Planet Golf News - January 23, 2024

Nick Dunlap made a historic rise in the Official World Golf Ranking, jumping from 4,129th to No. 68 after winning The American Express. Christiaan Bezuidenhout also moved up 51 spots to No. 56 with his runner-up finish. Rory McIlroy defended his title at the Dubai Desert Classic but remained at No. 2 in the rankings. Justin Thomas moved to No. 23 after his T-3 finish at the AmEx. [nbcsports.com]

Nick Dunlap, the amateur golfer who made history by winning The American Express, has announced his withdrawal from the Farmers Insurance Open. Dunlap, who became the first amateur to win on the PGA TOUR since 1991, cited the need for rest and a desire to be with family and friends as reasons for his decision. He expressed gratitude to Farmers Insurance and American Express for the opportunities they provided. Dunlap, who has yet to decide when he will turn pro, will be exempt on the TOUR through 2026 once he does. [pgatour.com]

Nick Dunlap, an amateur golfer, won the American Express tournament on the PGA Tour but forfeited the $1.5-million prize because of his amateur status. This makes him the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event since 1991. Dunlap's victory also grants him exemptions into the Masters, U.S. Open, Open Championship, and PGA Championship, but he is undecided on whether to turn professional or continue his collegiate career at the University of Alabama. [latimes.com]

Nick Dunlap, an amateur golfer, did not receive any prize money for his victory at The American Express PGA Tour event. This article argues that amateurs like Dunlap should be paid for their wins, as they contribute to the success of the event and other players benefit from their participation. [sbnation.com]

The PGA Tour faces a challenge in keeping Nick Dunlap away from LIV Golf, as the amateur golfer's historic victory and sponsorship deal with Adidas make him an attractive prospect. Dunlap's potential move to the professional circuit raises questions about the distinction between amateur and professional status in golf and the financial implications for players. Despite not being able to collect the winner's cash prize, Dunlap's future in professional golf looks promising, with opportunities to compete in major tournaments and secure significant earnings. [telegraph.co.uk]

Former World No.1 Yani Tseng is set to make her first LPGA Tour start since 2021. Tseng, who has five Major titles and 15 LPGA Tour wins, had struggled with poor form and injuries in recent years. Despite the challenges, she remains just four points away from entering the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame. Tseng's return to the tour comes after almost three years out, and she will be competing against a field that includes 22 Major winners. [golfmonthly.com]

Despite a disheartening loss at the American Express, Xander Schauffele made PGA Tour history by entering the $40 million career earnings club. With two top-10 finishes in the 2024 season, Schauffele has earned $1,165,600, bringing his total career earnings to $40,075,922. He is now the 31st golfer to achieve this feat in PGA Tour history. [essentiallysports.com]

Tiger Woods plans to participate in the 2024 Masters and has outlined an ambitious schedule for the season, aiming to compete in all the Majors and other Signature Events. After a successful surgery and rehabilitation, Woods is enthusiastic about his return to the game and is currently on track to play in the Masters. [sportskeeda.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open is set to take place at Torrey Pines in San Diego, California. Defending champion Max Homa will be competing alongside top players like Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay. The tournament will be played on two separate courses, with the final rounds on the South Course. Xander Schauffele is the favorite to win, followed by Patrick Cantlay and Max Homa. The winner will receive a share of the $9,000,000 purse and 500 FedEx Cup Points. UK viewers can watch on Sky Sports Golf, while US viewers can tune in to Golf Channel. [todays-golfer.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open, part of the PGA Tour's West Coast swing, will be held at Torrey Pines in San Diego. The tournament will take place from Wednesday to Saturday, avoiding a conflict with the NFL's conference championship games. The field includes top players such as Xander Schauffele, Patrick Cantlay, and Max Homa, with Homa as the defending champion. Other past champions returning to Torrey Pines include Luke List, Justin Rose, and Jason Day. [si.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open is taking place at Torrey Pines Golf Course, with the top five players in the Aon Swing 5 standings earning a spot in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa, Max Homa, Patrick Cantlay, Keegan Bradley, and Sahith Theegala are among the top contenders. The LPGA Drive On Championship is also happening, with Lydia Ko leading the Race to the CME Globe. The next tournaments for PGA Tour Champions and LIV Golf League are yet to be announced. [yardbarker.com]

PGA Tour pro Michael Kim points out being snubbed in the tournament notes for the Farmers Insurance Open, despite being a PGA Tour winner and having a homecoming in San Diego. Kim expressed his disappointment but also acknowledged the overall good job of the note creators. [golfdigest.com]

A breakdown of the purse for the Farmers Insurance Open in the PGA TOUR. Listed is the prize money for each position, starting from $1,620,000.00 for the first place and gradually decreasing. [pgatour.com]

For the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open, our long-shot pick is Christiaan Bezuidenhout with odds of +6600. Although he hasn't won on the PGA Tour, his consistent performance and recent second-place finish at the American Express make him a promising contender. Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa, Max Homa, Patrick Cantlay, and Ludvig Aberg are among the top favorites for the tournament. [golf.com]

The 2024 Farmers Insurance Open odds and field are discussed in this article. The tournament has seen surprising winners in the first three events of the PGA Tour season. Xander Schauffele is the favorite, followed by Patrick Cantlay and Max Homa. The article also highlights the predictions from a proven computer model and identifies other golfers with potential value. Jason Day is mentioned as a longshot who could make a strong run at the title. [cbssports.com]

Justin Rose has joined the Los Angeles Golf Club team in The Golf League (TGL), becoming the latest player to commit to the league. Rose, a prominent golfer with numerous achievements, including 11 PGA Tour titles and an Olympic gold medal, expressed excitement about being part of TGL and the Los Angeles Golf Club. The league, founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, aims to complement the PGA Tour schedule and features several top players across six teams. TGL matches will be played indoors using a giant golf simulator, with a unique scoring system and playoffs at the end of the season. [mirror.co.uk]

Phil Mickelson and Jon Rahm congratulate Nick Dunlap on his historic win as the first amateur since 1991 to win on the PGA Tour. Mickelson, the last amateur to achieve this feat, praises Dunlap's performance and predicts a bright future. Rahm also recognizes Dunlap's accomplishment and talent, highlighting his stellar play under pressure. Despite existing hostility between golf circuits, the recognition of Dunlap's achievement by LIV Golf stars is refreshing. [sbnation.com]

During Nick Dunlap's historic victory at The American Express, his caddie, Hunter Hamrick, used some trash talk to keep him calm. Hamrick jokingly said, "Your mom could make this putt," before Dunlap sank a five-footer to become the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event in over 30 years. [golfdigest.com]

Rory McIlroy reflects on the meaning of success in golf, emphasizing the significance of having one's name on trophies and comparing oneself to the idols of the past. McIlroy also highlights the importance of relationships and the value of education in both academic and sporting terms. He expresses gratitude for his journey in golf and the opportunities it has provided him. [theguardian.com]

Lydia Ko, a professional golfer from New Zealand, has the opportunity to complete her Olympic medal collection by winning gold in Paris. After winning silver in Rio and bronze in Tokyo, Ko aims to represent her country and achieve her dream of having three different medals. Despite struggling in 2023, Ko's recent win at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions has given her momentum and confidence. She views returning to the Olympics as one of her biggest goals for 2024 and is excited about the unique experience and celebration that comes with competing in the Olympics. [lpga.com]

Professional golfer Michael Kim has become an unexpected social media star, attracting over 107,000 followers on Twitter with his humorous and insightful posts. Kim, who has played on the PGA Tour for eight years, has found a niche by offering swing tips and sharing stories about his experiences on tour. His popularity has grown rapidly, and he has gained recognition from both fans and fellow players. Despite his newfound social media success, Kim remains focused on his career and continues to work on improving his game. [golfdigest.com]

Despite criticism, Keith Pelley's tenure as CEO of the DP World Tour has been largely successful. Accusations of selling out to the PGA Tour are countered by the benefits of a world-class field and large prize pots at events like the Scottish Open. The 10 PGA Tour cards now available through the Race to Dubai provide opportunities for European golfers. Pelley's efforts have led to record prize money and global competition, contributing to the growth of the game. He also facilitated a £2.7bn investment from the Strategic Sports Group, emphasizing the importance of a global strategy. Pelley's departure leaves the future of a unified global golf calendar uncertain. [golfshake.com]

Nick Dunlap's surprising victory at the 2024 American Express was not a surprise to his friends, family, and coaches who knew his talent and determination. Despite a setback on the seventh hole, Dunlap's resilience and skill allowed him to secure the win and become the second-youngest winner on the PGA Tour in 90 years. His success as an amateur, winning the U.S. Junior Amateur, U.S. Amateur, and now a PGA Tour event, is unprecedented. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Several LIV Golf players, including Joaquin Niemann, are confirmed for the opening International Series event of the Asian Tour season in Oman. The event will take place at Muscat's Al Mouj Golf and features a purse of $2m. Niemann is aiming to qualify for The Masters and will need to be in the world's top 50. Other LIV Golf players participating include Mito Pereira, Sebastian Munoz, Carlos Ortiz, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, and Anirban Lahiri. [golfmonthly.com]

Significant progress has been made in making golf more inclusive for women, including greater equality at golf clubs, the Women in Golf Charter, increased participation during Covid-19, off-course options, manufacturers catering to female consumers, better representation, and women's golf initiatives. However, more work needs to be done in terms of representation in advertising, equality of leisure time, and addressing casual misogyny. [golfmonthly.com]

Christiaan Bezuidenhout collected 300 FedExCup points for his second-place finish at The American Express, securing a spot in the upcoming AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Grayson Murray remains the leader in the Aon Swing 5 standings, with Bezuidenhout also qualifying. The Aon Next 10 players will compete for spots in the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players based on FedExCup points. [nbcsports.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open and LPGA Drive On Championship will be televised and streamed this week. The PGA Tour event starts on Wednesday, with Golf Channel and Peacock covering the first two rounds. The final two rounds will also be covered by Golf Channel, Peacock, and CBS. The LPGA Drive On Championship will have coverage on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, with the final round on Sunday. [nbcsports.com]

The NXXT Women's Pro Tour has requested the winner of its recent event, transgender golfer Hailey Davidson, to undergo testosterone testing after she received death threats and hateful messages. The tour aims to address public concerns and collect opinions from players on its gender policy. Davidson remains focused on her journey to the LPGA Tour and acknowledges the work that still needs to be done. The NXXT follows the gender policies of the LPGA and USGA. Davidson's participation in the 2022 Q-School was facilitated by validation from both organizations. The LPGA's gender policy allows for the inclusion of transitioned female athletes who meet specific criteria. Davidson, who has been undergoing hormone treatments for seven years, has faced challenges but remains true to herself. [usatoday.com]

The First Tee Game Changers, a group of volunteers who promote golf and its life lessons among children, were recognized for their contributions in 2023. Notable awardees include Bob Sobecki, a retiree who found joy in teaching golf to kids; The First Tee Greater Trenton in New Jersey, which reached underprivileged children and boasts a diverse participant and staff composition; Ariel Brown, a teacher and golf instructor who emphasizes integrity and accountability in golf; and Bill and Kim Allen, who have dedicated resources to teaching golf etiquette and values to young golfers. [golfdigest.com]

Phil Mickelson, the last amateur to win on the PGA Tour, had already shown a pro mindset early in his career. In an interview with Golf Digest, Mickelson discussed his marketing potential, the importance of entertaining the crowd, and the business side of professional golf. This was before Tiger Woods emerged and changed the game. Mickelson's potential was recognized by Hughes Norton, who later became Woods' agent. [golfdigest.com]

During The American Express golf tournament, former Alabama football coach Nick Saban complimented golfer Justin Thomas just before Thomas hit a shot into the water, creating a comical moment. Saban, who has recently retired, has been making media appearances and took the opportunity to praise Thomas, a former Alabama golfer. Saban's timing with his comments couldn't have been worse as the camera captured Thomas' shot going into the water. Saban's retirement has surprised the football world, and it remains to be seen what he will do next in his retirement. [yardbarker.com]

Nick Dunlap's victory as the first amateur winner on the PGA Tour since 1991 has created excitement and curiosity. Despite his previous accomplishments in amateur golf, many are still unfamiliar with him. The article encourages readers to savor this moment of mystery and enjoy the unknown before reality sets in. [golfdigest.com]

Nick Dunlap, a 20-year-old golfer, made history by becoming the second-youngest winner in the history of the PGA Tour. Despite facing pressure and competition from seasoned professionals, Dunlap displayed a mature attitude and exceptional skills on the course. His victory at the American Express tournament showcased his talent and potential for a successful career in professional golf. [golf.com]

Nick Dunlap, an amateur golfer, made history by becoming the first amateur to win on the PGA Tour in 33 years. Despite not being able to accept the prize money, Dunlap receives a PGA Tour card, exemptions into prestigious tournaments, and a chance to turn professional. His victory highlights the talent of young college players and the unique opportunities in golf. [cbssports.com]

As Rory McIlroy prepares for The Masters in 2024, the question remains whether this will be the year he finally achieves the career Grand Slam. Despite his recent win at the Dubai Desert Classic and consistent performance in majors, McIlroy has yet to secure a victory at Augusta National. With his focus on improving his game and a busy early-season schedule, McIlroy hopes to be fully prepared for his latest Grand Slam attempt. [skysports.com]

The PGA Tour finds itself in a no-win situation as Jay Monahan nears a long-term financial backing deal with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who has been accused of carrying out instructions from Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman with "malicious intent" in a lawsuit filed in Canada. Partnering with a regime involved in various entanglements and issues poses ethical concerns, but walking away from the deal could result in the tour being taken down by LIV Golf, which has the backing of Saudi Arabia. The tour's business model is already unsustainable, and the deal has turned off loyal advocates and sponsors. The decision Monahan faces is a difficult one, with potential consequences for professional golf. [golfdigest.com]

Wins from Rory McIlroy and an amateur on the PGA Tour were overshadowed by the NFL, highlighting golf's struggle for attention. Despite significant achievements, such as an amateur potentially winning the American Express and McIlroy's strong performance in Dubai, the focus of sports fans was on NFL Divisional Playoff Saturday. This reinforces the notion that golf is a niche sport with lower viewership compared to other sports, impacting the salaries and recognition of professional golfers. [fox56news.com]

College sophomore Nick Dunlap wins the PGA Tour event, becoming the first amateur winner in 33 years. Despite his victory, Dunlap is not allowed to collect the $1.5 million prize due to his amateur status. Dunlap's performance showcased his potential as a major golf talent, and he now faces decisions about his future in the sport. [cbsnews.com]

During The American Express broadcast, Nick Saban discusses amateur golfer Nick Dunlap and his dedication to the sport. Saban praises Dunlap's work ethic and mindset, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on the next shot and the process rather than the outcome. Saban also expresses support for Justin Thomas and his potential for a great year on the PGA TOUR. [pgatour.com]

Rory McIlroy shoots a bogey-free 63 in Dubai, putting himself in contention for the Green Jacket. With a strong performance and a fourth Dubai desert classic win in sight, Rory aims to continue his fine run of form and win a major championship, specifically the Masters, after a decade-long drought. [golfcity.com]

Lucas Herbert, former PGA Tour winner, is expected to join Cameron Smith's all-Australian Ripper GC franchise in LIV Golf, replacing Jed Morgan. Herbert's decision means he will not be eligible for the Olympic Games this year, but the opportunity to compete against top players like Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka was "irresistible" to him. After struggling in 2023, Herbert took a break from the sport to reset and improve as a person. [foxsports.com]

Golf fans have mixed reactions to Nick Dunlap's deer hunting photos, despite his impressive achievements in the PGA Tour. Dunlap made history as the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event since 1991 and set several records, but his hobby has sparked a debate among golf fans. While some support his passion for deer hunting, others are less amused. [golfmagic.com]

Golf fans speculate on the future of amateur golfer Nick Dunlap after Phil Mickelson congratulates him on his recent victory. Some fans believe Dunlap could join Mickelson's LIV Golf team, while others think he may choose to join the league independently. The future remains uncertain, but Mickelson's interest has sparked speculation among fans. [sportskeeda.com]

Golf influencer Waiyi Chan received praise from fans for her latest bikini photos, with comments describing her as "perfection" and "my fantasy girl." Despite being a social media rival to Paige Spiranac, Waiyi's following is currently at 138,000 compared to Paige's 3.9 million. Fans appreciated Waiyi's watery setting and choice of swimwear, with some expressing gratitude for warming them up. [thesun.ie]

After winning the American Express as an amateur, there are rumors of Nick Dunlap potentially snubbing the PGA Tour and joining the LIV Golf circuit. Many LIV Golf players have praised Dunlap's performance, leading to speculation about his future plans. However, Dunlap has stated that his dreams align with the PGA Tour, and he has no plans to join LIV Golf. [essentiallysports.com]

Nick Dunlap, the amateur golfer who recently made history at the American Express event, has the potential to receive a wildcard entry for the 2024 LIV season. While Dunlap has expressed uncertainty about his participation in the LIV league, his victory has garnered congratulations from professional golfers like Jon Rahm, who may consider adding him to their roster. Dunlap's decision to join the LIV league or stick to the PGA Tour is yet to be determined. [sportskeeda.com]

Nick Dunlap's victory as an amateur in the PGA TOUR captured the imagination of the golf world. Despite facing challenges during the game, Dunlap displayed remarkable talent and composure. His post-round press conference revealed his youthful charm and relatability. Golf has a history of young talents that have enthralled audiences, and Dunlap's win adds to that legacy. The unpredictable nature of golf and the potential for long careers make it an exciting sport to watch. Dunlap's maturity and perspective have already led to impressive accomplishments, and he joins a group of young talents making their mark in professional golf. [pgatour.com]

Rory McIlroy's caddie is his childhood friend, Harry Diamond. They have known each other since childhood and have a strong bond outside of golf. Diamond has been McIlroy's caddie since 2017 and has played a crucial role in his success on the PGA Tour. Despite some criticism, they have remained together and have achieved significant victories together, earning Diamond millions of dollars in prize money. [essentiallysports.com]

Phil Mickelson, a prominent golfer, has several sponsorship deals including Grayhawk Golf Club, Melin, Mizzen+Main, Intrepid Financial Partners, Rolex, and VistaJet. He has also had endorsement deals with Ford Motors, ExxonMobil, KPMG, Callaway Golf, Amgen, Enbrel, and Barclays in the past. Mickelson has invested in golf courses and started a coffee manufacturing company called For Wellness. He has also written books about his golf career and personal life. [thesportsrush.com]

The article discusses the potential flaws in the PGA Tour's business model, as highlighted by LIV Golf. Golfers like Rory McIlroy and Webb Simpson have pointed out issues such as revenue growth, sponsor dissatisfaction, and the strain on tournament hosts. The article suggests that the PGA Tour needs to expand globally and tap into untapped markets to ensure its long-term survival. [essentiallysports.com]

This article discusses the contributions of Arnold Palmer and Seve Ballesteros to the modern professional game of golf. Palmer's aggressive play and wins in major tournaments helped boost golf's popularity during the television age. He also played a significant role in reinstating the status of the Open Championship. Ballesteros, on the other hand, was known for his charisma and unpredictability, revitalizing European golf and inspiring a new generation of players. While both made important contributions, the article concludes that Palmer's impact was more significant, driving the game forward and bringing in substantial money. [golfmonthly.com]

After her divorce from Tiger Woods, Elin Nordegren pursued a career in child psychology and launched EN Therapy, LLC. However, her business license was dissolved in 2021, and there is currently no confirmation about what she is doing. Nordegren and Woods maintain a cordial relationship for the sake of their children. [essentiallysports.com]

Charlie Woods, son of Tiger Woods, had a successful golf season in 2023 and is expected to have a packed schedule in 2024. However, he is not expected to start playing until March, possibly due to school commitments. Charlie's performance at the PNC Championship showcased his skills and potential as a future golfer. Despite not playing in January, the golf world is eagerly anticipating his upcoming tournaments. [essentiallysports.com]

Get to know David Feherty, the golf analyst and media personality, with these 22 facts. Learn about his background, career, achievements, and personal life, including his name mix-up at birth, his professional golf career, his transition to media, and his involvement in the LIV Golf League. [golfmonthly.com]

After his historic win at The American Express, amateur golfer Nick Dunlap has generated interest among fans and bettors. Despite his amateur status, Dunlap cannot receive prize money if he wins. He has withdrawn from the Farmers Insurance Open to consider his future. Dunlap has the option to turn pro and has exemptions into major events like the Masters, U.S. Open, and The Open Championship. His decision to turn pro will impact his eligibility for these events. If Dunlap continues to perform well, he may be a worthwhile investment in the PGA Tour season. [yardbarker.com]

Golfers reveal what they would change about their golf club, including better organization for juniors, clubhouse updates, improved transparency and communication, better drainage, a better bar, addressing pace of play, dealing with certain members, changing the demographic of the membership, scrapping committees, and having a proper putting/short game practice area. [bunkered.co.uk]

The article discusses the challenges that European golfers face when transitioning to the PGA Tour in the United States. It highlights the cultural differences, the difficulty of adapting to the playing conditions and competition, and the potential impact on their confidence. The article also mentions the positive aspects of the transition, such as the opportunity to compete in weaker fields and potentially establish themselves in the regular PGA Tour events. [irishgolfer.ie]

Pat Perez, a professional golfer, has made over 500 appearances on the PGA Tour before joining LIV Golf in 2022. He has three PGA Tour victories and reached 16th in the world rankings. Perez's career earnings, including his LIV Golf winnings and PGA Tour earnings, are estimated to be around $54 million. [golfmonthly.com]

Professional golfers Brooks Koepka and Graeme McDowell, who have won six Majors between them, have a potential Cheltenham Festival hope in Givemefive. The four-year-old horse, owned by Koepka, McDowell, and Daniel Gambill, won impressively at Warwick and may target the Boodles Juvenile Hurdle at the festival. [racingpost.com]

A video captures an amateur golfer's angry reaction after ignoring his buddy's advice, only to prove the advice correct. The article emphasizes the importance of avoiding unsolicited golf advice, as it can negatively impact the mental side of the game and go against the spirit of finding one's own way to the hole. Exceptions to this rule include safety, etiquette, and playing with a novice. [golf365.com]

The Arizona Seniors Golf Association (ASGA) experienced a recent resurgence in membership back to pre-COVID levels. [fhtimes.com]

Amateur golfer Nick Dunlap won The American Express 2024 using TaylorMade golf gear, including a TaylorMade Qi10 LS driver, Srixon irons, TaylorMade wedges, and an Odyssey putter. Despite his victory, Dunlap did not earn FedEx Cup points or prize money due to his amateur status. He now has the option to play on the PGA Tour until 2026 or return to college and compete in amateur events. [sportskeeda.com]

Lydia Ko won the 2024 LPGA Tournament of Champions with a score of 14 under 274. Her equipment included a PING G430 LST driver, PING G430 Max 3-wood and 5-wood, PING G430 hybrid, PING i230 irons, Titleist Vokey Design wedges, Scotty Cameron putter, and Titleist Pro V1x ball. [sportskeeda.com]

Rory McIlroy relied on his new TaylorMade Qi10 woods to win the 2024 Dubai Desert Classic. He used the TaylorMade Qi10 Driver, Qi10 Fairway Woods, TaylorMade P760 4-iron, TaylorMade 'Rors Proto' irons, TaylorMade MG4 wedges, and a TaylorMade Spider Tour X putter. McIlroy's victory earned him $1.53 million and made him the first player to win the Dubai Desert Classic four times. [golfmagic.com]

This article discusses various equipment updates and sightings at the American Express golf tournament. Highlights include the distribution of new Vokey wedges, Rickie Fowler testing a new Cobra driver and 3D-printed wedge, Maverick McNealy using TaylorMade irons, and the presence of older clubs in play. Additionally, there is mention of white Mizuno drivers and a Callaway Ai Smoke triple diamond U utility wood. [golf.com]

Bridgestone has introduced the new Tour B X, Tour B XS, Tour B RX, and Tour B RXS golf balls. These three-piece, urethane-covered golf balls offer more speed and spin around the greens. The Tour B X is designed for golfers with a driver swing speed faster than 105 mph, while the Tour B XS provides more spin off the tee. The Tour B RX is targeted towards golfers with a drive clubhead speed below 105 who want more spin, and the Tour B RXS is designed for golfers with a driver swing speed below 105 who prefer a softer feel and more spin. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Built around Bob Vokey's philosophy of three keys to great wedge play, Titleist has revealed the new Vokey Design SM10 Wedges, which have been created to offer a lower, more controlled flight with enhanced feel and spin. [golfshake.com]

According to a review on Sports Illustrated, the PXG 0311 Black Ops Driver is a significant improvement over its predecessor. The driver features a sleek gloss finish, a carbon fiber plate on the sole, and a larger footprint for increased forgiveness. It incorporates "AMF Technology" for lower spin and higher launch, as well as Precision Weighting Technology for customizable shot shape. The review concludes that the Black Ops Driver exceeded expectations and recommends getting fitted at PXG. [si.com]

Cobra's Darkspeed driver lineup, particularly one specific model and loft, stood out during robotic testing for its performance in mitigating misses in a specific area of the face. This makes it a certified "unicorn driver" according to the Fully Equipped crew. [golf.com]

Manors Golf, a men's golf brand, has experienced significant growth and raised over 601,733 pounds in a new funding round. The brand aims to become a globally recognized golf brand and shift its focus to direct-to-consumer sales. With strategic relationships in various countries, including South Korea and the U.S., Manors Golf has a strong presence in the market. The brand plans to partner with Matches and continue hosting golf activations to engage with its community. [wwd.com]

Nicklaus Companies and Boxto have announced a shoe licensing agreement, offering Nicklaus-branded shoes in two popular styles. The Legacy Pro is a white shoe with a navy outsole, featuring the Golden Bear logo, while the Heritage Malaga is a white wingtip shoe with the logo in the center of the outsole. Both shoes are made of full-grain leather and equipped with FTS 3.0 cleats. Boxto will make a charitable contribution for every pair of Nicklaus-branded shoes sold. Initial orders are expected to ship in April 2024. [golfbusinessnews.com]

The all-new GEL-KAYANO ACE 2 golf shoe by ASICS offers lightweight comfort and flexibility for golfers. It features specialized flex grooves for enhanced rotation during the swing and a waterproof design for stability and support. The shoe also provides excellent grip and traction with its FG traction sole patterns. ASICS is set to launch two new colorways for the GEL-ACE PRO M as well. Retail pricing and information are available on the ASICS website. [firstcallgolf.com]

The golf clothing market is predicted to reach $1,554.3 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.0%. The expansion of distribution channels and the emergence of golf tourism and fitness consciousness among consumers are driving the market growth. North America holds the highest market share, while the women's segment is expected to grow at a higher CAGR. Key players in the market include Adidas, Nike, Puma, and Under Armour. [kalkinemedia.com]

Santiago De la Fuente wins the Latin America Amateur Championship, earning invitations to play in the Open Championship, Masters, and US Open. De la Fuente birdied the last two holes to secure a two-shot victory over Omar Morales. As the LAAC champion, De la Fuente receives exemptions into the Masters, The Open, and the US Open, while Morales earns exemptions into the final stages of qualifying for The Open and the US Open. [golfmonthly.com]

Kazuma Kobori, a New Zealand golfer, secured his first title as a professional by winning the Webex Players Series Murray River at Cobram Barooga Golf Club. Despite a restless night's sleep, Kobori maintained his lead and finished with a 3-under par round of 68, securing a two-stroke victory. This win marks Kobori's second victory on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia. [stuff.co.nz]

The Ras Al Khaimah Championship in 2024 has a prize money payout of $2.5 million, with the winner earning $425,000 and the runner-up receiving $275,000. The tournament takes place at Al Hamra Golf Club in the United Arab Emirates and features notable players such as Padraig Harrington and defending champion Daniel Gavins. [golfmonthly.com]

The 2024 Chubb Classic golf tournament in Naples will feature defending champion Bernhard Langer, along with Davis Love III, Colin Montgomerie, and Padraig Harrington. Langer, the winningest player in PGA Tour Champions history, will aim to add to his record-breaking victories. The tournament will take place from February 16-18 at Tiburón Golf Club. [naplesnews.com]

David Higgins finished in a share of 12th place at the Legends Tour Final Qualifying, failing to secure one of the five available tour cards. Despite a strong effort, Higgins fell five shots short of the target required. Jyoti Randhawa claimed medalist honors, while Andrew Marshall secured the final spot. [irishgolfer.ie]

The Webex Players Series Victoria is a golf tournament held at Rosebud Country Club in Australia. The event features both men and women competing for the same prize. The defending champion is Min A Yoon, who won with a final-round 63 and 24-under par overall. The tournament can be followed through live scoring on the PGA of Australia website and on social media channels. The final two rounds can be watched live on Kayo and Fox Sports. Former champions include Brad Kennedy, Todd Sinnott, and Min A Yoon. [pga.org.au]

Singaporean golfer Shannon Tan made an impressive start to her professional career, finishing second in her first tournament, the Webex Players Series Murray River. Tan carded a 19-under 265 total, two strokes behind the champion. She will be playing in two events in Australia before making her debut on the Ladies European Tour in February. [straitstimes.com]

Steven Alker wins the PGA Tour Champions' Mitsubishi Electric Championship in Hawaii, shooting a 54-hole total of 25-under 191. Alker dedicated the win to his late caddie, Sam Workman, who passed away from cancer a year ago. Alker's victory was highlighted by a fortunate bounce on the seventh hole and a low 54-hole score, securing his eighth career Champions Tour win. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

The Arizona Diamondbacks hosted their 13th annual Celebrity Golf Classic, raising over $2.6 million for non-profits serving veterans. The event allowed golfers to play with D-backs players, alumni, and coaching staff. The team is gearing up for the 2024 season with a target on their back after their recent World Series appearance. Spring Training will begin on February 23 at Salt River Fields. [12news.com]

The APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational at Torrey Pines will feature 18 top minority golfers competing on January 27 and 28. The tournament aims to prepare minority golfers to compete at the highest level and offers a purse of $100,000, with $30,000 for the winner. The event will be broadcast live on Golf Channel and provides valuable experience for the players. [timesofsandiego.com]

Lydia Ko of New Zealand has risen to number nine in the women's world golf rankings after winning the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in Florida. This victory marks her first win on the tour in over a year and brings her total career wins to 20. Ko is just one win away from being eligible for the LPGA Tour's Hall of Fame. [rnz.co.nz]

As the third season of LIV Golf approaches, there are still unanswered questions about the competition. The number of teams, including the addition of a potential 13th team, and the roster of players have yet to be officially confirmed. The league is also working on logistical solutions to accommodate the increased number of players and is considering options for filling two additional individual spots. The purse and points structure are also being discussed and may need adjustments to accommodate the expanded roster. [si.com]

Phil Mickelson's transition to LIV Golf has come with challenges, impacting his focus on his golf game. However, with the upcoming 2024 season, Mickelson feels more freedom and less stress, allowing him to perform at a high level. The addition of Andy Ogletree to the HyFlyers lineup brings optimism, and Mickelson emphasizes the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. The HyFlyers aim to have a successful season and potentially win a team trophy. [livgolf.com]

Andy Gardiner, a corporate finance attorney and golf enthusiast, played a significant role in the creation of LIV Golf and the schism between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. Despite his vision and persistence, Gardiner's role in the story seems to have come to an end, as others have taken over. However, his story and the almost completion of his dream of a "Premier Golf League" make him a main figure in the Tour vs. LIV saga. [golfdigest.com]

The International Series 2024 will begin in Oman at Al Mouj Golf, featuring top players from the Asian Tour and LIV Golf. The tournament, with a prize purse of $2 million, will include major winners like Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel, as well as rising stars from the Asian Tour. The event aims to showcase Oman as a golfing destination and support the growth of the golf industry in the region. [livgolf.com]

The PGA Tour has announced plans for the 2024 Kentucky Championship, which will take place from July 8-14 at Champions at Keene Trace Golf Club in Nicholasville, Kentucky. The event will feature players from both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour competing for a $4 million prize. The winner will receive exemptions, FedExCup points, and Race to Dubai ranking points. More information about the event will be available soon. [spectrumnews1.com]

Merion Golf Club has been awarded the 2040 U.S. Open Championship, along with the 2030 and 2050 U.S. Opens, establishing a regular cadence for hosting the event every 10 years. The club has a rich history of hosting major championships and has previously hosted the U.S. Open five times, most recently in 2013. Merion Golf Club has also hosted 19 USGA championships, the most of any club. [inquirer.com]

Baylor women's golf finished fourth at the Match in the Desert, with Rosie Belsham and Ashleen Kaur both achieving top-10 finishes. The event featured strong competition from top-25 teams, with UCLA taking the team title. The team showed promising performances and will continue their season at the T. Hession Regional Challenge in Palos Verdes, Calif. [baylorbears.com]

The article discusses the upcoming spring season for the Florida men's golf team, who are the reigning NCAA champions. The team will face tough competition in the SEC and will have to adjust to the loss of key players from last year. Despite a challenging fall season, there were positive performances from players like Matthew Kress, Ian Gilligan, and Luke Poulter. The lineup for the upcoming season is still uncertain, but the team has the potential to be successful with continued learning and experience. The article also mentions the team's upcoming tournaments and their focus on maintaining good practices and mental preparation. [alligator.org]

Charlotte women's golf has signed Ting Uang from Taipei City, Taiwan and Pinky Chaisilprungruang from Phitsanulok, Thailand to their 2024-25 roster. Both players have achieved success in their respective countries and are expected to make a strong impact on the team. The women's golf schedule will resume on February 23-25 with the Lake Oconee Invitational. [charlotte49ers.com]

The Jacksonville University men's golf team lost 6-1 to 21st-ranked Florida at the Pablo Creek Golf Club. Tomas Hjalsted had the best round for the Dolphins, winning his match with a three-under par finish. The team will host their next tournament at TPC Sawgrass. [judolphins.com]

In the "Match in the Desert" event, Arizona Women's Golf earned a second-place finish as a team, with graduate senior Gile Bite Starkute winning the individual title and shooting a career-low round of 64. The Wildcats ended the event three strokes behind team champion UCLA. The team's performance, including an ace by sophomore Julia Misemer, provides great momentum for future competitions. [arizonawildcats.com]

Cal alum Michael Kim has cracked the top-100 in the Official World Golf Rankings for the first time in his career. Kim joins three other Cal alums in the top-100, highlighting his achievement in a highly competitive field. [si.com]

Aspen Golf Club passes for the 2024 season will go on sale in February. Residents of the Roaring Fork Valley must register to secure a pass before purchasing. The club will hold a meeting on February 7 to discuss improvements and preview the upcoming season. [aspentimes.com]

The University of Notre Dame is shrinking one of its golf courses for the fourth time to make room for new student dorms. The Burke Golf Course, originally an 18-hole course built in 1929, will become a nine-hole executive par 32 course. The downsizing is part of the university's efforts to enhance residential life and provide an appropriate living environment for students. The highly acclaimed Warren Golf Course, which hosted the 2019 U.S. Senior Open, will remain unaffected. [sports.yahoo.com]

Brothers Chris and Peter Kapiloff, co-owners of Kapiloff's Glass, along with Steven Nielsen, CEO of Dycom Industries, have purchased the 200-acre Waubeeka Golf Links in Williamstown. The golf course, built in 1966, has had multiple owners and offers beautiful scenery and views in Berkshire County. The new ownership plans to clean up the course and explore additional revenue streams in the future. [theberkshireedge.com]

GOLF Top 100 Teacher Jim Murphy debunks the myth that swinging too fast is the reason for bad shots in golf. Slowing down the swing does not lead to better results, but rather shorter shots. Instead, focus on proper mechanics and controlled swing speed for improvement. [golf.com]

According to a top coach, focusing on fitness is crucial for golfers. Strength training, particularly targeting the lower body and back muscles, can improve power in the golf swing. Getting a body evaluation and creating a training plan based on individual strengths and weaknesses is recommended for optimal results. [golf.com]

Golf Break, a UK-based travel site, has named the top 10 golf resorts in the US. The list includes Kiawah Island in South Carolina, La Quinta Resort & Spa and PGA West in California, and Pebble Beach Golf Resorts in Monterey Peninsula. Other resorts mentioned are Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Florida, Legends Golf Resort in South Carolina, Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Florida, Trump National Doral in Florida, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort in South Carolina, Reunion Resort in Florida, and The Lodge at Torrey Pines in San Diego. [worldnationnews.com]

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.