Planet Golf News for Thursday, August 22, 2024

Lexi Thompson "content" with retirement decision, Wyndham Clark's long winding road to playing a home game at the BMW Championship

Thursday, August 22, 2024

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Some math required: Castle Pines, at 6,200 feet, presents a unique challenge in determining club selection

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

This week's golf scene is buzzing with excitement and emotions, as both the AIG Women’s Open and the BMW Championship bring unique stories to the forefront. Lexi Thompson's potential retirement was a central focus at the AIG Women’s Open at St. Andrews yesterday. Her decision to step away from professional golf seems to have brought her peace, and she remains optimistic about ending her career on a high note. Despite facing challenges like high winds at the Old Course, Thompson and other top players like Nelly Korda and Lydia Ko are ready to take on the iconic links, even as they balance the emotional and physical toll of a grueling LPGA season.

Meanwhile, the BMW Championship at Castle Pines has golfers dealing with a different kind of challenge: altitude. The Colorado course's high elevation not only allows players to hit the ball farther but also complicates shot control. Rory McIlroy took full advantage of this, blasting drives over the range net and showcasing his powerful game. Wyndham Clark's homecoming to Colorado adds a personal touch to the competition, as he reflects on his journey from a young golf enthusiast to the 2023 U.S. Open champion. With top names like Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele drawing significant betting attention, the competition is fierce as players vie for a spot in the Tour Championship.

In other news, Catriona Matthew is bidding farewell to major competition at the AIG Women’s Open. The 55-year-old veteran, who famously won the championship in 2009 just months after giving birth, plans to make the most of her final appearance at St. Andrews. This week also highlights the continuing evolution of women’s golf, with a prize fund of $9 million and a renewed focus on growing the game. New initiatives, like Adidas' collaboration with JAY3LLE, are making a splash in the fashion world, bringing a modern, energetic vibe to the sport.

Back in the States, the Korn Ferry Tour Finals kick off with the Albertsons Boise Open, where veterans like Tag Ridings and Spencer Levin are fighting for their PGA TOUR cards. It's a mix of youthful energy and seasoned experience, as these players navigate the intense pressure of the Finals.

All of this action leads up to the highly anticipated Solheim Cup, with St. Andrews providing one final opportunity for players to qualify. With double points on the line, it’s crunch time for those hoping to represent their country in one of golf's most prestigious team events.

From Thompson’s reflective stance at St. Andrews to McIlroy’s altitude-driven power plays in Colorado, this week in golf is a blend of nostalgia, excitement, and fierce competition, making it an unforgettable moment for players and fans alike.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

[ Today’s Feature Golf Reads ] 

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

BMW Championship - PGA - Castle Pines Golf Club - Castle Rock, CO

The BMW Championship returns to Castle Pines Golf Club in Colorado, featuring the top 50 players on the PGA TOUR competing for the FedExCup Trophy. The event includes the Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am, supporting the Evans Scholars Foundation, which provides scholarships to young caddies. BMW will award a scholarship for a hole-in-one and a car for an ace on a designated hole. Fans can enjoy various interactive experiences, including the BMW Owners' Pavilion and the BMW Experience. The tournament has raised over $50 million for the Evans Scholars Foundation since 2007.

BMW Championship Videos

AIG Women’s Open - LPGA - St. Andrews Links (Old Course) - St. Andrews, Scotland

The AIG Women’s Open, the final women's Major of the season, will take place at the historic Old Course in St Andrews, marking its third visit. The tournament has evolved since its inception in 1976, gaining prestige through partnerships and increased prize money, with this year's total fund at $9 million. Defending champion Lilia Vu and top contenders like Nelly Korda and Charley Hull are set to compete. The event promises a festival atmosphere with entertainment and activities for fans, aiming to elevate women's golf and attract new audiences.

AIG Women’s Open Videos

The Ally Challenge - PGA Tour Champions - Warwick Hills G&CC - Grand Blanc, MI

Danish Golf Championship - DP World - Lubker Golf Resort - Aarhus, Denmark

Albertsons Boise Open pres. by Chevron - Korn Ferry - Hillcrest Country Club - Boise, ID

Upcoming: Solheim Cup (9/13-9/15)

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Overheard in the Club House

UPCOMING TOURS

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