Author: Laura Gailus

Categories
Highlights Tours

US Golfers Eyeing Olympics 2024: End of Qualification Period

In August, it gets serious for the American golfers at the 2024 Olympics. Who can hope for success of making the team? (Photos: Getty)

As the qualification period for the 2024 Olympics concludes, four US men’s golfers have secured their spots in Paris. Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Wyndham Clark, and Collin Morikawa will represent the United States at the Games.

Scheffler and Schauffele Lead the Team At The Olympics 2024

Scottie Scheffler, ranked first in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), has had a stellar season, including wins at The Players Championship, The Masters, and The Memorial Tournament. Despite a challenging performance at the US Open, Scheffler’s consistent excellence throughout the year ensured his top spot.

Xander Schauffele, currently third in the OWGR, has also had a strong season. He won his first major at the PGA Championship and has consistently finished in the top ten. Schauffele’s experience and previous gold medal win at the 2021 Olympics make him a formidable contender for Paris 2024.

Clark and Morikawa Secure Final Spots

Wyndham Clark, ranked fifth in the OWGR, clinched his spot with strong performances earlier in the season, including a win at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Despite recent inconsistencies, Clark’s high ranking secured his place on the team.

Collin Morikawa, ranked seventh, rounds out the US team. Morikawa’s accuracy and recent top finishes, including a third place at the Masters, have bolstered his ranking. His consistent play and strategic approach make him a valuable asset for the US team.

DeChambeau Misses Out Due to LIV Golf Participation

Bryson DeChambeau, despite a recent US Open 2024 win, did not qualify for the Olympics due to his participation in LIV Golf events, which do not contribute to OWGR points. This exclusion has left him frustrated, but the rules of Olympic qualification are clear, prioritizing OWGR standings.

Conclusion of the Qualification Process

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines qualification, aligning closely with the OWGR. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four per country. The men’s qualification period ended on June 17, 2024, confirming the final roster.

The qualification criteria for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)
Categories
Highlights Tours

British Golfers Set for Olympics 2024 as Qualification Period Ends

In August, it gets serious for the English golfers at the 2024 Olympics. Who can hope for success of making the team? (Photos: Getty)

The Olympic qualification period for the men golfers has ended, with Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick leading the charge for the Paris Olympics.

Fleetwood’s Performance Leading Up to The Olympics 2024

Tommy Fleetwood, ranked 10th in the Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) and 13th in the World Golf Ranking (OWGR), has demonstrated consistent performance over the past few years. His significant achievements include winning the Nedbank Golf Challenge in 2022 and playing a pivotal role in Team Europe’s Ryder Cup victory in 2023. Fleetwood also secured a top-five finish at the 2024 Masters Tournament, solidifying his position as a key contender for the upcoming Olympics.

Fitzpatrick’s Steady Rise

Matt Fitzpatrick, ranked 11th in the OGR and 18th in the OWGR, has also shown remarkable consistency. The 2022 U.S. Open champion has maintained his presence within the top 50 golfers globally for the past seven years. Notable victories for Fitzpatrick include the 2023 RBC Heritage and the 2022 U.S. Open.

Qualification Process and Criteria

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, scheduled from August 1-10 at Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four players per National Olympic Committee (NOC). Beyond the top 15, the highest-ranked players are selected until the 60-player field is complete, ensuring no more than two players per NOC unless they are within the top 15.

The qualification criteria for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)

Women’s Qualification Period Nearing End

The qualification period for women golfers will conclude on June 24, 2024, a week after the men’s. Charley Hull and Georgia Hall are the top British hopefuls. Hull, ranked 9th in both the OGR and OWGR, recently won the Volunteers of America Classic, ending a six-year wait for an LPGA Tour title. Hall, ranked 23rd in the OGR and 36st in the OWGR, has also shown impressive form, including a win at the Aramco Team Series in London. Their performances will determine their positions in the final Olympic lists.

Categories
Panorama

Rory McIlroy Takes Break Following Heartbreaking US Open 2024 Defeat

Rory McIlroy announces break after a heartbreaking US Open 2024 loss, aiming to return stronger and more determined. (Photo: Getty)

The Northern Irish golfer took to X on Monday to reveal that he is stepping back temporarily following a disappointing performance at the US Open 2024. McIlroy, who boasts four Major titles, plans to take a few weeks off to recover mentally and physically.

A Painful Loss at the US Open 2024

McIlroy endured a tough defeat at the US Open 2024 in Pinehurst, missing out on his first Major win in nearly a decade. With a two-shot lead and five holes to play, McIlroy seemed poised for victory. However, bogeys on the 16th and 18th holes cost him dearly. The most painful moments came with two missed short putts: a 75-centimeter putt on the 16th hole and a 1.1-meter putt on the 18th, ultimately costing him the title.

McIlroy’s Reaction and Break Announcement

In a statement on X, McIlroy announced his decision to take a break, returning only for the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open. Reflecting on his loss, McIlroy emphasized looking at the positives despite the setbacks. “I have always shown resilience and will do so again,” said McIlroy. He added, “Yesterday was a tough day, probably the toughest in my nearly 17 years as a professional golfer.” Despite the missed putts that cost him the title, McIlroy highlighted, “The positives of the week far outweigh the negatives.”

Seventeen Years of Professional Golf: A Retrospective

McIlroy has been a professional golfer for nearly two decades, starting with a spectacular win at the US Open in 2011, followed by several other Major titles. However, since his victory at the 2014 PGA Championship, he has been chasing another Major win. Despite numerous top-10 finishes in recent years, the breakthrough has eluded him. After missing the crucial putts on the 16th and 18th holes, McIlroy left Pinehurst No. 2 without speaking to the media.

Bryson DeChambeau Wins the US Open 2024

Bryson DeChambeau claimed his second US Open title, making a decisive pitch from a fairway bunker onto the 18th green and sinking the winning putt. In his statement, McIlroy congratulated DeChambeau, calling him a “worthy champion.” McIlroy departed the course shortly after the tournament concluded without addressing the media. “Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Bryson. He is a worthy champion and exactly what professional golf needs right now,” said McIlroy.

Bryson DeChambeau’s US Open 2024 Win

Support from Peers and Fans

McIlroy received an outpouring of support from colleagues and fans on social media. Shane Lowry, who won the Zurich Classic with McIlroy this year, wrote on X: “From the outside looking in, this game looks easy. But in reality, it’s the toughest of all.” Billy Horschel, speaking of his own struggles, called McIlroy “the greatest player of my generation.”

Future Plans for Rory McIlroy

McIlroy will take several weeks off to prepare for upcoming tournaments. The Genesis Scottish Open, which he won in 2023, starts on July 11, followed by The Open at Royal Troon on July 18. McIlroy hopes to return stronger and end his nearly ten-year Major drought. “I’ll take some time to process everything and build up for my title defense at the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open,” McIlroy explained.

Categories
Highlights Tours

Sepp Straka Scores Hole-in-One During Second Round of US Open 2024

Sepp Straka scores an ace in his second round. (Photo: Getty)

On Friday morning, Sepp Straka experienced a true magic moment at the US Open 2024 on Pinehurst No. 2. With a hole-in-one, the Austrian catapulted himself into the headlines and brought smiles to the faces of the spectators.

A Early Setback at the US Open 2024

The Friday could have started better for Straka. On the third hole, his second shot bounced off the flagstick and landed in the bunker. What followed was a painful triple-bogey that set him back to three over par—a tough blow for the usually confident player.

The Magical Moment on the Ninth Hole

But then came the moment that changed everything. On the ninth hole, a 177-yard par-3, Straka showed his full class. The 31-year-old hit his tee shot perfectly onto the green—about 26 feet from the pin—and the ball rolled straight into the hole as if by magic. Straka celebrated the first hole-in-one of this year’s US Open together with his caddie Duane Bock and American playing partners JT Poston and Peter Malnati.

A Special Entry in History

With this ace, Straka joins the few players who have achieved a hole-in-one on the ninth hole of Pinehurst No. 2. Before him, only Peter Jacobsen (2005) and Zach Johnson (2014) managed this feat.

The Road to the Cut

The hole-in-one brought Straka back into the tournament, as he was previously within range of the cut. In his career, Straka has already celebrated successes, including victories at the 2022 Honda Classic and the 2023 John Deere Classic. His best result at a major so far was a tied second place at last year’s British Open.

Categories
LIV Tour

LIV Golf Stars Face Luggage Mishap in Houston

Three thirds of Majestic GC arrived in Houston only to find their clubs missing. (Photos: X@MajesticksGC)

Several LIV Golf players encountered an unexpected problem upon arriving in Houston for the upcoming tournament: their luggage and golf clubs were left behind in London. Among those affected were Majesticks GC co-captains Henrik Stenson, Ian Poulter, Lee Westwood, and Legion XIII player Tyrrell Hatton.

Lost Clubs Cause Stir at LIV Golf Houston

Upon landing in Houston, Ian Poulter captured the group’s reactions in a humorous video posted on Majesticks GC’s official X account. The video shows Poulter asking his fellow golfers about their missing luggage, receiving similar frustrated and sarcastic responses from each.

Henrik Stenson, one of the Majesticks GC co-captains, appeared baffled by the situation but responded light-heartedly when Poulter asked, “H, where’s your clubs?” Stenson replied, “Um… hopefully Heathrow.” This incident occurred as the players prepared for LIV Golf Houston, the first event after a mid-season break.

Players Maintain Good Spirits Despite Misfortune

Lee Westwood was seen outside the airport, where Poulter questioned him about his missing case. Westwood’s response, “Heathrow. Where am I? Houston,” highlighted the frustrating situation. Despite the inconvenience, the players managed to stay in good spirits, laughing and joking about the mishap.

Tyrrell Hatton, another player whose clubs were left behind, was equally unamused yet maintained a sense of humor. When Poulter asked Hatton about his clubs and suitcase, Hatton’s blunt responses included expletives, underlining his frustration but also showcasing his ability to laugh off the misfortune.

Ian Poulter was particularly vocal about his disappointment. Mid-flight, he received an email from British Airways informing him that his bag had not traveled with him. Poulter shared his frustration on Instagram, criticizing the airline for the mishap, especially given that he had checked in well in advance.

Implications for LIV Golf Houston

The timing of this incident was far from ideal. With the tournament set to begin on Friday, the players are left in a precarious position. The three Majesticks GC players, in particular, are under pressure t as their team was currently ranked 12th out of 13.

Despite the setback, the players maintained a good sense of humor and were able to laugh, but the situation undoubtedly added stress as they prepared for the tournament.

Looking Ahead to the Tournament

For Tyrrell Hatton, who has had a successful season and is currently 11th in the individual standings, the loss of his clubs is an unwelcome distraction. However, with several days left before the tournament, there is hope that the players will be reunited with their equipment in time.

The LIV Golf Houston event is crucial, not only for individual standings but also for team rankings. The incident with the missing clubs has added an unexpected twist to the lead-up to the tournament.

Categories
Professionals

Road to the Olympic Games 2024: British Golfers Eye Qualification

In August, it gets serious for the English golfers at the 2024 Olympics. Who can hope for success of making the team? (Photos: Getty)

The qualification process for the 2024 Olympics is in full swing, and British golfers Tommy Fleetwood, Matt Fitzpatrick, Charley Hull, and Georgia Hall are among the top contenders aiming for a place in Paris.

Men’s Olympics Qualification

Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick are leading the British men’s golf contingent. Fleetwood, currently ranked 9th in the Olympic Golf Rankings (OGR) and 11th in the World Golf Rankings (OWGR), has had a successful few years. He won the Nedbank Golf Challenge in 2022, played a key role in Team Europe’s Ryder Cup victory in 2023, and recently secured a top-five finish at the 2024 Masters Tournament.

Matt Fitzpatrick, ranked 10th in the OGR and 14th in the OWGR, is also a strong contender. Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion, has consistently remained within the top 50 golfers worldwide over the past seven years. His notable victories include the 2023 RBC Heritage and the 2022 U.S. Open, showcasing his readiness for Olympic competition.

Women’s Olympic Qualification

On the women’s side, Charley Hull and Georgia Hall are the top British hopefuls. Hull, ranked 7th in both the OGR and OWGR, recently ended a six-year wait for an LPGA Tour title by winning the Volunteers of America Classic in Texas. Her consistent performance, including five top-10 finishes this year, makes her a strong candidate for Olympic success.

Georgia Hall, ranked 23rd in the OGR and 31st in the OWGR, has also shown impressive form. The former Open champion looks forward to competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Hall’s recent appearances include a win at the Aramco Team Series in London.

Olympic Qualification Process

The Olympic Golf Ranking (OGR) determines the qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics, which will take place from August 1 -10 on Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines. The top 15 golfers in the OGR automatically qualify, with a maximum of four players per National Olympic Committee (NOC). Beyond the top 15, the highest-ranked players are selected until the 60-player field is filled, ensuring no more than two players per NOC unless they are within the top 15.

The men’s qualification period ends on June 17, 2024, while the women’s ends on June 24, 2024. The final lists will be published shortly after these dates, confirming the golfers who will compete in Paris.

The qualification criterie for the Olympic Golf Tournament. (Photo: IGF)

With their strong performances and current rankings, Fleetwood, Fitzpatrick, Hull, and Hall are well-positioned to represent Great Britain at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Categories
Panorama

Dashcam Video Released Shows Scottie Scheffler’s Encounter with Police

Scottie Scheffler on the first day of the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth. (Photo: Getty)

A recent dashcam video released by the Louisville Metro Police Department depicts golf star Scottie Scheffler during his encounter with law enforcement on May 17. The involved officer faces disciplinary action for a rule violation.

The dashcam footage captured Scottie Scheffler attempting to bypass a roadblock near Valhalla Golf Club. Scheffler, en route to his second round at the 2024 PGA Championship, was subsequently apprehended by a police officer.

Scottie Scheffler at the PGA Championship: The Police Incident

Detective Bryan Gillis stopped Scottie Scheffler on May 17 as he entered the closed lanes. Gillis reported Scheffler disregarding instructions and proceeding, causing the officer to fall to the ground. Scheffler was charged with aggravated assault, property damage, reckless driving, and disobeying a law enforcement officer, charges he denies. Detective Bryan Gillis did not activate his bodycam during the incident and was disciplined as a result.

Release of Dashcam Footage

The dashcam video released by the police shows Scheffler slowly passing a barrier at around 5 mph on his way to Valhalla Golf Club, before being surrounded and arrested by officers. This blockade was set up due to a fatal traffic accident that occurred on the morning of the PGA Championship’s second round. Scheffler claims he misunderstood police instructions and never intended to disobey them. There are also recordings from a fixed camera capturing the events.

Scottie Scheffler’s View On The Incident

Scheffler explained he was in a chaotic situation and misunderstood the officer’s instructions. His attorney, Steve Romines, emphasized Scheffler never assaulted an officer. The defense is preparing to resolve the case in court.

Disciplinary Action Against Officer Involved in Scottie Scheffler Incident

The officer in question, Detective Bryan Gillis, was disciplined for failing to activate his bodycam during the incident. According to LMPD Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel, this is a violation of departmental guidelines. Gillis received a “corrective action” noted in his personnel file. The police department stressed the importance of all officers activating their cameras in such situations.

The incident has sparked attention both within the police force and among the public. Scheffler himself emphasized his appreciation for law enforcement’s work and regretted the misunderstanding.

Scheffler’s next court appearance has been postponed to June 3. In the meantime, he will continue participating in tournaments, including the PGA Tour’s Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas, as both parties prepare for a legal resolution.

The Released Video Footage

Categories
Professionals

Scottie Scheffler’s Court Date Postponed Following Arrest

Scottie Schefflers court date was moved back to June following his arrest at the PGA Championship 2024. (Photo: Getty)

Scottie Scheffler’s court date, initially set for May 21st, has been postponed to June 3rd, according to his attorney Steve Romines, who informed the Golf Channel. Scheffler, currently the world’s number one golfer and this year’s US Masters champion, was arrested last Friday before the second round of the 2024 PGA Championship on multiple charges, including aggravated assault on a police officer.

Romines stated that Scheffler will plead not guilty to all charges. “I’ve been defending criminal cases for 30 years and have learned to never be surprised,” Romines commented, adding, “whoever reported [the charges] were going to be dismissed was not accurate.”

What Happened During Scottie Scheffler’s Arrest?

According to the police report, the incident occurred when Scottie Scheffler tried to escape a traffic jam that build because of a deadly accident friday morning. Detective Bryan Gillis stopped him and gave instructions that Scheffler refused to follow. Scheffler then accelerated, causing Det. Gillis to fall to the ground. Scheffler described the incident as a “big misunderstanding” and expressed confidence that the situation would be resolved.

In addition to aggravated assault, Scottie Scheffler was also charged with three other misdemeanors: vandalism, reckless driving, and disregarding an officer’s signals. He was booked into the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections and released at 8:40 AM, allowing him to return in time for his second round at Valhalla.

Scottie Scheffler’s Performance at the PGA Championship Despite Arrest

Scottie Scheffler entered the week as a favorite, having won the US Masters and claimed his fourth PGA Tour victory in five starts at the RBC Heritage. Despite the arrest and tumultuous circumstances, Scheffler managed to finish in a tie for eighth place. “On the course I have always been proud of my toughness out there,” Scheffler told CBS. “I try to keep the off course as quiet as possible and this week was obviously not that way, but I’m proud of the way we competed and posted a decent finish running on fumes.”

Despite the ongoing legal issues, Scottie Scheffler plans to participate in the Charles Schwab Challenge of the PGA Tour in Fort Worth, Texas.

Categories
Highlights Tours

PGA Championship 2024: Top Contenders and Potential Surprises

PGA Championship 2024: Which players are among the favorites? (Photos: Getty)

As the PGA Championship 2024 approaches, the golfing world is focused on Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky. This prestigious event, one of golf’s four major championships, will challenge players with its Jack Nicklaus-designed course, known for its length and strategic demands. Who will lift the Wanamaker Trophy this year? With a field filled with world-class golfers, including top favorites Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Brooks Koepka, an exciting tournament is guaranteed. Here’s a look at the leading contenders and their chances.

Top Favorites for the PGA Championship 2024: Scheffler, McIlroy, and Koepka

Scottie Scheffler

Scottie Scheffler enters the PGA Championship 2024 as a clear favorite. Currently ranked number one in the world, Scheffler has already secured four tournament victories this season, including the Masters Tournament 2024. With four wins and a runner-up finish in his last five starts, over $18 million in prize money, and nine top-10 finishes from ten events, he is in exceptional form. Returning from a brief break for the birth of his first child, Scheffler is poised to claim his third major title.

Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy is another top contender this year. The Northern Irishman recently won the Zurich Classic alongside Shane Lowry and the Wells Fargo Championship. A previous winner at Valhalla a decade ago and currently second in the world rankings, McIlroy brings confidence to Louisville. With his impressive driving distance and strong long game, McIlroy has a great chance to capture the title.

Brooks Koepka

Reigning PGA Champion Brooks Koepka is also a formidable candidate. Koepka has already claimed a victory on the LIV Golf Tour this year and has a proven track record in major championships. With five major wins, including three PGA Championship titles, Koepka is known for his prowess in big tournaments and poses a significant threat on the challenging Valhalla course.

View all live scores for the PGA Championship 2024

Potential Surprises: Ludvig Åberg and Xander Schauffele

Ludvig Åberg

In his first professional season, Ludvig Åberg has established himself as one of the best players, highlighted by a second-place finish at Pebble Beach and an impressive debut in major tournaments. Over his last four events, the young Swede has gained over 15.5 strokes with his approach shots and is among the top off-the-tee players. Despite limited major experience and a recent knee injury, Åberg has the potential to surprise at the PGA Championship.

Xander Schauffele

Xander Schauffele has consistently performed well over recent years and is currently ranked third in the world. Although he has faced challenges in securing tournament victories, Schauffele’s strength in long games and on the greens could finally lead him to his first major title in Valhalla.

Other Contenders: Max Homa, Collin Morikawa, and Sepp Straka

Aside from the top favorites, other players like Max Homa, Collin Morikawa, and Sepp Straka are also worth watching.

Max Homa

Max Homa has steadily improved over the past few years, recently showcasing a strong performance at the Masters. The American has thrived on long, demanding courses, having won three of his six PGA Tour titles on such layouts, making him well-suited for the conditions in Louisville.

Collin Morikawa

Collin Morikawa has regained his form since adjusting his putting style. The switch to a mallet putter has yielded significant improvements, making him a serious contender in Valhalla. Morikawa’s accuracy off the tee and putting skills make him a formidable competitor.

Sepp Straka

Sepp Straka may not be the longest off the tee, but his accuracy could be advantageous on Valhalla’s demanding layout. Straka has shown consistent performance this season and could spring a surprise. With solid results in recent major tournaments, including a runner-up finish at the British Open 2023, Straka has the potential to reach the top ranks.

Categories
Panorama

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll File for Divorce Amid Major Preparations

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll announce divorce after seven years of marriage. (Photo: Getty)
Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll announce divorce after seven years of marriage. (Photo: Getty)

Rory McIlroy, the Northern Irish golfer, filed for divorce from his wife Erica Stoll. The filing, which was submitted in Palm Beach County in Florida, declares their marriage as “irretrievably broken.” This news comes just days before the start of the second major of the year, the PGA Championships of 2024.

McIlroy’s Statement on Divorce

McIlroy’s team confirmed the news and emphasized McIlroy’s desire for a respectful and amicable process. In a statement published by the New York Post his manager, Sean O’Flaherty, stressed the importance of handling this difficult time with dignity.

The divorce petition, asks for the enforcement of a prenuptial agreement. The couple signed this agreement on March 7, 2017, just before their wedding on April 21, 2017, at Ashford Castle in Ireland. The ceremony was a high-profile event attended by celebrities like Ed Sheeran and Chris Martin.

McIlroy and Stoll have one daughter, Poppy Kennedy McIlroy, born in 2020. The divorce documents request shared parental responsibility and a co-parenting plan to ensure equal timesharing. The petition also highlights that both parties are capable of supporting their child financially.

Thomas Julian Sasser, McIlroy’s divorce attorney, is well-known for handling high-profile cases, including those of Tiger Woods and Jeff Gordon.

Divorce Filing Amid PGA Championship Preparations

Erica Stoll has been a supportive presence throughout McIlroy’s career, often seen at tournaments on the PGA Tour and even serving as his caddie on occasion. Public records list their residence in Jupiter, Florida, an estate valued at over $22 million.

McIlroy and Stoll’s relationship began at the 2012 Ryder Cup, where Stoll worked as a PGA transport official. They started dating in 2014, shortly after McIlroy ended his engagement with tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. The 35-year-old recently won the Wells Fargo Championship and is among the favorites for the upcoming PGA Championship.