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Planet Golf News for Monday, March 11, 2024

Planet Golf News for Monday, March 11, 2024

Monday, March 11, 2024

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World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler cruises to 5-shot win at Bay Hill

THE LEADERBOARD

Today’s Top Tour Stories from Planet Golf News

Good Morning,

Hey there golf enthusiasts and Academy Award watchers alike! Have you been keeping up with the latest happenings in the golfing world? If not, don't worry, I've got you covered with a juicy rundown of some weekend tournaments and stories that'll keep you in the loop.

Let's dive right in with the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Scottie Scheffler absolutely dominated the course, leaving his competitors in the dust with a remarkable five-shot lead. His precision putting game was on fire, not missing a single putt within 15 feet throughout the entire weekend. Talk about clutch! This win solidified Scheffler's position as a top contender, and let's not forget that sweet $4 million first prize. On the flip side, Rory McIlroy had a bit of a rough time, struggling with his approach shots and slipping down the leaderboard after a rocky final round.

Over in Hong Kong, the LIV Golf tournament brought some intense action to the green. Abraham Ancer snagged his first LIV Golf victory in a thrilling playoff, edging out Cameron Smith and Paul Casey with a birdie on the first playoff hole. And let's not forget about Anthony Kim's standout performance with a 5-under 65 in the final round, marking his triumphant return to the professional golf scene after a 12-year hiatus due to injury.

Now, onto the Puerto Rico Open where Brice Garnett emerged victorious after six long years without a title. Garnett battled it out in a thrilling playoff against Erik Barnes, ultimately clinching the win and securing himself a sweet spot in the upcoming Players Championship. It's a comeback story worth celebrating!

Switching gears to the Blue Bay LPGA in China, Bailey Tardy stole the show with a runaway victory, smashing the scoring record and securing her first LPGA title. Talk about making a statement! Unfortunately for Lydia Ko, her bid for the Hall of Fame fell short once again, but Tardy's redemption story is one for the books.

And let's not forget about the PGA TOUR Champions Cologuard Classic, where Joe Durant came out on top after Stewart Cink's stumble on the back nine. Durant's steady performance and crucial eagle putt sealed the deal, marking his first PGA TOUR Champions title since 2021. It's always inspiring to see seasoned pros come out on top!

And last but certainly not least, Matteo Manassero brought the heat at the DP World Tour Jonsson Workwear Open, ending his 11-year title drought with an emotional victory. It's moments like these that remind us why we love this sport so much.

But hey, it's not all about the pros. There's some juicy gossip making the rounds too! Speculations are flying about Meredith Scheffler possibly being pregnant after a video from the Arnold Palmer Invitational showed her with a baby bump. Could there be a new addition to the Scheffler clan? Only time will tell!

And let's give a shoutout to Will Zalatoris's parents, Richard and Catherine Zalatoris, whose unwavering support and sacrifices have helped him chase his dreams on the PGA Tour. It's heartwarming to see families cheering each other on in pursuit of greatness.

So there you have it, folks! A whirlwind tour of the latest and greatest in the world of golf this past weekend.

1 2024 Arnold Palmer Invitational

Recap: Scottie Scheffler won the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill with an impressive performance, finishing five shots ahead of the competition. His victory marked the largest margin at Bay Hill since Tiger Woods in 2012. Scheffler's exceptional putting, including not missing a putt inside 15 feet all weekend, played a significant role in his success. He closed with a 6-under 66 on a challenging Sunday, securing his seventh career Tour title and his first official win since the Players Championship nearly a year ago. This win showcased Scheffler's dominance, especially in putting, and solidified his position as a top contender in the golf world.

On the other hand, Rory McIlroy struggled during the final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, experiencing difficulties with his approach shots and dropping down the leaderboard after making several bogeys early in the round. His challenges on the front nine significantly impacted his overall performance during the tournament.

Scheffler romps to win at the Arnold Palmer to scoop $4M first prize

Scottie Scheffler dominates the Arnold Palmer Invitational, winning by five shots and claiming the $4 million first prize. With a flawless final round and a new putter, Scheffler solidifies his position as the world No. 1 golfer. This victory comes just before his title defense at The Players Championship.

Rory McIlroy suffers final round collapse at Arnold Palmer Invitational to miss out on world No 1

Scottie Scheffler wins the Arnold Palmer Invitational with a flawless closing round, while Rory McIlroy's hopes of challenging for the world No 1 ranking fade. Scheffler's dominant performance ahead of the Masters has rivals, including Shane Lowry, acknowledging his form. McIlroy finishes outside the top 20 with a disappointing round.

Shane Lowry takes home gigantic $1.4 million pay-cheque after third place finish

Shane Lowry finished third at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and will receive a $1.4 million pay-cheque. Despite struggling on the front nine, Lowry made a comeback with back-to-back birdies on the back-nine. The victory went to Scottie Scheffler, who became the first World Number One player since Tiger Woods in 2009 to win at Bay Hill and take home a $4 million prize.

Will Zalatoris secures The Open Championship berth at Arnold Palmer Invitational

Will Zalatoris secured a spot at The Open Championship by finishing tied for fourth at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Zalatoris earned his place through The Open Qualifying Series, and he expressed excitement about the opportunity to compete in the prestigious tournament. Despite falling short of his second PGA TOUR title, Zalatoris' performance showcased his continued progression in his return from a back injury.

‘Wasn’t trying to do anything like cheating’: Wyndham Clark denies rules wrongdoing

Wyndham Clark denies any wrongdoing or intention to cheat after a controversy regarding a potential rules violation during the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The incident involved Clark's ball moving while he placed his club behind it in the rough. While some analysts believed there was a violation, PGA Tour rules officials decided not to penalize Clark. Clark himself stated that he was unaware of the incident and that he had no intention to cheat or improve his lie.

2 LIV Golf Hong Kong

Recap: At LIV Golf Hong Kong, Abraham Ancer secured his first LIV Golf victory in a playoff, triumphing over Cameron Smith and Paul Casey with a birdie on the first playoff hole. Anthony Kim, a Wild Card player, impressed with a 5-under 65 in the final round, marking his first sub-par round since returning to professional golf. Bryson DeChambeau's Crushers GC clinched victory for the second week in a row, finishing two shots ahead of Torque GC. Notable moments included hole-in-ones by Joaquin Niemann and Kalle Samooja, adding excitement to the tournament. Despite not winning individually, Cameron Smith showed positive progress. The event drew large crowds at the Hong Kong Golf Club, with enthusiastic fans creating an electrifying atmosphere despite persistent rain. Players like Abraham Ancer and Paul Casey appreciated the support and energy from the spectators throughout the tournament.

Abraham Ancer Wins Debut LIV Title In Three-Man Playoff Despite Seeing Five-Shot Advantage Evaporate

Abraham Ancer wins his debut LIV title in a three-man playoff, despite seeing his five-shot advantage evaporate. The Mexican golfer triumphed over Cameron Smith and Paul Casey in the LIV Golf Hong Kong tournament. Ancer almost lost his lead but managed to secure victory with a birdie in the playoff. This win is significant for Ancer, who has been waiting for a victory since joining the PIF-backed circuit in 2022.

"I feel like I've won" Anthony Kim goes low as Abraham Ancer takes LIV Hong Kong

Anthony Kim finishes with a 5-under 65 in the final round at LIV Golf Hong Kong, while Abraham Ancer claims his first title. Kim expresses growing confidence and gratitude for being able to compete again after a 12-year injury hiatus. Ancer wins in a playoff, earning $4m, and Bryson DeChambeau's Crushers GC takes the team event.

3 2024 Puerto Rico Open

Recap: Brice Garnett emerged victorious at the 2024 Puerto Rico Open, securing a significant win after six years without a title. In a thrilling playoff against Erik Barnes, Garnett clinched the victory on the fourth playoff hole, earning himself a Tour card through 2026, 300 FedEx Cup points, and a cash prize of $720,000. This win also granted him a spot in the upcoming Players Championship with a first-place check of $4.5 million, the richest on the PGA Tour.

Brice Garnett resurrects his dormant career with a 4-hole playoff victory in Puerto Rico

Brice Garnett resurrected his dormant career with a 4-hole playoff victory in the Puerto Rico Open, securing his second career win after six years. The victory grants him three more years on the tour and opportunities to participate in bigger events, including the Players Championship and the PGA Championship.

4 2024 Blue Bay LPGA

Recap: Bailey Tardy emerged victorious at the 2024 Blue Bay LPGA in China, securing a win while Lydia Ko fell short of her Hall of Fame bid once again. Tardy's journey to this victory was marked by perseverance after narrowly missing out on earning an LPGA card in previous years. Additionally, Sarah Schmelzel and Narin An were tied for first place after the second day of the tournament, both sitting at nine-under par heading into the weekend. Hye-Jin Choi followed closely in solo third place at eight-under par. Ruixin Liu and Minjee Lee were tied for fourth place at seven-under par, maintaining their positions within the top five. Lydia Ko notably struggled during the final round, notching three bogeys on the front nine and ultimately falling short of the 27 points needed to reach the LPGA Hall of Fame.

Bailey Tardy smashes Blue Bay LPGA scoring record with runaway victory

Bailey Tardy secures her first victory on the LPGA Tour by smashing the scoring record at the Blue Bay LPGA. With a final round 7-under 65, she finishes at 19-under 269, the lowest 72-hole score in the tournament's history. Tardy becomes the first American to win the Blue Bay LPGA title, defeating Sarah Schmelzel by four shots.

Bailey Tardy grabs first LPGA title to add to her redemption story while denying Lydia Ko entry into Hall of Fame

Bailey Tardy claims her first LPGA title, denying Lydia Ko entry into the Hall of Fame. Tardy's closing 65 at the Blue Bay LPGA in China secured her victory, while Ko finished tied for fourth. Tardy's win is a redemption story after narrowly missing out on her LPGA card multiple times.

5 PGA TOUR Champions Cologuard Classic

Recap: Joe Durant claimed victory at the Cologuard Classic after Stewart Cink's late stumble, securing his first PGA TOUR Champions title since 2021. Durant's steady performance, including a crucial eagle putt at the 11th hole, propelled him to success amidst challenging conditions in Tucson. Cink's unfortunate triple-bogey on the 13th hole led to a dramatic turn of events, allowing Durant to capitalize and secure the win with a composed finish.

Durant's triumph marked his fifth PGA Tour Champions victory, highlighting his consistent play throughout the tournament. The Cologuard Classic, hosted at La Paloma Country Club, featured a competitive field of 78 players vying for a $2.2 million purse, with proceeds supporting colon cancer awareness and youth sports in Tucson. This event showcased golf's finest talents and provided an exciting platform for players to compete at the highest level.

Durant chases down Cink, prevails in Champions

Joe Durant won the Cologuard Classic on the PGA Tour Champions, taking advantage of Stewart Cink's back-nine struggles. Durant finished with a 4-under 67, beating three players by 2 strokes. Cink, who held a 2-stroke lead entering the day, faltered with a triple bogey and two bogeys, finishing tied for seventh. Durant earned his fifth PGA Tour Champions victory and a prize of $330,000.

6 DP World Tour Jonsson Workwear Open

Recap: Matteo Manassero ended his near 11-year wait for a fifth DP World Tour title with an emotional triumph at the Jonsson Workwear Open. He secured a three-stroke victory by shooting an impressive 26 under par over four rounds, earning himself $255,000. This victory marked his first win on the tour in 11 years, making it a significant moment in his golf career. Manassero expressed his joy, calling it the best day of his life on the golf course and reflecting on the challenging journey he has had in the sport.

Matteo Manassero wins DP World Tour title for the first time in 11 years

Matteo Manassero wins the DP World Tour for the first time in 11 years, shooting a final-round 66 to secure a three-shot victory. After a challenging journey, Manassero expressed his happiness and credited his competitors' incredible golf. This win marks a significant milestone for the 30-year-old Italian golfer, who had struggled with his game in recent years.

7 Aramco Team Series Tampa

Recap: At the Aramco Team Series Tampa, Charley Hull took the individual lead with a strong performance. The event also celebrated International Women’s Day 2024 by offering free admission to all women and girls. The tournament features a unique format where three professionals team up with an amateur golfer to compete for $1 million prize funds across three continents.

Alexandra Forsterling Seals Third LET Title With Victory in Tampa

Alexandra Försterling secured a three-shot victory at the Aramco Team Series Presented by PIF - Tampa, winning her third title on the Ladies European Tour (LET). She fired a final round of 67 to finish with a total of -12. Charley Hull finished in second place, while Bronte Law finished in third. With this victory, Försterling has moved into the second automatic spot for the European Team at the 2024 Solheim Cup.

8 Personalities

In dominating at Bay Hill, Scottie Scheffler served notice that he’s nearly unbeatable when his putter catches fire

Scottie Scheffler showcased his dominant putting skills at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, securing his second victory in three years. With a final-round 66, Scheffler demonstrated power, precision, and efficiency, finishing with a five-shot lead over Wyndham Clark. Scheffler's exceptional putting performance, combined with his strong overall game, solidified his position as a top contender in the golfing world.

9 Answer Please

Perhaps PGA Tour Boss Jay Monahan Will Soon Have Answers to Pro Golf's Many Pressing Questions

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan is expected to provide answers to pressing questions in professional golf at the Players Championship. Some of the questions include the impact of recent investments, the status of agreements with organizations like the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, and the potential effects on the overall game. The opinions on these matters vary, and the resolution remains uncertain.

10 Personalities

Tiger Woods Declining to Compete at Players Championship Is a Mystery

Tiger Woods' decision to skip the Players Championship without providing a reason has sparked speculation about his health. It is possible that Woods is being cautious and avoiding overexertion with the Masters approaching. However, there are questions about his withdrawal from the Genesis Invitational and whether there were underlying issues. Woods now faces the challenge of preparing for the Masters after playing only 24 holes of official golf this year.

SHORT TAKES

Is Meredith Scheffler Pregnant? Latest Visuals From Arnold Palmer Invitational Explored

Speculations have arisen about the possibility of Scottie Scheffler's wife, Meredith Scheffler, being pregnant after a video from the Arnold Palmer Invitational showed her with a baby bump. While the couple has not confirmed anything, the video has sparked rumors. Meredith Scheffler is involved in philanthropic work and holds positions in non-profit organizations. The community eagerly awaits confirmation and the arrival of the speculated new addition to the family.

Meet Will Zalatoris's Parents Whose Big Sacrifices Made the PGA Tour Pro's Dream Come True

Will Zalatoris, a professional golfer on the PGA Tour, credits his parents, Richard and Catherine Zalatoris, for their significant sacrifices and support in helping him achieve his dreams. His father introduced him to golf at a young age, while his mother instilled in him the determination to compete. Will's achievements are dedicated to his parents, who continue to provide unwavering support and inspiration as he navigates his evolving career.

WHAT’S IN THE BAG (WITB)

Bailey Tardy WITB: What's in the LPGA Golfer’s bag

Bailey Tardy, winner of the Blue Bay LPGA 2024, relied on a selection of exceptional golf clubs including the Mizuno ST Z driver, JPX923 Hot Metal Pro 3 & 4 irons, and JPX923 Tour 5-9 irons. Tardy's victory showcased her strong form this season.

Winner's Bag: Check out Scottie Scheffler's clubs at Arnold Palmer Invitational

Scottie Scheffler won his sixth PGA TOUR title at the Arnold Palmer Invitational using a TaylorMade Qi10 driver, TaylorMade Qi10 3-wood, Srixon ZU85 and TaylorMade P7TW irons, Titleist Vokey Design SM8 and WedgeWorks Proto wedges, and a TaylorMade Spider Tour X putter. He also used Fujikura and True Temper shafts and Golf Pride Tour Velvet grips.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

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