Planet Golf News for Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

PlanetGolfNews + Marie Birdie

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

Hey everyone! Let's talk about the latest buzz from the golf world – there's a lot to unpack from the weekend’s Masters Tournament, so grab your favorite drink and let's dive in.

First off, let's talk about Tiger Woods and the big diversity question in golf. At this year's Masters, Tiger stood out not just for his game but also as the only Black golfer among 89 competitors. This really highlights the slow progress in diversifying golf since Charlie Sifford broke the PGA's color barrier back in 1964. Despite efforts, it seems like golf still has a long way to go in becoming more inclusive, especially at high levels like the Masters.

Switching gears to the drama on the greens, the competition was fierce with players from both the PGA Tour and the controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf. This year, the LIV Golf guys didn't shine as bright, with big names like Dustin Johnson and Bubba Watson missing the cut. However, Bryson DeChambeau, Cam Smith, and Tyrrell Hatton from LIV Golf managed to crack the top 10, showing they're still serious contenders.

Technology's also making a splash in golf with the Masters Tournament launching a nifty new app for the Apple Vision Pro. This app, created with some help from IBM, brings fans closer to the action with virtual reality and AI-powered analyses of the Augusta course. It's like being there without actually being there, making the Masters more accessible for everyone.

Now, about the tournament winner – Scottie Scheffler! He's really proving to be a force in golf, clinching his second Masters win in three years. Ending 11 under and finishing with a comfortable four-stroke lead, Scheffler showed why he's the world's number one. Plus, it was Tiger Woods' 100th Masters round, and though he wasn't in the running for the title, he made his 24th consecutive cut, setting another record.

And in the realm of what's happening off the course, Tiger Woods seems hopeful about resolving the tension between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. He mentioned a positive meeting with the backers of LIV Golf, so fingers crossed that things might start looking up for the sport's unity.

Lastly, there's a juicy rumor floating around about Rory McIlroy possibly signing a whopping $850 million deal to join LIV Golf. If true, that would shake things up even more!

[ Today’s Top Stories in the Golf Universe ]

Rory McIlroy Could Reportedly Jump To LIV Golf For $850 Million & Ownership Stake In A Move That Feels Inevitable - According to reports, Rory McIlroy could potentially join LIV Golf in an $850 million deal, which could lead to a merger between LIV and the PGA Tour. The move is seen as inevitable due to the financial power of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is valued at $925 billion. While some may criticize the move as a money grab, it could strategically unify the world of men's golf and bring relevance to LIV Golf with Rory's involvement. Full article [here] wihiskeyriff.com

Shane Lowry changes view on Phil Mickelson after playing with LIV Golf ace - Shane Lowry shared his experience playing with Phil Mickelson during the final round of the Masters, describing it as a highlight despite his own disappointing performance. He noted a shift in his feelings from intimidation to admiration for Mickelson, praising the golf shots executed by Mickelson during the game. Full article [here]. mirror.co.uk

Nelly Korda eyes to tie record for most consecutive wins on LPGA Tour at 2024 Chevron Championship - Nelly Korda aims to tie the record for most consecutive wins on the LPGA Tour at the 2024 Chevron Championship. After winning her fourth consecutive tournament, Korda is set to compete in the championship and potentially match the record of five straight wins held by Annika Sörenstam and Nancy Lopez. Korda's chances of winning the tournament are considered favorable, with the best odds according to BetMGM. Full article [here]. sportskeeda.com

What is AimPoint Express? And why are so many PGA Tour pros using the green reading system? - AimPoint Express is a green-reading system used by many PGA Tour pros, including Max Homa, Will Zalatoris, and Viktor Hovland. Developed by Mark Sweeney, AimPoint Express simplifies the process of reading greens by using finger positioning to estimate the slope of the putting surface. This technique allows golfers to make more accurate reads and improve their putting performance. Full article [here] golfweek.usatoday.com

Golf Tournaments happening this week

- The RBC Heritage will take place from April 18 to April 21 at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head Island, SC, with a purse of $20,000,000. The RBC Heritage golf tournament features a loaded field. Scottie Scheffler is the favorite, but his participation is uncertain due to his wife's impending childbirth. Will Zalatoris, with his accuracy off the tee and strong iron play, is a good fit for the course. Shane Lowry, known for his driving accuracy and approach shots, has a history of success at Harbour Town. J.T. Poston, accurate off the tee and comfortable on positional courses, has performed well at Harbour Town in the past.

- The Chevron Championship is scheduled from April 18 to April 21. It will be broadcasted on the Golf Channel/Peacock and NBC/Peacock. The Chevron Championship is the first major of the year on the LPGA Tour, featuring players like Nelly Korda, Lydia Ko, and Angela Stanford. Nelly Korda aims for her fifth consecutive victory, while Lydia Ko seeks to qualify for the LPGA Hall of Fame. The tournament takes place at The Club at Carlton Woods in Texas, following a major course renovation. Lilia Vu defends her title, and a stacked field of 132 players, including 34 major champions, will compete in the event.

- The Corales Puntacana Championship is also set for April 18 to April 21 at Puntacana Resort & Club (Corales Golf Course) in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, featuring a purse of $4,000,000.

- The Invited Celebrity Classic event for the PGA Tour Champions is happening from April 19 to April 21, with broadcasts available on the NBC Sports App, Golf Channel, and Peacock.

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