Planet Golf News for Tuesday, October 1, 2024

In its most dramatic moments, this Presidents Cup delivered something special | Who is playing the 2024 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship this week?

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PGN News Team
October 01, 2024

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

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'The Greatest Game Ever Played': Fun facts about the golf movie

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

This week in golf is packed with drama, excitement, and big questions about the sport's future. First, Ian Poulter’s outspoken criticism of the DP World Tour is making waves as he slammed the tour for its lack of support for Brooks Koepka, who's gearing up for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. Poulter, now a LIV Golf member, has had his own challenges after leaving the Tour, including losing eligibility for the Ryder Cup, which clearly still stings. His comments reflect ongoing tensions in the golf world, particularly between LIV Golf and traditional tours.

On the Presidents Cup front, Tom Kim did some damage control after his remarks about U.S. players cursing during a match. In a gesture of good sportsmanship, he sought out Xander Schauffele and U.S. captain Jim Furyk to clear the air. It’s good to see things smoothed over, as Kim emphasized that his words weren’t meant in a negative light. Meanwhile, Team USA's victory at the Presidents Cup has sparked speculation about Keegan Bradley’s future as a potential playing captain for the Ryder Cup. Bradley’s recent success has raised the stakes as he balances his role as a player and a leader.

Looking ahead, the 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship kicks off this Thursday, and it’s shaping up to be an exciting tournament. With a purse of $7.6 million and defending champion Luke List aiming to repeat his 2023 success, there’s a lot on the line. The field includes familiar faces like Rickie Fowler, Zach Johnson, and Matt Kuchar.

Over in Indiana, the Korn Ferry Tour Championship is also making headlines. The tournament, taking place at the picturesque Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort, will determine which 30 players earn their PGA TOUR cards for 2025. With no cut in the event and a dramatic course known for its challenging layout, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This season finale for the Korn Ferry Tour promises some intense competition as players like Matt McCarty and Sam Bennett fight for a spot on the PGA Tour next season.

In Jacksonville, Florida, the Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS tournament brings the best of PGA TOUR Champions to the Timuquana Country Club. Jim Furyk’s event is not just about golf—it also features concerts and a pro-am, making it a full-fledged celebration. Notably, Eric Axley made an albatross in the Monday qualifier to secure his spot in the tournament. His story is an exciting addition to an already star-studded week of golf.

Finally, the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland promises to be a thrilling event with some of the biggest names in golf, including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Brooks Koepka, alongside celebrities like Michael Douglas and Bill Murray. LIV Golf’s presence at this event has stirred some controversy, with many questioning the leniency extended to LIV players. Regardless, the championship, set across three iconic Scottish courses, will be a highlight of the golf calendar, especially with its unique mix of professional and celebrity players competing in teams.

With so much happening across the PGA, DP World Tour, Korn Ferry Tour, and PGA Champions circuits, it’s a big week for golf fans. Whether it's Poulter's pointed words, the potential rise of new talent at the Korn Ferry Championship, or the stars at the Alfred Dunhill Links, there’s no shortage of excitement as we wrap up September and head into October. Keep an eye on these events—they’re sure to deliver plenty of action and surprises!

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

‘Shame’: Ian Poulter Exudes Distaste for DP World Tour Amid Brooks Koepka’s Glorious Attempts

Ian Poulter expressed disdain for the DP World Tour, criticizing its lack of support for Brooks Koepka, who is preparing for the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. Poulter, a former member of the Tour, faced penalties after joining LIV Golf and subsequently lost his eligibility for the Ryder Cup due to his membership status. He highlighted the difficulties he faces in regaining eligibility for future events.

Tom Kim found Xander Schauffele, Jim Furyk to clear the air on Sunday at 2024 Presidents Cup

After a contentious match at the 2024 Presidents Cup, Tom Kim sought to apologize to Xander Schauffele and U.S. captain Jim Furyk for his earlier comments about U.S. players cursing during a match. Kim clarified that his remarks were not meant negatively and expressed regret if they were perceived that way, emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and energy in the competition.

Why Team USA's Presidents Cup win sets up a complex dilemma

Team USA's recent Presidents Cup victory, led by Keegan Bradley, raises questions about his dual role as captain and player for the upcoming Ryder Cup. While Bradley's success as a player complicates his preparation for captaincy, Rory McIlroy emphasizes the challenges of balancing both roles. As speculation grows about Bradley's potential as a playing captain, the dynamics of his responsibilities and performance will be closely watched leading up to the Ryder Cup.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Sanderson Farm Championship - PGA Tour - Country Club of Jackson - Jackson, MS

The 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship, a premier PGA Tour event, is set to take place from this Thursday at The Country Club of Jackson in Jackson, Mississippi. This tournament marks the return of the FedExCup Fall after a two-week hiatus, offering a substantial purse of $7.6 million, with the winner taking home $1.368 million.

The event kicks off with pro-am rounds on Monday and Wednesday, followed by the main tournament starting on Thursday. Luke List, the defending champion who secured victory in a playoff in 2023, will be looking to repeat his success. The field is expected to be particularly strong this year, featuring notable players such as Rickie Fowler, Zach Johnson, Gary Woodland, Webb Simpson, and Matt Kuchar, among others.

The Country Club of Jackson, a 7,461-yard par-72 course, will once again serve as the host venue. Known for its above-average Bermudagrass greens and demanding driving tests, the course is expected to provide an exciting challenge for the players.

Oddsmakers suggest a wide-open race for the title, with Mackenzie Hughes, Keith Mitchell, and Maverick McNealy listed as co-favorites at +2200. Hughes, the 2022 champion, will be looking to capitalize on his recent Presidents Cup experience and his affinity for the course.

The tournament not only offers significant prize money but also supports various charities across Mississippi, with Children's of Mississippi being the primary beneficiary. For spectators, the event will feature a range of activities beyond the golf action, including a fan zone on the 18th hole, the Michelob Ultra deck on the 13th, and a six-hole putting course for kids.

With excellent course conditions, a strong field of competitors, and a mix of established stars and rising talents, the 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship promises to be an exciting event for golf enthusiasts and professionals alike.

2024 Sanderson Farms Championship odds: Fan favorite is our long-shot pick

Rickie Fowler is highlighted as a long-shot pick for the 2024 Sanderson Farms Championship with +6600 odds, despite a challenging season. Other betting favorites include Keith Mitchell, Mackenzie Hughes, and Maverick McNealy, all at +2200 odds. The article suggests considering small bets on Fowler for top 10 and top 20 finishes as well.

Can this PGA Tour event find another sponsor before next season? The pressure is on

The Sanderson Farms Championship, Mississippi's only PGA Tour event, is seeking a new title sponsor as Wayne Sanderson Farms ends its partnership after the 2024 tournament. Tournament director Steve Jent aims to showcase the event to attract potential sponsors, emphasizing its charitable impact and positive atmosphere. The tournament has raised over $17 million for charity since 2013 and features a $7.6 million purse. Despite uncertainties, Jent remains optimistic about the tournament's future and its appeal to new sponsors.

Korn Ferry Tour Championship - Korn Ferry - French Lick Golf Resort - French Lick, IN

The Korn Ferry Tour Championship presented by United Leasing & Finance is set to take place at the Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort in Indiana from September 29 to October 6, 2024. This marks the first time the event will be held at French Lick Resort, following a five-year partnership agreement that will keep the tournament at this venue through at least 2028.

The championship is the season-ending event for the Korn Ferry Tour, featuring the top 75 players on the season-long Points List4. It's a crucial tournament as it determines which players will earn PGA TOUR membership for the following season. The top 30 players on the Points List after this event will secure their PGA TOUR cards for 2025.

The Pete Dye Course at French Lick Resort is renowned for its challenging layout, featuring narrow fairways, rugged terrain, and dramatic elevation changes. The course offers stunning 40-mile panoramic views of the southern Indiana countryside and stretches to a robust 8,100 yards from the professional tees.

The tournament week will include various events, such as the Smithville Varsity Shootout, the Old National Bank Women's Clinic, and four rounds of championship play. The final round on Sunday, October 6, will culminate with the Trophy Presentation and PGA TOUR Card Ceremony.

The First Look: Korn Ferry Tour Championship presented by United Leasing & Finance

The 2024 Korn Ferry Tour Championship marks the conclusion of the Korn Ferry Tour season, where the top 30 players on the Points List will earn PGA TOUR membership for 2025. The championship will take place at French Lick Golf Resort, featuring dramatic final holes that could determine the last TOUR card. Key players include Matt McCarty, who has already secured the top spot, and Sam Bennett, currently holding the crucial No. 30 position. The event offers elevated points distribution, with winners receiving 600 points, and will not have a cut, allowing all players who complete the tournament to earn Korn Ferry Tour points.

A one-liner for all 74 Korn Ferry Tour Championship participants

The Korn Ferry Tour Championship features 74 participants vying for PGA TOUR cards, with the top 30 on the Points List earning membership for 2025. The event, held at French Lick Golf Resort, showcases players with diverse backgrounds and achievements, all aiming for a dramatic conclusion to the season-long competition.

Korn Ferry Tour Championship Videos

Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS - PGA Tour Champions - Timuquana Country Club - Jacksonville, FL

The Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS PGA TOUR Champions event is set to return to Timuquana Country Club in Jacksonville, Florida from September 30 to October 6, 2024. This prestigious tournament brings together some of the best players from the PGA TOUR Champions circuit, offering golf enthusiasts a week-long celebration of the sport.

The event kicks off on Monday, September 30, with a Monday Pro-Am, followed by various activities throughout the week. These include a Pro-Am Pairings Party and a Furyk Foundation Concert featuring Brothers Osborne and Phillip Phillips at Daily's Place on Tuesday, October 1st.

The official tournament play begins on Friday, October 4th, with the first round. The competition continues through Saturday and concludes on Sunday, October 6th, with the final tournament round and trophy presentation. Throughout the event, spectators can expect to see top-tier golf action from PGA TOUR Champions players competing for victory.

Constellation, the title sponsor, is the nation's largest producer of carbon-free energy and is committed to accelerating the transition to clean energy. This partnership aligns well with the tournament's goal of creating a memorable and impactful event.

Eric Axley makes an albatross in Monday qualifying to earn spot in Furyk & Friends

Eric Axley qualified for the Furyk & Friends tournament by making an albatross during the Monday qualifier, finishing with a score of 66, just behind Kris Blanks. This remarkable shot allowed him to secure a spot in the main field at the event in Jacksonville, Florida. Axley, who recently turned 50, has one PGA Tour victory and two Korn Ferry Tour wins, and the odds of making an albatross are approximately 6 million to 1 for an average golfer.

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, a prestigious event on the DP World Tour, is set to take place from October 3-6, 2024, across three of Scotland's most renowned golf courses: the Old Course at St Andrews, Carnoustie Golf Links, and Kingsbarns Golf Links. This unique tournament combines a professional DP World Tour competition with a Team Championship featuring professional and amateur partnerships.

The championship boasts an impressive lineup of world-class golfers, including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick. Other notable players such as Shane Lowry, Brooks Koepka, and Robert MacIntyre are also expected to compete. Adding to the event's allure, celebrities from various fields will participate in the pro-am portion, including Hollywood stars Michael Douglas and Bill Murray, as well as sports personalities like Gareth Bale and Ruud Gullit.

The format of the tournament sees players competing on all three courses over the first three days, with the final round taking place at the Old Course in St Andrews on Sunday, October 6. The professional competition offers a substantial prize fund of US$4.8 million, along with valuable European Tour and World Ranking points.

Which Celebrities Are Playing In The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship?

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship features a mix of celebrities and professional golfers competing in a unique team format. Notable participants include Michael Douglas, Bill Murray, Andy Garcia, and musicians like Huey Lewis and Tico Torres. Sports figures such as Gareth Bale, Ruud Gullit, and John Elway are also set to participate, alongside family members of some pros. The event takes place across three renowned Scottish courses, culminating in a final round at the Old Course at St Andrews.

Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm highlight Alfred Dunhill Links field with plenty of stars

The 2024 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship features a star-studded field including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick. The tournament will take place at three renowned Scottish courses, and players will team up with celebrities. Fans can attend the first three days for free, with tickets required only for the final round at St. Andrews.

Why Are So Many LIV Golfers Playing in The Dunhill Links

The presence of LIV golfers at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship has raised questions, especially as players like Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton appeal fines from the DP World Tour. LIV golfers, including Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed, have received sponsor invites to compete without financial penalties, which has frustrated other players and fans. The situation reflects ongoing tensions within the sport, with concerns about the impact on rankings and tournament access for non-LIV players.

The Ryder Cup (Sept 22-28, 2025)

Could being part of winning Presidents Cup team be the best thing for Keegan Bradley's Ryder Cup captaincy?

Keegan Bradley, who recently contributed to the U.S. victory at the 2024 Presidents Cup, views his experience as beneficial for his upcoming role as Ryder Cup captain in 2025. While he initially considered being a playing captain, he expressed doubts about managing both roles effectively. Bradley emphasized the importance of focusing on team success over personal ambitions and plans to adopt strategies from Jim Furyk's successful captaincy to prepare for the Ryder Cup.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Golf GPS Devices vs. Laser Rangefinders: Which is Best for Your Game?

Golf GPS devices and laser rangefinders serve to measure distances on the golf course but differ in functionality. GPS devices offer convenience and additional features like scorekeeping but may lack precision, while laser rangefinders provide high accuracy but require a clear line of sight and can be challenging for some users. The choice between them depends on individual playing style and accuracy needs.

Overheard in the Club House

Why There Is Nothing Wrong With The Presidents Cup

The Presidents Cup, despite Team USA's dominant victory, remains a competitive event with potential for improvement, such as adopting a three-day format and including LIV golfers in the future. The match showcased thrilling moments and highlighted strategic decisions that impacted the outcome. With a stronger international team anticipated in 2026, the event continues to hold significance in the golf world, emphasizing pride and team spirit over monetary rewards.

Presidents Cup Q&A: Biggest hero, biggest mistake, what TV viewers missed

The Presidents Cup featured standout performances, particularly from Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, who excelled with a 4-1-0 record. The biggest mistake was International Captain Mike Weir's decision to overuse eight players on Saturday, leading to fatigue and poor performance. Notable moments included Si Woo Kim's celebration and the camaraderie of the U.S. team, highlighting the event's competitive spirit despite some players underperforming.

In its most dramatic moments, this Presidents Cup delivered something special

The 2024 Presidents Cup, despite a lopsided score, was filled with dramatic moments and emotional weight for players like Keegan Bradley, who faced intense pressure. The event showcased the significance of teamwork and individual performances, with players expressing pride and camaraderie. Notable highlights included Bradley's pivotal match against Si Woo Kim, the atmosphere created by Canadian fans, and Tom Kim's apology for his earlier comments. The U.S. team continued its dominance, winning for the tenth consecutive time, while players reflected on the importance of the competition and their aspirations for future success.

'It's just all gone': UNC Asheville women's golf team has to start over after Hurricane Helene flooding

The UNC Asheville women's golf team faces significant challenges after Hurricane Helene caused severe flooding, damaging their indoor facility and destroying an estimated $150,000 worth of equipment. Coach Ross Cash expressed concern over the loss and uncertainty regarding the team's return to campus, which may not be possible until infrastructure is restored. Despite the devastation, all team members are safe, and efforts are underway to assess the damage and plan for recovery.

Epson Tour's arrival in desert marks step toward LPGA return, but obstacles still remain

The Epson Tour Championship's arrival in Palm Desert could signal a potential LPGA return after its departure in 2022, but several challenges remain. The City of Indian Wells is eager to host an LPGA event, yet logistical issues such as scheduling, course suitability, and securing sponsorship must be addressed. The LPGA's interest in returning is complicated by the legacy of its previous tournament, which may overshadow any new event.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

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Latest FedExCup Standings

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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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