Planet Golf News for Saturday, May 11, 2024

Xander Schauffele opens up four-shot lead on Rory McIlroy at Wells Fargo, Korda shoots 66 to keep bid alive for 6th straight LPGA Tour win. She trails Zhang, Sagstom by 4

Saturday, May 11, 2024

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Rose Zhang continues hot play at 2024 Cognizant Founders Cup in search of second LPGA win

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

In the dynamic world of professional golf, Friday was bustling with intriguing developments, captivating performances, and a few off-the-course dramas that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Firstly, the PGA Tour sponsor RBC aired its frustrations about the state of men's professional golf, highlighting the need for unity and direction amid ongoing challenges. This call for stability reflects a broader sentiment that resonates across the sport's landscape, underscoring the importance of fan and player satisfaction for the success of golf.

Amidst these broader discussions, the camaraderie among top players remains complex but solid. Rory McIlroy clarified that despite some disagreements with Tiger Woods concerning the future of golf and Saudi investments, their friendship remains strong. These professional nuances only add layers to their legendary status and the narratives that fans follow.

On the course, the Wells Fargo Championship has been nothing short of thrilling. Xander Schauffele has taken a remarkable four-shot lead, showcasing his formidable skill and setting the stage for an exciting finish at the challenging Quail Hollow Club. Rory McIlroy and Jason Day are not far behind, keeping the pressure on and setting up what promises to be a gripping weekend of golf.

Meanwhile, at the Cognizant Founders Cup, the LPGA Tour is witnessing stellar performances, particularly from Rose Zhang, who tied the tournament record and led alongside Madelene Sagstrom. Nelly Korda, chasing a historic sixth consecutive LPGA win, remains a significant storyline as she competes fiercely against a talented field.

Concurrently, the Myrtle Beach Classic is showcasing the talents of up-and-comers and seasoned pros alike, with Chris Gotterup leading after a series of impressive birdies. This event, despite being held opposite the Wells Fargo Championship, has its own drama and excitement, highlighting golf's depth and the unpredictable nature of the sport.

Amid these competitive battles, off-the-course features continue to captivate audiences. From Jason Day's questionable fashion choices at Wells Fargo to the vibrant life inside Cobra’s Tour truck, there's always something more to discuss in the golfing world. Plus, with legends like Steve Stricker aiming for a three-peat at the Regions Tradition, the PGA Tour Champions is also full of compelling stories.

All these elements combine to make golf not just a series of tournaments, but a continuous narrative of resilience, strategy, and, occasionally, controversy.

[ Today’s Top Stories ] 

Golf Tournaments happening this week

Wells Fargo Championship - Charlotte, NC

Friday at the 2024 Wells Fargo Championship, Xander Schauffele maintained his lead, finishing the day at 11-under par after shooting a 4-under 67 in the second round. He holds a four-shot lead over Rory McIlroy and Jason Day, who are tied for second place at 7-under par. Both McIlroy and Day also shot a 67 in the second round. Other notable players include Taylor Moore and Sungjae Im, who are tied at 6-under, trailing Schauffele by five strokes.

The final pairing for Saturday's third round featured Schauffele and McIlroy, teeing off at 1:35 PM ET. Jason Day and Taylor Moore were in the penultimate group, starting at 1:25 PM ET. Television coverage of the event began at 1 PM ET on Golf Channel/Peacock, with CBS taking over at 3 PM ET.

Schauffele is in a strong position but faces significant competition from seasoned major champions like McIlroy and Day. The challenging Quail Hollow course can lead to rapid changes in the leaderboard, making the upcoming rounds critical for all contenders, especially with the PGA Championship just around the corner.

Cognizant Founders Cup - Clifton, NJ

Friday at the 2024 Cognizant Founders Cup, Rose Zhang delivered an impressive performance by tying the tournament record with a 9-under 63, placing her two shots ahead of the field. This score represents a new career-low round for Zhang on the LPGA Tour, surpassing her previous best of 65.

Nelly Korda, who is in pursuit of a record sixth consecutive LPGA victory, opened with a solid 3-under 69. Her round included four birdies and one bogey. Korda is the only player since 1978 to win five straight LPGA events, a record she shares with legends Annika Sorenstam and Nancy Lopez. A victory this week would set her apart as the sole record holder.

Madelene Sagstrom also made headlines by shooting a 7-under 65 in the morning, setting a strong pace before Zhang's remarkable afternoon performance.

Myrtle Beach Classic - Myrtle Beach, SC

Friday at the Myrtle Beach Classic in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the tournament saw a continuation of exciting golf action. As the second round got underway, Beau Hossler and Robert MacIntyre were leading the pack, each at 7-under par after the first round. They were closely followed by Davis Thompson and Alejandro Tosti, who were just one shot off the lead at 6-under. Overall, 21 players were within three shots of the lead, making for a competitive leaderboard. At the end of the day, however, Chris Gotterup was leading the Myrtle Beach Classic after he birdied six of his last eight holes, including four straight to close out his round of 64.

Regions Tradition - Birmingham, AL

Steve Stricker, winner of three of the last four Regions Traditions, holds the lead heading into the weekend at -12. He shot a 7-under-par 65 in the second round, matching the lowest single-round score of the week. Ernie Els is one shot behind Stricker at -11, with five other golfers within four shots. A total of 47 players are under par through 36 holes.

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UPCOMING TOURS

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