Planet Golf News for Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Fully healthy Ludvig Åberg readies for title defense at The RSM Classic | Caitlin Clark to participate in RSM Classic pro-am, charity putting event | Nelly Korda Coming Into CME Group Tour Championship Looking as Strong as Ever | LPGA’s Richest Season Ever Set to Crown a Record-Breaker

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PGN News Team
November 20, 2024

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

As the 2024 golf season wraps up, it’s been an unforgettable year filled with standout performances, historic prize pools, and notable changes in both the LPGA and PGA Tours. Nelly Korda, who dominated the LPGA scene with seven tournament wins, stands as one of the brightest stars this season. She’s already secured the coveted Player of the Year title, overcoming injuries and challenges along the way. But with the CME Group Tour Championship just days away, there’s one last major prize within her reach: a record-breaking $4 million winner’s check. It’s a perfect capstone for what she’s accomplished, though she’s not the only one aiming to take home the title in Naples, Florida. Rivals Lydia Ko and Ruoning Yin are also gunning for the big win, ensuring an exciting final event to close out the LPGA’s richest season ever.

The PGA Tour, meanwhile, heads into its season finale with a new setup that has players adapting to smaller fields and tighter competition for fully exempt status. At the RSM Classic in Georgia, players like Ludvig Åberg, who is returning from knee surgery, and defending champion Brian Harman are competing not only for the $7.6 million purse but also for crucial FedExCup standings that will determine their 2025 status. The shakeup, part of broader changes to the PGA’s policy, has drawn mixed reactions—some players see it as an inevitable evolution, while others, like Lucas Glover, voice concerns over making the tour more “elite.” Yet, for many, it’s about embracing the challenge and giving it their all in this final event.

Notably absent from the RSM Classic are Tiger and Charlie Woods, who won’t be appearing at the PNC Championship due to Tiger’s recent back surgery. Fans are waiting on a hopeful return timeline, but it’s clear Tiger is prioritizing recovery. Meanwhile, the championship’s lineup promises plenty of action, including big-name father-son pairings like Fred Couples with Hunter Hannemann and John Daly with his son.

In Australia, Cameron Smith, fresh from his LIV Golf appearances, returns to his home turf for the Australian PGA Championship. Smith’s world ranking has taken a hit due to limited tour exposure, making this event especially important as he aims to regain standing. Defending champion Min Woo Lee, along with other big names like Jason Day, will also be competing in Brisbane, setting the stage for an electrifying season opener for the DP World Tour.

Looking ahead to the 2025 Ryder Cup, Sergio Garcia is pushing to rejoin Team Europe. Though Garcia has faced criticisms around age and his LIV association, his track record and connection with players like Jon Rahm make him a strong candidate. His competitive spirit hasn’t waned, and the Ryder Cup may see him reclaim his position on Europe’s roster.

Finally, golf’s enduring issues came to light this season, notably the LPGA’s struggle with slow play. Nelly Korda and Lexi Thompson are among those calling for stricter penalties, suggesting that harsher rules could speed up rounds and improve the fan experience. Thompson herself is contemplating retirement, though she plans to play a few select events next year, including possibly the Kraft Nabisco Championship.

Whether it’s players adjusting to new tour structures, reflecting on personal highs and lows, or calling for change in the game, this year has been one of growth, introspection, and record-breaking moments in golf. As the final tournaments play out, we’ll see how the season concludes and what new milestones might await in 2025.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

In the Year of Nelly Korda, One More Opportunity—and a Big Check—Is Within Reach

Nelly Korda has had an exceptional 2024 LPGA season, winning seven tournaments and securing Player of the Year honors. Despite facing challenges, including injuries and migraines, she has dominated the tour, leading in several performance metrics. The upcoming CME Group Tour Championship offers a chance for Korda to cap off her remarkable year with a significant prize, while other top players like Lydia Ko and Ruoning Yin also aim for victory. Korda expresses gratitude for her journey and support from her team, highlighting her determination to finish the season strong.

Players react to PGA Tour infrastructure changes with a sense of inevitability, acceptance

The PGA Tour's Policy Board has approved changes that reduce the number of fully exempt players, leading to smaller tournament fields. Player reactions at the RSM Classic were mixed, with some expressing acceptance of the changes while others, like Lucas Glover, criticized the elite nature of the tour. Players acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the importance of focusing on their performance and adapting to the new reality. Overall, there is a sense of inevitability regarding the changes, with players aiming to succeed despite the reduced opportunities.

Tiger and Charlie Woods Absent From Early PNC Championship Field

Tiger and Charlie Woods are currently absent from the early field of the 2024 PNC Championship, which is set for December 21-22. Tiger's absence follows his sixth back surgery in September, which addressed nerve impingement in his lower back. Despite the surgery being deemed successful, no timeline for his return has been provided. The PNC Championship will feature various notable pairings, including Fred Couples and Hunter Hannemann, as well as John Daly and his son.

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

The Five: Players with most at stake at The RSM Classic

The RSM Classic - PGA Tour - Sea Island - Saint Simons Island, GA

The RSM Classic, the final official event of the 2024 PGA Tour season, is set to begin on Thursday at Sea Island Golf Club in St. Simons Island, Georgia. This tournament marks the conclusion of the FedExCup Fall and carries significant implications for many players in the field.

Defending champion Ludvig Åberg is making his return to competitive golf after undergoing knee surgery in early September. The Swedish star, who won last year’s event with a record-tying score of 29-under-par, is the betting favorite at 8-1 odds.

With a purse of $7.6 million and a winner’s share of $1.368 million, the stakes are high for many players looking to secure their PGA Tour status for the 2025 season. The top 125 in the FedExCup standings after this event will earn full status, while those finishing 126-150 will receive conditional status.

The field includes a mix of established veterans and up-and-coming talents. Major champions like Brian Harman, Zach Johnson, and Francesco Molinari are set to compete, along with recent fall series winners such as Rafael Campos, who secured his first PGA Tour victory last week in Bermuda.

The RSM Classic Stories

Caitlin Clark to participate in RSM Classic pro-am, charity putting event

Caitlin Clark will participate in the RSM Classic pro-am at Sea Island Golf Club, playing alongside Zach Johnson. She is also set to take part in a charity putting event benefiting local charities. Clark, the reigning WNBA Rookie of the Year, recently gained attention for her performance at the Annika pro-am and expressed gratitude for the support of women's sports during her appearances.

The RSM Classic Videos

5 players to watch out for at the 2024 CME Group Tour Championship ft. Nelly Korda

CME Group Tour Championship - Tiburon Golf Club - Naples, FL

The CME Group Tour Championship, the season finale of the LPGA Tour, is set to take place from November 21 to 24, 2024, at the Tiburon Golf Club in Naples, Florida. This prestigious event will feature the top 60 golfers from the Race to the CME Globe rankings, competing for a record-breaking $11 million purse, with the winner taking home an unprecedented $4 million prize.

Nelly Korda, who has already secured the Rolex Player of the Year title, currently leads the rankings after a rollercoaster season that included five consecutive wins and ongoing injury challenges. However, the tournament’s format ensures that the winner of this event will be crowned the Race to the CME Globe Champion, regardless of their previous standing.

The Tiburon Golf Club’s Gold Course, hosting the event for the 11th consecutive year, presents a challenging par-72 layout measuring 6,556 yards. The course features numerous bunkers and water hazards on 15 holes, demanding precision from the players.

As the final event of the 2024 LPGA season, the CME Group Tour Championship promises to be an exciting conclusion to a year that has seen record-breaking performances and intense competition among the world’s top female golfers.

CME Group Tour Stories

CME Group Tour Championship: What Is LPGA’s Blue Jacket? History, Significance & More Explored

The 2024 CME Group Tour Championship will award the winner a Blue Jacket, similar to the Green Jacket in the Masters Tournament. This prestigious jacket symbolizes the conclusion of the LPGA season and will be presented by the previous year's champion. Amy Yang, the 2023 winner, may pass the jacket to the new champion if she cannot defend her title. The tournament features a significant prize pool of $11 million, and Yang's performance in 2024 has been challenging, placing her 38th in the standings. The championship finale is set for November 24, 2024.

CME Group Tour Videos

Australian PGA 2024: At home, Cameron Smith is in his happy place

BMW Australian PGA Championship - Royal Queensland GC, Brisbane, Australia

The BMW Australian PGA Championship is set to kick off the 2025 DP World Tour season at Royal Queensland Golf Club in Brisbane, Australia from November 21-24, 2024. This prestigious event marks the beginning of the new tour season and offers a prize purse of AUD 2 million.

All eyes will be on Cameron Smith, the 2022 Open champion, who has won this tournament three times. After joining LIV Golf, Smith’s world ranking has dropped significantly, making this event a crucial opportunity for him to gain valuable ranking points. Currently ranked 128th, Smith will be eager to reclaim his former top position.

Defending champion Min Woo Lee will return to defend his title after his impressive victory in 2023. Other notable players in the field include Jason Day, who is coming off a solid PGA Tour campaign, and Victor Perez, an elegant French golfer looking to make his mark.

BMW Australian PGA Championship Stories

The Ryder Cup (Sept 22-28, 2025)

Opinion: Sergio Garcia Is A No-Brainer Pick For The 2025 Ryder Cup

Sergio Garcia's return to the DP World Tour positions him as a strong candidate for the 2025 Ryder Cup, where he aims to make his 11th appearance. Despite some criticism regarding his age and ranking, Garcia's recent performance, including a third-place finish in the LIV Golf standings and a solid showing at the US Open, highlights his capability. His established partnerships with players like Jon Rahm and the potential to rekindle relationships with Rory McIlroy further bolster his case for selection. Garcia's experience and past contributions to Team Europe make him a valuable asset for the upcoming tournament.

Tyrrell Hatton set for Ryder Cup warm-up as LIV rebels come in from the cold

Tyrrell Hatton is set to participate in the European Ryder Cup team's warm-up event in Abu Dhabi, signaling improved relations between traditional golf and LIV players. Sergio García, despite paying fines to rejoin the DP World Tour, will miss the event due to ongoing suspensions. The Team Cup will feature captains Francesco Molinari and Justin Rose, with Hatton aiming to solidify his Ryder Cup position after a controversial switch to the LIV circuit and recent strong performances. García's return to the DP World Tour is not expected until February at the earliest.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Bettinardi Antidote Series putters 

The Bettinardi Antidote Series putters, priced at $430 each, feature a zero-torque design aimed at helping golfers start putts on their intended target line. Available in two models, the SB1 blade and SB2 mallet, these putters utilize a combination of 303 stainless steel and 6061 aluminum to achieve balance and precision. The design includes center-shafting and a milled, grooved face for enhanced feel, making them suitable for players who struggle with squaring the face at impact.

Overheard in the Club House

Korda, Thompson not 'ruthless,' but agree LPGA's slow play a big issue

Nelly Korda and Lexi Thompson acknowledge the LPGA Tour's slow play issue, agreeing that measures need to be implemented to address it. Charley Hull proposed strict penalties for slow play, suggesting that three bad timings should result in a two-shot penalty, with three penalties leading to loss of tour card. Korda supports the need for penalties and increased monitoring by rules officials, while Thompson emphasizes the need for quicker play to enhance the experience for fans. Both players express frustration over the lengthy rounds, calling for a cultural shift in pace of play on the tour.

Lexi Thompson Says She ‘May Tee It Up A Few Times Next Year’ As She Prepares To Retire From Full-Time Professional Golf

Lexi Thompson is preparing to retire from full-time professional golf but may still participate in a few tournaments next year. She emphasizes that her retirement is not a complete break from the sport and expresses interest in playing the Kraft Nabisco Championship, where she won her only Major title. Thompson plans to continue contributing to golf, particularly in encouraging youth participation, and looks forward to a more balanced life with personal pursuits and travel.

Rory McIlroy sees glass half-full with 4 wins. The US Open makes it feel half-empty: Analysis

Rory McIlroy concluded a challenging yet successful 2024 season with four wins, including the DP World Tour Championship, but remains haunted by a decade-long major drought. Despite his achievements, including being ranked No. 3 in the world, McIlroy feels defined by the majors he missed, particularly the U.S. Open. His consistency is acknowledged by peers, yet the pressure of expectations weighs heavily on him. Off the course, he navigated personal challenges and significant negotiations in the golf world, ultimately reflecting on a tumultuous year with a sense of fulfillment and determination for the future.

Rules Guy: Can you play a ball that goes OB, but is in-bounds on another hole?

The document discusses a golf rules query regarding a ball that goes out of bounds (OB) but comes to rest in-bounds on another hole. It explains that under certain local rules, the ball may be considered OB, while in the absence of such rules, if the ball is in-bounds, it is playable. Additionally, it addresses a scenario where a ball breaks into two parts, clarifying that the stroke does not count and the player must replay from the original position.

How much you'd pay to play a Top 100 Course in the U.S., according to ... you!

A survey of GOLF readers revealed insights on how much they would pay for tee times at Top 100 golf courses in the U.S. Results showed that 35% would spend no more than $100, while nearly 25% would pay $500 or more. The majority, 50.58%, indicated they would pay no more than $200 for a Top 100 afternoon, highlighting the varying perceptions of value in golf experiences.

This tour pro turned his game around—literally—to enjoy playing golf with his kids

Chris Kirk, a PGA Tour veteran, plays left-handed for fun with his kids, finding it more enjoyable and less stressful than playing right-handed. Despite his competitive nature, he values the quality time spent with his children, which allows him to disconnect from the pressures of professional golf. Kirk's left-handed play began around 2007 and has improved over time, aided by custom clubs. His goal is to break 80 while playing left-handed, but he prioritizes enjoyment and family bonding over competition.

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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