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Planet Golf News for Friday March 1, 2024

Planet Golf News for Friday March 1, 2024

Friday, March 1, 2024

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LIV Golf 'in legal dispute on claims of COPYING competition format'

THE LEADERBOARD

Today’s Top 10 Stories from Planet Golf News

Good Morning,

In the ever-twisting world of professional golf, the greens are buzzing with stories that feel straight out of a Hollywood script. At the heart of it all is Anthony Kim, the prodigal son of golf, making his much-anticipated return with LIV Golf after a 12-year hiatus. Picture this: a talent once on the cusp of golfing greatness steps back into the limelight, amidst rumors and speculation. With a signing rumored to cost LIV Golf between $5 and $7.5 million, the stakes are as high as the expectations. Kim's comeback, marked by a rocky start in Saudi Arabia, isn't just about hitting the fairways again; it's about proving that the fire within him hasn't been extinguished by time or injury. Despite asking for a mulligan on his opening tee shot, his spirits remain undeterred, making his story one to watch.

But that's not the only drama unfolding. The golfing world finds itself at the center of a secret legal tangle, with LIV Golf and the Premier Golf League disputing over the alleged copying of competition formats. This legal golf duel might just end with a settlement over $10 million, illustrating the high stakes involved in the sport's evolving landscape.

Adding another layer to this narrative is Viktor Hovland's critique of the PGA Tour and LIV Golf's money-centric approach. Hovland, with a perspective as refreshing as a morning tee-time, warns of a "soulless" product that could distance fans. His concerns highlight a growing tension between the sport's tradition and its future.

Then there's Adrian Meronk, who, feeling snubbed by the Ryder Cup selection, decided to chart a new course with LIV Golf. Despite facing fines and suspensions, Meronk's resolve to stick with the DP World Tour post-LIV Golf season speaks volumes about his dedication and the complex loyalty lines drawn in the sand.

On the PGA Tour, Chad Ramey and S.H. Kim both shined with bogey-free rounds at the Cognizant Classic, edging ahead in the Florida Swing. Meanwhile, Jake Knapp, basking in the glow of a maiden Tour title, catches Rory McIlroy's eye not just with his game but with his personality, stirring conversations about golf's future stars.

Amidst these personal journeys, the LIV Golf Jeddah tournament tees off today, spotlighting talents like Sergio Garcia and Paul Casey, who thrive in challenging conditions, proving yet again the unpredictable nature of the game.

And let's not forget the future stars, with NBC Sports dedicating nearly 150 hours to college golf, showcasing the raw talent waiting in the wings at events like the NCAA Championships and the Darius Rucker Invitational.

From comebacks to controversies, and fresh faces to future stars, the world of golf is a blend of personal trials, legal battles, and the undying quest for glory. Whether it's the lush fairways of the PGA Tour or the innovative greens of LIV Golf, the game continues to evolve, with each story adding a new chapter to golf's rich narrative. [Michael Wolf]

1 Cognizant Classic

In the 2024 Cognizant Classic golf tournament, Chad Ramey and S.H. Kim both shot bogey-free rounds of 7-under 64 in the opening round, tying for the lead. Play was suspended due to darkness with two groups unable to finish their final hole, which will be completed early Friday. Following closely behind are Cameron Young, Ryan Moore, Chesson Hadley, Austin Eckroat, and Andrew Novak, all one stroke back with 6-under rounds of 65. Other notable players include Rory McIlroy, defending champion Chris Kirk, and FedExCup points leader Matthieu Pavon finishing with 67s. The course conditions were described as easier than usual, with wider fairways contributing to lower scores. The tournament also featured a special Military Appreciation Day to honor active duty and retired military members. Jake Knapp, a PGA Tour rookie, played alongside Rory McIlroy and Chris Kirk, shooting a 3-under-par 68 while McIlroy and Kirk both shot 67s. Overall, the tournament showcased impressive performances and exciting competition among top golfers.

Chad Ramey cards bogey-free 64, shares lead with Kim at Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches

Chad Ramey shoots a bogey-free 64 to share the lead with Kim at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. Ramey's strong performance in the opening round gives him a chance to improve his past record at PGA National. The conditions were favorable with minimal wind, allowing Ramey to take advantage and secure a one-stroke lead. Other notable players, including Rory McIlroy, also had solid rounds. The tournament is expected to become more challenging as the week progresses.

2 LIV Golf Jeddah

Anthony Kim is making a remarkable return to competitive golf at the LIV Golf Jeddah event after a retirement of 4,320 days. He teed off at the Royal Greens Golf & Country Club alongside major champions Graeme McDowell and Cameron Smith. His wife and daughter accompanied him during the event, showing family support. The overall individual purse for the tournament is $20 million, with the winner receiving $4 million. Anthony Kim's return to professional golf at age 38 has garnered significant attention, with many eagerly watching his performance after such a long hiatus from the sport. The tournament began today at approximately 3:00 am Eastern time.

Phil Mickelson suffers fresh blow as Anthony Kim favoured over him at LIV Jeddah

Phil Mickelson is considered less likely to win the 2024 LIV Golf Jeddah tournament compared to Anthony Kim, despite Mickelson's impressive career. Kim, who has been away from competitive golf for 12 years, has higher betting odds for victory. Mickelson's best performance on the LIV circuit was a tie for eighth in 2022. Kim's return to professional golf has been welcomed by LIV's CEO, Greg Norman, who believes Kim has the talent and drive to succeed.

3 LPGA 2024 HSBC Women’s World Championship

The LPGA 2024 HSBC Women's World Championship kicked off Thursday with notable performances, including Linn Grant's strong start with a 3-under 69. The tournament's Round 1 highlights were captured in a video on YouTube (below), showcasing the thrilling moments of the competition. Player reactions, like Lilia Vu's from the United States, added to the excitement of Day One. This championship, known for featuring top women golfers worldwide, is a prestigious event in the golfing calendar. French player Celine Boutier is among the participants aiming to excel in this tournament, marking her third LPGA Tour start of 2024.

4 Personalities

Rickie Fowler suggests golf needs an off-season to drive interest in the game

Professional golfer Rickie Fowler suggests that golf, particularly the PGA Tour, needs an off-season to create more demand and interest in the sport. With golf tournaments happening practically every week of the year, Fowler believes that having fewer tournaments and making the product more scarce could help drive interest. However, reducing tournaments would also mean reducing playing opportunities, which may be challenging for the PGA Tour. The suggestion of integrating LIV Golf into an aligned PGA Tour-DP World Tour-LIV Golf world is also discussed, but it raises concerns about diluting the professional golf product. Overall, the idea is to create a desire for golf and avoid overwhelming fans with too much golf throughout the year.

5 Personalities

Sergio Garcia discovers extortionate seven-figure price to complete LIV U-turn

Sergio Garcia will have to settle fines of over £800,000 in order to regain his DP World Tour membership and Ryder Cup eligibility. Garcia opted to resign from the DP World Tour after joining LIV Golf, but now plans to return to the circuit. He hopes to regain his membership and Ryder Cup playing rights by settling the fines and demonstrating his commitment to the European Tour.

6 Personalities

Anthony Kim is LIV Golf's Ultimate Wild Card

Anthony Kim has returned as a wild card in LIV Golf, a fitting role for his unpredictable nature. LIV Golf consists of 13 four-man teams, with wild card positions for players competing for individual prizes and points. Kim will have one shot at winning millions of dollars in a tournament weekend. His return to golf has been officially announced by the LIV Golf League.

7 LIV Golf

LIV Golf slapped with secret legal dispute for 'copying' format of rival league

LIV Golf, the league funded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, is facing a secretive lawsuit from the group behind the Premier Golf League, claiming that LIV Golf copied their proposed format for a PGA Tour rival. The Premier Golf League is reportedly seeking up to £60 million in compensation. Despite the legal dispute, LIV Golf has been successful in signing major winners from the PGA Tour, including Jon Rahm for over $500 million. The PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and DP World Tour had announced a framework agreement, but talks have stalled. LIV Golf continues to pursue stars while the PGA Tour secured funding from Strategic Sports Group. The third event of LIV's third campaign is taking place in Saudi Arabia, with the debut of former PGA Tour phenom Anthony Kim.

8 Personalities

Adrian Meronk scoped out LIV Golf move immediately after brutal Ryder Cup snub

Adrian Meronk, after missing out on a spot in the Ryder Cup, joined LIV Golf and expressed his interest in the league immediately after the snub. Despite being fined and suspended by the DP World Tour, Meronk plans to remain a member and play DP World Tour events once the LIV Golf calendar is finished.

9 College Golf - Podcast

10 Women’s Golf

Five Iron Golf is celebrating Women’s History Month with free simulator time for women

Five Iron Golf is celebrating Women's History Month by offering free simulator time for women every Wednesday in March. In addition to the free simulator time, they are hosting a women's event called "Gals on the Greens" with instruction, appearances by Five Iron influencers, and a welcome drink. This promotion aims to make golf more accessible for everyone and is available at their locations across the U.S.

SHORT TAKES

Indy man arrested after gun goes off while swinging golf club at Topgol

An Indy man was arrested after his gun went off while swinging a golf club at Topgolf in Fishers. Fortunately, no one was injured. The man attempted to downplay the incident and left the premises before the police arrived. He will face charges of being a serious violent felon in possession of a firearm and criminal recklessness.

J.Lindeberg launches full golf shoe collection — check out each new pair

J.Lindeberg has launched its full golf shoe collection, featuring a unique look that stands out in the golf space. The collection focuses on performance, style, and comfort, empowering golfers to feel and perform their best. Check out the new Vent 500 and Range Finder models in the collection.

Phil Mickelson: Here's how to stop blading chip shots

Phil Mickelson shares a valuable secret to stop blading chip shots in golf. He advises focusing on hand speed instead of clubhead speed to keep the angle of the leading edge and the bounce consistent longer through the shot. This tip comes from one of the greatest wedge players of all time.

Why A Golf Course Is Home To The Newest Pacific Northwest Steakhouse

The newest addition to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort on the Oregon coast is the Ghost Tree Grill, an upscale steakhouse and raw bar located near the finishing hole of the Old Macdonald course. With sweeping views of the golf course and a menu inspired by the Pacific Northwest, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience. The 10,000-square foot space features an open kitchen, central bar, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a design that blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. Menu highlights include Pacific Northwest steak options, seafood platters, and specialty dishes like Uni Carbonara. The Ghost Tree Grill becomes the highest-end food offering at the resort, which is known for its world-class golf courses.

Denied relief, major winner uses another rule — and swings through fence

During the Cognizant Classic, golfer Justin Rose faced a challenging situation on the 13th hole. His ball settled near a boundary fence, leaving him with limited options. Unable to get free relief or take a penalty drop, Rose decided to swing through the fence from out of bounds. The unconventional move paid off as his ball advanced into the fairway, ultimately leading to a successful par. This incident recalls similar situations involving other golfers, highlighting the creativity and adaptability required in the game.

WHAT’S IN THE BAG (WITB)

Anthony Kim's golf equipment at the LIV Golf Jeddah event

Anthony Kim is making a comeback in professional golf at the LIV Golf Jeddah event. He is expected to have a Titleist TSR3 driver, Titleist TSR2+ fairway wood, Titleist T200 and T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Design SM10 wedges, Scotty Cameron Newport T10 Select prototype putter, and play with Titleist Pro V1 balls.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking