Author: Julian Trips

Categories
Ladies European Tour

Former NFL Stars Compete At Aramco Team Series New York

Former NFL stars Eddie Royal and Brice Butler playing at the Aramco Team Series in New York. (photos: Getty)
Former NFL stars Eddie Royal and Brice Butler playing at the Aramco Team Series in New York. (photos: Getty)

The football stars join the team competition over the event’s first two days as the unique tournament format sees each four-player team including three professional golfers and they will be the team’s one amateur. Each team’s best two scores per hole count toward the team total, so each of the four team members can contribute to the team’s chances at a share of the $500,000 prize fund. The individual competition for the pro golfers spans the three days of the event, with the three-day total scores determining the leaderboard and chance at the share of the $500,000 individual prize.

During their NFL careers, the trio of wide receivers in Tate, Royal and Butler combined to score 83 touchdowns, while on the defensive side Green grabbed 25 interceptions and returned three for touchdowns.

Speaking ahead of participating in the LET event with the world’s top women golfers, former 11-year NFL pro and Super Bowl champion Golden Tate shared: “As a competitor, I always look forward to competing. Getting a chance to compete with the best ladies in the world is extra special. Hopefully I can do my part to help our team win. Competing and having fun is what it’s all about for me.”

He shared advice for girls who hope to become professionals in golf or other sports, “Continue to play and enjoy the process. Enjoy the ups and downs because the ups and downs are what build character and that’s how you get through those low moments. Preparing you for when those lights are shining on you or when you have that opportunity. You may get one chance, you might get five chances – you just want to be prepared to maximize that opportunity.”

Tate on his preparation for golf versus football, “The prep has been done for years now for golf. The practice and repetitions – football is week to week with game plans and figuring out how to beat your opponent. The game of golf is you versus the course really.”

Speaking ahead of his first round of the Aramco Team Series – New York, six-year NFL proBrice Butler said, “Just having fun with the ladies. It’s always fun playing with ladies because as a football player, you look at other people as not as physically gifted as you because maybe they’re not as big. They’re about to be out there hitting the the ball as far as me, hitting greens in reg, hitting fairways. It’s going to be fun – I’m playing with Lexi Thompson, it’ll be great to play with a great golfer out there.” 

Butler shared advice for girls who aspire to become professional athletes, “Keep grinding. There are always going to be naysayers. The confidence lies within. All you need is your confidence and your grind. It’s almost like a psychotic sense of you’re going to make it regardless of what happens. If you do that, and you work hard – obviously there’s going to be some cookies that fall the way you don’t want them to fall but you gotta pick them up and eat them.”

Butler went on to discuss preparing for a golf tournament versus an NFL game ahead of Aramco Team Series – New York, “[In a] Football game I’m very confident because I know my skills and capabilities. I was doing it for a long time. This game of golf I’ve only been playing for six years, so I’m basically a baby in the game. The mind is scrambled, this mind is real scrambled [going in].” The Ladies European Tour event features 78 golfers with several of the world’s top pros including no. 4 ranked Nelly Korda, no. 6 Brooke Henderson, no. 8 Lexi Thompson, no. 14 Jessica Korda, no. 18 Charley Hull and no. 19 Leona Maguire with a $1M prize purse. 

(Text: Aramco Team Series)


Categories
Ladies European Tour

LET: Manon De Roey defies brutal conditions to take opening day lead at Aramco Team Series – New York

Manon De Roey takes the lead at the New York event on the LET.
Manon De Roey takes the lead at the New York event on the LET.

New York, (October 13, 2022): The world’s top golfers battled the elements in challenging conditions at the opening round of the Aramco Team Series – New York. Belgium’s Manon De Roey overcame the wind and rain in the Big Apple to take the early lead in the individual event at Trump Golf Links on the Ladies European Tour (LET).

LET: “I’m very pleased with my score today” – De Roey claims a good start in New York

De Roey, who clinched her first LET title winning at the Aramco Team Series – Bangkok earlier this season, was flawless with a bogey-free round of 68 to finish on four-under-par.  Only four players at Trump Golf Links were able to shoot under par with better conditions expected for Friday and Saturday for a course favoring the long hitters.

“I’m very pleased with my score today,” said De Roey.

“It was tough out there. We had some rain, strong winds and just tried to keep it together for the team as well – being bogey-free today which is nice. I knew today was going to be tricky but I think for the next few days it’s going to be sunny and 19 degrees, so I’m looking forward to that. It can only get better from today, so I’m looking forward to it,” added the Belgian 30-year-old. 

De Roey is in fourth place on the LET’s Race to Costa Del Sol standings with a good showing in New York contributing to valuable points with just three tournaments to go in the 2022 season.

Nelly Korda, champion at the last Aramco Team Series event in Spain, sits behind De Roey after a two-under par round of 70. The American world number 4 showed her class in the wind on her back nine – with her team of Noora Homulainen, Celine Herbin and amateur James Rawson in the mix in the team event also in second place.

“The weather wasn’t that great so we were all saving each other and thankfully we all had each other’s back,” said Korda.  “We played pretty well today. It was pretty windy and then it started kind of raining toward the start of our back nine and it stopped around on the 14th and the wind died”. 

Talented 18-year-old rising star Pia Babnik joins Korda on two-under with four birdies and just the one bogey on her second hole in a controlled round of golf.

“I tried to really keep my ball flight much lower in the wind – I definitely needed to make some adjustments,” said Babnik.

LET: Team Leona Maguire leads the team event

Team Leona Maguire leads the way in two-day team competition on 11-under-par alongside Liz Young, Tvesa Malik and former NFL star Golden Tate – winner of Super Bowl XLVIII with the Seattle Seahawks.

Irish star Maguire said: “It’s a good test out there and was playing long with lots of woods and hybrids needed. It will be a little kinder tomorrow and we can make plenty of birdies to keep it going.”

Team Pelaez Trivino are just one back led by captain Ana Pelaez, Nicole Garcia, Emma Grechi and amateur Michael Singer.

“It’s really important to be patient around this course and because sometimes you’re not going to hit the best shot and you’re not going have the best bounce and stuff like that,” said Pelaez. 

Native New Yorker Annie Park enjoyed her day on the links and first experience of the unique team and individual event.

“This is my first time playing at this golf course and it felt like I was in Scotland today with the golf course and the weather. This is such an individual sport, and to have a little bit a team aspect into it, I think it’s fantastic with a lot on the line which is individual and team.”

There is a new format this year for the Aramco Team Series where the teams will compete over only 36 holes – the Thursday and Friday of the tournament – with $500,000 prize-money being split between the lowest scoring fourballs. Saturday’s final day of play will see only the lowest scoring 60 players and ties from the opening two days return to the course to battle it out for a share of another $500,000, this time in individual earnings.

Categories
LPGA Tour

LPGA: 14-year-old qualifies for an event in the tournament series for the third time in a row

Gianna Clemente qualifies for an LPGA Tour tournament for the third time at just 14 years old. (Photo: Getty)
Gianna Clemente qualifies for an LPGA Tour tournament for the third time at just 14 years old. (Photo: Getty)

It’s an incredible story. At just 14 years old, Gianna Clemente has already qualified for a tournament on the LPGA Tour for the third time. In the past two weeks, she already secured a place at the LPGA Tour events through the “monday qualifier”. Now she has achieved this feat for the third time.

“It’s definitely crazy” – Clemente qualifies for LPGA Tour event again

It’s probably the summer of her life. For the third week in a row, 14-year-old Gianna Clemente has secured entry to an event on the LPGA Tour via Monday qualifying. The high school student from Ohio played some of her best rounds of golf in the past three weeks. The American qualified for the CP Women’s Open as well as the Dana Open in the past two weeks, and now she also managed to qualify for the upcoming tournament in Cincinnati. At the Kroger Queen City Championship, the 14-year-old will once again compete with the likes of Gaby Lopez, Meghan Khang and Caroline Masson.

For the amateur, it’s a great opportunity to showcase her skills again on a big stage. While other girls her age are still enjoying the last days of summer at the lake, it’s off to Kenwood Country Club for the up-and-coming golfer. It’s an experience she’s already more than grateful for. “It’s definitely crazy,” Clemente said. “But just super lucky for this opportunity.”

Will Clemente make the cut this time?

In her previous appearances, the young golfer had to pack her bags after just two rounds. This time, of course, the American wants to avoid an early departure, but with the strong field, it will probably be difficult again. The 14-year-old is nevertheless looking forward to the pros: “It’s super inspirational,” Clemente said. “I think I’ve obviously watched all of them on TV, and it’s super special to just be out here like watching, but let alone to play is such an amazing experience.”

Even though she has failed to make the cuts so far, the amateur will again give everything this week to keep up with her idols, such as Lexi Thompson. It remains to be seen how far Clemente will make it this week, but as we all know, good things come in threes…

Categories
Equipment

Original Penguin Golf® showcases standout autumn/winter 2022 collection

The new Original Penguin Golf autumn/winter collection 2022. (Photo: Originals Penguin Golf)
The new Original Penguin Golf autumn/winter collection 2022. (Photo: Originals Penguin Golf)

(London, August18, 2022) – Original Penguin Golf, worn by Open Champion and brand ambassador Cameron Smith, has gone back to the future by debuting a distinctly retro standout Autumn/Winter Collection for men and women, taking its inspiration from the 1960s, 70s and 90s.

Original Penguin Golf® men’s and women’s prints have quickly become an iconic marker for the brand, fusing bold style and fashion with the tried-and-tested, for a younger-minded consumer.

This autumn-winter season, Original Penguin Golf® has increased its florals and bunker-inspired camos collection, while decorative ‘conversationals’ feature strongly too.

European Brand Director, Helen Willsmer, commented: “Original Penguin Golf® is known for fun statement prints and AW22 is no different. Premium quality, feature-rich multi-layering is a strong component for the season, curated with the versatile golfer in mind.”

The men’s collection has a bit of a retro and light-hearted palette and emphasises a casual look, with key colours including Blueberry Pancake Teal and Golden Chai Tea, with accents of Geranium Pink and Mid-Century Light Aqua.

The ultra-feminine Women’s Collection, inspired by 60s and 70s fashion icon Jane Birkin and French singer/songwriter Françoise Hardy, is expanding with fun geometric prints inspired by pomegranates, and featuring a new sun protection Hoodie for the first time.

Spotlighting its typical female customer, Helen Willsmer added: “The Original Penguin Golf® lady is active, young-minded and fashionable, yet quirky. She has her own sense of style, does not follow trends, but creates her own. She is classically stylish, with a sense of nostalgia, and a retro aesthetic that is timeless.”

Fabric Performance across both men’s and women’s lines includes UPF Protection, 4-way stretch, lightweight design, and PrimaLoft® used for high-level insulation in a new line of Puffers.

The women’s line, specifically, also details built-in shelf bras with removable inserts, built-in tummy control on all bottoms, and soft elastic gripper tape on all inside shorts for skirts and dresses.

Polar Pete Series

The expanding collectionfeatures on-trend layering and outerwear pieces with great performances for those playing in all kinds of weather. All fabrics and performances have been crafted with sustainable yarn blends and eco-friendly technologies.

With an emphasis on warmth and comfort, the 90s-inspired Mixed Media Colour Block Thermal Fleece – and the new ¼ Zip featuring a 3D spacer fleece in recycled blend – are both great mid-weight layering options for cooler days.

Meanwhile, the Insulated Puffers with PrimaLoft® thermal insulation and with 100% nylon durable micro-ripstop, also water-repellent features, can be worn on windy and cold days on the course or even around town.
 

Other Men’s Highlight Products:

Bunker Print Polo (as worn by Cam Smith at The 150th Open) – 30% recycled polyester, self fabric collar, three button placket.

The Original Performance Tracksuit Jacket – 30% recycled polyester with Aquapel® water-repellent finish, rib knit inside neck, double-sided front zipper, left chest ‘Pete’ logo patch.

Midweight ¼ zip Performance Hoodie-Luxe and eco-friendly blend of TENCEL™, recyclable polyester and elastane, Aquapel® water-repellent finish, contrast inside hoodie with hidden adjustable cord & stopper, branded trims around hoodie edge and on zipper tape.

Insulated Mixed-Media 70’S Vest – Water-repellent finish, insulated panels, knit side panel for stretch and performance, side zip pockets with Pete printed pocket bags.

¼ Zip 90’S Colour Block Wind Jacket – Dobby backed lining, open hem with adjustable toggle, elasticated cuffs and hem, left chest sticker ‘Pete’ patch. 

New Waterproof Suit – 10,000 MMU

Other Women’s Highlight Products:

Knit Hoodie – New on trend women’s fashion piece featuring left chest ‘Pete’ Patch, raglan sleeves, rounded hem with binding and side pockets.

Papercut Floral Flounce Pleated Skort – with piping and soft elastic gripper tape on inside shorts.

Mixed Media Puffer Jacket – New full-zip PrimaLoft® insulated jacket with rib knit hems and cuffs, and back neck ‘Pete’ heat seal.

Essential Solid Legging – with rib waistband, side pockets, mesh lining inside waistband and quick dry finish.

For further information, visit: www.originalpenguin.co.uk/de/collections/golf

Categories
Equipment

Number-one range technology provider, Toptracer, launches new insights-driven game mode

Industry leading range technology provider, Toptracer, is today launching a brand-new game mode: Toptracer30.
Industry leading range technology provider, Toptracer, is today launching a brand-new game mode: Toptracer30.

Toptracer has a new game mode

The exciting new game mode puts players in 30 realistic virtual on-course scenarios, and measures how successfully the player navigates them – providing a mountain of data in just 30 shots. Each shot provides data which accumulates to a total score designed to offer an accurate and objective snapshot assessment of the player’s current performance level.

The new game mode has been designed as a bridge between the range and the golf course, simulating on-course pressure for players as they are tasked with a series of different situations. Toptracer30 consists of nine tee shots and 21 approach shots, with each shot evaluated depending on a number of variables – ranging from distance and accuracy when driving, to hole proximity and greens hit when approaching.

During gameplay, players are additionally provided with a series of ‘Insights’. As each is observed, evaluated, and analysed, players are given real-time feedback into the strengths and weaknesses of their performance during that play-through of Toptracer30.
Finally, upon completion of the Toptracer30 game, each shot is assessed and attributed to a ‘Performance Handicap’ – an estimated handicap that reflects the player’s performance across the entire 30 shots.
Ben Sharpe, Toptracer President, commented on the new development: “Toptracer30 is yet another impressive innovation in our range technology. This new game mode provides players with brilliant insights into their performance, and it offers the player with an opportunity to health check their game in just 30 shots.
“We can’t wait to see how players, and indeed coaches, use this new game mode to further their game and make all-important improvements,” he added.

About Toptracer

Toptracer, an innovative technology from Topgolf Entertainment Group, is the most-used and most-trusted advanced ball-tracing technology. The first of its kind to be introduced to the game of golf, Toptracer has revolutionised the way viewers experience the game at select Topgolf venues, driving ranges and while watching major golf tournaments. Today,
Toptracer technology powers over 550 Toptracer Range driving ranges in 31 countries.

(Text: Sam Elder)

Categories
Highlights Tours

US Open 2022: Matt Fitzpatrick and his caddie Billy Foster – An emotional win

US Open 2022: Matt Fitzpatrick and his caddie Billy Foster celebrate their first ever major win. (Photo: Getty)

It was probably the best Sunday in the life of the still young Matt Fitzpatrick. After an exciting final day, the Englishman beat his flight partner Will Zalatoris and Masters winner Scottie Scheffler to win the US Open 2022. For the 27-year-old, however, it is not the first title on this course, as he already won the US Amateur at the same venue in 2013. In addition, his caddie, Billy Foster, also had reason to celebrate after some forty years.

US Open 2022: Fitzpatrick still can’t believe his success

With the words “Yes and no. Actually no, I’d say yes,” Matt Fitzpatrick answered the question after his triumph at the US Open 2022 whether he had expected this outcome before the tournament. However, his caddie, Billy Foster, was convinced of the victory of his “protégé” early on: “Billy had been saying for a while, the time will come. You’re playing so well. Just keep doing what you’re doing. It will come. It will happen. It will happen”.

And indeed, that was the case on this weekend in June. The Englishman showed solid golf over four rounds, played, compared to his competitor Scheffler, not a single round over par and was therefore deservedly happy about his first major title in professional golf. Even if he was not convinced before the tournament that it could be enough for the victory in the end, his opinion changed after the Moving Day. He entered the final day as the leader, along with Will Zalatoris, and then had a good feeling: “I put myself in position after two rounds and then played well yesterday. I just really believed this could be the time. Yeah, for whatever reason, because of my success here before, it just felt like this was the time.” And even though Fitzpatrick said it was cliché, the triumph was exactly what he had always dreamed of as a kid.

Fitzpatrick’s caddie celebrates first major title in 40 years

Not only was Matt Fitzpatrick’s win at the US Open a premiere victory, but his caddie Billy Foster was also able to celebrate his first title at a major. The Englishman, who has accompanied numerous stars around the world’s golf courses, was finally able to celebrate a “big” title after more than 40 years. No wonder, then, that he kissed the flag on the 18th hole and, of course, took it home afterwards. In the social media, many were also happy for Foster.

“It means the world to Billy. I can’t tell you how much it means to Billy. It’s unbelievable. I know it’s something he’s wanted for a long, long, long time. To do it today is incredible” Fitzpatrick said about his caddie after winning the title. It could have turned out very differently, because the two guys only started working together by chance about four years ago: “We ended up working together. I was kind of in between caddies. He just split up with Lee, and just happened to work out. It’s so funny. He kept telling me the first time on the job, I’ll just do 25 weeks and maybe get a fill-in for the others. I think he’s had about two weeks off in four years, so yeah.” It’s a wonderful story that turned out to be an emotional victory for both of them.

Fitzpatrick enters the history books alongside Jack Nicklaus

It was a very special victory for Matt Fitzpatrick. On the one hand, the Englishman has not yet been able to celebrate a victory as a professional golfer, and on the other hand, it was not his first major victory at the Country Club in Brookline. In 2013, the then 18-year-old celebrated winning the US Amateur at the same venue. If he had been told at the time that he would be able to enjoy another title there 9 years later, but with a lot more competition and, above all, significantly more prize money, he would probably have just smiled wearily. However, the 27-year-old delivered and deserved to be the winner in the end.

In addition to the Major victory, Fitzpatrick is therefore also celebrating another triumph. Alongside Jack Nicklaus, he is the only player to succeed in winning the US Amateur and the US Open on the same golf course. While the golf legend celebrated in Pebble Beach in 1961 and 1972, Fitzpatrick achieved the same feat in 2013 and 2022 at the Country Club in Brookline. The Englishman was visibly moved when he realized this: “Any time you’re sharing a record with Jack Nicklaus, it’s unbelievable. So for me to have that as well is incredible” Nicklaus, who of course also followed the 2022 US Open, was one of Fitzpatrick’s first well-wishers. He passed on his congratulations to the Englishman by phone: “He called me up down there just at the presentation to congratulate me. Coming from someone like that, it means the world”.

In the women’s world, by the way, only one player managed this double success: Juli Inkster won in 1980 and 2002 at Prairie Dunes Country Club. No wonder, then, that the fans were on their best behavior during Fitzpatrick’s triumph. Especially on the 18th hole, they were almost unstoppable to cheer Fitzpatrick on. However, he and his caddie remained cool: ” It felt like Billy and me were going to get stampeded, but we didn’t. We’re fine. I love that. I love when the crowd is excited and loud. It’s what makes it more exciting.” Also, because Fitzpatrick is an avid soccer fan, he would enjoy such a raucous atmosphere in golf from time to time, “I love football, and I love the atmosphere in that. I know golf’s different, and it’s got to be all nice and calm and everything, but sometimes it’s good to be a bit different”.

Categories
Panorama

Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic to fundraise for Ukrainian refugees

Palheiro Golf at Madeira, Spain.
Palheiro Golf at Madeira, Spain.

Players and dignitaries are being encouraged to donate as much as possible towards the worthy cause when the event takes place at Palheiro Golf on Saturday, May 7.

Ukrainians have fled in increasing numbers to Madeira in the last two months since the outbreak of hostilities in their homeland, with around 300 people already having taken refuge in the Portuguese archipelago.

Jonathan Fletcher, president of Palheiro Nature Estate, said: “The Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic is an important event on our golfing calendar, and we wanted to support a charity that reflected its importance.

“At this time, there is no bigger cause in the world than the plight of the Ukrainian refugees and we’re delighted to do whatever we can to help ease the suffering of these poor people in their time of need.”

Madeira awaits their golf fans

Taking place on the idyllic island destination of Madeira for the second time this year, the 2022 Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic forms the centrepiece of a wider five-day event which will be staged from May 5-9. As well as providing the opportunity to enjoy world-class golf, guests will also experience a slice of the archipelago’s famous culture and history – including Madeira’s globally acclaimed annual ‘Festa da Flor’ Flower Festival.

And golfers have added incentive to take part in this year’s Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic with anyone taking up the chance to buy a Madeira Golf Passport over the weekend of May 6-8 automatically being entitled to a place in the 18-hole Stableford competition.

Providing holders with an unrivalled golf experience, the Madeira Golf Passport features three golf courses – Clube de Golf Santo da Serra, Palheiro Golf and Porto Santo Golf – is available to both individuals and groups and can be booked on a three or five-round basis.

Costing €225 per person for three rounds and €360 for a five-round package, the standard passport – which is valid for a two-week period – includes golf at Clube de Golf Santo da Serra and Palheiro Golf and free golf course transfers to and from your hotel.

There is also the opportunity to book tee times directly with the clubs prior to travel, while, for an additional fee from €91.50 per person, golfers can upgrade to Madeira’s premium golf passport, which includes return ferry travel to Porto Santo, transfers and 18 holes on the island’s acclaimed golf course.

Located approximately 1,000km from the European mainland – and just 500km from the African continent – Madeira enjoys an amazingly mild climate, ranging from 25°c in the summer to 17°c in the winter, with very mild average temperatures and moderate humidity, making it the perfect year-round destination for a golf break.

For more details and to buy a Madeira Golf Passport, please visit https://madeiragolfpassport.com/ and to view a video of the inaugural Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic, go to https://youtu.be/n-tmdZ7E2PM . The ‘2022 Palheiro Gardens Golf Classic’ will take place on May 7, 2022, and for more details and to book, please email [email protected], phone +351 291 790 120 or visit www.palheironatureestate.com/  

(Text written by Pete Simm – The Azalea Group)

Categories
Panorama

Dog walk on the golf course becomes a nightmare

Shooting at Delray Beach golf course in the US state of Florida (Photo: Getty).
Shooting at Delray Beach golf course in the US state of Florida (Photo: Getty).

Last Sunday, an unbelievable scene occurred on the Delray Beach Golf Course in Florida. A 74-year-old pensioner attacked a man ten years younger than him because he was walking his dog across the golf course. According to police, the golfer even pulled out a gun and fired several shots at the pedestrian.

Verbal fight on the golf course ends in shooting

It was just before sunset on Sunday evening at Delray Beach Golf Course when 74-year-old Robert Levine stood on the 15th hole of the course. At the same time Herbert Merritt, who is ten years younger, was walking his dog, according to his own statement, next to the golf course. As local television channel WPBF News reported, Levine then made his way to the walker and started a loud discussion because he was on the golf course with his dog without permission. Shortly thereafter, Levine pulled out a gun and shot his opponent. In doing so, he struck the 64-year-old’s left ankle. Merritt took flight and seeked shelter behind a tree. According to witnesses, a total of five shots were fired.

Levine goes to jail – Merritt to hospital

As if the shooting wasn’t bad enough, Levine allegedly used physical force as well. As local television channel WPBF News reports, witnesses saw Levine kick Merritt in the head, go back to his cart and get a club and begin beating Merrit with the club while holding the gun in his left hand. Deputies said they found shell casings on the ground and two golf clubs with what appeared to be blood on them.

Merritt was immediately taken to the hospital after the attack. Luckily, he did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. Levine, on the other hand, is under arrest for attempted first-degree murder.

An absurd story, which probably comes unsurprisingly from the US state of Florida. Because even if it is of course not allowed to walk your dog on a golf course, there are numerous other ways to solve such a situation. Herbert Merritt will probably not forget this nightmare walk and possibly choose a different route for the next round with his four-legged friend.

Categories
European Tour

Tiger Woods: Commitment for another tournament in Europe

Tiger Woods announces another tournament in his schedule. (Photo: Getty)
Tiger Woods announces another tournament in his schedule. (Photo: Getty)

Just a few days after Tiger Woods successful US Masters appearance, the next date in his schedule has been set. The Hall-of-Famer played in golf’s first and arguably most famous major just 14 months after his car accident, and now the Twitter page of the JP McManus pro-am confirmed Tiger’s participation. The tournament will be played just one week before the 150th Open Championship. This will mark Tiger’s fourth time teeing it up at Adare Manor Golf Club. The top club in Ireland is a popular stop before the Open Championship and will host the Ryder Cup in 2027 . Tiger will be joined by Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa and Dustin Johnson.

Tiger Woods confirms another tournament start after his US Masters comeback

The host of the tournament, JP McManus is looking forward to seeing Tiger and tells in an interview, “Tiger has been a great friend and avid supporter of the Pro-Am for a very long time and we are absolutely thrilled he has committed to play once again in the tournament”. The 15-time major winner will tee it up in Ireland alongside various celebrities, including actor Mark Wahlberg and singer Niall Horan. “His presence at Adare Manor will undoubtedly bring huge excitement to the thousands of spectators and we are very grateful to him for giving up his free time to be with us”.

Tiger Woods playing the big events

Tiger’s participation in Ireland is probably preparation for the 150th Open. The tournament is seen by many as a preparation for St. Andrews and the Old Course. On top of that, there’s Tiger’s connection to the only major not being played in America. “I would love to play at St. Andrews, there’s no doubt about it. It’s my favourite golf course in the world. To be a two-time Open champion there and even just being a part of the Champions Dinner is really neat.”

Categories
Panorama

Bryson DeChambeau undergoes surgery on left hand

Undergoing surgery on his left hand: Bryson DeChambeau (Photo: Getty).
Undergoing surgery on his left hand: Bryson DeChambeau (Photo: Getty).

Bryson DeChambeau has been suffering from pain since the beginning of the year

It is not yet a good calendar year for Bryson DeChambeau. The American has just six tournament appearances to his name so far in 2022, with two early withdrawals. The reason for his rather weak performances: injuries to his wrist and hip have kept BDC at bay for several weeks now.

This was also the case about a week ago during Scottie Scheffler’s triumph in Augusta, when Bryson DeChambeau said he felt 80% fit. Although his doctor had advised him against teeing off at the Masters, the 28-year-old decided to take part. The result: twelve over par after two rounds and a missed cut.

Now DeChambeau is taking the consequences and is undergoing surgery on his left hand to treat the fracture of his hamate bone. Curiously, he suffered the fracture while playing ping pong during the Saudi International. His agent Brett Falkoff told Sports Illustrated: “We look forward to a smooth recovery and rehab process. Bryson looks forward to returning as soon as he is cleared to do so”.

PGA Championship at risk due to surgery?

The surgery is scheduled to take place today, thursday. Actually, the 28-year-old would have been a guest at a Professional Long Drivers Association event in Florida this weekend. “He’s going to have surgery on Thursday” Bobby Peterson ,one of the organizers of the event, told Sports Illustrated. He added, “It’s unfortunate more for him. I hate that he’s not going to the event. But I hate it more for him. Obviously it’s not good or he wouldn’t be doing that. I know he was trying to avoid it, but I guess he felt it was something he had to do”.

The second major tournament of the season is already coming up next month. In May, golf’s elite head to Southern Hills Country Club for the PGA Championship. According to one long time PGA Tour trainer, the recovery time after surgery on the hamate bone is approximately 10-12 weeks. This means that participation in the PGA Championship is unlikely for the American. A more realistic goal for DeChambeau could be the US Open in June, which he already won in 2020. When the 28-year-old will finally return to the golf course depends largely on how the surgery and the recovery process turn out.