Planet Golf News for Monday, February 26, 2024

Bryson DeChambeau calls for "death to egos" in response to the divide between PGA Tour and LIV Golf. He believes that ending egos on all sides is a step in the right direction for the game of golf. The schism in golf is fueled by the egos of those in charge, such as PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan and the Saudi Public Investment Fund. LIV Golf, which includes top players like DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Jon Rahm, has been facing challenges, including the denial of Official World Golf Rankings points. DeChambeau expresses frustration with the OWGR's criteria and believes that showcasing themselves in major championships is the way to gain recognition. However, unless they win more majors, many top players may not continue to participate in LIV Golf.

Jon Rahm reveals that he didn't hear from Tiger Woods after his move to LIV Golf, while Rory McIlroy has been supportive. Rahm reached out to Woods to inform him of his decision, but did not receive a response. Rahm also mentioned that he has not spoken to PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan.

Jake Knapp, a 29-year-old PGA Tour Pro, has showcased remarkable skills on the golf course. Despite not yet winning on the men's circuit, Knapp's journey to the PGA Tour includes impressive stats on the Korn Ferry Tour and three victories on the Mackenzie Tour-PGA Tour Canada. Knapp's non-golfing past as a nightclub bouncer and his determination to succeed in golf have contributed to his rise in the sport..

"The Match" is a groundbreaking charity golf event that combines professional golfers like Rory McIlroy and Lexi Thompson with celebrities like Lionel Messi and Brad Pitt. This edition of the event features mixed-gender teams, highlighting inclusivity and gender equality in the sport. The event also supports the charity First Tee, emphasizing the positive impact of golf on young people. "The Match" represents a new standard for golf, showcasing the evolving nature of sports with its focus on inclusivity, equality, and philanthropy.

Four top golfers will compete in The Match 9 for charity, with Rory McIlroy as the favorite. The event will feature an individual format, and the golfer with the most skins money across the 12 holes will win. The money raised will go to the First Tee organization. The article provides odds, predictions, and bets for McIlroy, Homa, Thompson, and Zhang, and recommends checking out the picks from a proven golf expert before placing any bets. [cbssports.com]

Golf is facing challenges with watered-down fields and the rise of Saudi-funded LIV Golf. The PGA Tour needs a new commissioner who understands golf and can negotiate with the Saudis. The article suggests that Tiger Woods, despite his personal flaws, would be a suitable candidate due to his knowledge of the game, business acumen, and ability to make deals. It also highlights Woods' potential to contribute to the sport off the course and suggests that focusing on fixing the game would be more beneficial than solely focusing on his own comeback.

Jeremy Clarkson is advocating for a ban on golf, stating that it is worse for the environment compared to countryside sports like pheasant shooting. He argues that golf courses are detrimental to the environment and suggests that protestors and environmentalists should focus on banning golf instead. Clarkson also expresses concerns that Sir Keir Starmer may consider banning game shooting or imposing more restrictions on it if he becomes the next Prime Minister.

The defending champion of the Argentina Open on the Korn Ferry Tour has been denied an exemption spot for the upcoming event. Despite not being injured or unavailable, the American golfer Zack Fischer will not be able to defend his title due to losing full playing rights on the Korn Ferry Tour and participating in the PGA Tour Americas instead. Fischer expressed his disappointment but remains optimistic about his golf career and personal life. [golfmonthly.com]

Golf fans are perplexed by a video clip of LIV Golf's Peter Uihlein's remarkable par save during an Asian Tour event. Despite hitting his tee shot off line and ending up on the beach, Uihlein managed to recover and sink the putt, earning praise from his playing partners. The incident has sparked discussion about LIV Golf's eligibility for world ranking points. [golfmagic.com]

Louis Oosthuizen, a LIV Golf player, will miss the 2024 Masters Tournament, breaking a 16-year streak. Despite not getting into the Masters, Oosthuizen has accepted it and mentioned that Augusta National is too long for his game now. He also raised questions about the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and its partiality with the Saudi-backed league, suggesting a change in the system. LIV Golf players will have to continue playing in other leagues to gain OWGR points. [essentiallysports.com]

Jon Rahm explains his decision to join LIV Golf in a new interview, citing the higher pay as a key factor. He discusses the change in compensation for golfers and expresses his interest in continuing to play PGA Tour and DP World Tour tournaments. Rahm also mentions his communication with Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods, and how winning The Masters in 2023 influenced his decision. [sportskeeda.com]

Jake Knapp won the 2024 Mexico Open at Vidanta with a strong short game and solid approach shots. Despite struggling with accuracy off the tee, he compensated with his iron play and scrambling ability. Knapp used a variety of clubs, including a Ping G425 LST driver, PXG irons, Titleist Vokey wedges, and a Taylor Made Spider Tour putter. [golfdigest.com]

Patty Tavatanakit, the winner of the 2024 Honda LPGA Thailand, has switched from PING to Titleist for her golf clubs. She now uses a Titleist TSR2 driver, Titleist TSR2 5-Wood, Titleist T200 and T100 irons, Titleist Vokey SM10 wedges, and a Bettinardi Studio Stock 3 putter. She also uses Titleist Pro V1x golf balls. This change in equipment may have contributed to her improved performance on the greens. [essentiallysports.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.