Planet Golf News for Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Lots of golf upcoming this week. Matt Kuchar apologises for refusing to finish final round despite being half a hole away

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PGN News Team
August 13, 2024 • Reading Time: 19 minutes

Tuesday, August 13, 2024

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Graeme McDowell’s LIV Golf Replacement Confirmed After Nasal Spray Ban

[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Two Minutes

Good Morning,

Golf fans have been treated to a whirlwind of action and drama this past weekend, with stories that range from the strange and controversial to the inspiring and competitive. Let's dive into some of the highlights for this week!

Matt Kuchar made headlines for all the wrong reasons at the Wyndham Championship, where his decision to halt play due to fading daylight meant he had to return the next day to complete just half a hole. This move left many scratching their heads, especially since it forced the tournament staff back out for what turned out to be a rather anti-climactic finish. Despite the odd situation, Kuchar did offer an apology for the inconvenience, though his actions overshadowed Aaron Rai’s impressive victory, which marked his first PGA Tour win. In the end, Kuchar’s tie for 12th place earned him a nice paycheck but also ensured he missed the FedEx Cup playoffs for the first time since 2007—a bittersweet conclusion to his weekend.

Meanwhile, the 2024 U.S. Amateur is in full swing, with 312 of the world’s best amateurs competing for glory. One of the early stories has been young Miles Russell, who despite a tough start with a quadruple-bogey, is still in the mix. On the other end of the spectrum, Paul Chang, last year’s surprise standout, has come out firing with a stellar 6-under 64, leading the pack and proving that last year’s run was no fluke. With the tournament continuing through August 18, it’s sure to be a thrilling week of golf at Hazeltine National.

Over in Memphis, the FedEx St. Jude Championship is set to kick off the 2024 FedExCup Playoffs. With the top 70 players battling it out at TPC Southwind, there’s a lot on the line as only 50 will advance to the next stage. Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele are among the heavy favorites, and with $20 million up for grabs, the competition will be fierce. The challenging course, known for its Bermuda greens and gusty conditions, will test the players' skills as they vie for a spot in the BMW Championship.

Not to be outdone, the LPGA’s ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open is also underway at the picturesque Dundonald Links in Scotland. This tournament serves as a crucial warm-up for the Women’s British Open, and with a field that includes defending champion Céline Boutier and rising star Rose Zhang, the stage is set for some top-tier golf. The windy, links-style course is sure to provide a stern test for the field of 156 players, as they battle not just each other, but the elements as well.

For those who enjoy a mix of old and new, the LIV Golf Greenbrier event in West Virginia is offering a unique blend of individual and team competitions. With a massive $25 million purse on the line, big names like Bryson DeChambeau and Joaquin Niemann are back in action. DeChambeau, last year’s record-setting winner, is looking to defend his title on the historic Old White Course, a venue steeped in golfing history. Meanwhile, the season-long points race is heating up as players jockey for position in the standings, with only a few events left to secure their spots for next season.

Across the pond, the D+D REAL Czech Masters is making a splash on the DP World Tour with its move to the stunning PGA National Oaks Prague. This year’s tournament, celebrating its 10th anniversary, promises to be a highlight on the European circuit, with major champions like Francesco Molinari in the mix. As the tour resumes after a break, the players are eager to make their mark as the Race to Dubai standings come into sharper focus.

Back in the U.S., the Korn Ferry Tour’s Magnit Championship is providing a crucial opportunity for players to secure their spots in the Korn Ferry Tour Finals. Held at the challenging Metedeconk National Golf Club in New Jersey, this event is a pivotal stop for players looking to earn their PGA Tour cards. With local favorites and seasoned pros in the field, the competition will be intense as they fight for a share of the $1 million purse.

And let’s not forget the PGA Tour Champions, where the Rogers Charity Classic in Calgary is drawing some of the biggest names in senior golf. With stars like Ernie Els, Vijay Singh, and local hero Stephen Ames set to compete, this event is as much about giving back as it is about great golf, with over $100 million raised for charity since its inception.

Finally, as we look ahead to next year’s Ryder Cup, Keegan Bradley has made an early move by naming Brandt Snedeker as his second vice-captain. With both men sharing a passion for the event and a desire to bring the Cup back to the U.S., the stage is set for an exciting lead-up to 2025.

From controversial decisions to thrilling victories and everything in between, the golf world has been buzzing with excitement. Whether it’s the drama on the PGA Tour, the young guns at the U.S. Amateur, or the legends on the Champions Tour, there’s no shortage of stories to keep golf fans on the edge of their seats this week.

[ Today’s Top Golf News ] 

Matt Kuchar apologises for refusing to finish final round despite being half a hole away

Matt Kuchar apologized for not finishing his final round at the Wyndham Championship, which forced workers to return the next day for his last few shots. His refusal overshadowed Aaron Rai's victory, who secured his first PGA Tour win. Kuchar acknowledged the inconvenience caused and expressed regret for his actions, contrasting his earlier attitude when he declined to complete the round due to fading daylight. He ultimately finished in a tie for 12th place, earning $134,695.

2024 U.S Amateur primer: What to know (and 6 players to watch)

The 2024 U.S. Amateur golf tournament features 312 players, including top amateurs like Gordon Sargent and Jackson Koivun. The event runs from August 12 to August 18, with matches held at Hazeltine National Golf Club and Chaska Town Course in Chaska, Minn.. Key players to watch include John Daly II and 15-year-old Miles Russell. The winner receives a gold medal, the Havemeyer Trophy, and exemptions into major tournaments.

Miles Russell made 8 on a par-4 in the U.S. Amateur stroke play. He's got time to battle back

Miles Russell struggled during the U.S. Amateur stroke play, recording a quadruple-bogey 8 on the par-4 seventh hole but managed to finish with a 4-over 74, tied for 196th. Other First Coast players had mixed results, with Jimmy Ellis being the only one under par at 1-under 71. The cut for match play is at 1-under or better, with match play starting Wednesday. Coverage will be available on Golf Channel and Peacock.

Last year’s Cinderella is leading the U.S. Amateur

Paul Chang, an unranked club golfer who nearly reached the quarterfinals of last year's U.S. Amateur, is leading the current tournament after shooting a 6-under 64. Now a senior at the University of Virginia, Chang has improved significantly since last year, showcasing his skills with multiple birdies and an eagle. His journey includes overcoming challenges and experimenting with his game, leading to a strong performance as he prepares for tougher competition ahead.

Phil Mickelson Makes Eye-Opening Claim On LIV Future, Contending At 54

Phil Mickelson, at 54, is reassessing his role in LIV Golf while aiming to remain competitive in major tournaments. Despite struggling in recent LIV events, he has performed better in majors, expressing commitment to his team, the HyFlyers, and the growth of the game. Mickelson acknowledges his challenges with short game performance and is focusing on improvement to enhance his competitiveness in upcoming tournaments.

Golf Tournaments happening this week

FedEx St. Jude Championship - PGA - TPC Southwind - Memphis, TN

The 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship is set to take place from August 14-18 at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee. This event marks the beginning of the 2024 FedExCup Playoffs and will feature the top 70 players in the FedExCup standings at the end of the PGA TOUR Regular Season. The tournament is crucial as only 50 players will advance to the next playoff event, the BMW Championship. The competition promises to be intense, with top golfers like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele among the favorites to win.

TPC Southwind, a challenging 7,243-yard par-70 course, will host the event. Known for its Bermuda greens and susceptibility to high winds, the course demands well-rounded skills from the players. The defending champion, Lucas Glover, will not be participating this year, leaving the field open for a new champion to emerge. The tournament is a significant part of Memphis's cultural and sporting history, having been held annually in the city since 1958.

The First Look: FedEx St. Jude Championship

The FedEx St. Jude Championship marks the start of the FedExCup Playoffs at TPC Southwind, featuring the top 70 players. Scottie Scheffler leads the standings and aims for his first FedExCup title, while other notable players include Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy, and Viktor Hovland. The tournament offers 2,000 FedExCup points to the winner, with the top 50 advancing to the BMW Championship. The course, established in 1988, has undergone recent improvements and presents a challenging layout for competitors.

FedEx St. Jude Championship 2024: Our PGA pro is high on Justin Thomas at TPC Southwind

The FedEx St. Jude Championship at TPC Southwind features Justin Thomas as a strong betting pick at +5000, despite his mixed history at the course. With the top 70 players competing for a spot in the BMW Championship, Thomas's previous win at the event and his motivation to improve after missing the playoffs last year make him a compelling choice. Other players like Russell Henley are noted but have inconsistent performances at the venue.

Is There a Cut at the 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship? Format Explained

The 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship, taking place from August 15 to 18 at TPC Southwind, features a no-cut format allowing all 70 players to compete across all four days. The tournament offers a $20 million purse, with the winner receiving $3.6 million and 2,000 FedExCup points. The top 50 finishers will advance to the BMW Championship, part of the FedEx Cup Playoffs.

ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open - LPGA - Dundonald Links - Ayrshire, Scotland

The 2024 ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open is set to take place from August 15 to August 18 at Dundonald Links in Ayrshire, Scotland. This prestigious tournament is co-sanctioned by the Ladies European Tour (LET) and the LPGA Tour, attracting a field of 156 players, including 36 Olympians and 18 major champions. The event, which began in 1986 and became a permanent fixture in 2010, is played the week before the Women’s British Open, making it a crucial preparation for the final major of the year.

Dundonald Links, designed by Kyle Phillips, offers a classic links golf experience with its challenging fairways and coastal winds. This year marks the third consecutive time the tournament is held at this venue. The competition follows a 72-hole stroke play format, with a cut after 36 holes, allowing the top 70 players and ties to advance to the final rounds.

The 2024 edition features a strong lineup, including defending champion Céline Boutier, who won the previous year’s tournament. Other notable participants include Ayaka Furue, a past champion and recent major winner, and Jin Young Ko, a two-time major winner. Rising stars like Rose Zhang, making her professional debut on a links course, and established players such as Lilia Vu and Brooke Henderson, add to the competitive field.

Five Things to Know About the ISPS Handa Womens Scottish Open

The ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open features 142 players competing for a $2 million purse at Dundonald Links in Scotland. Key highlights include Lydia Ko's recent Olympic gold medal win, defending champion Celine Boutier aiming to retain her title, and a strong field including several Olympians. The tournament has extended sponsor exemptions to notable players like Stacy Lewis, and Dundonald Links will host the event for the third consecutive year, providing a challenging links-style course ahead of the AIG Women’s Open.

Rogers Charity Classic - PGA Tour Champions - Canyon Meadows Golf & CC - Calgary, AB

The Rogers Charity Classic, part of the PGA Tour Champions, is set to take place from August 14 to 18, 2024, at the Canyon Meadows Golf and Country Club in Calgary, Alberta. This prestigious tournament, which has been a staple in the golfing calendar since its inception in 2013, will feature a 54-hole stroke-play format with a prize purse of $2.4 million.

This year's tournament promises to be particularly exciting with a field that includes 78 top players from the PGA Tour Champions. Among the notable participants are major champions and World Golf Hall of Famers such as Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington, and Vijay Singh. The tournament will also feature Canadian golfer Mike Weir and other prominent figures like Darren Clarke and John Daly. Calgary's own Stephen Ames, who is currently second on the 2024 Charles Schwab Cup Money Standings, is among the favorites to watch.

‘Nobody does it better’: Padraig Harrington excited for return to Rogers Charity Classic

Padraig Harrington expresses excitement for his return to the Rogers Charity Classic, highlighting its significance as a major charity event that has raised over $100 million since 2013. He recalls being surprised by the event's scale and community support during his first visit. Harrington, along with other notable golfers, aims to contribute to the tournament's success while enjoying the competitive atmosphere at Canyon Meadows G&CC.

LIV Golf Greenbrier - The Old White Course - White Sulphur Springs, WV

The upcoming LIV Golf event at The Old White Course in The Greenbrier, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, is set to take place from August 16 to 18, 2024. This tournament marks the 12th event in the 2024 LIV Golf League and will feature a unique format combining individual and team competitions. The event will consist of three rounds of 54-hole stroke play, with 54 players divided into 13 teams, along with two wild card entries. The total prize purse is $25 million, with $20 million allocated for individual competitors and $5 million for teams. The individual winner will take home $4 million, while the winning team will earn $3 million.

The Old White Course, designed by Charles Blair Macdonald and opened in 1914, is renowned for its challenging layout, inspired by famous European courses. It features a par of 70 and a yardage of 7,299, with several holes modeled after iconic courses like St. Andrews and Prestwick. The course has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup, and is a cornerstone of The Greenbrier's golfing heritage.

Bryson DeChambeau, the defending champion, made history at last year's event with a record-setting 12-under 58 in the final round, the lowest score in LIV Golf history. This year, he returns as the reigning U.S. Open champion, aiming for another victory to improve his standing in the season-long points race. The tournament is crucial for competitors like Joaquin Niemann, who leads the individual standings, and teams such as Crushers GC and Legion XIII, who are vying for top positions in the team championship.

LIV Golf Doping Controversy: Brooks Koepka Steals Bryson DeChambeau’s Move to Save Face at $25M Showdown

John Catlin replaces Graeme McDowell on Brooks Koepka's Smash GC team for the $25 million LIV Golf Greenbrier event after McDowell's suspension for a doping violation. Catlin's previous performance was strong, finishing T7 at LIV Golf Nashville, and his inclusion may enhance Koepka's team's performance, which has struggled in recent events.

Greenbrier preview: Possibilities for season-long races

The LIV Golf Greenbrier tournament is crucial as it approaches the end of the 2024 regular season, with six players still in contention for the Individual Champion title. Joaquin Niemann can secure the championship with a win if Jon Rahm finishes no better than third. Additionally, players are vying for top-three bonus positions, with Tyrrell Hatton currently in third place. The Lock Zone guarantees spots in the 2025 LIV Golf League for the top 24 players, while those ranked 49th or lower face relegation to the Drop Zone. Team seedings are also at stake, with several teams competing for the top seed.

D+D REAL Czech Masters - DP World - PGA National Oaks Prague - Prague, Czechia

The D+D REAL Czech Masters 2024 is set to take place from August 15 to 18 at the PGA National Oaks Prague, marking the first time this prestigious event will be hosted at this venue. The course, designed by renowned architect Kyle Phillips, is a 7,613-yard, par-72 championship course that has been recognized as the Czech Republic's Best Golf Course for four consecutive years. Located in Nebřenice, about 30 minutes southeast of Prague, the course is part of the Oaks Prague residential development and is the only PGA National licensed course in the country.

This year's tournament will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Czech Masters, promising a showcase of exceptional skill and competition. The event is part of the DP World Tour and will feature a prize fund of $2,500,000. The Czech Masters has a history of attracting top golfing talent from around the world, and this year is no exception, with a lineup that includes both seasoned professionals and emerging stars.

The Czech Masters is a key event on the DP World Tour, and its move to this new venue is seen as a significant step in its evolution, further enhancing its reputation as a premier golfing event in Europe.

Major champions compete at new course for the Czech Masters

The DP World Tour resumes with the D+D Real Czech Masters at a new venue, PGA National Oaks, featuring major champions like Francesco Molinari and Jason Dufner. The tournament, with a prize fund of $2.5 million, is crucial for the Race to Dubai standings. It follows a month-long break and is the penultimate event in the tour's Global Swings series. The format includes 72 holes of stroke play, with a cut after 36 holes. The event promises excitement, having seen close finishes in previous editions.

A decade of the D+D REAL Czech Masters

The D+D REAL Czech Masters, established in 2014, has featured eight different champions, including six first-time winners, and has significantly impacted players' careers. Key moments include Jamie Donaldson's victory in 2014, Thomas Pieters' two wins, and Maximilian Kieffer's long-awaited win in 2022. The tournament has evolved over the years, showcasing memorable performances and dramatic finishes, with Todd Clements winning in 2023.

Magnit Championship - Korn Ferry - Metedeconk National Golf Club - Jackson Twp. NJ

The upcoming Magnit Championship, part of the Korn Ferry Tour, is set to take place from August 15-18, 2024, at the Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson Township, New Jersey. This prestigious event will feature a field of 156 players from around the world competing over 72 holes for a share of a $1,000,000 purse. The tournament is a critical opportunity for players to qualify for the Korn Ferry Tour Finals, making it a significant stop on the tour.

The championship will include notable participants such as PGA TOUR winners Jonathan Byrd, Tommy Gainey, and Satoshi Kodaira, as well as Korn Ferry Tour winners from the 2024 season. Local New Jersey residents and natives like Evan Harmeling, Morgan Hoffman, David Kocher, and John Pak are also set to compete. The event is the 22nd of 26 on the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour schedule and serves as the final chance for players to secure a spot in the finals, where 30 PGA TOUR cards will be awarded.

Metedeconk National Golf Club, the venue for the championship, is a private, 27-hole facility designed by renowned architects Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Roger Rulewich. It is nestled in the New Jersey Pinelands, offering a challenging course routed through marshlands and pine forests.

Wyndham Championship: Final? 🤷‍♂️

Matt Kuchar finishes Wyndham Championship a day late in odd decision meant to help a rookie

Aaron Rai won the Wyndham Championship, which concluded in unusual circumstances as Matt Kuchar finished his round on Monday morning after a rain delay. Kuchar chose to stop playing on Sunday to set a precedent for rookie Max Greyserman, unaware that Rai had taken a two-shot lead. Kuchar's decision was influenced by the darkness affecting play, and he expressed regret for the situation but was pleased for Rai's victory. Kuchar's tie for 12th means he will miss the FedEx Cup playoffs for the first time since 2007.

Aaron Rai wins first PGA Tour title at Wyndham Championship as Max Greyserman collapses

Aaron Rai won his first PGA Tour title at the Wyndham Championship, finishing with a bogey-free 6-under 64, while Max Greyserman, who had a four-stroke lead, collapsed with a quadruple-bogey on the 14th hole. Rai's victory was marked by consistent play and strategic focus, while Greyserman reflected on his mistakes but remained optimistic about his performance. The tournament faced delays due to weather, resulting in a marathon Sunday of play.

Next Year: The Ryder Cup

Keegan Bradley Names Second US Ryder Cup Vice Captain

Keegan Bradley has appointed Brandt Snedeker as his second vice-captain for the 2025 Ryder Cup, joining Webb Simpson in the role. Snedeker, who has a strong Ryder Cup history, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and aims to help Bradley achieve his vision for the event. Team USA seeks to rebound from a previous defeat to Team Europe and Snedeker has also recently been honored with the Payne Stewart Award for his character and sportsmanship.

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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

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LPGA Tour Schedule 2024

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2024 including the Previous winners and Purse.

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