Planet Golf News - January 30, 2024

The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is set to take place at the historic Pebble Beach Golf Links. The tournament features a two-course rotation and includes top players like Scottie Scheffler, Viktor Hovland, Rory McIlroy, and amateur-turned-professional Nick Dunlap. The event is part of the Signature Events on the PGA TOUR schedule for 2024 and offers 700 FedExCup points to the winner. [pgatour.com]

The 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is set to take place with a total purse of $20 million. The tournament will feature top players from the PGA Tour competing at Pebble Beach Golf Links. 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 and second rounds will be announced soon. [golf.com]

The 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am tournament consists of two golf tournaments happening simultaneously, one for the 80 professionals and another for the pro-am pairs. The professionals play a 72-hole stroke-play tournament, while the pro-am format is a net best ball of partners. After the first two rounds, there is no cut, and all pros will get to complete four rounds. In case of ties after 72 holes, a sudden-death playoff will be played. [thegolfnewsnet.com]

The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am will feature several changes, including a reduced field of 80 two-man teams, with amateurs playing two rounds instead of three or four. The tournament has been selected as one of eight signature events by the PGA Tour, offering a purse of $20 million and elevated FedEx Cup points. The event aims to attract a star-studded field of professional golfers, with 11 players participating for the first time in 2024. The changes have generated excitement and increased ticket sales, with the expectation of giving out over $18 million in charitable donations. [azcentral.com]

The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is the next event on the PGA TOUR, featuring a field of 80 top players. Rory McIlroy is favored after his recent win, while Scottie Scheffler and Viktor Hovland are also top contenders. Xander Schauffele and Jordan Spieth have strong records at Pebble Beach and should be in the mix. Other notable players include Max Homa, Patrick Cantlay, Collin Morikawa, and Justin Thomas. The tournament format includes a pro-am portion followed by the final two rounds to determine the winner. [pgatour.com]

The Pebble Beach Pro-Am is taking place on the California coast, with Rory McIlroy as the betting favorite. However, our three outright picks for the tournament are Justin Thomas, Ludvig Aberg, and Christiaan Bezuidenhout, each with their own strengths and recent successes. [yardbarker.com]

Nick Dunlap, the 20-year-old amateur golfer who won The American Express, is turning pro and will make his professional PGA Tour debut at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Dunlap's victory as an amateur made him the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event in over 30 years. He will now be eligible for several events, including the PGA Championship and The Players Championship, and will have PGA Tour status through the 2026 season. [golfcity.com]

Rory McIlroy and Seamus Power are set to compete in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on the PGA Tour, while the Challenge Tour season begins with the SDC Open in South Africa. Tom McKibbin continues his consistent start on the DP World Tour, and Leona Maguire and Stephanie Meadow make the cut on the LPGA Tour. [irishgolfer.ie]

The 2024 LIV Golf season will begin in Mayakoba with Jon Rahm making his debut. Rahm left the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf and will be joined by Tyrrell Hatton. The tournament will be held at El Cameleon Course in Mexico, with a shorter format and team component. Fans can watch for free on LIV Golf Plus or YouTube. The event features a $25 million purse and a shotgun start with no cut. Rahm's arrival has been praised by fellow players, including Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson. [talksport.com]

Torque GC welcomes Carlos Ortiz, who joins his friends Joaquin Niemann, Sebastián Muñoz, and Mito Pereira for the 2024 LIV Golf League season opener. Ortiz, previously with Fireballs GC, became a free agent and signed with Torque, replacing David Puig. The team aims for more consistency and individual success after winning four team trophies last year. [livgolf.com]

Ahead of LIV Golf's third season, rumors suggest that four new signings will be confirmed, including Tyrrell Hatton and Adrian Meronk. Hatton is expected to join Jon Rahm's team, while Meronk is set to join Martin Kaymer and Richard Bland at Cleeks GC. Lucas Herbert is also rumored to be joining Cameron Smith's Ripper GC. The team name for Rahm's team, as well as the final roster, are yet to be confirmed. [golfmonthly.com]

Tyrrell Hatton is reportedly leaving Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's new TGL golf league to join the LIV Golf League with a $60m deal. Hatton's move raises questions about his eligibility for major championships and the Ryder Cup. Additionally, Hatton's departure from TGL means he will no longer be part of McIlroy's team. The TGL's start has been delayed to 2025 due to a stadium roof collapse. [golfmagic.com]

During the AFC Championship Game, CBS Sports aired a commercial promoting the Masters golf tournament, which surprised golf fans with its unconventional choice of music. Reactions to the commercial were mixed, with some criticizing the song choice and calling it disrespectful to the Masters. However, others defended the commercial, stating that any song could work with Masters footage. Ultimately, Augusta National and the Masters have control over their commercials, and if they allowed this spot to air, it must have been intentional. [nesn.com]

Lexi Thompson, an 11-time LPGA winner, has signed an endorsement deal with Dick's Sporting Goods to exclusively play and endorse Maxfli golf balls. Despite Maxfli's relatively low profile in recent times, Thompson and her agent were impressed with the performance of the Tour Series model during testing. The deal includes Thompson playing the ball for the 2024 season and providing feedback for the development of 2025 models. The terms of the partnership were not disclosed, but Thompson's decision was driven by performance rather than solely financial considerations. [golf.com]

Nelly Korda staged an epic comeback win at the Drive On Championship, overcoming a four-shot deficit and hitting a crucial eagle-birdie finish to tie Lydia Ko's lead. With the help of her caddie's blunt advice and a stroke of luck, Korda secured her ninth LPGA victory in a sudden-death playoff. Despite doubts and negative thoughts, Korda's perseverance and support from her caddie proved instrumental in her triumph. [si.com]

Lydia Ko's playoff loss to Nelly Korda in the LPGA Tour featured a wild shot that landed near a grandstand, preventing Ko from earning the one point needed for LPGA Hall-of-Fame status. Despite the unfortunate spot, Ko extended the playoff but ultimately lost with a three-putt on the following hole. [golfdigest.com]

Tyrell Hatton has joined LIV Golf, following in Jon Rahm's footsteps. The move comes just before LIV's 2024 season launch, and Hatton is expected to withdraw from the PGA Tour's AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am to join LIV. Golf fans and media reacted hilariously to the news, with some expressing honest opinions. [sbnation.com]

The strategic alliance between the PGA Tour and DP World Tour lacks European involvement at the board level, raising concerns about the marginalization of European golfing interests. The success of French golfer Matthieu Pavon on the PGA Tour highlights the talent on the DP World Tour, but the lack of European representation on key decision-making bodies and the dominance of American influence in the administration of the game are worrisome. With the rise of LIV and Saudi Arabian investment, the future of global golf is at stake, and Europe needs stronger representation and a more global outlook to protect its interests. [bbc.com]

PopStroke is a modern take on miniature golf, offering upscale courses, a sleek clubhouse, and a focus on quality food and drinks. With Tiger Woods as an equity partner, PopStroke plans to expand to over 50 locations across the United States. The venues feature unique courses, premium TaylorMade putters, and an app for scoring and ordering. PopStroke's smaller footprint and appeal to a wider demographic give it a competitive advantage over traditional golf courses. [golfdigest.com]

Ryan Cutter, a double amputee, has found solace and success in the game of golf. Despite facing challenges, Cutter has become a PGA of America Golf Professional and Director of Instruction at Green Meadow Country Club. He also runs a non-profit called All Abilities Golf Academy, offering free instructional programs to people with disabilities and military veterans. Cutter's story serves as an inspiring example of how golf can change lives. [pga.com]

Hunter Mahan mocks LIV Golf's $500 million dream boy, Jon Rahm, with a comment and GIF on social media, comparing him to "kid gru with a beard." [essentiallysports.com]

Rory McIlroy believes Tyrrell Hatton has the potential to win a major championship, as Hatton is set to join LIV Golf with a £50 million deal. McIlroy, who has been critical of the breakaway league, sees another PGA Tour ally leaving. Hatton, despite not winning a major yet, has shown his skills in the DP World Tour's Rolex Series. He will debut in LIV Golf alongside Jon Rahm in Mexico. [mirror.co.uk]

PGA Tour legend Peter Jacobsen ridicules Tyrrell Hatton's defection to LIV Golf, stating that Hatton does not impact the PGA Tour and that Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer are the only "needle movers" in the game. Jacobsen expresses disappointment in players not being committed to their organization and highlights the strength of the PGA Tour in its organization, communities, and supported charities. Hatton's defection may result in fines and bans for playing on the PIF-funded circuit, but only time will tell the impact on his career as a DP World Tour pro. [essentiallysports.com]

Nelly Korda wins the LPGA Drive On Championship in a tense playoff against Lydia Ko. Jessica Korda, who is pregnant, jokes about going into labor after the victory. Nelly's eagle-birdie finish and impressive shots on 17 and 18 secured her ninth LPGA Tour crown. [golfmonthly.com]

Matthieu Pavon credits positivity, self-investment, and hard work for his success in golf. Despite facing challenges, he maintained a positive mindset and believed in his capabilities. Starting golf at 17, he overcame doubts and obstacles to eventually win the Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA Tour. Pavon's journey highlights the importance of optimism, self-belief, and perseverance in achieving one's goals. [sportskeeda.com]

Ryan Palmer is bringing back the tradition of throwing "beer balls" wrapped in cash to the fans at the WM Phoenix Open. This practice started in 2015 and has become a beloved tradition at the tournament. Palmer is known for engaging the crowd and ensuring their entertainment, and this gesture is a way to keep the fans on his side. The golf balls are labeled with "Cheers!" and are meant for the rowdiest fans at the famous par-3 16th hole. [golfdigest.com]

Nick Dunlap made waves in the golf world by becoming the first amateur since 1991 to win a pro tournament at the 2024 American Express. Jon Rahm congratulated Dunlap and sparked speculation about Dunlap joining the LIV Series instead of turning pro on the PGA Tour. However, Dunlap announced that he will be turning professional and will debut at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. [sportskeeda.com]

Out transgender pro golfer Hailey Davidson has received death threats following her win at the NXXT Women's Classic. Davidson, the first out transgender golfer to win a professional women's event, has deleted her social media account due to the backlash. She has agreed to undergo further hormone testing and welcomes a survey of fellow golfers to address the controversy. The NXXT Women's Pro Tour CEO announced the survey, emphasizing that their policies are guided by the LPGA and USGA. Davidson, who meets the gender policies of both organizations, hopes to earn exemptions on the Epson Tour. She supports transgender inclusion in sports but believes there should be regulations in place. [watermarkonline.com]

Olympic gold medalist Caitlyn Jenner urges transgender golfer Hailey Davidson to withdraw from women's golf events, stating that golf is a game of integrity and that there are physical differences between men and women that cannot be erased. Jenner also claims that Davidson would not have had a chance on the PGA Tour and that her average driving distance of 250 yards would rank her 13th on the LPGA Tour. [sportskeeda.com]

Travis Scott and Nick Saban were among the A-list names at the 2024 Mr. October Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic. The event, held in Palm City, Florida, was organized by Scott's Cactus Jack Foundation and Reggie Jackson. Other notable attendees included Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, and Mark Wahlberg. The event aimed to raise funds for STEM education and workforce development for underserved youth. Saban, known for his love of golf, recently purchased a house in Jupiter, Florida, where many golf stars reside. [on3.com]

Matthieu Pavon's victory at the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open highlighted the importance of confidence in his own game and managing emotions properly. His exceptional performance included 21 birdies and eight bogeys, earning him his exemption to the PGA Tour through 2026 and a career-high paycheck of $1.62 million. Pavon's win also qualified him for several prestigious events, including The Masters and the PGA Championship. [sportskeeda.com]

This article covers various topics in the golf world, including Tyrrell Hatton joining LIV Golf, Matthieu Pavon's controversial win, Nelly Korda's potential breakthrough, a drone camera catching a player's bathroom break, and golf power rankings to watch. Hatton's move to LIV Golf could have implications for Ryder Cup candidacy, Pavon's victory raised questions about his shot, Korda's win could mark the start of a successful season, and Rory McIlroy's preparation for The Masters is being closely observed. [fansided.com]

Abraham Ancer discusses his lack of success on the LIV tour despite previous achievements, his frustration with the 2023 season, and his eagerness to compete again. He also touches on the potential return of Anthony Kim and the Matthieu Pavon "scandal" that gained attention on Golf Twitter. [golfdigest.com]

In this episode of Playing From The Tips, LIV returns in Mexico, the Vic Open is highlighted in Australia, the PGA Tour heads to Pebble Beach, and the DP World Tour visits Bahrain. Jimmy Emanuel, Rod Morri, and Adrian Logue provide a preview and tips for the upcoming events. [golfaustralia.com.au]

The PGA Show in Orlando is a massive convention showcasing various products related to golf. The author describes the overwhelming and diverse range of exhibitors, from golf cart makers to training aids. Despite the absurdity, there is also admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit and passion displayed by many participants. The PGA Show highlights the size and significance of the golf industry. [thefriedegg.com]

According to a report, the PGA Tour and Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund have made significant progress in their negotiations with LIV Golf's primary backer. While a deal has already been agreed upon, formalities are still pending. The framework agreement also includes the DP World Tour, and departing CEO Keith Pelley is committed to finalizing the deal. The PGA Tour's courting of private equity investment and LIV's signing of Jon Rahm created tensions, but the PGA Tour has since announced a partnership with investment group SSG. The investment is expected to be around $3 billion and will be part of PGA Tour Enterprises. [golfmagic.com]

John Daly, the bad boy of golf, has had a tumultuous love life with four broken marriages. However, he seems to have found love with Anna Cladakis, his long-time fiance. Cladakis is a 54-year-old entrepreneur who owns The Bridge Lounge bar in Tarpon Springs, Florida. Despite being engaged for around 10 years, there is no news of them getting married soon. Their love and support have helped them overcome personal and professional hurdles, and their relationship seems to have a long way to go. [essentiallysports.com]

Danish golfer Rasmus Hojgaard's girlfriend is Julie Sander Danielsen. The couple, who have been together for several years, are both private about their relationship. Danielsen is from Vejle, Denmark, and currently lives in Aarhus, the same town as Hojgaard. She is a fan of designer clothes and equestrian sports, and shares her love for her dogs on social media. Danielsen often supports Hojgaard at his DP World Tour events and shares moments from their vacations on her Instagram. [essentiallysports.com]

PGA Tour fans are questioning Matthieu Pavon's actions on the 18th hole after watching "awkward" video footage. Despite securing his first PGA Tour victory at the Farmers Insurance Open, some fans have suggested foul play, claiming that Pavon intentionally stepped on the ground behind his ball to flatten it out and gain an advantage. The video has sparked divided opinions among fans, with some seeing evidence of wrongdoing and others dismissing the claims. [golfmagic.com]

French golfer Matthieu Pavon's parents are Beatrice Pavon-Deler, a former runner-up in the French Golf Championship, and Michel Pavon, a former professional soccer player. Matthieu's mother is currently a golf teacher, while his father had a successful career in Ligue 1 and later became a coach. Matthieu's sporting influences also extend to his paternal grandfather, who played professional soccer in Spain and France. [sportskeeda.com]

Lucas Herbert has been seen wearing "Ripper GC" team gear alongside captain Cameron Smith, indicating his signing with the Saudi-backed league. However, there has been no official confirmation from LIV or Ripper GC regarding Herbert's signing or the lineup for Jon Rahm's team. Other rumored signings include Tyrell Hatton and Adrian Meronk. LIV has stated that new roster announcements are forthcoming. Smith's drop in rankings puts his selection for the Paris Olympics at risk, depending on Jason Day's decision. [news.com.au]

Lydia Ko, the LPGA star, is married to Jun Chung, who works as a senior business development manager at Amber. Chung is described as supportive and has had a positive influence on Ko's golf career. Their love story has been kept private, but they have become more open about their relationship since getting married in 2022. [essentiallysports.com]

The DP World Tour returns to Bahrain this week for the first time in 13 years for the inaugural Bahrain Championship. Rasmus Hojgaard headlines a field that includes rising stars Dan Bradbury, Alex Fitzpatrick, Yannik Paul and Jordan Smith. [golfshake.com]

Michael Herrera wins the APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational at Torrey Pines Golf Course, earning a one-stroke victory over John-Baptiste Hakizimana and Kamaiu Johnson. This is Herrera's fourth career APGA Tour win. In addition to the $30,000 winner's check, Herrera will have all expenses associated with PGA TOUR Q-School covered by Farmers Insurance and the APGA Tour in 2024. Farmers Insurance has been a strong supporter of the APGA Tour and its players. This year's event marks the fifth staging of the Farmers Insurance Invitational, which takes place alongside the PGA TOUR's Farmers Insurance Open. [pgatour.com]

Naas man Robert Brazill is in second place after day one of the Toro Tour La Hacienda Alcaidesa, trailing Sebastian Desoisa by five shots. Brazill had a mixed round with birdies and bogeys but managed to stay close to the leader with a crucial closing birdie. [irishgolfer.ie]

Golf Saudi reportedly blocked the proposed merger between the LPGA and Ladies European Tour (LET) last year. The cancellation of the vote was the result of a request by Golf Saudi for additional information on the deal, effectively blocking the merger. Golf Saudi currently funds seven LET events and wanted to fully understand the risks and implications before committing to events in 2024. The LET and LPGA boards have decided to focus on maximizing their joint venture instead of pursuing the merger at this time. [nbcsports.com]

Matthieu Pavon, a French golfer, secured his first PGA TOUR win at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines. He clinched victory with an 8-foot birdie on the final hole, finishing one stroke ahead of Nicolai Højgaard. Pavon's win marks the first time a Frenchman has won on the TOUR since 1907. He now has exemptions into the remaining Signature Events of 2024 and a TOUR card through 2026. The next event is the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, featuring top players like Scottie Scheffler and Viktor Hovland. [pgatour.com]

The planned merger between the LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour has been indefinitely delayed after Golf Saudi requested further information on the terms of the deal. Golf Saudi's funding for the 2024 season is dependent on understanding how a successful merger might look. The LET was forced to abandon the merger plans, risking financial trouble, as Golf Saudi sponsors several LET events. The Aramco Saudi Ladies International and Aramco Team Series will still take place this season. Talks for a merger deal between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and PIF are ongoing in the men's professional game. [golfmonthly.com]

As LIV Golf's 2024 season begins, there are four burning questions: Can Jon Rahm attract new viewers? Will a PGA Tour-PIF deal interrupt the season? Can LIV get world rankings points? And will LIV land Anthony Kim, who is reportedly considering a comeback? [frontofficesports.com]

Nelly Korda won the 2024 LPGA Drive On Championship, earning a prize money of $262,500. Lydia Ko finished second and took home $163,689. Megan Khang secured third place with a prize of $118,745. The complete prize money payout for the event is listed in the document. [sportskeeda.com]

The Nullarbor Links in Australia is the world's longest golf course, stretching for 1,365 kilometers (850 miles) through the arid Nullarbor Plains. Created by marketing wiz Alf Caputo, the course features a mix of Astroturf tees and sand greens, with holes positioned alongside small-town roadhouses. It takes three days to complete the course by car, but some have ridden bicycles or walked over the span of months. The course has a distinctive sense of place, with holes named after local marsupials and the infamous Skylab space probe. The Nullarbor Links hosts an annual tournament called Chasing the Sun, attracting thousands of participants. [golf.com]

Anthony Kim had an incredible start to his professional career. Having turned pro in 2006, Kim has won four professional tournaments and reached No. 6 on the Official World Golf Rankings. [sportskeeda.com]

Kevin Yu, a Taiwanese golfer, has made a strong impression on the PGA Tour. With a bogey-less round of 8 under 64, he emerged as the solo leader in the Farmers Insurance Open 2024. Yu has made 35 starts on the PGA Tour, with five top 10 finishes and a tied third place in The American Express 2024. He turned professional in 2021 after representing Chinese Taipei in various tournaments and achieving success at the collegiate level. With his talent and inspiration from Asian stars like Hideki Matsuyama and Sungjae Im, Yu is poised to become a renowned golfer on the PGA Tour. [thesportsrush.com]

The number of golfers who break 100 varies depending on the definition and criteria used. Approximately 4.5% of golfers with a handicap index above 27.9 may have the capacity to break 100, while around 55% of all golfers break 100 on average. Breaking 100 is considered a significant milestone in golf, with only about 26% of golfers regularly breaking 90. [golfmonthly.com]

This article reveals 10 lesser-known facts about golfer Trace Crowe, including his birthdate, education, career highlights, personal preferences, and recent achievements. It also mentions his driving distance during the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open. [golfmonthly.com]

This article reveals 15 interesting facts about Jake Knapp, including his education at UCLA, his amateur and professional golf career, his hobbies, and his achievements on the PGA Tour. It also mentions his driving distance on the PGA Tour, averaging 301.5 yards with a longest drive of 380 yards. [golfmonthly.com]

Moriya Jutanugarn is a Thai professional golfer who competes on the LPGA Tour. She turned professional in 2012 and has achieved two wins on the tour. Jutanugarn's younger sister, Ariya, is also a professional golfer. Moriya Jutanugarn has had notable finishes in major tournaments and has a successful career with multiple top-10 finishes. [sportskeeda.com]

Ian Baker-Finch, a former professional golfer and current CBS Sports analyst, has had a successful career in both playing and analyzing golf. Born in Queensland, Australia, he was influenced by Peter Thomson and Jack Nicklaus, won the 1991 Open at Royal Birkdale, and has been a part of the CBS Sports broadcast team for over 25 years. Baker-Finch's career had ups and downs, including a dramatic decline after his Open win and his retirement from tournament golf. He has also served as a captain's assistant at the Presidents Cup and as Team Captain for the Australian golf teams at the Olympics. [golfmonthly.com]

Golf superstar Michelle Wie West is selling her modern L.A. farmhouse in Encino's Amestoy Estates neighborhood for $6.5 million. The property features a five-bedroom main home, a separate guesthouse, a gourmet kitchen, a movie theater, and a large pool with a spa. Wie West, a former child prodigy, had a successful career in golf, earning millions in prize money and endorsement deals. [yahoo.com]

The Women's South Carolina Golf Association (WSCGA) has experienced significant growth and achievements in recent years. The association opened its first standalone office and changed its tax status to pursue more opportunities for grants. On the course, the WSCGA's winter trip sold out, and the number of women with USGA handicap indexes has increased. Notable individual achievements include Sophia Burnett winning the State Women's Amateur and Pam Prescott participating in major tournaments. The WSCGA aims to continue growing and getting more women involved in the game. [thestate.com]

The Golf Coaches Association of America is accepting applications for the 2024 Ron Balicki Scholarship until March 1. The scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Ron Balicki, a prominent golf journalist known for his coverage of college golf. The recipient, a high school senior or college undergraduate/graduate student, will receive two $2,500 scholarships. Past winners include Luke Hendry, Tracy Peyton, Brayden Conover, Cade Tjomsland, Alex Gelman, and Carson Racich. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

Conor McGregor has expressed interest in purchasing the Slieve Russell golf resort in Ballyconnell, Ireland. The resort features an 18-hole championship golf course and a nine-hole academy course. The property is set to be put up for sale by the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation. McGregor is joined by Seán Gallagher in making a move for the venue. [bunkered.co.uk]

MassGolfer, the trusted golf magazine for Massachusetts, is being retired after a 33-year run. A new publication will be launched in Spring 2024, offering a reimagined member benefit. The growth of golf in Massachusetts and the gratitude towards those involved in producing MassGolfer over the years are highlighted. The new publication will continue to be a free printed publication for Mass Golf members, telling stories of golf in Massachusetts in a new, artful way. [massgolf.org]

Golfers in The Villages are criticized for not maintaining golf course etiquette, resulting in poor course conditions. Despite the management's efforts to keep the courses in superior condition, golfers fail to repair divots, fix ball marks, or properly replace rakes in bunkers. The author suggests implementing a basic assessment test for golfers, similar to the requirement for pickleball. [villages-news.com]

The new Meta Quest 3 is here and we’re putting it to the test to see if the upgrade is worth the price when playing Golf+ VR Golf. In this video we put the Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3 head-to-head to see which one is the best choice when playing VR Golf. [golfcity.com]

A stunned golfer has told of how he enjoyed a different type of birdie - when a parrot joined him on the green. Tom Kelson, 31, was enjoying a game of golf with dad Pete Kelson and father-in-law Steve Jessop, when they spotted a bright green bird in the trees. The parrot then flew over to the trio at Tinsley Golf Course in Sheffield, South Yorks,. and perched on their shoulders as they attempted to take their shots. The funny footage shows the group playing the game and walking around the course, while the parrot sat on them. Tom said: "It flew over and I gave the parrot a bit of my cereal bar and it wouldn't leave us alone. [uk.news.yahoo.com]

In Casey, Illinois, a giant Golf Driver measuring 45 feet, 9.4 inches long and weighing 731 pounds has set the world record for being the World's Largest Golf Driver. Created by Jim Bolin using an old aluminum light pole and persimmon wood, the driver is on display near the intersection of Main Street and Central Avenue. This is part of the collection of "World's Largest" items in Casey, including a golf tee, pitchfork, and more. [worldrecordacademy.org]

In Casey, Illinois, a giant golf tee made of yellow pine weighing 6,659lbs and measuring 30 ft. 9 in. long with a head diameter of 6 ft. 3 in. and a shaft width of 2 ft. 1 in. has set the world record for being the World's Largest Golf Tee. The tee was hand-crafted by Bolin Enterprises and was created to encourage more interest in Casey's public golf course. It is one of several Guinness World Record constructions in Casey, known for its collection of "World's Largest" items. [worldrecordacademy.org]

Former teammate Todd Frazier dismisses rumors that the New York Yankees prohibited Aaron Hicks from playing golf, stating there is "no chance" the rumor is true. Hicks struggled with injuries and performance decline with the Yankees before finding success with the Baltimore Orioles. He is now a free agent and has been linked to the San Diego Padres. [sportskeeda.com]

A review of the new Callaway golf clubs for 2024, including the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke drivers and irons. The Paradym Ai Smoke drivers feature the Ai Smart Face technology, catering to specific attack, path, and face angle attributes for each model. The Paradym Ai Smoke irons have face architecture designed by Artificial Intelligence, benefiting specific swing speeds and offering minimal distance loss on off-center strikes. [golf.com]

Discover the latest golf equipment for 2024 from top brands like Callaway, Cobra, and Titleist. Callaway introduces the Ai Smoke line with the world's first Ai Smart Face, while Cobra presents the Darkspeed line designed to optimize swing speed. Titleist offers new golf balls, Scotty Cameron putters, and Vokey Design SM10 wedges. Explore the advancements in technology and design for a better golfing experience this year. [pga.com]

The Tour B golf ball line by Bridgestone has been relaunched, with insights shared by Senior Marketing Manager Adam Rehberg. Learn more about the Bridgestone mindset and the features of the Tour B golf balls. [nbcsports.com]

This article discusses the best draw drivers for golfers who struggle with a slice. It provides recommendations for different categories, including the best overall draw driver, best value-for-money driver, best budget draw driver, and best draw driver for very slow swings. The article also explains what draw drivers are, how to know if you need one, and how they can help reduce a slice. The testing methodology and the author's expertise are also mentioned. [todays-golfer.com]

Bushnell Golf has introduced a new range finder and speaker, including the Wingman 2 speaker, to enhance the golfing experience. Senior Sales Manager Ryne Fisher provides details on these new items. [nbcsports.com]

Seamus Golf's Costco-inspired driver headcover was a hit at the 2024 PGA Show, selling out quickly at a price of $88. The design, resembling the Costco logo, pays homage to the wholesaler's popularity in the golf industry. It is uncertain if Seamus will release the wholesale line on its website. [golfdigest.com]

The Cleveland HB SOFT 2 Model 1 putter is a high-quality blade putter that offers great value for money. It features the unique SOFT face-milling pattern for improved ball speed consistency on mishits. While it may not be the most forgiving putter, it performs well for accomplished golfers. The Model 1 has a pleasing design, good balance, and a premium Pistol grip. It is part of the HB SOFT 2 range, which includes various putter models to suit different stroke types. Overall, the Model 1 is a solid option for golfers looking to upgrade their blade putter without breaking the bank. [golfmonthly.com]

VertaCat is a game-changer in making golf more accessible for individuals with mobility needs, allowing them to fully participate in the game. Anthony Neto of the Stand Up and Play Foundation discusses the significant impact of VertaCat in this NBC Sports article. [nbcsports.com]

Hideki Matsuyama's equipment at the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open includes clubs from TaylorMade, Srixon, Cobra, and Cleveland. He uses the Srixon ZX5 MKII as his driver, TaylorMade SIM2 Ti and Cobra King RadSpeed Tour as fairway woods, Srixon Z-Forged II as irons, Cleveland RTX 4 Forged Prototype as wedges, Scotty Cameron prototype as putter, and Srixon Z-Star XV as golf ball. Matsuyama secured the T10 position after round two and is competing in the third round alongside Maverick McNealy and Mackenzie Hughes. Tee times for all golfers are also provided. [sportskeeda.com]

Everything you need to know about the equipment used by the LPGA Tour player Auston Kim, who is currently pulling an incredible performance. [essentiallysports.com]

Lydia Ko, the LPGA Tour star, has been performing exceptionally well in the 2024 season. Her success can be attributed to the golf equipment she uses, including the PING G430 LST Driver, PING G430 Max Fairway Woods, PING G430 (4) Hybrid, PING i230 and PING Blueprint S irons, Titleist Vokey Design SM9 Wedges, Scotty Cameron TourType SSS TG6 Putter, and Titleist Pro V1x Golf Balls. [essentiallysports.com]

Dustin Johnson, the captain of 4 Aces GC, uses TaylorMade clubs for his golf game. His bag includes the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Plus Driver, TaylorMade Stealth 2 Fairway wood, TaylorMade P730 DJ Proto Irons, TaylorMade MG1 Milled Grind Wedge, and TaylorMade Spider GT Putter. He also plays with TaylorMade TP5x Golf Balls. Despite a recent decline in his Official World Golf Ranking, Johnson aims to have a strong start in his LIV Golf season. [essentiallysports.com]

Tyrrell Hatton, the English golfer, has joined LIV Golf and will be using Ping clubs for his upcoming tournaments. He uses a Ping G430 LST Driver and Ping G430 Max Fairway Wood, along with Ping i230 and Ping prototype Irons. Hatton also uses a mix of Ping and Titleist wedges, and a Ping Vault Oslo Putter. He plays with Titleist Pro V1x Golf balls. [essentiallysports.com]

Matthieu Pavon secured his maiden PGA Tour title at the Farmers Insurance Open, finishing one stroke clear of Nicolai Hojgaard. He used a Ping G430 Max driver, Ping G430 LST 3-wood, Ping G430 hybrid, Ping i230 irons, Ping Si59 wedges, Ping Cadence TR Tomcat C putter, and Titleist Pro V1 ball. [golfmagic.com]

New brands and fashion collections are emerging in the women's golf market, offering more choices than ever before. The 2024 PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando showcased a variety of high fashion and versatile items that can be worn on and off the course. Some notable brands include A.PUTNAM, Byrdie Golf Social Wear, Coconads, Pirdie, Camille Hind, The Pines, Foray Golf, and Birdie & Ace. In terms of accessories, Birdie Girl and The Klow Golf Company offer unique and stylish options. These trends reflect the growing interest in golf among women and the desire for fashionable and functional attire. [golfpass.com]

This article provides a list of 10 waterproof golf shoes for winter 2024, including options from brands like FootJoy, Duca del Cosma, Puma, Malbon, NOBULL, Nike, Adidas, G/FORE, TRUE linkswear, and Jordan. The shoes are recommended for keeping golfers warm and dry during winter conditions on the course. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

At the 71st PGA Show, five footwear brands caught attention: Boxto, Cole Haan Golf, ECCO Golf, Payntr Golf, and True Linkswear. Boxto debuted new Nicklaus-branded shoes, Cole Haan Golf showcased water-resistant leather oxfords and casual golf sneakers, ECCO Golf introduced the LT1 shoe with improved cushioning and rebound, Payntr Golf unveiled a golf training shoe with carbon propulsion plate, and True Linkswear showcased the Lux 2 golf shoe with a genuine carbon plate for enhanced energy return and durability. [firstcallgolf.com]

The best golf shoes of 2024 include Allbirds Golf Dashers for overall performance, Footjoy HyperFlex for best spiked shoes, Nike Jordan ADG 4 for style, Callaway Coronado V2 SL for cushioning, and True Linkswear True Original 1.2 for ground feel. These shoes offer features like comfort, traction, durability, and style, enhancing players' performance on the course. [cbssports.com]

The LIV Golf broadcast team includes Arlo White as the lead play-by-play commentator, David Feherty as an on-air analyst and co-executive producer, Jerry Foltz as a commentator, Su-Ann Heng as an on-course reporter, and Dom Boulet as an on-course reporter. Each member brings their own expertise and experience to the team. [golfmonthly.com]

Dominique Boulet, known as "The Voice of Asian Golf," had a career as a professional golfer before transitioning into television broadcasting. He played on the Asian Tour, won the Hong Kong PGA Championship twice, and now serves as the chairman of the Hong Kong Professional Golfers Association. Boulet started his broadcasting career by chance and remains passionate about the game, even founding his own company called Impact Golf. [golfmonthly.com]

Bryson DeChambeau is excited to play in Las Vegas during Super Bowl week and bring LIV Golf to a new audience. He hopes to create a spectacle and generate a positive response from football and Vegas fans. DeChambeau reflects on his past successes in Las Vegas and expresses his desire to compete in PGA Tour events again. He believes that a potential deal to merge the tours is on the horizon and looks forward to the day when all golfers can play against each other again. [reviewjournal.com]

The CBS Sports golf broadcast team is led by Jim Nantz as the host, Trevor Immelman as the lead analyst, and includes Ian Baker-Finch, Frank Nobilo, Dottie Pepper, Mark Immelman, Colt Knost, Amanda Renner, Andrew Catalon, and Verne Lundquist in various roles. They bring expertise and experience to their coverage of PGA Tour events. [golfmonthly.com]

This article provides an overview of the NBC Sports golf broadcast team for PGA Tour events. The team includes Dan Hicks as the host, Brad Faxon and Curt Byrum as analysts, Notah Begay III, John Wood, and Smylie Kaufman as on-course reporters, and Cara Banks and Damon Hack as post-round interviewers. [golfmonthly.com]

Shane Lowry has left his position on the PGA Tour's Advisory Council, and Seamus Power has been voted onto the board. Lowry, along with eight other players, opted to step down from the council. The 2024 Player Advisory Council includes various players who will run for PAC Chairman via election. [thesun.ie]

UTSA men's golf team is in fourth place after the opening day of the Sea Best Invitational. Hunter Bott and Brock Blais are among the top 11 players, with Bott tied for fifth place. UTSA is currently three shots behind the leader and has one round left to play. [goutsa.com]

Strathmore Golf Centre, a popular Scottish golf centre with an award-winning course, is now up for sale. Located in Perthshire, the centre offers an 18-hole course, a nine-hole par-3 course, and practice facilities. The property, with multiple income stream potential, includes a highly regarded restaurant and has planning permission for a hotel and holiday homes. The asking price is over £1.5 million. [bunkered.co.uk]

A perfect golf club that you would never want to leave should have a well-maintained course with challenges, open all year round, and with comfortable furniture. It should also have a halfway house, a regular maintenance program, friendly staff, a welcoming clubhouse, efficient booking system, reciprocal deals with nearby courses, adequate changing room facilities, active seniors section, inclusive junior and women's sections, and reasonable subscription fees. [golfshake.com]

This article provides seven tips from coaches and players at the 2024 PGA Show. The tips include improving green reading abilities, staying focused on the current shot, practicing bunker shots, knowing your distances, feeling the swing continuously speed up, making the ball position dynamic, and understanding the three "Ts" of the downswing. [golfdigest.com]

Professional golfer Phil Mickelson emphasizes the importance of warming up before rounds, especially as he gets older. He incorporates resistance band exercises to activate his shoulders and core, and performs stretches for his legs. Mickelson's routine helps prepare his body for the demands of tournament play. [golf.com]

If you experience anxiety while performing around other golfers, it might be due to the Spotlight Effect. This psychological phenomenon makes golfers believe they are being noticed more than they actually are. To overcome this, remind yourself that others are not paying as much attention as you think and that they don't care as much as you think they do. Accept that embarrassing moments are inevitable and focus on your own game rather than worrying about what others think. [golf.com]

This article discusses the five golf-swing basics that Tom Watson learned as a young golfer and still follows today. The basics include grip, alignment, posture, rhythm, and balance. Watson's improvement in these areas helped him become a successful golfer, and these fundamentals can benefit other golfers as well. [golf.com]

Top 100 Teacher Lou Guzzi emphasizes the importance of a pre-round warm-up in golf. He suggests focusing on identifying your swing pattern for the day and playing accordingly, rather than trying to force a specific ball flight. Taking 30-40 minutes to warm up, including time on the range and putting green, can help prepare you for a successful round. [golf.com]

Costa Navarino is offering golf packages for 2024, with four signature 18-hole courses and various tournaments and events. The resort also provides a range of hospitality offerings, including luxury accommodations and a vibrant marketplace. Additionally, there are activities for sports enthusiasts and gastronomy enthusiasts, as well as a focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The resort is easily accessible from Kalamata International Airport and has multiple flight options. [golfbusinessnews.com]

Mackinac Island in Northern Michigan offers a unique golfing experience at Grand Hotel's golf course, The Jewel. Accessible only by ferry, the island is known for its horse-drawn carriages and golf carts. The course consists of two distinct nine-hole courses, with the front nine offering a Golden Age-style design and the back nine showcasing woodlands. The experience is complemented by the island's rich history and the grandeur of Grand Hotel. [golf.com]

A $5.5 million mansion in Iowa with a 9-hole golf course, beach, and other luxurious amenities is listed for sale. The seven-bedroom home sits on 25.79 acres and offers a spacious living room, open-plan kitchen, primary bedroom with a spa-like ensuite bathroom, basement with an exercise area and media room, heated in-ground pool, and separate buildings for additional vehicles. The property also features a custom 9-hole golf course, a private pond with a man-made beach, and zoning for raising horses. [golfweek.usatoday.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.