Planet Golf News for Saturday, June 15, 2024

Aberg takes 1-shot lead into weekend at Pinehurst in US Open debut, Aberg takes 1-shot lead into weekend at Pinehurst in US Open debut, Tiger on if he played his last U.S. Open: 'It may or may not be'

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PGN News Team
June 15, 2024 • Reading Time: 23 minutes

Saturday, June 15, 2024

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Tiger Woods Hints at ‘Last’ U.S. Open After Frustrating Elimination

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

What a whirlwind of a week it’s been at the U.S. Open! The tournament at Pinehurst has been nothing short of thrilling, filled with intense competition, unexpected twists, and some truly memorable moments.

Scottie Scheffler managed to secure his spot for the weekend with a 5-over 145 total, ensuring he'd continue his U.S. Open journey. However, it wasn't smooth sailing for everyone. Tiger Woods, a legend in his own right, missed the cut by just two strokes. It’s a tough pill to swallow for fans and Woods alike, especially considering his illustrious history with the U.S. Open. He candidly expressed uncertainty about his future in the sport, making us all wonder if we might have seen the last of him in this tournament. Alongside Woods, Viktor Hovland and other notable names like Webb Simpson, Gary Woodland, Lucas Glover, and Justin Thomas also missed the cut, highlighting just how challenging Pinehurst can be.

On the other end of the spectrum, Bryson DeChambeau, Tyrrell Hatton, and Sergio Garcia have shown remarkable skill, landing themselves in the top 20 as we head into the weekend. DeChambeau, often dubbed golf's "mad scientist" for his unique approach and physical transformation, is once again making waves and proving to be a formidable contender.

Speaking of contenders, Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg has captured everyone's attention. Leading the pack at five-under, Aberg’s performance is especially impressive given that this is his U.S. Open debut. His rise in the golf world has been meteoric, and his poised performance at Pinehurst suggests he could very well be on his way to his first major title.

But it’s not just the men’s competition that’s been making headlines. Over at the Meijer LPGA Classic, world number one Nelly Korda has unfortunately missed her second consecutive cut. Despite a valiant effort and a solid second round, she fell just one stroke short of advancing. This surprising turn of events has sent shockwaves through the LPGA community, as fans and fellow players alike feel the absence of such a top-tier competitor.

Back to Pinehurst, Rory McIlroy continues to demonstrate his mastery on the course. Despite a challenging second round where he carded a 2-over 72, he remains near the top of the leaderboard. McIlroy’s disciplined play and strategic approach have kept him in contention, showcasing his resilience and skill under pressure.

Francesco Molinari provided one of the most thrilling highlights of the tournament so far with a hole-in-one on the par-3 ninth hole, securing his spot for the weekend. This clutch performance was a crucial moment for Molinari, adding another chapter to his storied career.

The drama and excitement don’t stop there. Tony Finau has leaped into the top five, thanks to a strong back nine and a series of impressive birdies. He now sits at three-under, tied for fifth place, and is definitely a player to watch as the weekend unfolds.

On a lighter note, Tyrrell Hatton has found an unexpected source of comfort amid the tournament’s stress: desserts. Staying at a rental home in Pinehurst, Hatton has been indulging in some sweet treats whipped up by his chef, which seems to be helping him manage the pressures of the U.S. Open quite well.

As we move into the weekend, all eyes will be on the leaders and those who are just a stroke or two behind. The Pinehurst No. 2 course continues to challenge even the best, with its tricky layouts and demanding conditions. The projected cut line was set at +2, pushing players to bring their A-game to stay in the competition.

In the Korn Ferry Tour, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open has also been delivering some stellar golf. Taylor Dickson and Matt Atkins are leading the pack, both finishing at 12-under with remarkable bogey-free rounds. Their performances have set a high bar for the rest of the field, making the upcoming rounds a must-watch.

The U.S. Open has already given us so much to talk about, from Aberg’s stunning debut to Tiger’s uncertain future, and the unpredictable nature of Pinehurst’s challenging course. As we head into the final rounds, golf fans around the world are in for a treat. Whether you're rooting for the established stars or the rising talents, this weekend promises to deliver more unforgettable moments in the world of golf. So, grab your popcorn and settle in, because the U.S. Open at Pinehurst is far from over, and the best is yet to come.

[ Today’s Top Golf Stories ] 

Scottie Scheffler Makes Cut at U.S. Open As Tiger Woods, Viktor Hovland Miss Out

Scottie Scheffler makes the cut at the U.S. Open, while Tiger Woods and Viktor Hovland miss out. Scheffler's 5-over 145 total secured his place for the weekend, while Woods missed the cut by two strokes. Other notable players who missed the cut include Webb Simpson, Gary Woodland, Lucas Glover, and Justin Thomas. Bryson DeChambeau, Tyrrell Hatton, and Sergio Garcia are among the LIV Golf players in the top 20 going into the weekend.

Was this Tiger Woods' last US Open? Legend uncertain about future after missing cut

Tiger Woods expressed uncertainty about his future in golf after missing the cut at the U.S. Open tournament. He mentioned that this may or may not be his last U.S. Open appearance, with only one more tournament scheduled for this season. Woods won the U.S. Open three times in the past.

Pinehurst’s U.S. Open is delivering something golf fans have missed

The U.S. Open at Pinehurst is delivering an exciting and entertaining experience for golf fans. The challenging course and unpredictable outcomes create a thrilling atmosphere. The article highlights memorable moments and emphasizes the importance of variability in golf broadcasts to increase viewership. The author praises the players' ability to handle the highs and lows of the tournament and acknowledges Bryson DeChambeau's role as an entertainer in the sport. Overall, the U.S. Open at Pinehurst offers a unique and rewarding experience for both players and spectators.

World No.1 Nelly Korda Misses Second-Consecutive Cut As Big Names Head Home Early At Meijer LPGA Classic

Nelly Korda, the World No.1, has missed her second consecutive cut at the Meijer LPGA Classic, following her previous cut at the US Women's Open. Other notable players who missed the cut include Mel Reid, Linnea Strom, Emily Kristine Pedersen, Brittany Lang, and Minjee Lee.

Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

The U.S. Open - PGA Tour - Pinehurst, NC

On Friday the U.S. Open at Pinehurst Resort's No. 2 course saw intense competition and notable performances. Ludvig Aberg emerged as the leader, finishing the day at 5-under par, closely followed by Patrick Cantlay, Thomas Detry, and Bryson DeChambeau, each just one shot behind at 4-under. Rory McIlroy, who had co-led after the first round with a bogey-free 65, ended the day at 3-under, tied with Matthieu Pavon and Tyrrell Hatton.

The day was marked by several highlights, including Sepp Straka's hole-in-one on the par-3 ninth hole, a significant recovery after an early triple bogey. Tiger Woods, battling to make the cut, had a mixed round but managed to stay in contention. Bryson DeChambeau showcased his skill with a birdie on the ninth hole and a crucial par save on the eighth, maintaining his position near the top of the leaderboard.

The projected cut line was set at +2, with many players striving to stay above it. Notable performances included Taylor Pendrith and Frankie Capan III, both of whom had strong rounds to move up the leaderboard. Viktor Hovland, however, struggled and was on the verge of missing the cut after a double bogey on the eighth hole.

The Pinehurst No. 2 course, set up at 7,548 yards and playing to a par of 70, proved challenging yet rewarding for those who managed to navigate its intricacies. The course modifications and the hot weather added to the difficulty, but players like McIlroy and Cantlay demonstrated exceptional control and discipline.

Swedish sensation Aberg snares U.S Open halfway lead

Sweden's Ludvig Aberg holds a one-shot lead at the halfway stage of his U.S Open debut, with a score of five-under. Aberg, who turned professional just a year ago, is followed closely by Thomas Detry, Bryson DeChambeau, and Patrick Cantlay. Aberg's impressive start to his professional career includes victories on the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour.

Tour Confidential: The biggest disappointments at the U.S. Open's halfway point

At the halfway point of the U.S. Open, the biggest disappointments include Scottie Scheffler's second-round performance with zero birdies, Brooks Koepka's struggle to make the cut, and the underperformance of several notable golfers sitting at five over par. Additionally, Tiger Woods' missed cut is a major disappointment, as well as Viktor Hovland's poor play despite coming in with momentum from the PGA Championship.

US Open Golf Cut Line 2024: Tiger Woods, Mickelson and Full List of Players Removed

Several notable golfers, including Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, missed the cut for the weekend's action at the 2024 U.S. Open. Ludvig Åberg leads the tournament at five under, while Bryson DeChambeau, Thomas Detry, and Patrick Cantlay are tied for second place at four under. The full list of golfers who missed the cut is provided in the article.

Molinari aces final hole to likely make U.S. Open cut

Francesco Molinari secured his spot in the U.S. Open cut by sinking a hole-in-one on the final hole of the second round. The ace came on the 194-yard, par-3 ninth and saved Molinari's weekend as he was two shots over the projected cut line. This marks the third time he has made the cut in 2024, with his most recent win in 2019 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565972/2024/06/14/francesco-molinari-hole-in-one-us-open

2024 U.S. Open: Rory McIlroy stays disciplined, remains near top of leaderboard despite 72 in Round 2

Despite a 2-over 72 in the second round of the 2024 U.S. Open, Rory McIlroy remains near the top of the leaderboard at 3 under through 36 holes. While facing adversity and not playing his best, McIlroy stayed disciplined and minimized mistakes. He is just two shots behind the 36-hole leader and in a great position going into the weekend.

Bryson DeChambeau: Golf's 'mad scientist' mounting US Open challenge at Pinehurst

Bryson DeChambeau, known as golf's 'mad scientist', is making a strong challenge at the US Open at Pinehurst. After winning the tournament in 2020, DeChambeau has transformed his game and is impressing with his performance and connection with fans. His physical transformation, use of physics-based analysis, and improved play have positioned him as a top contender for a second major title.

‘I putted unreal’: Shane Lowry hopeful of making US Open cut after battling round

Shane Lowry is hopeful of making the cut at the US Open after battling through a round. The article discusses the importance of the bubble economy in Japan's economic history in the 1980s, the Plaza Accord's impact on the Japanese economy, and the changes in Japan's economic policy during that time.

Tony Finau Jumps Into Top Five At 2024 U.S. Open

Tony Finau jumps into the top five at the 2024 U.S. Open, finishing at one under par in round two and moving from tied for 6th to tied for 5th. Finau had a strong back nine, including three birdies, but ended with a bogey on the final hole. He currently sits at -3, tied for 5th place.

U.S. Open Videos

Other U.S. Open News

US Open: 7 big names who missed the cut

Several big names missed the cut at the US Open, including Jon Rahm, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Viktor Hovland, Justin Thomas, Max Homa, Robert MacIntyre, and Dustin Johnson. This marks a disappointing performance for these players in the tournament.

Par-5 fifth gives Big 3 of Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele and Rory McIlroy fits on Friday

During the second round of the 2024 U.S. Open, Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Rory McIlroy struggled on the par-5 fifth hole at Pinehurst. The treacherous back-left hole location and slopes caused difficulties, with all three players finding themselves in challenging positions. Scheffler and Schauffele both recorded double-bogeys, while McIlroy managed to salvage a hard-earned par. The group's struggles highlighted the unpredictable nature of the sandy areas on the course.

2024 U.S. Open takeaways: USGA delivers with Pinehurst setup, Bryson DeChambeau continues major resurgence

The 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst has been praised for its setup and challenging course. Bryson DeChambeau continues to impress, while Ludvig Åberg stands out as a potential winner. Rory McIlroy is playing disciplined golf, and the par-5 5th hole has caused trouble for top players. DeChambeau's equipment and confidence have contributed to his success, and the leaderboard suggests a competitive weekend ahead.

U.S. Open 2024: Tyrrell Hatton reveals how much money he's been fined in his career, and the figure will shock you

Professional golfer Tyrrell Hatton reveals that he has been fined significantly less than expected for his on-course outbursts throughout his career. While the exact amount is undisclosed, Hatton states that it is nowhere near the speculated six-figure sums. This is in contrast to the NBA, where players like Draymond Green have faced substantial fines and suspensions.

This Pinehurst hole location was particularly spicy Friday. What were players saying?

During the second round of the 2024 U.S. Open, the hole location on the par-3 15th at Pinehurst proved to be particularly challenging. Players faced a steep plateau just off the front of the green, with shots that landed short or left rolling back down the false front. Precision was key, as Rory McIlroy and others explained the difficulty of scoring on this hole. The hole played as the third toughest for the day, and the potential for big numbers increased as temperatures rose and the course became firmer.

Hatton finds happy place at U.S. Open but not on course

Tyrrell Hatton finds solace in the desserts whipped up by the chef at his rental home in Pinehurst during the U.S. Open. Despite the internal stress of playing a challenging course, Hatton has managed his emotions well and is in a good position after two rounds, tied for ninth at 1 under. Sergio Garcia also made the cut for the 20th time in his U.S. Open career.

Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give - Belmont, MI

On Friday the second round of the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give took place at Blythefield Country Club in Belmont, Michigan. The tournament, celebrating its 10th anniversary, features a competitive field of 144 players vying for a share of the $3 million purse.

Ally Ewing and Grace Kim are tied for the lead after both shooting a combined score of 133 (-11) over the first two rounds. Ewing posted rounds of 70 and 63, while Kim recorded scores of 68 and 65. Na Rin An and Nanna Koerstz Madsen are tied for third place with scores of 135 (-9). An shot rounds of 67 and 68, and Madsen scored 71 and 64.

Several players are tied at 136 (-8), including Allisen Corpuz, Lauren Hartlage, Brooke Henderson, Jin Hee Im, Jing Yan, and Kristen Gillman. Corpuz and Yan both shot 68 in each round, Hartlage scored 67 and 69, Henderson posted 67 and 69, Im recorded 71 and 65, and Gillman shot 69 and 67.

Other notable scores include Mi Hyang Lee at 139 (-5) with rounds of 73 and 66, and a group of players at 142 (-2), including Caroline Inglis, Moriya Jutanugarn, Ariya Jutanugarn, In-Kyung Kim, Ruixin Liu, Caroline Masson, Azahara Munoz, Hee Young Park, Madelene Sagstrom, Mao Saigo, Sarah Schmelzel, Alena Sharp, Yu Jin Sung, Chanettee Wannasaen, and Xiaowen Yin.

Minjee Lee, a prominent player, struggled with rounds of 72 and 78, finishing at 150 (+6). Other players who faced challenges included Savannah Grewal at 151 (+7), Clariss Guce at 152 (+8), and Dani Holmqvist and Gurleen Kaur, both at 153 (+9).

In the second round Nelly Korda delivered a strong performance, shooting a 67. Despite this effort, she missed the cut by one stroke, finishing at 1 under par overall. Korda's round included birdies on the first three holes and four of the first five, but she also bogeyed the 17th and added two birdies on her final nine holes. Her performance was a significant improvement from her opening round of 4-over 76, but it was not enough to advance to the weekend play.

Ewing, Kim lead by two at LPGA Meijer Classic

Ally Ewing and Grace Kim are tied for the lead at the halfway stage of the LPGA Meijer Classic. Ewing shot a bogey-free 63, while Kim finished with a seven-under-par 65. Ewing, aiming for her third LPGA Tour victory, is carrying confidence from her recent strong performance at the US Women's Open. Nelly Korda, the world number one, missed the cut for the second consecutive tournament.

Nelly Korda misses second straight cut as Ally Ewing, Grace Kim share Meijer LPGA lead

Nelly Korda missed her second straight cut in the Meijer LPGA Classic after a strong rally fell short. Ally Ewing and Grace Kim share the lead at 11-under 133. Korda, despite a better second round, finished one stroke below the cut line.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open - Korn Ferry - Wichita, KS

Friday the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open continued at the Crestview Country Club in Wichita, Kansas. Taylor Dickson and Matt Atkins, both at 12-under, lead the pack with remarkable rounds.

Dickson delivered a flawless 6-under 64, boasting six birdies on four par 4s and two par 5s. This round marks his career-best 36-hole score of 128, surpassing his previous best of 131 at last year's Wichita Open. This is also his first 36-hole lead/co-lead on the Korn Ferry Tour.

Atkins matched Dickson's 6-under 64 with a bogey-free round featuring four birdies and an eagle on the par-5 14th. This is his second 36-hole lead/co-lead since the 2017 DAP Championship. Atkins set a new low 36-hole total score of 128 and has made 160 career starts on the Korn Ferry Tour, with 21 top-25 finishes, including six top-10s and one victory.

Other notable performances include Pontus Nyholm and Korn Ferry Tour rookie Marcus Byrd, both tied for third at 11-under. Nyholm recorded a bogey-free 8-under 62, tying his career-low round, while Byrd followed his first-round 63 with a 4-under 66. Wichita native Sam Stevens, also tied for third at 11-under, shot a 7-under 63 with nine birdies and one double bogey.

Taylor Dickson, Matt Atkins share lead at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open

Taylor Dickson and Matt Atkins share the lead at the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open on the Korn Ferry Tour. Both players shot matching bogey-free 64s to finish the second round at 12-under par. Wichita native Sam Stevens is one shot off the lead with 16 total birdies. Pontus Nyholm recorded the low round of the day with a bogey-free 8-under 62.

Today’s Best Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

2024 U.S. Open: Ludvig Aberg's golf equipment at Pinehurst

Ludvig Aberg is using Titleist TSR2 driver, TaylorMade Stealth 2 fairway woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Design SM10 wedges, Odyssey White Hot Versa #1 putter, and Titleist Pro V1x ball at the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2.

2024 U.S. Open: Patrick Cantlay's golf equipment at Pinehurst

Patrick Cantlay's golf equipment at the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 includes a Titleist GT2 driver, Titleist TSR2+ and TS2 fairway woods, Titleist 718 AP2 irons, Titleist Vokey Design SM7 and SM9 wedges, Scotty Cameron Phantom X5 putter, and Titleist Pro V1x golf balls.

Overheard in the Club House

Inside the wildest, luckiest behind-the-scenes fan experience at the US Open

The author recounts his incredible behind-the-scenes experience at the 2014 US Open at Pinehurst No. 2. From illegally camping near the course to staying at Jack Nicklaus' holiday house, the author and his friend went from rags to riches. They also gained all-access credentials and enjoyed the players' lounge, rubbing shoulders with professional golfers like Rickie Fowler and Matt Fitzpatrick. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that the author will never forget.

Do Pros Watch The Golf On TV Before They Play? McIlroy And DeChambeau Have Very Contrasting Views

Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau have contrasting views on watching golf on TV before they play. McIlroy prefers not to watch, as he believes it can affect his own game, while DeChambeau finds it helpful for gaining insights and information. Both players are performing well in the U.S. Open tournament.

Additional U.S. Open Videos

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

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Latest FedExCup Standings

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UPCOMING TOURS

PGA TOUR Schedule 2024

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

LIV Golf Schedule 2024

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

LPGA Tour Schedule 2024

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

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