Planet Golf News for Thursday, June 27, 2024

Tom Kim, Akshay Bhatia popular picks ahead of Rocket Mortgage Classic, Senior golfers are grateful to get a second shot at Newport after the 2020 Open was canceled

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PGN News Team
June 27, 2024 • Reading Time: 20 minutes

Thursday, June 27, 2024

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Rickie Fowler's six-word response to LIV Golf speaks volumes

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

The world of golf is buzzing with activity and major developments this week.

The sudden resignation of PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh has sparked widespread speculation and calls for broader changes in the sport's leadership. Waugh, who oversaw notable advancements including increased golf participation and the relocation of the PGA's headquarters to Texas, will be succeeded by Chief Championships Officer Kerry Haigh on an interim basis. As Waugh steps into a senior advisory role, the future direction of professional golf seems poised for potential shifts, with fans expressing dissatisfaction with current PGA Tour CEO Jay Monahan.

In an unexpected turn of events, LIV Golf has lost its streaming partner, Caffeine TV, halfway through its inaugural season due to financial struggles. With no paid streaming rights partner in the U.S., LIV Golf is pivoting to its direct-to-consumer platforms on YouTube and its app, underscoring the ongoing challenges in securing lucrative media deals.

The PGA Tour is set to showcase its talent at the Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit, Michigan. Defending champion Rickie Fowler, despite recent struggles with his putting game, is back to defend his title. The field features strong contenders like Tom Kim, Cameron Young, and Akshay Bhatia, all aiming to make their mark. Notably, 15-year-old Miles Russell, the top-ranked junior golfer, will be making his PGA Tour debut, adding a touch of excitement and youthful energy to the event.

On the LPGA front, the Dow Championship kicks off at Midland Country Club in Michigan. This unique team event, featuring 72 pairs competing in alternating formats, promises thrilling action. Defending champions Elizabeth Szokol and Cheyenne Knight are back, alongside high-profile duos like Lexi Thompson and Brooke Henderson. Rising star Rose Zhang will pair up with Alexa Pano, while seasoned players Lydia Ko and Danielle Kang reunite, ensuring a blend of fresh talent and veteran prowess.

The U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club in Rhode Island is another highlight this week. Defending champion Bernhard Langer is determined to retain his title despite an Achilles injury. The event, rich in history and nostalgia, will see senior golfers, including Ernie Els and Steve Stricker, battling for glory. The challenging weather conditions, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, add an unpredictable element to the competition.

Across the Atlantic, the Italian Open, part of the DP World Tour, tees off at the Adriatic Golf Club in Italy. The tournament features a strong field with notable players like Patrick Reed and home favorites Guido Migliozzi and Matteo Manassero. With a substantial prize fund and a challenging new venue, the competition is set to be fierce.

Meanwhile, the Korn Ferry Tour's Memorial Health Championship in Springfield, Illinois, showcases upcoming talents and seasoned pros. Past champions like Paul Haley II and Brett Drewitt are back, while rising stars like Jackson Buchanan, making his tour debut, add to the excitement.

In equipment news, Ping is launching a no-cost exchange program for its G430 Max 10K HL driver, addressing misconceptions about its MOI rating. This move aims to enhance customer satisfaction and maintain the brand’s reputation for quality and performance.

The golf community also sees some nostalgic returns and new ambitions. NBC Sports broadcaster Gary Koch is making a comeback to competitive golf at the U.S. Senior Open.

Overall, this weekend promises to be a thrilling chapter in the golf world, with significant tournaments, emerging talents, and pivotal leadership changes shaping the future of the sport. Whether you're following the Rocket Mortgage Classic, the Dow Championship, or any of the other exciting events, there's plenty of action and stories to keep golf enthusiasts engaged.

[ Today’s Top Golf Stories ] 

Jay Monahan Dragged Into Shock PGA of America Exit as Resignation Calls Get Louder: ’Need Complete Regime Change’

PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh has announced his resignation, with Chief Championships Officer Kerry Haigh serving as the Interim CEO until a new CEO is found. This unexpected leadership change has led to calls for a change in the PGA Tour's leadership as well, with some fans expressing their dissatisfaction with CEO Jay Monahan. The departure of Waugh, who oversaw significant developments during his tenure, has prompted speculation about the future direction of professional golf.

Seth Waugh is stepping aside after 6 years leading the PGA of America

Seth Waugh is stepping down as CEO of the PGA of America after six years. During his tenure, there was a boost in golf participation and PGA membership, as well as the relocation of the headquarters to Texas. Waugh will remain in a senior advisory role, and the PGA of America has started a search for a new CEO.

LIV Golf TV partner shutters midway through inaugural season

LIV Golf TV has lost its streaming partner, Caffeine TV, midway through its inaugural season. Caffeine TV abruptly closed due to lagging profits, leaving LIV Golf without a paid streaming rights partner in the United States. LIV Golf will continue to use its direct-to-consumer streaming options on YouTube and the LIV Golf app. The closure of Caffeine TV highlights the challenges LIV Golf faces in securing profitable media rights deals.

Golf Tournaments happening this week

Rocket Mortgage Classic- PGA - Detroit Golf Club - Detroit, MI

The 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic begins today at the Detroit Golf Club in Detroit, Michigan. This event, now in its sixth year, has quickly become a staple on the PGA Tour, known for its competitive field and charitable contributions to the local community.

The defending champion, Rickie Fowler, who won in a dramatic playoff last year, will be returning to defend his title. Fowler's victory in 2023 was his first since 2019, and he will be looking to become the first back-to-back winner in the tournament's history. The event will feature a strong field, including notable players such as Tom Kim, Cameron Young, Akshay Bhatia, Min Woo Lee, and Will Zalatoris.

Tom Kim, currently ranked 16th in the world, is one of the top contenders. He has been in excellent form, with two top-four finishes in his last four tournaments. Cameron Young, who recently shot a 59 at the Travelers Championship, is another strong contender. Young is known for his powerful drives and has been in good form recently. Akshay Bhatia, a young talent who has shown consistent improvement, is also expected to perform well. Min Woo Lee and Will Zalatoris round out the list of top contenders, with both players having the potential to make a significant impact.

The tournament will be broadcast on the Golf Channel and CBS, with streaming available on ESPN+.

Rickie Fowler's return to form already feels like distant memory

Rickie Fowler's return to form in golf seems to be a distant memory. After a period of progress and a victory at the Rocket Mortgage Classic, Fowler has been struggling in recent tournaments. His world ranking has dropped, and he has not achieved a top-10 finish this year. Fowler attributes his struggles to ineffective putting, which has put pressure on the rest of his game. Despite the challenges, Fowler remains determined and focused on regaining his form.

15-year-old riding 'rollercoaster' into PGA Tour debut at Rocket Mortgage

Miles Russell, the 15-year-old no. 1 ranked junior, is set to make his PGA Tour debut at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Russell has been on a meteoric rise in the golf world, breaking records and earning sponsor exemptions. Despite the attention, he remains focused on having fun and learning from the experience.

Tournament favorite Tom Kim learns from his 'failures' as he preps for the Rocket Mortgage Classic - "You lose 99% of the year"

Tom Kim, the tournament favorite, reflects on his recent runner-up finish and the lessons he learns from failures. Ranked 16th in the Official World Golf Ranking, Kim is preparing for the Rocket Mortgage Classic and acknowledges that in golf, you lose 99% of the year. Despite this, he remains focused and determined to perform well in the upcoming tournament.

"Pretty good sammich", "No mustard is insane" - Fans react to Rickie Fowler's 'defending champion' sandwich pick at the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic

Fans react to Rickie Fowler's sandwich choice for the 2024 Rocket Mortgage Classic. The ingredients include a brioche bun, Cajun turkey, shredded lettuce, pickles, pepperoncinis, mayonnaise, vinegar, oil, and oregano. Some fans find it delicious, while others suggest variations. Fowler also discussed his performance and improvement in putting during the season.

Rocket Mortgage Videos

Dow Championship - LPGA - Midland CC - Midland, MI

The 2024 Dow Championship is set to begin today at Midland Country Club in Midland, Michigan. This unique LPGA Tour event features 72 teams competing in a 72-hole stroke-play tournament with a $3 million purse. The championship utilizes an alternating format, with foursomes (alternate shot) played in the first and third rounds, and four-ball in the second and final rounds.

The event has been renamed from the Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational to the Dow Championship, moved from July to June to accommodate players' busy summer schedules, and expanded its field from 64 to 72 teams.

Several high-profile pairings are set to compete in this year's championship. Returning champions Elizabeth Szokol and Cheyenne Knight, who won in 2023, will be looking to defend their title. Other notable teams include Lexi Thompson and Brooke Henderson, who are reuniting after missing the cut last year, and the duo of Celine Boutier and Yuka Saso, who tied for third in the previous edition.

Rose Zhang, the rising star who recently turned professional, will be teaming up with Alexa Pano for the first time. The experienced pairing of Lydia Ko and Danielle Kang is also reuniting at the Dow Championship for the first time since 2021. English duo Charley Hull and Georgia Hall, longtime friends, will be partnering for the event.

Other contenders to watch include the teams of Ruoning Yin and Atthaya Thitikul, Nasa Hataoka and Jin Young Ko, and Carlota Ciganda and Linn Grant. The sister act of Ariya and Moriya Jutanugarn, who won the championship in 2021, will be seeking their second victory together.

The Dow Championship promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the best of women's golf in a unique team format.

Here are 15 teams to watch at the Dow Championship, including blockbusters like Lexi Thompson and Brooke Henderson

The Dow Championship in the LPGA features 72 teams, including notable duos like Lexi Thompson and Brooke Henderson. The tournament will be played in foursomes and four-ball formats, with a cut after 36 holes. Past winning teams Cheyenne Knight/Elizabeth Szokol and Ariya Jutanugarn/Moriya Jutanugarn will also compete. The event offers a purse of $3 million, with a first-place team prize of $732,165.

Atthaya Thitikul & Ruoning Yin Pre-Tournament Press Conference

Atthaya Thitikul and Ruoning Yin speak with media ahead of the Dow Championship.

Cheyenne Knight & Elizabeth Szokol Pre-Tournament Press Conference

Cheyenne Knight and Elizabeth Szokol speak with media ahead of their title defense at the Dow Championship.

U.S. Senior Open Championship - PGA Tour - Newport Country Club - Newport, RI

The 2024 U.S. Senior Open Championship is set to take place at the historic Newport Country Club in Newport, Rhode Island from beginning today. This prestigious event marks the 1,001st championship in the United States Golf Association's (USGA) history and returns to the site of the USGA's first two championships.

As for the top contenders, defending champion Bernhard Langer will be looking to retain his title despite recovering from a torn Achilles injury. Langer, who won his 12th senior major at the 2023 U.S. Senior Open, has shown remarkable resilience in his return to competitive golf. Other notable players to watch include Ernie Els, who will be seeking to add another major title to his illustrious career.

The field of 156 players includes several competitors who participated in the 1995 U.S. Amateur at Newport Country Club, adding an element of nostalgia to the event. Among them are Craig Barlow, Notah Begay III, Trip Kuehne, Chris Riley, Matthew Goggin, and Christian Raynor.

Steve Stricker Aims to End Victory Drought in Major Way at U.S. Senior Open

Steve Stricker aims to end his victory drought in a major way at the U.S. Senior Open. Despite a successful senior career, Stricker has yet to win a tournament this year. He believes his putter may be the issue and plans to make a dramatic change for the upcoming tournament. Stricker also acknowledges that his desire and preparation have changed over time.

Bernhard Langer ready for U.S. Senior Open title defense despite issues from Achilles injury

Bernhard Langer, despite lingering issues from his Achilles injury, is ready to defend his title at the U.S. Senior Open. Langer, who returned to the PGA Tour Champions three months after his injury, has shown improvement and continues to compete at a high level. Although he still faces challenges with his leg and ankle, Langer remains determined and credits his healthy lifestyle for his ability to compete. He is focused on continuing to play and win tournaments as long as he feels competitive.

Six U.S. Senior Open Players Enjoying Newport C.C. Reunion

Six U.S. Senior Open players, including Craig Barlow and Christian Raynor, are enjoying a reunion at Newport Country Club. The historic venue holds special memories for Barlow, who fell in love with the course during the 1995 U.S. Amateur. The players reminisce about their experiences and the unique characteristics of the course. This is only the fifth USGA championship to be held at Newport, making it a special venue for the players.

Swinging for the hills: Stuart Smith's journey to competing in the 2024 Senior U.S. Open

Stuart Smith, a 62-year-old professional senior golfer, has qualified for the 2024 U.S. Senior Open. Smith's journey in golf started at a young age, and although he didn't make it onto the professional tour, he had success in semi-pro tours and overseas. Now the director of golf at Somerset Golf and Country Club, Smith is preparing for the Senior Open with the support of his club community and hopes to make the weekend cut.

‘Bad weather changes almost everything.’ At the US Senior Open, Mother Nature may be the No. 1 challenge

The US Senior Open at Newport Country Club is known for its challenging weather conditions. In the past, Tiger Woods and Annika Sorenstam faced drought and heavy rain, respectively, but still achieved victory. The course's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes wind a significant factor, with the strongest winds occurring in the afternoon. Scattered showers are expected during the tournament, except for a pristine Friday.

Senior golfers are grateful to get a second shot at Newport after the 2020 Open was canceled

Senior golfers are excited to have a second chance to play at Newport Country Club for the 2024 US Senior Open, after the event was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic. The anticipation is high as golfers reunite with friends, fans watch intently, and children seek autographs on their golf memorabilia.

Italian Open - DP World Tour - Adriatic Golf Club Cervia -Ravenna, Italy

The 2024 Italian Open, part of the DP World Tour, is set to take place at the Adriatic Golf Club in Cervia, Ravenna, Italy, begins today.

This year's tournament boasts a prize fund of $3.25 million, with the winner taking home $552,500.

Top Contenders

Patrick Reed: The former Masters champion and LIV Golf player is making a rare appearance on the DP World Tour. Reed is known for his competitive spirit and will be looking to add another title to his resume.

Guido Migliozzi: Fresh off a win at the KLM Open, Migliozzi is one of Italy's brightest golfing talents. He has four DP World Tour titles to his name and will be eager to perform well in front of his home crowd.

Matteo Manassero: Another Italian hopeful, Manassero has experienced a career revival, winning the Jonsson Workwear Open earlier this season. He has a strong track record in Italy and will be looking to capitalize on his recent form.

Tom McKibbin: The young Northern Irishman has been in good form, narrowly missing out on a playoff at the KLM Open. Known for his excellent iron play, McKibbin is a strong contender for his first DP World Tour title.

Bernd Wiesberger: The 2019 Italian Open champion has shown encouraging form recently. Wiesberger's experience and past success in this tournament make him a player to watch.

Laurie Canter: Having secured his first DP World Tour title at the European Open earlier this month, Canter is riding a wave of confidence. His length off the tee and recent form make him a serious threat.

Danny Willett: The 2016 Masters champion has had a mixed season but remains a dangerous competitor. His experience and ability to perform in big tournaments could see him contend this week.

The Italian Open promises to be an exciting event with a strong field and a challenging new venue.

Matteo Manassero embracing national spotlight amid return to Italian Open

Matteo Manassero is returning to the Italian Open after a four-year absence, embracing the added motivation and pressure. His recent success, including a win at the Jonsson Workwear Open, has boosted his confidence. He is mentally prepared and looking forward to competing in front of home support. The Adriatic Golf Club in Cervia will provide a challenging test, with narrow fairways and shots from the rough. European Tour Productions will provide live coverage of the Italian Open.

Joe Dean says hypnotist 'worked wonders' with him ahead of rookie DP World Tour season

Joe Dean, a rookie on the DP World Tour, worked with a hypnotist to prepare for the mental demands of international travel. Despite facing financial difficulties and working as a delivery driver, Dean has performed well in tournaments and secured a spot at the upcoming Open Championship. He credits the hypnotherapist for helping him overcome his dislike of traveling.

Memorial Health Championship pres. by LRS - Korn Ferry Tour - Panther Creek CC - Springfield, IL

The Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS, a Korn Ferry Tour event, is set to begin today at Panther Creek Country Club in Springfield, Illinois. This marks the ninth playing of the tournament, which features a field of 156 professional golfers competing for a total purse of $1,000,000.

Among the top contenders for this year's event are several past champions returning to Springfield. Paul Haley II, who set the 72-hole tournament scoring record with a 27-under 257 in his 2022 victory, will be looking to reclaim his title. Brett Drewitt (2020 champion) and Xinjun Zhang (2019 champion) are also in the field, aiming to add another Memorial Health Championship trophy to their collection.

The tournament will also feature some rising stars and local favorites. University of Illinois rising senior Jackson Buchanan, playing on a sponsor exemption, will make his Korn Ferry Tour debut. Buchanan, the reigning Big Ten Golfer of the Year, recently competed in the U.S. Open and brings high expectations to his home state event.

Other players to watch include Tim Widing, currently leading the Korn Ferry Tour Points List, and Harry Higgs, who recently secured his PGA TOUR card for the 2025 season with a strong performance at the Compliance Solutions Championship. Both players have claimed multiple victories on the tour this season and will be looking to add another win to their impressive 2024 campaigns.

Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS: Field, tournament facts, storylines to follow and more

The Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS is the ninth playing of the Korn Ferry Tour in Springfield, Illinois. John Pak claimed his first career victory at last week's Compliance Solutions Championship, while past champions Paul Haley II, Brett Drewitt, and Xinjun Zhang return. University of Illinois rising senior Jackson Buchanan will make his Korn Ferry Tour debut, and the trend of multi-winners continues with Tim Widing, Harry Higgs, and Taylor Dickson. The tournament will take place at the Illinois Panther Creek Country Club, with a field of 156 players competing for a $1,000,000 purse.

Dalton Ward's mindset shift powers climb to PGA TOUR status

Dalton Ward's mindset shift has propelled him towards PGA TOUR status as he prepares for every moment as if it were a big one. After missing cuts and lacking status last year, Ward's change in mindset and readiness for opportunities has led to strong finishes and temporary status on the Korn Ferry Tour. With a focus on weekly goals and staying in the top 30, Ward's low-scoring ability and determination have positioned him closer to earning a TOUR card.

Today’s Best Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Ping launches no-cost exchange program — if you own this driver

Ping is offering a no-cost exchange program for golfers who purchased the G430 Max 10K HL driver under the misconception that it had a combined MOI of 10,000 g-cm2. The HL version, designed for slower swing speed players, falls short of the 10K MOI threshold due to its lighter build. Starting July 10, golfers can exchange their G430 Max 10K HL for the standard build at no cost, with various shaft options available.

Overheard in the Club House

NBC Sports broadcaster Gary Koch returning to competitive golf at U.S. Senior Open

Gary Koch, the legendary NBC Sports golf broadcaster, will be returning to competitive golf at the U.S. Senior Open. Despite not playing competitively since 2018, Koch is confident and aims to make the cut and play all four days. He will be competing against his NBC Sports colleague, Notah Begay III, and jokingly mentioned a wager on who will be the low announcer. Koch reflects on the significance of USGA competitions in his golf career and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to compete in another championship.

Tom Kim reflected on his battle with Scheffler ahead of the Rocket Mortgage Classic

Tom Kim reflects on his battle with Scottie Scheffler ahead of the Rocket Mortgage Classic. Despite losing to Scheffler, Kim acknowledges the opportunity and praises his performance. Kim aims to win and recognizes the challenge of playing against top-ranked golfers. The Rocket Mortgage Classic is a tournament where Kim hopes to replicate his success and continue to improve.

Rocket Mortgage Classic Pro-Am

The Rocket Mortgage Classic Pro-Am took place at the Detroit Golf Club in Detroit on June 26, 2024. Rickie Fowler was among the players participating in the event, showcasing his skills on the second hole. Other players like Ryan Brehm, Kevin Streelman, Cameron Young, Erik van Rooyen, Chad Ramey, Gary Woodland, Justin Lower, and Tom Kim also took part in the practice rounds. The event provided a glimpse into the upcoming Rocket Mortgage Classic tournament.

Aussies on Tour: Min Woo ready to unleash Signature move - PGA of Australia

Min Woo Lee, who has qualified for the Australian Olympic Team, is determined to secure a spot in the lucrative Signature Events of the PGA TOUR season. Currently ranked No. 64 in the FedEx Cup points list, Lee aims to play his way into the top 50 by the Tour Championship. He is also motivated to earn a spot in the Presidents Cup after narrowly missing out in 2022.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

Latest FedExCup Standings

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

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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