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Planet Golf News - Tour Edition - February 11, 2024

Planet Golf News - Tour Edition - February 11, 2024

Sunday, February 11, 2024

LEADERBOARD

Good Morning,

In the vibrant world of golf, the WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale presented a mix of challenges and memorable performances despite the whims of weather and scheduling hiccups. The tournament, renowned for its high attendance and dynamic atmosphere, particularly at the infamous 16th hole, saw its fair share of drama unfold under the cloud of potential scheduling conflicts with the Super Bowl. A brief suspension of play due to unplayable conditions momentarily halted the action but couldn’t dampen the spirits of golf aficionados and players alike.

Jordan Spieth, breaking free from a career lull, dazzled spectators with a standout 10-under 61, showcasing his skill and determination. Nick Taylor, seizing the lead with a one-shot advantage, and Sahith Theegala, capturing the 36-hole lead with a compelling 7-under 64, highlighted the competitive spirit of the tournament. However, the event was not just a test of talent but also a battle against time and elements, with delays pushing the possibility of the tournament stretching into Monday.

The tournament's allure wasn't just in the shots played but also in the sheer volume of fans it attracted, testing the venue's capacity and leading to the temporary closure of gates. Despite these challenges, the Phoenix Open continued to be a testament to golf's enduring appeal, weaving together stories of resilience, talent, and the unbreakable bond between the sport and its fans.

Elsewhere, the golf world buzzed with anticipation as Dustin Johnson clinched victory at the LIV Golf Las Vegas event, marking his third win in the league amidst challenging conditions. The LIV Golf series, with its mix of team dynamics and individual brilliance, continued to stir the pot in the golfing community, blending competition with controversy.

As the golf calendar moves forward, Tiger Woods’ return at the Genesis Invitational, hosted by his own foundation, adds another layer of excitement. The tournament, a PGA Tour Signature Event, promises high stakes with a stellar field and heightened anticipation around Woods' participation. Meanwhile, the golf community also reflects on the broader narratives shaping the sport, from LIV Golf's struggles to secure a television partner to Rory McIlroy's evolving stance on the breakaway league, illustrating the complex tapestry of competition, innovation, and tradition that defines modern golf.

In essence, the recent happenings in golf, from the Phoenix Open's weather-induced dramas to the strategic plays at LIV Golf events and the buzz around Tiger Woods’ latest venture, encapsulate the sport's unpredictable yet undeniably captivating nature. As players, fans, and organizers navigate through these challenges and opportunities, the game continues to evolve, promising more thrilling chapters in the saga of golf. [Michael Wolf]

We’re on a mission to create fun and fashionable golf clothing that empowers tween and teen girls to play with confidence.

LATEST TOURNAMENT NEWS: WM Phoenix Open 2024

Top 10 as of the end of Feb. 10, 2024*

POS	PLAYER	TOTAL	THRU
1	Nick Taylor	-13	6
2	Sahith Theegala	-12	6
T3	Doug Ghim	-11	7
T3	Andrew Novak	-11	6
5	Jordan Spieth	-10	9
T6	Harris English	-9	15
T6	Charley Hoffman	-9	9
T6	Cameron Young	-9	9
T6	Davis Thompson	-9	10
T10	Scottie Scheffler	-8	7
T10	Billy Horschel	-8	14
T10	Justin Thomas	-8	8
T10	Sam Burns	-8	9
T10	Jake Knapp	-8	10
T10	Si Woo Kim	-8	10
T10	Wyndham Clark	-8	12
T10	Kurt Kitayama	-8	9
T10	Maverick McNealy	-8	7

*play suspended.

The Latest:

At the WM Phoenix Open Saturday, players faced a challenging day due to weather conditions and scheduling delays. The tournament experienced a brief suspension of play early on Saturday due to unplayable conditions on the TPC Scottsdale Stadium Course, caused by a small weather-related delay in the morning. This stoppage lasted for 21 minutes before play resumed. Despite these interruptions, notable performances emerged, with Jordan Spieth delivering a standout 10-under 61, pulling him out of a career rut. Nick Taylor emerged as the leader, holding a one-shot lead into Sunday, as the tournament faced the possibility of extending into Monday due to the delays. Sahith Theegala captured the 36-hole lead after completing his second round with a 7-under 64. The tournament, known for its high attendance and vibrant atmosphere, particularly at the infamous 16th hole, saw its capacity tested with reported crowds reaching up to 400,000 fans on Saturday, leading to the temporary closure of the gates. The weather has been a significant factor throughout the week, putting the tournament on track to potentially collide with the Super Bowl, with PGA Tour officials halting play due to darkness on Saturday evening.

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I would say he did not stick the landing
— Paige Spiranac (@PaigeSpiranac)
8:55 PM • Feb 10, 2024

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

LATEST TOURNAMENT NEWS: LIV Golf Las Vegas

Top 10 Final

POS	PLAYER	TOTAL
1	Dustin Johnson	-12
T2	Talor Gooch	-11
T2	Peter Uihlein	-11
4	Matthew Wolff	-10
T5	Graeme McDowell	-9
T5	Paul Casey	-9
T5	Jason Kokrak	-9
8	Jon Rahm	-8
T9	Sebastian Muñoz	-7
T9	Adrian Meronk	-7
T9	Bryson DeChambeau	-7

The Latest:

Today at the LIV Golf Las Vegas event, Dustin Johnson emerged victorious in challenging conditions, securing the win with a series of crucial plays towards the end of the round. Johnson shot a 1-under 69, finishing the tournament at 12-under 198 at the Las Vegas Country Club. His victory was clinched with a birdie on the 17th hole and a par on the 18th, allowing him to edge out Peter Uihlein and Talor Gooch by a single stroke. This win marks Johnson's third victory since joining LIV Golf, continuing his streak of winning in each of LIV's first three seasons. The event also featured a team competition, where Brooks Koepka's Smash GC took the team title, finishing at 33 under, seven shots ahead of the runner-up 4Aces GC, captained by Johnson.

The prize money for the LIV Golf Las Vegas event was a part of a $20 million prize pool for the individual championship. The winner, Dustin Johnson, received a 20% cut, which amounted to $4 million.

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LATEST TOURNAMENT NEWS: Genesis Invitational 2024

The Latest:

Tiger Woods will make his first competitive start of the year at the Genesis Invitational, which will be held at the Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles from February 15-18, 2024. The tournament, organized by the Tiger Woods Foundation, is considered one of the PGA Tour's Signature Events, offering increased prize purses and FedEx Cup points. The field for the tournament is nearly complete, with all eligible players but Justin Rose and Matthieu Pavon committed to participate. The event will feature many of the world's top 10 ranked players, except for Jon Rahm, who recently joined LIV Golf.

As Tiger Woods Makes His Return To The Genesis Invitational This Year, Here’s The Field So Far

Tiger Woods will be making his return to the Genesis Invitational, a PGA Tour signature event hosted by Woods himself. The field for the tournament includes top-tier golfers such as Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland, Patrick Cantlay, and Max Homa. The final field will be announced after the WM Phoenix Open, and the event offers a purse of around $20 million with $4 million going to the winner. [thesportsrush.com]

Tiger Woods’ event dishes out last-minute, heart-warming sponsor’s invite

Gary Woodland, who returned to the PGA Tour after successful brain surgery, did not receive a sponsor's exemption for the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, leading to criticism. Woodland expressed his determination to overcome challenges and prove himself. Despite missing the cut in his first two tournaments, his inspiring story and previous U.S. Open victory at Pebble Beach sparked speculation about a potential exemption. [golf.com]

TODAY’S TOP STORYLINES

Fans were turned away, alcohol sales halted at 2024 WM Phoenix Open as TPC Scottsdale reaches capacity

During the 2024 WM Phoenix Open, tournament organizers temporarily closed all entrances to TPC Scottsdale, preventing more fans from entering. This was the first time in event history. The grassy hillsides became muddy, causing congestion and making it difficult for fans to move around. Golf carts were parked due to the foot traffic, and alcohol sales were halted. The tournament's Friday and Saturday rounds were declared sellouts, leading to the closure of the gates. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

The WM Phoenix Open Loses Control Of Raucous Gallery & Ceases Serving Alcohol Entirely

The WM Phoenix Open experienced a loss of control over the rowdy gallery, leading to the complete cessation of alcohol sales. The decision was made due to overcapacity and chaotic behavior, including wardrobe malfunctions and drunken antics. Despite the extreme circumstances, there is hope for finding a compromise in the future to maintain the lively atmosphere without the need for alcohol restrictions. [whiskeyriff.com]

Fans were loving Smylie Kaufman and Kevin Kisner commentating the 16th hole at the WM Phoenix Open

During the WM Phoenix Open, announcers Smylie Kaufman and Kevin Kisner provided lively commentary from the 16th tee box, openly praising good shots and booing bad ones. Fans on social media expressed support for their entertaining and fun approach, with many enjoying the excitement they brought to the broadcast. [golfweek.usatoday.com]

PERSONALITIES

Tyrrell Hatton Fires Angry F-Bomb After Vegas Fail; Fans Take Turns to Blast the LIV Golf Pro: ‘Love Watching the Defectors Whine’

Tyrrell Hatton expresses frustration with the greens at the LIV Golf Las Vegas tournament, using profanity. Fans criticize Hatton for having high expectations after switching to LIV Golf and believe the courses are not as good as those on the PGA Tour. [essentiallysports.com]

‘They Should Have To Sit Out For A Period Of Time’: Brandel Chamblee Gives His Take On LIV Golfers Hoping To Make Returns

Brandel Chamblee suggests that LIV Golfers who want to return to the PGA Tour should pay fines and sit out for a period of time. He believes they should only be allowed to participate in non-signature events while they are signed with the Saudi-backed league. This comes in response to players like Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas advocating for punishments for those who switch to LIV Golf. [thesportsrush.com]

We asked Jim Nantz about golf TV's critics. He gave us an epic response.

Jim Nantz, a prominent golf broadcaster, shares his perspective on the criticism surrounding golf TV. He emphasizes the importance of a broadcast that makes viewers feel like they are there, with storytelling and a rooting interest in the subjects. While acknowledging valid critiques, Nantz defends the complexity of delivering golf coverage and highlights the advancements made with technology and innovation. He expresses his love for golf television and appreciates the work done by competitors as well. [golf.com]

Jon Rahm happy to “compete and win against the best players in the world” at LIV Golf

Jon Rahm expresses his happiness in competing and winning against the best players in the world at LIV Golf. He is currently playing alongside Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson in Las Vegas. Despite enjoying his LIV league season, Rahm hopes to play PGA Tour events in the future. [sportskeeda.com]

The Next Tiger Woods? Brooks Koepka Is the ‘Only One’ Per Jon Rahm to Crack the ‘Major’ Code

Jon Rahm praises Brooks Koepka for his achievements in golf, comparing him to Tiger Woods and calling him "incredible." Rahm highlights Koepka's five major wins and emphasizes the need to respect his accomplishments. Legendary coaches Pete Cowen and Claude Harmon III also express admiration for Koepka's competitiveness and potential to win more majors. [essentiallysports.com]

Marty Smith reminisces how Tiger Woods disarmed his 'insecurity and anxiety' before an interview together

ESPN sports journalist Marty Smith reminisces about how Tiger Woods disarmed his anxiety and insecurity before an interview, sharing a memorable moment when Woods hugged him and spoke about a beer shotgun with Dale Earnhardt Jr. Smith also describes Woods as more vulnerable and joyful, impressed with his comeback in golf despite severe back pain. Woods, after limited outings due to injuries, is committed to the upcoming Genesis Invitation tournament. [sportskeeda.com]

OTHER TOURS NEWS

Purcell: "First tournament of the year to be in contention is great"

Conor Purcell is pleased to be in contention for his first Challenge Tour title despite a disappointing finish in round three of the Bain's Whiskey Cape Town Open. He battled strong winds and dropped shots on the 11th and 18th holes, but remains in the mix heading into the final round. Purcell is optimistic about his chances and is looking forward to the tournament. [irishgolfer.ie]

Walsh and Mehaffey to play final round together in Kenya

Lauren Walsh and Olivia Mehaffey will be playing the final round together in the Magical Kenya Open. Walsh is currently nine shots off the lead, while Mehaffey is on one-over. The pair have played together on Irish teams in the past and will be reunited on Sunday. Alessandra Fanali and Shannon Tan are tied for the lead with a score of nine-under-par. [irishgolfer.ie]

Hojgaard, Hoshino and Coussard tied for lead after third round of Qatar Masters

Rasmus Hojgaard, Rikuya Hoshino, and Ugo Coussard are tied for the lead after the third round of the Qatar Masters. The top eight players on the leaderboard are separated by just two shots. Hojgaard and Coussard shot 5-under 67s, while Hoshino made birdie at No. 17 to join them at 10-under par overall. Hojgaard is the highest-ranked player in the field and is chasing his fifth title on the European tour. [newsday.com]

TODAY’S NEWS

The Latest from the Golf World: Controversies, Injuries, and New Beginnings

Controversy Swirls Around Rory McIlroy's LIV Golf Stance - Rory McIlroy, once a staunch critic of LIV Golf, has recently softened his stance towards the breakaway league, causing a stir among several PGA Tour stars. Notable figures such as Jordan Spieth, Adam Scott, Justin Thomas, Scottie Scheffler, and Rickie Fowler have voiced their disagreement, arguing for consequences for those who left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf before any talks of a return can be entertained. This division highlights the ongoing tension between traditional golf circuits and the new, financially incentivized LIV Golf league.

A Scary Fall at the Phoenix Open - The WM Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale was the scene of a distressing incident when a woman fell from the grandstands at the 16th hole during the second round. Thankfully, the injuries sustained were not life-threatening. The PGA Tour confirmed the accident, noting that the fan received prompt medical attention and was taken to a local medical center for further evaluation. The specific details of how the incident occurred remain undisclosed.

Tiger Woods Steps into New Apparel Endeavors - In the wake of ending a 27-year partnership with Nike, Tiger Woods is stepping into a new chapter with the tease of his apparel line with TaylorMade, dubbed Sunday Red. The golf legend is set to make an official announcement at a press event ahead of his season debut at the 2024 Genesis Invitational, which he will be hosting. This move marks a significant shift in Woods' career, blending his legacy with new ventures.

LIV Golf's Television Struggles - LIV Golf faces challenges as it enters the 2024 season without securing a Friday and Saturday television partner, leaving a significant gap in its TV revenue stream. Despite efforts to expand its broadcast coverage and partnerships, the inability to convert TV rights into tangible financial gains underscores the hurdles LIV Golf encounters in establishing itself in the competitive sports broadcasting landscape.

Play Alongside the Pros at LIV Golf Pro-Am Events - In an exciting twist for golf enthusiasts, LIV Golf is opening up the possibility for fans to play alongside some of the game's biggest stars, including Phil Mickelson and Bryson DeChambeau, through its Pro-Am events. For those willing to pay the price, this offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the thrill of the game from inside the ropes. With events scheduled in diverse locations such as Jeddah, Hong Kong, Miami, and more, fans have a unique chance to tee up with the pros.