Planet Golf News for Sunday, June 9, 2024

Scheffler builds a 4-shot lead at Memorial even with a triple bogey, Jenny Shin takes 1-shot lead into final round of ShopRite LPGA Classic, seeking 1st win since 2016

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PGN News Team
June 09, 2024

Sunday, June 9, 2024

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Scheffler builds a 4-shot lead at Memorial even with a triple bogey

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

In a week filled with drama, triumphs, and anticipation, the golf world witnessed several significant developments. Jon Rahm's upcoming US Open prospects are now in doubt due to a foot injury that forced him to withdraw from the LIV Golf Houston event. This unexpected turn of events not only casts a shadow over his participation in the US Open but also breaks his impressive streak of seven consecutive top-10 finishes since joining the LIV circuit.

Meanwhile, LPGA star Nasa Hataoka faced an unfortunate disqualification at the ShopRite LPGA Classic. Despite an outstanding first-round score of 65, her ball was found after the three-minute search limit, leading to an incorrect scorecard and ultimately her disqualification. This incident underscores the strict adherence to rules that can dramatically impact a player's standing.

In tournament news, Scottie Scheffler continues to dominate at the Memorial Tournament in Dublin, Ohio, holding a four-shot lead heading into the final round. Despite a triple-bogey on the ninth hole, Scheffler quickly recovered, showcasing his resilience and exceptional form. His competitors, including Collin Morikawa and Sepp Straka, acknowledge the challenge of overcoming his lead, especially with the added difficulty of the Muirfield Village Golf Club.

At the ShopRite LPGA Classic, Jenny Shin leads the tournament, holding a one-shot advantage over Albane Valenzuela after the second round. Shin's consistent play positions her well for her first victory since 2016. The disqualification of Nasa Hataoka earlier in the tournament remains a significant talking point, highlighting the critical nature of rule adherence in professional golf.

The LIV Golf Houston event is heading into an exciting final round with a four-way tie for the lead. David Puig, alongside Caleb Surratt, Dustin Johnson, and Brooks Koepka, is at the top of the leaderboard. With marquee names like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm not making significant moves, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion.

Jerry Kelly leads the American Family Insurance Championship after a stellar second round. Defending champion Steve Stricker trails by two shots, and Ernie Els is also in contention. The event promises an exciting finish, especially with the tournament set to move to a new venue next year.

In the BMW Charity Pro-Am, Austin Greaser surged into the lead with a superb 63. The leaderboard remains tight, with former NFL quarterback Vince Young leading the celebrity field. The final round promises to be captivating with such a diverse mix of competitors.

Sebastian Soderberg holds a commanding lead in the Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed tournament. His consistent performance puts him eight shots ahead of his closest competitor, setting up what looks to be a comfortable path to victory in the final round.

On the PGA Tour front, negotiations with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia are reportedly making headway, though specific details remain under wraps. These discussions are crucial for the global expansion of golf and aim to address various complex issues concerning players, fans, and the sport's future direction. At the same time, PGA Tour players are voicing their displeasure with the current structure of signature events. They cite limited field sizes, minimal exemptions, and inflated points, arguing that these issues hinder the emergence of new stars and conflict with the sport's traditional values. Suggestions for improvement include expanding field sizes and rethinking the points system.

As the US Open at Pinehurst No. 2 approaches, golf fans are reminded of the historic moments the course has hosted, including Payne Stewart's iconic 1999 victory. This year, the tournament carries the added weight of Stewart's legacy, as the golfing world prepares for another memorable championship.

[ Today’s Top Stories ] 

Jon Rahm's US Open Hopes Thrown Into Doubt After LIV Golf Houston Withdrawal

Jon Rahm's hopes for the US Open are in doubt after withdrawing from the LIV Golf Houston event due to a foot injury. This raises questions about his participation in the upcoming US Open, where he is considered a favorite. Rahm's withdrawal also ends his streak of seven consecutive top-10 finishes since joining the circuit.

LPGA star DQ'd after taking too much time to find her ball

Nasa Hataoka, a six-time LPGA winner, was disqualified from the ShopRite LPGA Classic for taking too much time to find her ball on her last hole of the first round and signing an incorrect scorecard. Despite an impressive round of 65, Hataoka's ball was found after the three-minute search limit, resulting in a stroke-and-distance penalty and disqualification.

PGA Tour officials say ‘progress was made’ in NYC meeting with PIF governor but still no specifics revealed

PGA Tour officials report progress in their meeting with the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, but no specific details about a possible deal were revealed. The negotiations have been ongoing for several months, and representatives from both sides have been meeting regularly to work through potential deal terms. The discussions involve complex considerations to position golf for global growth, taking into account the players, fans, partners, and the future of the game.

'We have a commissioner who is a chicken s---': How the rank-and-file feel about signature events

PGA Tour players express frustration with the signature event structure, citing smaller fields, limited exemptions, and inflated points as issues. They argue that the events make it difficult for new stars to emerge and go against the principles of the game. Some players suggest expanding field sizes and reevaluating the points system to incentivize top players and provide opportunities for Korn Ferry Tour and Q-School graduates.

Golf Tournaments happening this weekend

The Memorial Tournament pres. by Workday - PGA Tour - Dublin, OH

On Saturday at the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday in Dublin, Ohio, Scottie Scheffler maintained his lead heading into the final round. Scheffler, the world's top golfer, is four shots ahead of his closest competitors: Collin Morikawa, Sepp Straka, and Adam Hadwin. Despite the significant gap, these challengers acknowledge the difficulty of catching up to Scheffler, who is in exceptional form, having not finished outside the top 10 in his last 10 tournaments and aiming for his fifth victory in his last eight events.

During the round, Hadwin, who was Scheffler's playing partner, briefly tied for the lead after Scheffler triple-bogeyed the ninth hole. However, Scheffler quickly regained his composure, securing birdies on two of the next three holes, while Hadwin faltered with a double-bogey on the 14th, finishing the day with an even-par 72. Morikawa and Straka, both tied for second, recognize the challenge ahead, especially given Scheffler's consistent performance and the demanding nature of Muirfield Village Golf Club, which punishes overaggressive play.

The wind, which is expected to pick up today, could be a factor, adding another layer of difficulty for those trying to catch Scheffler. Hadwin, reflecting on his experience playing alongside Scheffler, noted the exceptional quality of Scheffler's play and expressed a mix of hope and realism about the chances of overcoming the four-shot deficit. Morikawa echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for a strong performance while acknowledging the course's potential to penalize mistakes.

Overall, the day was marked by Scheffler's resilience and the formidable challenge he poses to his rivals, who must balance aggressive play with the course's inherent risks if they hope to close the gap in the final round.

Dominant Scottie Scheffler leads by four at the Memorial

Scottie Scheffler holds a commanding four-shot lead heading into the final round of the Memorial Tournament. He is aiming for his fifth title in his last eight tournaments and his 11th career title on the PGA Tour. Scheffler had a remarkable third round, including a triple-bogey on the 9th hole, but recovered with birdies to secure his lead. Adam Hadwin, Collin Morikawa, and Sepp Straka are tied for second place.

Is Scottie Scheffler's Memorial lead insurmountable? Here's what his challengers said:

Scottie Scheffler holds a significant lead in the Memorial Tournament, with Collin Morikawa, Sepp Straka, and Adam Hadwin tied for second place. While the gap is not insurmountable against any other leader, Scheffler's dominant performance and consistent top finishes make it challenging for his challengers to catch up. The competitors acknowledge the difficulty of surpassing Scheffler and hope for a chance if he falters. Muirfield Village Golf Club's punishing nature and potential windy conditions add further challenges to the final round.

Collin Morikawa Back in Contention at Memorial Tournament

Collin Morikawa has bounced back in the Memorial Tournament, shooting a bogey-free 4-under 68 in the third round. After a rocky second round, Morikawa regained his focus and finds himself in contention at 6-under, four shots behind leader Scottie Scheffler. With consistent performances in recent big events, Morikawa is aiming for a strong finish on Sunday.

Shane Lowry Flips Script at Memorial After Nearly Missing Cut

Shane Lowry defied expectations by shooting two-under on the back nine to make the cut at the Memorial Tournament. He followed it up with a strong performance on Saturday, including two hole-outs from the fairway. Lowry's confidence has grown heading into the U.S. Open next week.

ShopRite LPGA Classic pres. by Acer - Galloway, NJ

Today, Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by Acer in Galloway, NJ, Jenny Shin emerged as the leader, holding a one-shot advantage over Albane Valenzuela after the second round. Shin's performance has been notable as she seeks her first victory since 2016. Her consistent play has positioned her at the top of the leaderboard, setting the stage for an exciting final round. Valenzuela, close on her heels, remains a strong contender, making the competition tight and the outcome uncertain as they head into the final day of the tournament.

One major challenge faced by the players at the ShopRite LPGA Classic today was Nasa Hataoka's disqualification after the first round.

Hataoka, who had shot an impressive 6-under 65 to tie for fourth place, was disqualified after tournament officials reviewed video footage showing she had exceeded the three-minute time limit for searching for her lost ball on the 9th hole. Instead of taking her next shot from the same spot as her previous one as per the rules, Hataoka played from where she eventually found the ball, violating Rule 14.7. This breach was deemed a serious offense warranting disqualification since playing from the wrong spot could have given her a significant advantage.

Jenny Shin takes 1-shot lead into final round of ShopRite LPGA Classic, seeking 1st win since 2016

Jenny Shin holds a one-shot lead heading into the final round of the ShopRite LPGA Classic, aiming for her first win since 2016. Shin shot a 2-under 69 in challenging conditions, while Albane Valenzuela sits in second place. Several players are within striking distance, making for an exciting final round.

After birdie run, Khang excited to be contending again

Megan Khang is excited to be contending again in the ShopRite LPGA Classic. After a strong performance with consecutive birdies, she has put herself in a position to potentially win the tournament. Khang, who struggled with a back injury this year, is also aiming to qualify for the Olympic games in Paris. However, she will need to focus on the present and perform well in order to have a chance at victory.

After posting her best round in years, Brittany Lincicome credited this putter

Brittany Lincicome credited a new putter for her lowest round in years at the ShopRite LPGA Classic. The Odyssey Jailbird putter, with its vertical stripes and consistent ball speeds, helped Lincicome sink putts from all distances. She expressed optimism for the upcoming rounds and attributed the switch to the putter as a much-needed change to improve her game.

LIV Golf - Houston

The LIV Golf Houston event on Saturday witnessed an exciting day of action with a four-way tie for the lead. David Puig of Spain carded an impressive 6-under 66 to join Caleb Surratt, Dustin Johnson, and Brooks Koepka at the top of the leaderboard. Surratt, a newcomer to the professional ranks, showcased his resilience by overcoming the initial distractions and noise surrounding his decision to join LIV Golf.

On the team front, the Cleeks GC surged to the top of the leaderboard, capitalizing on the strong performances of their players. The tournament's marquee names, such as Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, failed to make significant moves, leaving the door open for others to seize the spotlight.

As the tournament heads into the final round on Sunday, the stage is set for an enthralling conclusion, with the top players vying for the $25 million grand prize and the opportunity to etch their names in LIV Golf history.

David Puig part of 4-way tie for lead in LIV Golf Houston

David Puig of Spain joins a four-way tie for the lead in the LIV Golf Houston tournament after shooting a 6-under 66. Jon Rahm withdrew from the tournament due to an infected left foot. Puig, along with Carlos Ortiz, Adrian Meronk, and Paul Casey, will be competing for their first LIV Golf title in the final round.

Louis Oosthuizen Replaced For Round 2 Of LIV Golf Houston Following Injury

Louis Oosthuizen has been replaced by Wade Ormsby at LIV Golf Houston after withdrawing due to injury before the second round. Oosthuizen, who had a strong season, cited lower back issues as the reason for his withdrawal. Ormsby, a reserve player, will join Stinger GC in the remaining rounds of the tournament.

Brooks Koepka had a rules discussion at LIV Golf Houston 2024 — with Patrick Reed

During the LIV Golf Houston event, Brooks Koepka had a rules discussion with Patrick Reed after hitting his ball into the water. Reed, known for previous rules incidents, helped Koepka determine where to drop the ball. Koepka finished the opening round at 2 under, five strokes behind the leaders.

American Family Insurance Championship - PGA Tour Champions - Madison, WI

The second round of the American Family Insurance Championship took place at the University Ridge Golf Course in Madison on Saturday. The day started with overcast skies but cleared up nicely as the round progressed. Defending champion Steve Stricker got off to a hot start, making birdies on three of his first five holes to move to the top of the leaderboard at 8-under par for the tournament. However, Stricker's putter went cold on the back nine and he had to settle for an even-par 72, leaving him two shots behind the leader Jerry Kelly heading into Sunday's final round.

Kelly, a Wisconsin native like Stricker, fired a 6-under 66 in the second round to take the 36-hole lead at 10-under par. Kelly made seven birdies against just one bogey to grab a two-shot advantage over Stricker and Ernie Els, who shot 68 on Saturday. Els is seeking his first win on the PGA Tour Champions after a stellar career that included four major championships on the PGA Tour.

Another storyline on Saturday was the charge up the leaderboard by fan favorite Fred Couples. The 63-year-old Couples, the 2017 AmFam Championship winner, posted a 5-under 67 to move into a tie for fourth place at 7-under par for the tournament. Couples made six birdies during his round, including four in a six-hole stretch on the back nine, to delight the large gallery following him.

With the tournament moving to Steve Stricker's newly redesigned TPC Wisconsin course in 2025, this was the penultimate round at the University Ridge layout that has hosted the event since its inception in 2016. The par-72 course was in immaculate condition and provided a stiff test, especially on the difficult par-4 18th hole that played into the wind.

Sunday's Final Round

Heading into Sunday's final round, Jerry Kelly held a two-shot lead over Steve Stricker and Ernie Els at 10-under and 8-under par, respectively. Fred Couples and three others were tied for fourth at 7-under, setting up an exciting finale to the 2024 American Family Insurance Championship.

Steve Stricker catches fire on back nine, eyes back-to-back American Family Insurance Championships

The homestretch was kind to Madison resident Steve Stricker at the American Family Insurance Championship. Here's a look at how he fared in the second round.

How wild shot boosted Jerry Kelly to contention at American Family Insurance Championship

Jerry Kelly, battling rheumatoid arthritis and lacking his usual energy, made a remarkable shot during the American Family Insurance Championship, sinking an eagle on the 15th hole with a 52-degree wedge. Despite his physical challenges, Kelly is currently tied for third place and aiming to finish strong in the tournament.

BMW Charity Pro-Am pres. by TD SYNNEX - Korn Ferry - Greer, SC

The third round witnessed an enthralling leaderboard battle. Austin Greaser, a recent standout from the PGA TOUR University Ranking, surged into the lead with a blistering 63, propelling him to the top at 16-under par. Hot on his heels was Michael Arnaud, the 2018 champion, who carded a 65 to sit one shot back at 15-under. The seasoned campaigner Jonathan Byrd, a former winner in 2001, remained in contention at 13-under par after a solid 67.

The celebrity competition added an extra layer of excitement to the proceedings. Former NFL quarterback Vince Young showcased his golfing prowess, leading the celebrity field at 10-under par. Young's impressive performance kept him ahead of American Idol winner Phillip Phillips, who trailed by two strokes at 8-under. The star-studded leaderboard promised a thrilling finale on Sunday.

As the sun set on Saturday's action, the stage was set for an exhilarating final round. With the leaderboard tightly bunched and the amateur and celebrity competitions adding intrigue, the BMW Charity Pro-Am promised a memorable conclusion today.

Ryan Gerard vaults to lead at BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX with Saturday 63

Ryan Gerard takes the lead at the BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by TD SYNNEX with a strong performance on Saturday. Gerard expresses his goal of returning to the PGA TOUR and emphasizes the importance of staying focused on one shot at a time.

Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed - DP World -Heisingborg, Sweden

On Saturday the third round of the Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed took place at Vasatorps Golfklubb in Helsingborg, Sweden. The unique co-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour and Ladies European Tour saw the men and women competing on the same course for one prize fund and trophy.

The leaderboard underwent a significant reshuffle as Rasmus Hojgaard, the pre-tournament favorite, surged into the lead with a brilliant 7-under 65. The young Dane's impressive ball-striking and clutch putting propelled him to the top of the leaderboard at 15-under par. Hojgaard's closest challenger was Sweden's own Linn Grant, the 2022 champion, who carded a 4-under 68 to sit two shots back at 13-under.

Grant's fellow Swedes also kept their hopes alive for a home victory. Sebastian Soderberg fired a 5-under 67 to move into a tie for third place at 12-under par, alongside England's Dale Whitnell, the defending champion. Soderberg's consistent play and Whitnell's gritty determination set the stage for an exciting final round.

One of the day's standout performances came from Vincent Normann, who carded a blistering 8-under 64, the low round of the day. The Swede's impressive display vaulted him into contention at 11-under par, just four shots off the lead. Normann's accurate driving and precise iron play had the home crowd buzzing with anticipation.

While the men dominated the leaderboard, several women remained in striking distance. Denmark's Emily Kristine Pedersen and Spain's Carlota Ciganda both shot 3-under 69s to sit tied for sixth at 10-under par. Their consistent play kept them within reach of the leaders, setting up an intriguing final round battle.

Soderberg romping home in Scandinavian mixed event

Sebastian Soderberg holds a commanding eight-shot lead heading into the final round of the Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed golf tournament. The 33-year-old Swede aims to secure his first DP World Tour win since 2019 after a strong performance, shooting rounds of 63, 66, and 66 to reach 21 under par. Scotland's Calum Hill is his closest competitor at 13 under, while England's Alice Hewson leads the Ladies European Tour players at 12 under.

Couple Paired Together For Final Round Of Scandinavian Mixed

In the final round of the Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed golf tournament, LET star Olivia Cowan and DP World Tour pro Todd Clements, who are in a relationship, have been paired together. They are currently tied at T50 after the third round. While their chances of winning are slim, the tournament has seen other couples competing as well. Sebastian Soderberg is leading the leaderboard with a significant advantage.

Today’s Best Videos

Upcoming: U.S. Open

US OPEN '24: A capsule look at major golf events at Pinehurst No. 2

A capsule look at the major golf events held at Pinehurst No. 2 in Pinehurst, North Carolina, including the 1936 PGA Championship won by Denny Shute, the 1951 Ryder Cup won by the United States, the 1999 U.S. Open won by Payne Stewart, the 2005 U.S. Open won by Michael Campbell, the 2014 U.S. Open won by Martin Kaymer, and the 2014 U.S. Women's Open won by Michelle Wie.

US OPEN '24: Payne Stewart indelibly linked to Pinehurst

Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina holds a significant place in golf history, including Payne Stewart's iconic victory in the 1999 U.S. Open. As the 25th anniversary of his win approaches, Stewart's family reflects on his legacy and the emotional connection they have with Pinehurst. The USGA has relocated the statue of Stewart to a more accessible location for spectators during the U.S. Open, and various events and ceremonies are planned to honor him. Stewart's impact extends beyond his on-course achievements, with the Payne Stewart Family Foundation and the Payne Stewart Award recognizing his contributions to the community and the sport.

Overheard in the Club House

Viktor Hovland FaceTimed his swing coach to earn an instant result at the 2024 Memorial Round 2

Viktor Hovland face-timed his swing coach after the first round of the 2024 Memorial Tournament, leading to an instant improvement in his performance. He made a comeback in round two, finishing with a score of -3 and remaining T2 going into the weekend. Hovland is the defending champion and is aiming to retain the trophy.

Rose Zhang talks LPGA success, U.S. Open stumble, Olympics hope in exclusive Q&A

Rose Zhang discusses her recent successes, challenges, and future plans in an exclusive interview. She reflects on her recent LPGA wins, her struggles at the U.S. Women's Open, and her aspirations for the upcoming KPMG Women's PGA Championship and the Olympics. Zhang also shares insights on her game, the courses she will be playing, and her balancing act between golf and academics at Stanford.

Golfer hits shot into 18th green at St. Andrews from a street over, St. Andrews Link Trust releases statement

A video has gone viral on social media showing an unidentified person hitting a golf ball from a street corner near The Dunvegan Bar, about 100 yards away from the closing green at St. Andrews. The St. Andrews Links Trust released a statement calling it an irresponsible and reckless act and discouraging others from repeating it.

The Memorial: Viktor Hovland, Jason Day highlight 5 of the best PGA Tour outfits we love

This article highlights five PGA Tour outfits that stood out at The Memorial tournament. The rankings are based on factors such as fit, coloring, attention to detail, and risk level. The top outfits include those worn by Mackenzie Hughes, Ludvig Åberg, Justin Thomas, Viktor Hovland, and Jason Day, with Day's Friday outfit being the favorite. Fashion in golf continues to generate discussions and opinions among fans.

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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