Author: florian.schweickard

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Professionals

Rory McIlroy Secures Early Spot for 2025 Ryder Cup

Rory McIlroy qualifies for the 2025 Ryder Cup. (Photo: Getty)
Rory McIlroy qualifies for the 2025 Ryder Cup. (Photo: Getty)

Rory McIlroy has become the first player to qualify for Team Europe at the 2025 Ryder Cup in Bethpage Black. The Northern Irishman will celebrate his eighth consecutive appearance and will once again play a key role under captain Luke Donald. With four wins this season and an impressive Ryder Cup track record, McIlroy underscores his importance to Europe.

Rory McIlroy: The Hard Road to Qualification

Rory McIlroy secured his Ryder Cup spot early through outstanding performances on the PGA Tour. Thanks to the European Points List system, which ranks players based on DP World Tour and co-sanctioned event results – he quickly rose to the top. His four season victories, including his Masters triumph at Augusta, made him the undisputed number one. For McIlroy, this qualification confirms not just his consistency but also his unwavering class at the highest level.

The Ryder Cup: A Special Challenge

For Rory McIlroy, an eighth Ryder Cup appearance represents both a special honor and a significant responsibility. As the team’s most experienced player under captain Luke Donald, he’ll take a leadership role at Bethpage Black. The course’s demanding architecture and the away-game atmosphere present one of golf’s toughest challenges.

McIlroy’s record speaks for itself: Five wins in seven appearances demonstrate his reliability in this event. Whether in Foursomes, Fourballs, or Singles, he consistently delivers under pressure. But his value extends beyond play – as a bridge between veterans and rookies, he strengthens team cohesion and assists Donald with tactical decisions. This combination of competitive excellence and leadership makes McIlroy indispensable for Europe’s New York campaign.

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Highlights Tours

US Open 2025: Disappointing Round for Bryson DeChambeau & Rory McIlroy

US Open 2025: Disappointing Round for Bryson DeChambeau & Rory McIlroy (Photo: Getty)
US Open 2025: Disappointing Round for Bryson DeChambeau & Rory McIlroy (Photo: Getty)

The first round of the US Open 2025 brought a sobering start for Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau. McIlroy began strongly with two birdies but was dragged down by four bogeys and a double bogey. DeChambeau struggled with a total of five bogeys. Both demonstrate how challenging the course is.

US Open 2025 Live Scores

US Open 2025: Rory McIlroy’s strong start turns to disappointment

Rory McIlroy began his round at the US Open 2025 on the tenth hole and delivered an impressive opening. On the eleventh hole, he secured a well-earned birdie with a precise shot, followed by another strong moment on the twelfth, where he confidently sank the ball. These early successes raised hopes for a promising round. However, starting at the first hole, his momentum began to fade. A bogey on the first hole marked the initial setback, and he couldn’t avoid another bogey on the fourth. This trend continued with two more bogeys on the sixth and seventh holes. The low point came on the eighth hole, where he recorded a double bogey due to several poor chips. These mistakes dragged his overall score to +4, leaving him in a provisional tie for 62nd place at the end of his round.

US Open 2025 Live Scores

Bryson DeChambeau battles the course

Bryson DeChambeau began his round at the US Open 2025 on the first hole and immediately faced a bogey on the par-four, setting a sobering tone. He secured a birdie on the third hole, but uncertainties persisted. Another birdie followed on the seventh, but it couldn’t solidify his momentum. The famous eighth hole, a 265-meter par-three, DeChambeau played to expectations with a par. On the twelfth hole, disaster struck: after two shots, he was behind the green on the 618 yard par-five and needed four more shots to hole out. His sixth shot was an eight-meter chip-in. Another bogey came on the thirteenth, followed by his fourth on the fourteenth. A fifth bogey on the eighteenth rounded out his opening. His score of +3 places him in a provisional tie for 49th.

Spaun surprises with lightning start

While big names like McIlroy, Scheffler, and DeChambeau are struggling, J.J. Spaun quietly climbs to the top of the leaderboard. The American gets off to a perfect start at the 2025 U.S. Open. No bogeys, four birdies – a round of 66 that almost feels surreal on this day. He’s also the only player in the early wave to remain bogey-free. Especially strong on Thursday: his short game. On the 10th, he chips in directly for birdie, and later he sinks multiple putts from beyond six feet. He shoots a 31 on his first nine holes – the best opening nine ever recorded at a U.S. Open held at Oakmont. And on the more difficult front nine, Spaun plays all holes at par – a rare balancing act on this course.

Spaun is benefitting from a short game tune-up he got just on Monday with a new coach. It seems to be paying off – he gains nearly four strokes on the field with his putting alone. The reward: the outright lead after round one.

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Panorama

Dustin Johnson drops glamorous pre-U.S. Open photos that are turning heads

Dustin Johnson turns heads with wife Paulina Gretzky (Photo: instagram.com/paulinagretzky)
Dustin Johnson turns heads with wife Paulina Gretzky (Photo: instagram.com/paulinagretzky)

Prominent LIV Golf star Dustin Johnson is turning heads with newly released glamorous photos featuring his wife Paulina Gretzky, just weeks before the prestigious 2025 U.S. Open. The Instagram-published images showcase the power couple in sophisticated poses, offering rare glimpses into the 40-year-old’s private life. Since joining LIV Golf, Johnson’s career pivot has sparked ongoing debate in the golf world. This article examines the latest developments, the couple’s background, and tournament expectations at Oakmont – including embedded social media posts.

Spotlight on Dustin Johnson: Glamour Before the U.S. Open

Dustin Johnson is making headlines before the 2025 U.S. Open – and this time, it’s not just about his powerful LIV Tour swing. The new images with wife Paulina Gretzky, posted to her 1M+-follower Instagram account, capture the couple in elegant settings. These photos may signal a deliberate pre-tournament attention strategy. While Johnson remains renowned for his monster drives and two Major victories, these off-course glamour shots could either amplify pressure or fuel his motivation. With Oakmont’s treacherous bunkers awaiting at the U.S. Open, the images are generating extra hype.

The Relationship of Dustin Johnson and Paulina Gretzky

The relationship between Dustin Johnson and Paulina Gretzky has been a highlight in the golf community for years. The couple first met in 2009, began dating in 2013, and celebrated their wedding in 2022 after a nearly decade-long engagement. Gretzky, daughter of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, brings both glamour and strong support to the LIV Golf star. She regularly attends his tournaments and celebrated victories like his 2020 Masters win by his side. Together they have two sons, providing the family-oriented Johnson with a stable foundation.

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Highlights Tours

US Open 2025: “Toughest Course in the World” – DeChambeau’s Plan

Bryson DeChambeau shares his thoughts on the 2025 US Open. (Photo: Getty)
Bryson DeChambeau shares his thoughts on the 2025 US Open. (Photo: Getty)

The US Open 2025 at Oakmont Country Club promises an epic showdown on one of the most demanding golf courses in the world. As the reigning champion and a fan favorite, Bryson DeChambeau brings a unique blend of fearlessness, technical innovation, and passion for the game to Pennsylvania. In the pre-tournament press conference, he shares his thoughts on the brutal course, his optimized irons, and the motivation that drives him. This article highlights DeChambeau’s perspective and reveals how he plans to tackle the challenge of the US Open 2025 to defend his title.

US Open 2025: A Course Without Mercy

Bryson DeChambeau calls Oakmont “probably the toughest golf course in the world right now,” and his words underscore the immense challenge awaiting the players. The narrow fairways, thick roughs, and treacherous greens demand the highest precision. “You have to hit the fairways, you have to hit greens, and you have to two-putt, worst-case scenario,” he explains. Short putts are particularly critical: “When you’ve got those putts inside 10 feet, you’ve got to make them.” DeChambeau relishes the test, which pushes every aspect of the game to the limit. His experience in 2016, when Oakmont eliminated him early, taught him that there’s no room for error here. Yet, rather than being intimidated, he sees the difficulty as an opportunity: “I think the person that wins this week is going to hit a lot of fairways and make a lot of putts.”
US Open 2025 Live Scores

Technical Finesse: New Irons for Greater Control

Known for his scientific approach, DeChambeau has fine-tuned his equipment for the US Open 2025. New irons, ready only after the PGA Championship, are designed to enhance his precision. “We iterated on the design of the face. The heel is a little bit flatter on the curvature… and then I moved the CG out towards the toe,” he describes the changes. These adjustments aim to minimize overdraws that troubled him in the past. “I put them in play last week, and they felt great. Is it going to be the ultimate answer to me winning? I mean, probably not. But I think will it help me on certain shots in certain conditions? I think it might,” he says. True to his motto of constant improvement, DeChambeau plans to test a new golf ball later this year. His love for experimentation sets him apart in the field.

US Open 2025 Tee Times

US Open 2025 Motivation through Fans

The support of the spectators gives DeChambeau the boost he needs to compete with full energy despite fatigue. “The only reason why I’m still here with this much energy is because of them,” he says enthusiastically. This passion fuels him both on and off the course. His YouTube presence, with over two million followers, is part of his mission to make golf more accessible to the next generation. “I view my legacy as not just winning golf tournaments. I view it as how much good can I do for the game outside of playing professionally,” he explains. His advice to young players like 17-year-old Mason Howell reflects his philosophy: “Learn how to hit it farther… You have to be fearless, in a sense… be grateful, as well.” For DeChambeau, the US Open 2025 is a stage to showcase his skills and inspire fans worldwide.

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Uncategorized

US Open: for the first time since 1999 without Sergio Garcia

The participants of the 2025 US Open. (Photo: Getty)

The US Open is one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world, attracting players from all parts of the globe. The participants of this year’s US Open, held from June 12th to 15th at Oakmont Country Club, have been finalized. Particularly noticeable is the absence of Sergio Garcia, who is not participating in the US Open for the first time since 1999.

Sergio Garcia narrowly misses the US Open

The Spanish LIV golfer qualified for the US Open every year since 1999. This year, that tradition ends with a close second round. The first round of qualifying went promisingly for Sergio Garcia with seven birdies and only one bogey. Unfortunately, he couldn’t repeat this strong performance in the second round. Sergio Garcia played a round alternating between four birdies and four bogeys, resulting in an even-par round. The final score of six strokes under par is just one stroke too many to qualify for the tournament.

Qualification for the US Open

The US Open, as the name suggests, is an open tournament. Every pro or amateur with a handicap index of 0.4 or lower can register to compete for a spot in the U.S. Open. Qualification happens in two phases: The local qualification was held at over 110 locations in late April and early May and consists of 18 holes. Players who passed this phase then advanced to the final qualification with 36 holes in one day. This final qualifying round is also known as “the longest day in golf.”

Who succeeded on the Longest Day?

Among the players who managed to qualify is Edoardo Molinari, who prevailed at Walton Heath Golf Club in England. Erik van Rooyen and Cameron Young secured their spots at Kinsale Golf and Fitness Club in Ohio, USA. Matt Wallace and Victor Perez qualified for the major at Lambton Golf & Country Club in Canada.

The qualifying tournament at Emerald Dunes Golf Club in Florida is still ongoing, and Denmark’s Nicolai Højgaard still has a chance to secure a spot in the US Open.

Go to the Leaderboard

US Open without these golf stars

Unfortunately, several prominent names like Sergio Garcia, Rickie Fowler, Padraig Harrington, and Max Homa failed to secure a spot in this year’s U.S. Open.

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Panorama

Bryson DeChambeau: Day in the life of a recreational golfer…

Bryson DeChambeau humorously recounts a day in his life. (Photo: Getty)
Bryson DeChambeau humorously recounts a day in his life. (Photo: Getty)

Bryson DeChambeau, a two-time Major winner and part of the LIV Golf League since 2022, has caused a stir with a funny video on X (formerly Twitter). Titled “Day in the life of a recreational golfer…,” the 31-year-old American presents an exaggerated version of his daily routine, ranging from shaving to adventurous golf rounds. But what’s behind this humorous glimpse, and how does it reflect DeChambeau’s life as a pro?

From Bed to Helicopter Ride

The video starts at 5:30 a.m. as DeChambeau rolls out of bed. Right away, it’s clear that a professional golfer’s day begins early. But things quickly escalate: by 6:07 a.m., he’s already in his car, and by 11:07 a.m., he’s hitting balls on a mountain peak. The plot intensifies when DeChambeau pilots a helicopter at 12:03 p.m. and plays golf on a salt flat by 12:50 p.m. These scenes are, of course, exaggerated for entertainment, but they also reflect DeChambeau’s passion for the game and his unconventional approach.
DeChambeau’s video isn’t just entertaining—it’s also a statement about his brand. Since joining the LIV Golf League in June 2022, he has established himself as a charismatic and innovative golfer. His 2024 U.S. Open win, which he dedicated to his late father, underscores his emotional connection to the sport.

The “Day in the Life” Video Series: Humor and Insights

The “Day in the Life” video series, adopted by numerous athletes and celebrities, humorously portrays exaggerated versions of their daily routines. Bryson DeChambeau’s contribution follows this trend by embracing golfer stereotypes and taking them to absurd extremes. While real training sessions, nutrition plans, and media commitments shape a pro’s schedule, the video leans into slapstick elements—like helicopter flights or golfing on extreme terrains. This type of content blends entertainment with subtle marketing. Fans get a faux “behind-the-scenes” glimpse that simultaneously reinforces DeChambeau’s person as an innovative and extroverted player.

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Panorama

Will Zalatoris has to undergo further back surgery

Will Zalatoris addresses his fans in a post about his surgery. (Photo: Getty)
Will Zalatoris addresses his fans in a post about his surgery. (Photo: Getty)

Will Zalatoris, the talented 28-year-old, recently released a health update on his recurring back problems. After an intense season in which he struggled with pain and instability, he opted for surgery to improve his quality of life and athletic career. In this article, we shed light on the background to his injury and how it progressed.

Will Zalatoris has been plagued for a long time

Will Zalatoris’ back problems began back in spring 2023, which were alleviated with disc surgery. He made his comeback at the Hero World Challenge at the end of 2023. However, the symptoms worsened again over time, which led him to find a solution with his medical team this spring. After the PGA Championship, he was diagnosed with a recurrence of two herniated discs through an MRI.

“I’m happy to say that I woke up feeling good.”

After detailed discussions with his medical team, Zalatoris decided to undergo further surgery under the guidance of Dr. Michael Duffy at the Texas Back Institute. It was not an easy decision, but it was necessary for his long-term health and performance on the golf course.

Following the successful operation, Zalatoris expressed optimism about his health on his Instagram profile: “I’m happy to say that I woke up feeling good.” He emphasized the importance of focusing on his recovery as well as the support of those closest to him. “Thank you to my team, friends and family for being there for me throughout this journey.” Looking ahead, Zalatoris is looking forward to returning in the fall, both to the game of golf and to public life. “Looking forward to seeing everyone in the fall!!”

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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Will Zalatoris (@willzalatoris)

Categories
Rules

Golf rules: This rule would have saved Phil Mickelson

This Golf Rule Could Have Saved Phil Mickelson. (Photo: Getty)
This Golf Rule Could Have Saved Phil Mickelson. (Photo: Getty)

A great example from the USGA drives the point home: Imagine a ball putted from the green into a bunker. Rule 18.1 helps players escape seemingly hopeless situations—instead of struggling in the sand, they can take a one-stroke penalty and replay from the original spot. This flexible rule offers more solutions than many amateurs and even pros realize.

Golf Rules as a Safety Net in Tough Spots

Every golfer knows the frustration of a seemingly safe putt that rolls tragically into a bunker. But the rules don’t force you into a risky bunker shot—Rule 18.1 provides a smarter alternative. With just a one-stroke penalty, you can replay from where you last played. The best part? This rule applies anywhere—fairway, green, or rough.

As the USGA example shows, when faced with a bad bunker lie, retreating to the green is often the wiser move. Instead of gambling on an unpredictable sand shot, this rule turns disasters into manageable situations. Sometimes, a penalty stroke is a small price to pay for a safer outcome. This intentional flexibility saves players from countless tricky scenarios and highlights the strategic depth of golf.

Rule 18.1

“At any time, a player may take stroke-and-distance relief by adding one penalty stroke and playing the original ball or another ball from where the previous stroke was made. The player always has this stroke-and-distance relief option: No matter where the player’s ball is on the course, and even when a Rule requires the player to take relief in a certain way or to play a ball from a certain place. Once the player puts another ball in play under penalty of stroke and distance: The original ball is no longer in play and must not be played. This is true even if the original ball is then found on the course before the end of the three-minute search time.”

Flexibility Over Rigidity – The Spirit of Golf Rules

Many golfers underestimate the player-friendly nature of the rules—the principle of “play the ball as it lies” isn’t set in stone. Rule 18.1 proves it perfectly: Whether it’s a lost ball, out-of-bounds, or a botched putt like in the USGA video, restarting with a penalty stroke always provides an escape route.

Phil Mickelson’s four bunker shots at the 2025 PGA Championship are proof—even pros sometimes overlook this tactical advantage. Had he used Rule 18.1, taking a penalty to replay from his previous spot, the outcome might have been far better. A clear example of how this rule can turn disaster into control.

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Highlights Tours

PGA Championship 2025: “F*ck this Place!” Shane Lowry

Shane Lowry's PGA Championship Frustration Boils Over (Photo: Getty)
Shane Lowry's PGA Championship Frustration Boils Over (Photo: Getty)

The tournament proved to be a rollercoaster for Lowry – featuring powerful drives, tough setbacks, and raw emotion. After a promising start, his momentum was halted by an embedded ball that cost him a potential birdie opportunity and triggered his furious reaction.

Follow the 2025 PGA Championship live blog

Buried Ball Drama at PGA Championship

Lowry’s perfect drive on the 8th hole landed just 50 meters from the pin, setting up what should have been a simple approach. Instead, he faced a nightmare scenario when his ball became deeply embedded in another player’s pitch mark. Under golf’s strict rules, players only get free relief when embedded in their own pitch mark, forcing Lowry to play the difficult shot as it lay.

View all live scores for the PGA Championship 2025

The Infamous “F*ck This Place!” Moment

His subsequent approach shot – normally a sure thing – missed the green entirely, sticking in the front bunker. This prompted Lowry’s explosive “Fuck this place!” outburst as he violently slammed his club into the ground, tearing up a large divot. While he executed the bunker shot, the ball landed well past the pin. His first putt to save par came up short, requiring another stroke to hole out.
This costly bogey ultimately proved decisive, with Lowry missing the cut by the narrowest of margins in a heartbreaking conclusion to his tournament.
[gpalbum id=10077]

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Highlights Tours

PGA Championship 2025:Phil Mickelsons Bunker Nightmare

Phil Mickelson while playing the PGA Championship (Photo: Getty)
Phil Mickelson while playing the PGA Championship (Photo: Getty)

After an opening-round 79 at the PGA Championship, Phil Mickelson was fighting to make the weekend cut – and initially appeared up for the challenge. Four birdies in five holes had him three under for the day and building momentum. But the greenside bunker on the 12th hole had other plans.

View all live scores for the PGA Championship 2025

After reaching the sand with his approach shot, “Lefty” needed a staggering four attempts just to escape. Each time, his ball caught the lip and rolled back down. When he finally blasted out on his sixth stroke, he overshot the green completely. Two putts later, he carded a quadruple-bogey 8 that effectively ended his tournament.

Follow the 2025 PGA Championship live blog

Even back-to-back birdies on the next two holes couldn’t salvage his round after the disastrous 12th, though they did briefly get him back under par for the day.

PGA Championship: Watch Phil Mickelson’s Quadruple-Bogey Disaster