Planet Golf News for Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Report: PIF close to buying stake in PGA Tour Enterprises | Tiger Woods commits to play in PNC Championship with son Charlie | Scottie Scheffler’s scary change, Bryson DeChambeau’s broken driver and a couple epic golfer’s tans

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

PlanetGolfNews + Marie Birdie

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

Golf has had a whirlwind of news lately, from game-changing investments to heartfelt moments on the course, and there’s plenty to unpack.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia is making waves in the golf world yet again. Reports suggest it is close to acquiring a 6% stake in PGA Tour Enterprises, a deal that would value the tour at a hefty $12 billion. This move could stabilize the PGA Tour, which has been fending off competition from LIV Golf. But before it’s a done deal, regulatory hurdles remain. The intrigue of how this will shape professional golf’s future is palpable, and we’re all keeping an eye on the ripple effects.

Meanwhile, Tiger Woods is back in action—and not just solo. The golf legend is set to tee it up with his son, Charlie, at the PNC Championship next week. This father-son duo has captured hearts before, and their fourth appearance together is sure to deliver both heartwarming moments and jaw-dropping shots. With Tiger’s recent health struggles, seeing him return in a relaxed, family-focused setting is a treat for fans worldwide.

Speaking of standouts, Scottie Scheffler is cementing his legacy, earning PGA Tour Player of the Year honors for the third straight season. With an incredible seven wins, including the Masters and an Olympic gold medal, he’s becoming a modern legend. His dominance in 2024 echoes Tiger Woods’ golden years, and his consistency at World No. 1 makes him the player to watch heading into 2025.

But it’s not all smooth sailing in the golf world. South Korea’s Yubin Jang has sparked controversy, withdrawing from the final stage of PGA Tour Q-School to join LIV Golf. The move underscores the continuing tug-of-war between the PGA Tour and LIV, with players weighing tradition against LIV’s alluring contracts. Jang’s choice leaves 170 players battling it out at TPC Sawgrass, chasing dreams of a PGA Tour card in one of the year’s most high-stakes tournaments.

Over in Naples, Florida, the Grant Thornton Invitational promises a unique blend of LPGA and PGA stars, including defending champions Lydia Ko and Jason Day. Set on the stunning Tiburon Golf Club courses, this mixed-format event is as much about camaraderie as competition. With a $4 million purse up for grabs, the stakes are high, but the vibe remains refreshingly laid-back.

On the international front, the Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek in South Africa brings its own drama. Betting favorites and dark horses alike will navigate the challenging course, where strategy and precision are key. Fans and pundits are buzzing about potential winners, with Jorge Campillo emerging as a notable pick.

Lastly, Tiger Woods isn’t just playing—he’s designing too. The completion of Trout National, a collaboration between Woods and MLB star Mike Trout, promises a fresh take on golf course design. With its creative layout and modern amenities, it’s set to become a golfer’s paradise when it opens in 2025.

From iconic players to groundbreaking deals and exciting events, the golf world never takes a mulligan when it comes to delivering drama and delight. Stay tuned—there’s more to come as we edge closer to 2025!

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

Grant Thornton Invitational preview: Who is playing in this mixed event?

Grant Thornton Invitational - Tiburon Golf Club - Naples, FL

The 2024 Grant Thornton Invitational will be held at Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida, from December 13 to 15. The defending champions, Lydia Ko and Jason Day, will headline the event alongside notable pairings of LPGA and PGA golfers. The Tiburon Golf Club features two acclaimed courses, Gold and Black, designed by LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman. The clubhouse offers extensive amenities and has received multiple awards for its excellence in golf course design.

Grant Thorton Invitational Stories

PGA Tour Q-School field: Pro golfers headed back to qualifying ft. Sean O’Hair and Martin Laird

PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry - TPC Sawgrass - Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

The PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry is set to take place from December 12-15, 2024, at TPC Sawgrass’ Dye’s Valley Course and Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. This highly anticipated event will feature 171 golfers competing for their professional futures, with the top five finishers and ties earning PGA TOUR cards for the 2025 season.

The tournament format consists of a 72-hole stroke play event, with players competing on both courses over the first two days before being re-paired for the weekend rounds. The Dye’s Valley Course at TPC Sawgrass measures 6,850 yards, while the Sawgrass Country Club’s East and West course combination stretches to 7,054 yards.

Notable participants include former PGA TOUR winners such as Nick Watney, Sean O’Hair, Martin Laird, and Lanto Griffin, as well as rising stars like Christo Lamprecht, Pierceson Coody, and Sam Bennett. The event has generated significant interest, with free tickets being offered to the public for the rounds at Dye’s Valley Course.

This year’s Q-School represents a crucial opportunity for both seasoned professionals and up-and-coming talents to secure their place on the PGA TOUR. The competition is expected to be fierce, with players battling not only for tour cards but also for varying levels of Korn Ferry Tour and PGA TOUR Americas membership based on their finish.

PGA Tour Q-School  Stories

Alfred Dunhill Championship - Leopard Creek CC - Malelane, South Africa

The Alfred Dunhill Championship, a DP World Tour event, is set to take place at Leopard Creek Country Club in Malelane, South Africa. Golf enthusiasts and bettors are eagerly anticipating this prestigious tournament, which attracts top players from around the world.

Recent news surrounding the championship focuses on betting previews and tips from expert analysts. Golf tipster Steve Rawlings has provided a comprehensive betting preview, offering insights into stats, form, and results to help punters make informed decisions. One notable tip suggests that Jorge Campillo could be a strong contender, with odds of 47/1. Other betting experts have also weighed in, highlighting four top contenders for victory at Leopard Creek. The challenging course is expected to test the skills of participating golfers, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

As the event approaches, golf fans and bettors alike are closely following updates on player form, course conditions, and potential weather factors that could influence the outcome of this prestigious championship.

Alfred Dunhill Championship Stories

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Overheard in the Club House

UPCOMING TOURS

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