Planet Golf News - January 24, 2024

Rory McIlroy, Lexi Thompson, Rose Zhang, and Max Homa will compete in the first-ever mixed golf competition, "Capital One's The Match," which will feature male and female golfers in a skins format. The event will take place on February 26 at The Park golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, and will be televised on TNT, truTV, HLN, and the B/R Sports Add-On. The competition aims to raise funds for the youth organization First Tee. The event will also feature technological innovations and all-access coverage. [pgatour.com]

Star amateur golfer Nick Dunlap is meeting with his family, advisers, and Alabama coaches to discuss his future options after becoming the first amateur to win on the PGA Tour since 1991. With his victory at The American Express, Dunlap is now fully exempt on Tour through 2026 and gets into at least three majors as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion. The timing of his decision is important, as he would now be eligible for upcoming signature events that guarantee a sizable payday and more opportunities for upward mobility. Alabama coach Jay Seawell emphasizes the importance of creating a secure and stable environment as a professional, similar to the college culture at Alabama. Dunlap's decision will consider the impact on his teammates and coaches, and he is likely to become the No. 1-ranked college player in the country. Ultimately, Seawell stresses that the decision is Dunlap's to make and urges him to focus on long-term success rather than short-term fame. [nbcsports.com]

Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, two successful European golfers, have confirmed that their playing days in the Ryder Cup are over. They were cut from the European setup for the last event in Rome due to their LIV Golf loyalties. However, with ongoing negotiations, they may have a chance to return to their former tours. Despite this, both Westwood and Poulter believe they have played in their last Ryder Cup. [mirror.co.uk]

LPGA Tour legend Annika Sorenstam warns that introducing LIV Golf into the women's game could "ruin" the sport, despite its success in the men's game. LIV Golf has attracted top players like Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, and Jon Rahm with lucrative contracts. While CEO Greg Norman has expressed interest in expanding into women's golf, Sorenstam believes it could crowd existing events and diminish opportunities for women in the sport. [mirror.co.uk]

Xander Schauffele dismisses rumors of joining LIV Golf and expresses amusement at players who publicly commit to staying on the PGA Tour but end up leaving. He criticizes the lack of loyalty among some players and hints at his own uncertainty about the future. Schauffele also voices his dissatisfaction with the PGA Tour leadership but confirms his current commitment to the tour. [essentiallysports.com]

Rickie Fowler has become the first player to commit to playing in the Cognizant Classic on the PGA Tour. As one of the top-ranked golfers in the world, Fowler's commitment is expected to attract other notable players to join the tournament. This is a significant move for the tournament, which has struggled to attract participants in the past. Additionally, Fowler's decision to join the event indicates that he will not be leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf. [sportskeeda.com]

Malbon Golf has made big moves by signing new pro ambassadors, including Jason Day, Charley Hull, Jeongeun Lee (Lee6), and Jesper Parnevik. These stylish ambassadors are representing the disruptive and trendy brand both on and off the golf course. The brand offers a range of fashionable and classic styles, from high fashion pieces to more everyday lifestyle-inspired options. The signing of these ambassadors signals a significant step for the upstart brand in the world of golf style. [golfdigest.com]

The 2024 Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines in California features top stars in the field. The tournament will be held from Wednesday to Saturday, with players competing on both the North and South courses. Golf Channel and CBS will provide TV coverage, while streaming options include Paramount+, Peacock, and PGA Tour Live on ESPN+. Complete tee times for the first round are also available. [golf.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open, a golf tournament, now ends on a Saturday instead of a Sunday due to competition with the NFL, which dominates television viewership in the US. The change was made to avoid scheduling conflicts with the NFL's Championship weekend and allow both events to be broadcasted. Despite a decrease in TV viewership, the final day's play on the PGA Tour remained strong, and the uniqueness of the Saturday-evening finish was embraced by the tournament organizers. [golfmonthly.com]

Max Homa has had remarkable success in PGA Tour events held in California, winning four times in 14 starts since 2020. His performance outside of California has been significantly less impressive. Homa's strong iron play and comfortability on poa annua greens contribute to his success in California. With several upcoming tournaments in the state, Homa has the opportunity to climb up the Official World Golf Rankings and potentially reach the top three in the world. [cbssports.com]

Max Homa will defend his title at the Farmers Insurance Open, starting on Wednesday at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego. The tournament will have a rare Wednesday start to avoid conflicting with the AFC and NFC championship games on Sunday. Homa, who won last year's tournament, will face tough competition from top-ranked golfers like Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa. [yardbarker.com]

Michael Kim, a Torrey Pines graduate, is aiming for a comeback with a victory at the Farmers Insurance Open. After facing struggles and losing his Tour card, Kim has persevered and is now ranked higher than ever. He is determined to win the tournament and is grateful for the opportunity to compete on his "home" course. [sandiegouniontribune.com]

The 2024 Farmers Insurance Open will be missing some big names, including Rickie Fowler, Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, Nick Dunlap, and Wyndham Clark. Despite their absence, the tournament still promises to showcase talent from the 156-player field. [essentiallysports.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open in 2024 will have a purse of $9m, with the winner earning $1.62m and the runner-up receiving $981,000. The prize money extends to the top 65 finishers, with even the 65th place receiving over $19,000. The tournament offers 500 FedEx Cup points to the winner. The event will be held at Torrey Pines in California and features top players such as Max Homa, Xander Schauffele, and Patrick Cantlay. [golfmonthly.com]

For the Farmers Insurance Open, PGA Tour sleeper picks include Aaron Rai for outright win, Will Zalatoris for top 5, Nicolai Højgaard for top 10, Taylor Moore for top 20, and Peter Malnati for top 40. Rai's ball-striking skills and previous performance at Torrey Pines make him a strong contender. Zalatoris, despite recent mechanical modifications, is expected to perform well at Torrey Pines. Højgaard's recent wins and potential make him a value pick. Moore's solid form and previous performance at similar courses make him a good bet, while Malnati's consistent top 25 finishes at the Farmers Insurance Open make him a safe pick. [pgatour.com]

PGA TOUR Expert Picks for the Farmers Insurance Open include betting on Harris English as the winner, Tony Finau for Top 10, and Gary Woodland as the longshot. The experts also suggest head-to-head betting on Keegan Bradley over Min Woo Lee. The experts' PGA TOUR Fantasy Golf lineups feature players like Jason Day, Keegan Bradley, Tony Finau, and Max Homa. The experts' league is open to the public for those who want to join and compete. [pgatour.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines has historically marked the unofficial start of the golf season, producing legendary moments like Tiger Woods' 2008 U.S. Open victory and Jon Rahm's first PGA Tour win. However, there is debate on whether Torrey Pines, particularly the South Course, is an interesting venue, a topic discussed by Golf Digest contributor Andy Lack on The Loop podcast. [golfdigest.com]

The Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course offers two courses, South Course and North Course, with a total prize money of $9 million and a winner's share of $1.62 million. Grounds tickets can be purchased online, with prices ranging from $80 to $100. Onsite parking is limited, and mobile devices must be used responsibly. No large bags or pets are allowed on the grounds. [sandiegouniontribune.com]

The LPGA Drive On Championship will be held at Bradenton Country Club, featuring top female golfers competing for a $1.75 million purse. The event can be watched on Golf Channel/Peacock and streamed on the NBC Sports App and golfchannel.com. Additional coverage and tournament information can be accessed through Golf Channel's Live Stream and the WatchSports app. [lpga.com]

Nelly Korda, a prominent female golfer, is in desperate need of a win at the 2024 LPGA Drive-On Championship to maintain her stature. Her recent performance and finish outside the top ten have raised concerns about her reputation. However, Korda's upcoming all-girls invitational and participation in the Honda LPGA Thailand offer potential for her to bounce back. [essentiallysports.com]

The LPGA Drive On Championship in 2024 will have a purse of $1.75 million, with the defending champion Celine Boutier receiving $262,500. The overall prize money for the LPGA Tour this year is set to be a record-breaking $118 million, a 69% increase from two years ago. The tournament will feature star players such as Lydia Ko, Lexi Thompson, and Nelly Korda. [golfmonthly.com]

The 2024 LPGA Drive On Championship at Bradenton Country Club features a 120-player field including top-ranked players like Lilia Vu, Nelly Korda, and defending champion Celine Boutier. The tournament offers a $1.75 million purse and 500 points in the Race to the CME Globe. Past champions, 2024 LPGA Tour winners, rookies, and area connections are also part of the field. [lpga.com]

Gabriela Ruffels, a former tennis player, is beginning her rookie season at the LPGA Drive On Championship. After giving up tennis at age 14, Ruffels discovered a love for golf and quickly excelled in the sport. She won the 2019 U.S. Women's Amateur and turned pro in 2021. Ruffels is known for her natural instincts and is excited to start her LPGA journey. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Bradenton Country Club in Florida will be hosting the 2024 LPGA Drive On Championship. The club was awarded the tournament after being approached by the LPGA Tour and receiving approval from the board members. This marks the return of a regular LPGA tour stop to the area since the 1980s. The tournament will be played on the challenging Bradenton Country Club course, known for its table-top greens. Tickets are available for purchase, and parking is available at G.T. Bray Park with shuttle service to the course. The tournament will be televised on the Golf Channel and streamed on Peacock. [bradenton.com]

Rory McIlroy is recognized as a generous giver in professional golf, similar to Arnold Palmer. McIlroy's ability to connect with people and his willingness to stand up for the game during challenging times have earned him the 2024 Arnie Award. Despite the pressures of fame and competition, McIlroy remains committed to giving back and protecting the sport. His leadership and genuine character have made him a respected figure among his peers. [golfdigest.com]

Brooks Koepka, a prominent golfer, reveals his unconventional ambitions within the LIV Golf framework, emphasizing his interest in the team championship aspect of the league. While traditionally focused on major golf titles, Koepka's candid disclosure showcases diverse motivations among players and a shift towards collective achievements. Additionally, Koepka's historic win at the 105th PGA Championship solidifies his status as a major championship force and elevates his rankings. [essentiallysports.com]

Lee Westwood acknowledges that becoming Ryder Cup captain is out of his control. After resigning their membership from the DP World Tour, Westwood and other European stalwarts ended their Ryder Cup careers. However, with efforts to unify golf, there is a possibility that a Westwood captaincy might be considered. Westwood believes the Ryder Cup should not be used as a bargaining chip and should feature the best players from Europe and America. He enjoyed watching the 2023 Ryder Cup and believes it attracts non-golfers to the sport. [nationalclubgolfer.com]

Ian Poulter, who resigned from the DP World Tour, hopes to make a comeback to the Ryder Cup. Although he is ineligible to represent Team Europe at the moment, Poulter has expressed his willingness to return to the Ryder Cup fold in some capacity. The possibility of a deal between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia could potentially allow Poulter and other LIV players to rejoin their former circuits and participate in future Ryder Cup events. [mirror.co.uk]

Jarryd Felton, recently married to Hannah Green, is participating in the Webex Players Series Victoria tournament while Green prepares for her upcoming season in Asia. Despite their busy schedules, they managed to have a wedding with 80 guests in Yallingup. Felton is focusing on the domestic tour to improve his game and secure a top position in the Order of Merit. The tournament at Rosebud Country Club features top players from both the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and the WPGA Tour of Australasia, as well as top amateurs. [pga.org.au]

Bryce Twente's career in golf played a role in saving his life. After starting at a young age, golf became his passion and he decided to pursue it professionally. This article explores his golf journey and his desire to share the game with others in his community. [pga.com]

Former world No.1 golfer Sir Nick Faldo is involved in a trademark dispute with Valdo over the use of the name 'Faldo' on his wine labels. Valdo argues that it may cause confusion in the market, while Sir Nick asserts that 'Faldo' is a common term in the Italian language and questions the notoriety comparison between a small-town Italian wine brand and a six-time major champion. The dispute highlights the intersection of personal brands, trademark rights, and international recognition in the competitive world of wine marketing. [firstsportz.com]

Rickie Fowler has made legal tweaks to his driver by drawing three white vertical lines on the face to help with alignment. These markings, made with a white permanent marker, do not unduly affect the performance of the ball, making the club conforming to USGA Rules. This is in contrast to Hideki Matsuyama's disqualification in 2022 for markings on his club that breached PGA Tour regulations. Other players, like Xander Schauffele, have also used marker lines on their drivers for visual purposes, as long as they do not use paint, which is a banned substance. [golfmonthly.com]

Edoardo Molinari will serve as a vice-captain for Luke Donald at the 2025 Ryder Cup, where Team Europe will defend their title at Bethpage Black. Molinari previously played a key role in Europe's victory in Rome, providing statistical analysis. Donald expressed his confidence in Molinari's significant role and expertise. The Ryder Cup will take place on September 26-28, 2025. [skysports.com]

Nick Dunlap's historic victory at The American Express showcased the potential of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals for college athletes. As the first amateur to win on the PGA TOUR in 33 years, Dunlap sported adidas and TaylorMade logos, along with other sponsors. His success highlights the value and opportunities that NIL deals can bring, leading to speculation about his future as a professional golfer. [pgatour.com]

Tiger Woods is facing doubts from fans about his ability to win more major championships, despite his impressive career record of 82 PGA Tour wins. Many fans expressed skepticism about Woods surpassing Sam Snead's record for most PGA Tour wins and Jack Nicklaus's record for major championship wins. Woods's recent accident and hiatus have contributed to the lack of confidence in his future success. [essentiallysports.com]

Nick Dunlap's victory at the American Express marks him as the fifth amateur to win on the PGA Tour since 1950, and the first since Phil Mickelson in 1991. Other notable amateur winners include Scott Verplank, Doug Sanders, Gene Littler, and Frank Stranahan. Despite the success of these players, winning as an amateur remains a significant challenge due to the high level of competition. [si.com]

Jim Nantz compares Nick Dunlap's PGA Tour win to Roger Bannister's four-minute mile, calling it a breakthrough moment in golf. Dunlap, a sophomore at the University of Alabama and the reigning U.S. Amateur champion, became the first amateur since Phil Mickelson in 1991 to win a tour title. Nantz believes this victory will have a ripple effect and inspire other players. [golfdigest.com]

Amateurs winning professional golf tournaments is unusual but it is certainly not unheard of. Most of the amateurs who won pro events went on to bigger and better things, but nothing is guaranteed. Here, we look at some of the amateurs who stunned the professionals. [golfshake.com]

Rickie Fowler's sudden fallout with longtime sponsors is due to his desire to no longer be a "billboard" and prioritize family time. Despite his improved performance in the past year, Fowler has decided to make big changes and not renew his contract with Farmers Insurance. Contrary to initial assumptions, he is not moving to LIV Golf. Fowler's decision to stick to the PGA Tour surprises many, but it sets him apart from other players. [essentiallysports.com]

We’ve been asking PGA Members from across the country to describe their journey in the game and why they’ve turned that passion into a career. [pga.com]

Justin Thomas has withdrawn from the Farmers Insurance Open without providing a reason. The news was confirmed by the PGA Tour communications department. Thomas, known for his hot start to the season, has been replaced by Harrison Endycott. Another player, Nick Dunlap, has also withdrawn from the event, but his reasons were clear as he recently became the first amateur to win on the PGA Tour since Phil Mickelson in 1991. [golfmagic.com]

Nick Dunlap, the youngest amateur to win a PGA Tour event since 1910, has withdrawn from the Farmers Insurance Open after his historic win at The American Express. While his decision to withdraw is understandable given the whirlwind of attention, it has sparked rumors about a potential move to LIV Golf. However, Dunlap's statement and his dream of playing on the PGA Tour suggest that LIV may not be in his future. [sbnation.com]

Justin Rose has joined Los Angeles Golf Club's inaugural roster, along with Collin Morikawa and Sahith Theegala. Rose, a former World No. 1 and 2013 U.S. Open winner, brings his 11 PGA Tour wins and impressive career achievements to the team. Los Angeles Golf Club is part of the tech-infused golf simulator league, TGL, developed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. Despite a postponement, plans are still in action for TGL's debut in early 2025. [ontapsportsnet.com]

LIV Golf is reportedly shifting its focus to European Ryder Cup Team member Tyrrell Hatton for their 2024 roster. After some of his European teammates rejected the tour, LIV has set their sights on Hatton. While Hatton denied going to LIV Golf, he admitted to having conversations about a potential move. Other players like Tommy Fleetwood and Nicolai Hojgaard declined offers from LIV, and Tony Finau denied leaving the PGA Tour. LIV Golf is still searching for their final team member. [sportskeeda.com]

John Daly has been accused of making transphobic comments about LPGA golfer Hailey Davidson. However, these allegations are not true, as Daly has not made any statement about Davidson. The report originated from a parody account on X (formerly known as Twitter) and should not be taken as accurate news. [sportskeeda.com]

Golf influencer Bri Teresi made headlines by wearing a revealing dress and inviting fans to play golf with her. The 29-year-old celebrity showcased her outfit on Instagram, driving her golf cart and practicing putting. She offered one lucky winner the chance to play a round of golf with her and her partner Randy in South Florida. Despite starting her career as a fashion model, Bri has developed a passion for golf and now has a significant following on social media. [yebscore.com]

European Tour golfer James Morrison didn't hold back in the Green Room after his final round at the Dubai Desert Classic. Video courtesy of DP World Tour. [skysports.com]

Tiger Woods has won the most Farmers Insurance Open titles, with seven victories. Phil Mickelson follows with three wins. The tournament has been held since 1952, with notable past winners including Jon Rahm, John Daly, and Patrick Reed. Max Homa is the defending champion. [sportskeeda.com]

Nick Dunlap's future is uncertain after his historic victory at The American Express. He has the option to turn professional and commit to the PGA Tour, but it remains to be seen when he will make that decision. His victory has earned him a PGA Tour card until 2026. There is speculation about whether he will join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit, as he is managed by GSE Worldwide, which represents LIV Golf players. Other topics discussed on the podcast include Rory McIlroy's win at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and Lydia Ko's win at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. [skysports.com]

Tiger Woods has a significant legacy at the Farmers Insurance Open, having played the event 17 times and won seven times. His earnings from this tournament total $7,177,379, with his highest single event earnings being $1.098 million in 2013. Despite missing the event in some years and not always placing high, Woods's impact on the tournament is undeniable. [essentiallysports.com]

A 77-year-old golfer from Scottsdale, Arizona achieved the remarkable feat of scoring two hole-in-ones in the same round of golf, a rarity that only three PGA golfers in history have accomplished. The story is covered by FOX 10's Steve Nielsen. [fox10phoenix.com]

A group of college students set up a golf practice net in their dorm room, defying their university's priorities. Their creative solution allows them to practice golf during the winter. This story highlights their resourcefulness and suggests that their go-getter attitude may lead to success in the future. [golfdigest.com]

A golf professional at Cambridge Country Club has won an unfair dismissal case after being falsely accused of making inappropriate comments to a female colleague. The tribunal ruled that he did not make the alleged comments, but did find him guilty of inappropriate messaging. He is set to receive compensation from the club. [telegraph.co.uk]

Augusta National Golf Club is hiring employees for the Masters Tournament, offering roles in concessions, hospitality, and merchandise. Applicants must be 16 years or older and can apply online. A local job expo will also be held for candidates to learn more about job opportunities. Practice rounds for the tournament start on April 8. [wfxg.com]

The PXG 0311 Black Ops Driver is a game-improvement driver with a low spin, high launch, and forgiveness. It features a variable thickness titanium alloy face, non-uniform bulge and roll, carbon fiber sole and crown, and three interchangeable sole weights. The Tour-1 version is targeted at better players and professionals. PXG has also introduced Fairway Woods and Hybrids in the Black Ops family. [calgolfnews.com]

Bridgestone Golf has introduced Mindset visual technology across their entire Tour B series of golf balls. This technology aims to help golfers improve their focus and performance on the course by using a three-step process: Identify, visualize, and focus. The Mindset visual aid features three colored circles that guide golfers through the routine. The new Mindset equipped golf balls will be available starting February 16, 2024, at a price of $49.99 per dozen. golf.com]

Cobra Golf has released two new ranges of putters for 2024: the Vintage series with a soft PEBAX face insert and Descending Loft Technology, and the upgraded 3D Printed putters. The Vintage series offers optimal launch and end-over-end roll performance, with adjustable sole weighting for customization. The new putters aim to provide precision manufacturing, advanced technologies, and a more traditional look and soft feel. [golfshake.com]

Never Compromise is reintroducing their iconic black-silver-black putters with the all-new Never Compromise Reserve putter line. The line features a unique fitting system that allows golfers to get a custom fit putter based on their stroke. The putters are 100% CNC milled from soft 303 stainless steel and come in five stroke-specific models. They will be available starting February 16 at select golf shops for $449. [golf.com]

Cobra has unveiled a new range of 3D printed putters for 2024. These putters feature enhanced feel and a purer roll, with improvements in weight distribution, sound, and feel. The collection includes traditional putters, armlock versions, and a counterbalance mallet. All putter heads incorporate LA GOLF's Descending Loft Technology for optimal launch and end-over-end roll. The putters also feature a multi-material construction with adjustable weighting for forgiveness and stability. The range is set to be released on February 23, 2024. [todays-golfer.com]

Full Swing is offering the Full Swing KIT Launch Monitor, developed with Tiger Woods, bringing high-resolution and data-rich options to the range at a price of $4,999. Full Swing also introduced the Full Swing KIT Studio, allowing players to build their own indoor monitor starting at $9,000. The KIT Launch Monitor provides 16 points of club and ball data, along with video and post-session analysis, at a more affordable price compared to similar monitors on the market. [nbcsports.com]

The Under Armour Drive Pro SL golf shoe has been redesigned with the help of biomechanist JJ Rivet and golfer Jordan Spieth. The Swing Support System (S3) provides traction, support, and a new lacing system. The shoe features a softer HOVR midsole and a hybrid outsole with TPU and rubber nubs for grip. It is lightweight and offers great performance at a reasonable price. [golfmonthly.com]

Nike's upcoming Air Jordan 1 Golf Mule shoes have received negative feedback from fans before their launch. The heel-less slip-on design of the shoes, aimed at providing comfort and style for golfers, was criticized by fans who described them as "hideous" and expressed a lack of interest. Despite this, Nike still has notable golfers associated with their brand, including Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler. [sportskeeda.com]

Former tennis World No.1 Ash Barty will headline the ambassador line-up for the 103rd New Zealand Open, taking place from February 29 to March 3, 2024. Barty, a three-time Grand Slam singles champion, will join Australian media personality Andy Lee and other sporting greats in the tournament. The New Zealand Open is known for its high-quality spectator and guest experience. [golfaustralia.com.au]

Robin Rambo Singh claims his first G4D Tour title in the Ras Al Khaimah Championship, while Kevin Cassidy finishes seventh with an excellent second-round display. Singh started the day one stroke behind the overnight leader and took the lead with a birdie on the opening hole. He held his nerve to secure a one-stroke victory in the Tour's first net competition. The G4D Tour has introduced net tournaments for golfers with higher handicaps, providing more opportunities for golfers with disabilities. [irishgolfer.ie]

The Ras Al Khaimah Championship is the last DP World Tour event in the UAE before November. Daniel Gavins won the championship in 2023 and the field for 2024 includes notable players such as Padraig Harrington and Thomas Bjorn. The tournament will be held at the Al Hamra Golf Course and the winner will receive a $425,000 share of the $2,500,000 purse. The event can be watched on Sky Sports Golf in the UK and Golf Channel in the US. Tee times for the tournament are available. [todays-golfer.com]

Momoka Kobori showcased her best golf performance at the Webex Players Series Murray River event, finishing tied-third. However, the highlight was her younger brother Kazuma winning his first tournament as a professional. The Koboris, emerging as a strong brother-sister duo in golf, are gaining recognition on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and the WPGA Tour of Australasia. Despite not winning, Momoka expressed pride in her brother's achievement and looks forward to continuing her own success in upcoming tournaments. [pga.org.au]

Rhone has been named the Exclusive Official On-Course Apparel Partner of the LPGA Tour and Epson Tour, as well as the Official Staff Uniform Provider. The partnership aims to elevate performance, empower young girls in golf, and provide high-quality activewear and lifestyle apparel. Rhone will also engage with fans, contribute to the LPGA*USGA Girls Golf program, support athlete development, and identify brand ambassadors within the women's game. [lpga.com]

The Majesticks golf team, despite having successful corporate partnerships and a strong social media presence, struggled on the course in the previous season. To address this, they have turned to analytics to identify areas for improvement. The data revealed weaknesses in wedge play for Lee Westwood, iron play outside 140 yards for Ian Poulter, and mid-range putting for Henrik Stenson. The team is determined to make improvements in the upcoming season by focusing on these areas. [livgolf.com]

The United States Golf Association's Mike Davis Program for Advancing Golf Course Management has funded 15 new research projects in 2024, bringing their total investment in golf course sustainability to over $50 million since 1983. More than 50% of the funded projects focus on water conservation, including studies on optimizing irrigation techniques and improving drought resistance. The program, led by the USGA's Green Section, collaborates with universities and organizations to provide data-driven tools for improving playing conditions and resource use in golf courses. [golfcourseindustry.com]

Frontier senior Faith Hamstreet is named the 2023 BVarsity All-Area girls golfer of the year. Despite a hip injury, she had an impressive season with a scoring average of 78.42 and notable performances in various tournaments. [bakersfield.com]

University of Kentucky All-Americans Jensen Castle and Laney Frye have received invitations to compete at the Augusta National Women's Amateur for the second straight year. The championship will take place from April 3-6 and will feature an international field of 72 women amateurs. Castle and Frye, both highly ranked amateurs, have had successful golf seasons and are familiar with competing on a big stage. [ukathletics.com]

Despite some impressive performances from individual players, the Jayhawks finished fifth in the Match in the Desert and just one stroke behind the Baylor Bears in their spring season opener. [kansan.com]

Carter Cheves has been extended as the head coach of the James Madison men's golf program through the 2027-28 season. Cheves has been with the program for 10 years, first as an assistant coach and then as head coach. Under his leadership, the team has shown improvement and climbed in the Sun Belt rankings. The Dukes finished eighth in the conference in their first Sun Belt campaign and are currently ranked fourth according to the Spikemark college golf rankings. The spring season begins in February. [jmusports.com]

Virginia Wesleyan University has unveiled the new Eric Nyman Performance Golf Center, which features state-of-the-art simulators that will revolutionize the golf program. The center includes advanced analytics and launch monitors to capture swing and club data, providing valuable insights for player development. The facility was made possible by a donation from Eric C. Nyman, a VWU Trustee and CEO of Vista Outdoor Inc. [pilotonline.com]

The Penn State men's golf team has announced its 2024 spring schedule, featuring tournaments in Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, and North Carolina. The highlight of the schedule is the 47th-annual Rutherford Intercollegiate at Penn State's Blue Course. The team will also compete in the Big Ten Championship in Columbus, Ohio. [gopsusports.com]

Using a driving-range style tee during a round is permissible as long as it doesn't exceed four inches in height. It can be used year-round and can help provide consistent height for the ball at address, resulting in more consistent drives. [golf.com]

The American Express golf tournament requires a different skill set than major championships, favoring aggressive tee shots, quality wedge shots, and short putts. Sam Burns' success in this tournament is indicative of this. The Stadium Course, once considered too severe, now sees players regularly shooting under par due to modern equipment and athletic abilities. The author suggests that the course may no longer be challenging enough for the modern game and proposes changes to equipment to reintroduce shot value and consequence. [thefriedegg.com]

Midland Valley Golf Club in Graniteville has been sold to new owners, Midland Valley Partners LLC and Midland Valley Golf Club LLC. The new owners plan to improve the course's playing conditions, upgrade the practice range, make necessary repairs, and renovate the clubhouse. Long-term goals include getting restaurant operations up and running, hosting tournaments, and creating golf leagues. The previous owners were Rusty Flanders, Melonia Cameron, and Danny Williams. No price was disclosed for the transaction. [postandcourier.com]

Panther National is the first private golf club to open in Palm Beach County in two decades. Designed by Jack Nicklaus and Justin Thomas, the course features unique design elements and state-of-the-art technology. The club also offers custom-built estates, Michelin-inspired cuisine, fitness facilities, tennis courts, and resort-style pools. The vision for Panther National comes from Dominik Senn, who aims to create a modern, lifestyle-driven golf community in South Florida. [businesstravelusa.com]

Rory McIlroy's recent victory in Dubai was attributed to a putting tip from his short game coach, Brad Faxon. Faxon suggested that McIlroy focus on hitting the ball higher on the putter face and emphasized the importance of center face contact. This subtle change in technique helped McIlroy improve his putting and secure the win. [golf.com]

In this article, the author shares a tip from golf instructor Scott Munroe on how to improve pitch shots by visualizing an underhand toss, similar to throwing a ball in baseball. By mimicking the motion and finishing position of an underhand throw, golfers can improve their distance control and spin on pitch shots. [golf.com]

Improve your golf game during the winter with these 4 indoor drills: 1) Dial in alignment and posture, 2) Check your takeaway with an alignment rod, 3) Keep weight on the lead side for short shots, and 4) Use a putting mirror to improve your stroke. [golf.com]

We all dream of low scores, holing birdie putts, hitting towering drives with a gentle draw and seeing our iron shots nestle next to the pin. But improvement does not happen on its own. So here are a few ideas for each and every one of you, tips that just might help you to trim a shot or two from your handicap. [golfshake.com]

Learn from bad golfers by avoiding common mistakes such as teeing the ball too high, playing Hollywood shots instead of playing the percentages, compounding mistakes, not knowing yardages, playing with the wrong clubs, rushing shots, hitting the ball too hard, being poor counters, aiming left (for right-handers). These tips can help improve your game and lower your handicap. [golfmonthly.com]

Brad Faxon, a legendary golfer, shares four simple and useful tips for older golfers. He advises using wedges with more bounce for better margin of error, making certain physical adjustments in setup, focusing on symmetrical chipping motion, and practicing different shots with different clubs to improve feel and creativity. [golfdigest.com]

Hawaii's Big Island offers a spectacular golfing experience, with courses like Hualalai and Mauna Lani offering stunning views and challenging play. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, which hosts the Mitsubishi Electric Championship, is a luxury retreat with nearly a kilometer of white-sand beachfront. The island's golf courses are renowned for their ocean views, diverse landscapes, and exceptional weather, making them a favorite among professional and amateur golfers alike. [calgaryherald.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.