McIlroy mania in Melbourne, Scheffler goes blue in the Bahamas, new TGL holes, and Korda tops women’s earnings. The Back Nine.
Just one putt. That’s all that separated Cam Smith from a playoff at the Crown Australian Open. After a dismal run of missed cuts, the 2022 Champion Golfer of the Year bounced back in style at Royal Melbourne, finishing solo second and silencing critics. But a bogey on the final hole – his second in a row on 18 – saw him fall one shot short of Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, who claimed his maiden DP World Tour title without needing extra holes. Smith missed a 1.5-meter par putt, denying himself a chance at a tournament he’s longed to win.
Understandably, the local hero was too disappointed to speak post-round. Neergaard-Petersen, however, praised Smith: “He’s a class act. It was great to be out there with him today.”
McIlroy praises Australian Open and Melbourne
Rory McIlroy ended his first trip Down Under in 11 years with a T14 finish and a pair of closing birdies for a 69. Despite earlier frustrations, he left Royal Melbourne full of praise. “It’s been a great week. Melbourne is a fantastic sports city. What happened here and what was shown on TV will have made a big impression in Europe and the U.S. This tournament has huge potential and is regaining the significance it deserves,” said the five-time major winner, who was treated like a rockstar by over 100,000 fans.
PGA Tour 2027: Woods and Rolapp brief players
Tiger Woods and PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp met with Hero World Challenge participants in the Bahamas to discuss potential structural changes to the Tour starting in 2027. A reduced calendar of 20–22 Signature Events post-Super Bowl is on the table. Woods emphasized the importance of player input following consultations with fans, sponsors, and media. He hinted at either a full overhaul or gradual changes, all aimed at creating a more fan-friendly and recognizable product—though not everyone agrees. One thing’s clear: top players stand to benefit financially.
Scheffler debuts blue Qi4D driver
Scottie Scheffler tested TaylorMade’s new Qi4D driver at the Hero World Challenge, opting for a unique blue face with 8° loft. Unlike McIlroy’s light gray and Fleetwood’s dark gray versions, Scheffler’s driver resembles the Qi10 model. The results were promising: 293 meters average off the tee and 84% fairways hit.
Gil Hanse designs for TGL and North Berwick
As TGL gears up for its second season, renowned architect Gil Hanse has designed new simulator holes for the SoFi Center in Florida. But his more significant project lies in Scotland: Hanse will help North Berwick Golf Club preserve its historic West Links, including the iconic Redan Hole, against climate change and coastal erosion. The 1832-founded club ranks 13th oldest in the world, and Hanse’s