - golfdigest.com

• Bryson DeChambeau pokes fun at Rory McIlroy's U.S. Open collapse ahead of The Showdown - golfweek.usatoday.com

Crypto.com Videos

2024 PNC Championship - Ritz-Carlton Golf Club - Orlando, Grande Lake, FL

The 2024 PNC Championship is set to take place at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida, from December 21-22. This popular family event features 20 teams of major champions or Players Championship winners paired with family members, typically their children, competing in a 36-hole scramble format.

Tiger Woods and his son Charlie are returning for their fifth consecutive appearance, with Tiger making his first competitive start since The Open and after recovering from his sixth back surgery. The field includes other notable pairings such as Nelly Korda with her father Petr, Bernhard Langer and his son Jason (defending champions), and Fred Couples making his debut with his stepson Hunter Hannemann.

The event has garnered significant attention, particularly due to Tiger Woods' participation, as it marks his return to competitive golf. Other prominent players in the field include John Daly, Padraig Harrington, Annika Sorenstam, and Gary Player, showcasing a mix of past and present golf stars.

The tournament will be broadcast on various channels, including Sky Sports Golf for UK viewers and Golf Channel, NBC, and Peacock for US audiences.

• PNC Championship: How to watch, live scores, tee times, TV times

• Purse breakdown: PNC Championship

• 2024 PNC Championship purse, winner's share, PGA Tour Champions prize money payout

• Is There a Cut at the PNC Championship 2024? Format, Playoff Rules & More Explored

• 2024 PNC Championship: Prize money, TV coverage, field and more

• 2024 PNC Championship Primer: History, TV, Teams, Format

• How Are The Tees Determined At The PNC Championship?

PNC Championship  Stories

• 2024 PNC Championship: 5 Iconic Tiger & Charlie Woods Moments Explored - essentiallysports.com

• Tiger Woods and Charlie Woods PNC Championship record: How the duo have fared through the years - golfmagic.com

• What set of tees is Charlie Woods playing in the 2024 PNC Championship? - thegolfnewsnet.com

• What Is Tiger And Charlie Woods' Record At The PNC Championship? - golfmonthly.com

• From Charlie Woods To Petr Korda, Will McGee and John Daly II - Meet The Amateurs At This Week's PNC Championship - golfmonthly.com

• PNC Championship: Meet the 20 Amateurs teeing it up in Orlando - amateurgolf.com

AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open - DP World Tour - Mont Choisy Le Golf - Grand Bale, Mauritus

The AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open, the final event of the DP World Tour's 2024 Opening Swing, is set to take place from December 19-22 at Mont Choisy Le Golf in Grand Baie, Mauritius. This year's tournament features an increased prize purse of $1.5 million, with the winner taking home $255,000. The event is co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour and the Sunshine Tour, attracting a field of 156 players.

Defending champion Antoine Rozner will return to attempt to become the first double winner of the tournament. Rozner, who made his DP World Tour debut at this event in 2018, has a strong record in Mauritius, including a record five-shot victory in 2022.

The tournament is part of the DP World Tour's Opening Swing, which concludes with this event. The winner of the Opening Swing will earn a $200,000 bonus and exemptions into Rolex Series events and the Back 9 stage of the season.

Notable players in the field include Christo Lamprecht, Marcus Kinhult, and Jovan Rebula. The event is seen as an opportunity for young South African golfers to finish the year strong and gain valuable experience on the international stage.

Mont Choisy Le Golf will be hosting the tournament for the second time since its inaugural launch. The event not only showcases top golfing talent but also promotes Mauritius as a leading destination for tourism, golf, and international finance.

• AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open 2024 Preview Picks Analysis

• Mauritius Open 2024 Golf Tips, Predictions & Each-Way Bets

AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open  Stories

• Relegated LIV Golfer To Make DP World Tour Debut - golfmonthly.com

Ryder Cup (Sept 25-28, 2025)

• PGA of America to pay $500K package to Ryder Cup members - fieldlevelmedia.com

• U.S. Ryder Cuppers to be paid for first time. Here’s the new arrangement - golf.com

• American players to be paid for 2025 Ryder Cup - golfdigest.com

• PGA Of America Approves $500,000 Package For Team USA Ryder Cup Roster - golfmonthly.com

• PGA of America Succumbs to Ryder Cup Pay Increase - athlonsports.com

• America vs Scottie Scheffler & Co: Ryder Cup payments leave fans outraged - marca.com

• American Ryder Cup golfers to get $500,000 payout, with a catch - yardbarker.com

• A First: U.S. Ryder Cup Players to Receive $200K Stipend in 2025 - frontofficesports.com

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Overheard in the Club House

UPCOMING TOURS

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