Planet Golf News for Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Jay Monahan’s PGA Tour Faces Major Crisis As Mysterious WDs Threaten To Spoil $7.5M Tournament | Rory McIlroy doubtful of pro golf merger in 'foreseeable future'

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PGN News Team
October 08, 2024

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

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SNL skit spoofs pro golf event, no animals were harmed in the process

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

The golf world is buzzing with excitement and drama as several key events unfold, each bringing its own share of challenges and opportunities. The PGA Tour finds itself facing a major crisis as the inaugural Black Desert Championship, with its hefty $7.5 million purse, is marred by a string of mysterious player withdrawals. Stars like Kevin Yu and Emiliano Grillo have pulled out, and extreme weather conditions could further complicate matters. This, combined with growing concerns over declining player participation and sponsorships, puts the Tour’s stability under scrutiny. However, the Black Desert Championship remains a significant moment for the PGA Tour, marking its return to Utah for the first time in over six decades. With a stunning new course set against a lava field backdrop, the event offers players a chance to secure FedExCup points and 2025 PGA Tour status.

Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy has thrown cold water on the idea of a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, at least in the short term. Despite potential financial investments from the Public Investment Fund, McIlroy believes legal hurdles will keep the two tours separate for the foreseeable future, with only occasional crossover events on the horizon.

In other news, Tiger Woods is fighting back against claims that his apparel brand, Sun Day Red, infringed on the logo of the cooling company Tigeraire. Woods argues that the lawsuit is nothing more than an opportunistic money grab, and his brand is seeking to dismiss the suit altogether.

As the golf calendar heats up, the LPGA Tour is also in full swing with the Buick LPGA Shanghai. Returning to China after a three-year hiatus, the tournament promises excitement with defending champion Angel Yin hoping to retain her title against a competitive international field. This prestigious event offers a $2.1 million purse and provides a beautiful backdrop at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club.

For the senior crowd, the SAS Championship on the PGA Tour Champions is underway in North Carolina. With legends competing for a substantial prize pool of $2.1 million, the tournament plays a critical role in the race for the Charles Schwab Cup, especially as the season nears its conclusion.

On the DP World Tour, the FedEx Open de France at Le Golf National in Paris offers players a last chance to secure vital Race to Dubai points and potentially earn a PGA Tour card. With its narrow fairways, water hazards, and undulating greens, the course promises to be a tough test, drawing major champions like Justin Rose and Francesco Molinari.

And in a heartwarming twist, fan-favorite Tony Finau is skipping the Black Desert Championship to coach his son’s PGA Junior League team. Despite the tournament being held in his home state of Utah, Finau is prioritizing family over competition, much to the delight of his supporters.

With so many tournaments, storylines, and challenges unfolding, it's an exciting time for golf fans worldwide. From Utah to Shanghai to Paris, the action is nonstop, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as players vie for titles, rankings, and future opportunities.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Jay Monahan’s PGA Tour Faces Major Crisis As Mysterious WDs Threaten To Spoil $7.5M Tournament

The PGA Tour is facing a crisis with multiple player withdrawals ahead of the debut Black Desert Championship, which has a $7.5 million purse. Notable withdrawals include Kevin Yu and Emiliano Grillo, with replacements announced. Additionally, the event may be impacted by extreme weather conditions, with high temperatures expected during the tournament. Concerns are growing about the overall stability of the PGA Tour as player participation and sponsorships decline.

Rory McIlroy doubtful of pro golf merger in 'foreseeable future'

Rory McIlroy expressed skepticism about a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, suggesting that both tours will continue independently for the foreseeable future, with only occasional crossover events. While he sees positive momentum for a potential investment from the Public Investment Fund in PGA Tour Enterprises, he noted that legal complexities are hindering progress. McIlroy believes that the best outcome for fans may be limited interactions between players from both tours over the next few years.

Tiger Woods' Sun Day Red 'Reluctantly' Counter-Sues Company Over Logo-Infringement Claims

Tiger Woods' apparel brand, Sun Day Red, has counter-sued Tigeraire after the cooling company claimed that Woods' logo unlawfully copied theirs. Tigeraire alleges trademark violations, while Woods argues that the lawsuit is an opportunistic attempt to extract money from a successful brand. Sun Day Red seeks to dismiss Tigeraire's lawsuit and protect its brand from what it describes as ongoing interference and threats.

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Black Desert Championship - PGA Tour - Black Desert Resort Golf Course - Ivins, UT

The Black Desert Championship marks a significant milestone for the PGA Tour, as it returns to Utah for the first time in 61 years. This inaugural event is part of the Tour's 'FedEx Cup Fall' series and will take place at the Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah, located in the southwest corner of the state near the popular golf destination of St. George.

The tournament will feature a field of 132 players competing on a 7,371-yard par-71 layout designed by Tom Weiskopf. The course, set in a lava field, is relatively new, with its front nine opening in November 2022 and the back nine completed more recently. It boasts wide fairways and only two water hazards, making it an intriguing challenge for the players.

Notable participants include several players with Utah ties, such as Zac Blair and Patrick Fishburn, as well as recent Sanderson Farms Championship winner Kevin Yu. The field also includes players from the Aon Next 10, like Seamus Power, Patrick Rodgers, and Harris English, who are vying for spots in upcoming Signature Events.

A unique addition to the field is 65-year-old Jay Don Blake, a St. George native and former PGA Tour winner, who received a sponsor exemption for what will be his 500th PGA Tour start.

The Black Desert Championship carries significant implications for players' 2025 status. The winner will receive 500 FedExCup points and $1.35 million from the total purse of $7.5 million. Players outside the top 125 in the FedExCup standings have the opportunity to improve or regain their Tour status through this event.

Golf enthusiasts can catch the action on Golf Channel from Thursday to Sunday, 5-8 p.m. ET.

At least nine golfers with Utah ties highlight PGA Tour’s Black Desert Championship this week in St. George area

The inaugural Black Desert Championship in Utah features at least nine golfers with local ties, including Mike Weir and Jay Don Blake, as the PGA Tour returns to the state after over 60 years. The tournament, held at the new Black Desert Resort, boasts a $7.5 million purse, with $1.35 million for the champion. The event includes a Pro-Am and runs from October 9 to 12, 2024, with significant volunteer support and a hope for future participation from local star Tony Finau.

Here's the (very legit) reason why Utah native Tony Finau is skipping the inaugural Black Desert Championship

Tony Finau will not participate in the inaugural Black Desert Championship due to coaching commitments with the PGA Junior League’s Thanksgiving Point All-Stars, where his son is a team member. Despite being a fan-favorite and a top player, Finau prioritized his role as an assistant coach over competing in the tournament, which is set to take place in his home state of Utah.

Buick LPGA Shanghai - LPGA - Qizhong Gardent Golf Club - Shanghai, China

The 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai tournament is set to take place from October 10-13, 2024, at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club in the Minhang District of Shanghai, China. This prestigious event on the LPGA Tour will feature a limited field of 81 players competing for a purse of $2.1 million over 72 holes.

The tournament, now in its fourth year, has become an important stop on the LPGA Tour calendar. Last year's edition saw a thrilling finish as Angel Yin secured her first tour victory by defeating top-ranked Lilia Vu in a playoff.

The event attracts a strong field of international players, with many top-ranked golfers already confirmed as entered for the 2024 edition.

The Qizhong Garden Golf Club, which has hosted the tournament since its inception, provides a challenging and picturesque setting for the competition. Its significance as a venue lies in its ability to showcase top-level women's golf in China, helping to grow the sport in the region.

Where Will 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai Take Place? History, Significance & Other Details Revealed

The 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai will take place at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club, marking its return after a three-year hiatus. The tournament, featuring top players like Danielle Kang and Angel Yin, will run from October 10th to 13th, 2024, with a prize pool of $2.1 million. The Qizhong Garden Golf Club, established in 1995 and renovated in 2013, is recognized as one of the best golf courses in the world, having received numerous awards for its quality and design.

Is Nelly Korda Playing at the 2024 Buick LPGA Shangai? When Will the World 1.no Mark Her Return on the Greens?

Nelly Korda will not participate in the upcoming Buick LPGA Shanghai due to her busy schedule, despite her successful year including a win at the Chevron Championship and a strong performance in the Solheim Cup. Her next appearance will be at the BMW Ladies Championship in South Korea from October 17 to 20, followed by the Maybank Championship from October 24 to 27.

Five Things to Know About the 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai

The 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai marks the return of the LPGA Tour to Asia, featuring a limited, no-cut field. Key highlights include Angel Yin defending her title after her maiden victory last year, Celine Boutier's recent win on the LET, and notable Chinese players like Xiyu Lin and Ruoning Yin competing. Danielle Kang receives a sponsor exemption, aiming to improve her season standings. The tournament, held at Qizhong Garden Golf Club, offers a $2.1 million purse and will be broadcast live from October 8-11.

Who is playing the 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai? Full field explored

The 2024 Buick LPGA Shanghai will take place from October 9-12 at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club, featuring a $2.1 million purse. Defending champion Angel Yin aims to retain her title against a field of 79 golfers, including top players like Hannah Green and Minjee Lee. Tee times start at 8:30 AM GMT+, with live coverage available on the Golf Channel and LPGA Live.

Post Injury Flare-Up, Is Lexi Thompson Playing in the Buick LPGA Shanghai 2024?

Lexi Thompson will not participate in the Buick LPGA Shanghai 2024 due to a wrist injury flare-up after a demanding schedule. Despite missing this event, she aims to recover and finish the year strong, with only two tournaments left on her schedule. Thompson is currently tied at 33 in the Race to CME Globe, which positions her well for the season-ending CME Group Tour Championship.

SAS Championship - PGA Tour Champions - Prestonwood CC, Cary, NC

The SAS Championship, a prestigious event on the PGA Tour Champions schedule, is set to take place from October 11-13, 2024, at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, North Carolina. This tournament has been a staple of the Champions Tour for 23 years, attracting golfing legends to compete for one of the largest purses on the tour.

The event boasts a substantial prize pool of $2,100,000, making it an attractive competition for the participating senior golfers. Rod Pampling enters the tournament as the defending champion, having claimed victory in the previous year's edition.

Prestonwood Country Club, the host venue, has been the longtime home of the SAS Championship, providing a challenging and picturesque setting for the competition. The course is known for its well-manicured fairways and greens, offering a true test of skill for the seasoned professionals.

The SAS Championship is part of a busy October schedule for the PGA Tour Champions, falling between the just completed Constellation FURYK & FRIENDS tournament and the upcoming Dominion Energy Charity Classic. As the season progresses towards its conclusion, this event plays a crucial role in the race for the Charles Schwab Cup, adding to its importance for the competitors.

FedEx Open de France - DP World Tour - Le Golf National - Paris, France

The FedEx Open de France, a prestigious event on the DP World Tour, is set to take place from October 10-13, 2024, at Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, near Paris, France. This tournament holds significant importance as it is the penultimate mainstream event of the regular DP World Tour season, offering players a crucial opportunity to secure their positions in the Race to Dubai and potentially earn a coveted PGA Tour card1.

Le Golf National, the host course, is a challenging par 71 measuring 7,247 yards. It features narrow fairways, proper rough, water hazards, and well-protected undulating greens, providing a stern test for the competitors. The venue is renowned for hosting the 2018 Ryder Cup and continues to be a favorite among players and spectators alike.

The field for the 2024 FedEx Open de France is expected to be strong, with major champions such as Justin Rose, Francesco Molinari, and Danny Willett confirmed to participate. Other notable players include 2013 FedExCup winner Billy Horschel and a contingent of talented French golfers like Matthieu Pavon, Victor Perez, and Frederic Lacroix.

This year marks the 106th edition of the Open de France, making it the oldest national open on Continental Europe. The tournament's rich history includes past champions such as Seve Ballesteros, Colin Montgomerie, and Sir Nick Faldo, adding to its prestige and allure.

For many players, this event represents a critical juncture in their season. Some will be aiming to solidify their positions at the top of the Race to Dubai rankings, while others will be fighting to retain their playing privileges for the upcoming season. The tournament's position in the DP World Tour's 'Back 9' series of events adds to its significance, as it provides one of the final opportunities for players to secure their status for 2025 and advance to the season-ending DP World Tour Play-Offs.

Irish on Tour: Crunch time as season reaches crescendo

Irish golfers Tom McKibbin, Leona Maguire, Conor Purcell, Gary Hurley, and Jonathan Caldwell face critical weeks as the season nears its end. McKibbin competes in the FedEx Open de France, while Purcell aims to secure a top-20 spot in the Challenge Tour. Maguire returns to the LPGA after a break, needing to improve her ranking. Seamus Power seeks to regain his place in the top 50 on the PGA Tour after a solid finish at the Sanderson Farms Championship, with upcoming tournaments crucial for securing his playing rights for 2025.

After Alfred Dunhill Win, Is Tyrrell Hatton Playing 2024 FedEx Open de France?

Tyrrell Hatton recently won the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, marking his third victory at the event. Despite a slow start, he made a remarkable comeback to secure the title. Following this win, he is eligible for the FedEx Open de France but has confirmed he will not participate, as he plans to focus on upcoming tournaments in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Hatton aims to earn points for the Ryder Cup and has moved up to 20th in the World Golf Ranking.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Could Tiger Woods' Sun Day Red Gear Be Coming To The PGA Tour?

Tiger Woods' Sun Day Red apparel may soon appear more frequently on the PGA Tour, following its launch earlier this year. Although Woods has worn the brand during a few tournaments without much success, golfer Karl Vilips was recently spotted in a Sun Day Red polo at the Korn Ferry Tour Championship, suggesting potential for broader visibility. The apparel retails for $115 and is available in various sizes. Additionally, Woods' brand is currently facing a trademark dispute over its logo with another company.

Overheard in the Club House

Caitlin Clark to tee it up in LPGA pro-am at The Annika

Caitlin Clark will participate in the LPGA pro-am at The Annika tournament in November, where she will also be a panelist at the Women’s Leadership Summit. Excited about the opportunity to play alongside Annika Sorenstam, Clark plans to enjoy golf during her offseason after her WNBA rookie year.

7 PGA Tour University alums earned their Tour cards this year on the Korn Ferry Tour

Seven alumni from the PGA Tour University earned their PGA Tour cards this year via the Korn Ferry Tour, including Karl Vilips, who finished 19th in the standings and won the Utah Championship. Other notable alumni are John Pak, Quade Cummins, Noah Goodwin, William Mouw, Jackson Suber, and Ricky Castillo, with Mouw achieving three T-2 finishes and Cummins finishing 11th in the standings after three years on the KFT.

He bashed St. Andrews’ iconic hole. You don’t have to listen

Bob MacIntyre's recent comments about the iconic 17th hole at St. Andrews, suggesting it should be altered, reflect a common misconception among pro golfers who often prioritize personal interests over the essence of the game. The Road Hole's unique challenges, including its design and strategic demands, are integral to golf, emphasizing the balance between difficult and easier holes. MacIntyre's frustrations highlight the complexity and skill required in navigating such iconic layouts, reminding us that golf is about embracing both challenges and opportunities.

This 20-year-old is the second-youngest player ever to earn a PGA Tour card via the Korn Ferry Tour

Aldrich Potgieter, at 20 years and 23 days old, became the second-youngest player to earn a PGA Tour card via the Korn Ferry Tour, finishing 29th in points after the KFT Championship. He previously made history as the youngest winner in Korn Ferry Tour history and led the tour in driving distance. Despite missing more cuts than he made this season, his power and skill position him well for competition against top players in the upcoming year.

Here's How Much The Top Korn Ferry Tour Player Earned In 2024 (And How It Compares To The PGA Tour)

Matt McCarty topped the Korn Ferry Tour Money List in 2024, earning $1,001,602, significantly more than the average Korn Ferry Tour earnings of $112,503. His earnings surpassed those of many PGA Tour players, with the average PGA Tour earnings currently at $1,956,000. McCarty's performance included three wins, and he is expected to see greater financial rewards on the PGA Tour next season.

LIV pro makes crucial World-Ranking leap with St. Andrews win

Tyrrell Hatton won the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St. Andrews, marking a significant victory as a LIV Golf pro. This win propelled him from No. 38 to No. 20 in the Official World Golf Ranking, improving his chances for qualification in major championships. Additionally, Hatton moved to 5th in the European Ryder Cup standings and expressed excitement about competing in upcoming events, making the win even more special as it was the first tournament his father witnessed in person.

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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