Author: Max Hollweck

Categories
Professionals

Jordan Spieth Hopes for Comeback After Successful Operation

Jordan Spieth's surgery was successful. (Source: Getty)
Jordan Spieth's surgery was successful. (Source: Getty)

Recently, we reported that Jordan Spieth would be using his early season exit to undergo surgery on his left wrist. Now, the three-time major winner has shared via social media that the operation went as planned and that he is on the road to recovery. “I had procedure on my left wrist last week, as I had mentioned was the plan. The operation went smoothly and I’m grateful for the exceptional medical team and support of Annie and my family. Focused on rest and rehab, and I look forward to returning to golf healthy and prepared for 2025,” Spieth wrote on X.

Jordan Spieth Hopes for a Swift Comeback

Despite the successful procedure, Spieth still has a long road ahead. The wrist is crucial for a golfer, and in Spieth’s case, his left wrist has been troubling him for some time. This has also been reflected in his performances, which have been rather inconsistent in recent years. Spieth’s last PGA Tour win came 28 months ago at the RBC Heritage in Harbour Town. Since then, his career has seen highs and lows: a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Masters, another near-win at the RBC, but also 14 missed cuts and a disqualification have marked his recent journey. Notably, his swing has changed – his clubface is now much more closed at the top of his backswing than it was during his peak in 2015. Experts like Brandel Chamblee expressed surprise at this change as golf.com reports.

Spieth’s ongoing issues with his left arm and wrist trace back to an injury in 2018 when he fractured a bone in his left hand, an injury he admits he never fully addressed. In May 2023, Spieth had to withdraw from the Byron Nelson tournament in his hometown of Dallas due to acute wrist pain. Although he competed in the PGA Championship at Oak Hill a week later, he wasn’t fully recovered. More setbacks followed in October of that year after the Ryder Cup when Spieth re-injured his wrist – this time while lifting a toaster at home. After several tests, doctors finally diagnosed ulnar nerve damage, providing him with much-needed clarity regarding his condition. “I believe that if I stay on top of this, I can structurally do what’s necessary to play my best golf again,” Spieth said optimistically at the time.

Now, after the successful surgery, the Texan begins the long journey back to his best form. It will be interesting to see how Spieth performs in 2025.

Categories
PGA Tour

Tour Championship: What the Players Earned at the Season Finale

A year for the history books: Scottie Scheffler rakes in record prize money. (Source: Getty)
A year for the history books: Scottie Scheffler rakes in record prize money. (Source: Getty)

Scottie Scheffler’s 2024 season was one of the most successful of all time. The 28-year-old American put on a dazzling finish at this year’s Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club, securing not only the title but also the highest prize money ever paid out on the PGA Tour. With a final round of four under par and a total score of 30 under par over the week, Scheffler left his competitors far behind. This victory marked Scheffler’s seventh triumph of the 2024 season, a feat unmatched since Tiger Woods in 2007.

The Leaderboard of the Tour Championship

Record Prize Money for Scottie Scheffler

For his victory at the Tour Championship, Scheffler received prize money of an incredible 25 million US dollars – the largest single prize money in the history of the PGA Tour. In total, the Texan has earned almost 62.3 million dollars from tournaments this season, which is also a record.

The total prize money for the 2024 Tour Championship amounted to an impressive 100 million US dollars, an increase of 25 million US dollars compared to the previous year. The prize money for the winner alone increased by 7 million US dollars compared to the last two seasons. In addition to Scheffler, other players also managed to earn considerable sums this season. Xander Schauffele, for example, who collected almost 20 million US dollars thanks to two major victories, as well as Rory McIlroy, Hideki Matsuyama and Wyndham Clark, who all took home more than eight-figure sums. Even players who “only” finished in the top 5 at the season finale were able to enjoy bonus money of at least 5 million US dollars. And seven-figure sums were guaranteed for the top 12. All 30 participants in the tournament received at least half a million US dollars just for qualifying.

The Prize Money at the Tour Championship

Position Player Score Earnings
1 Scottie Scheffler -30 $25,000,000
2 Collin Morikawa -26 $12,500,000
3 Sahith Theegala -24 $7,500,000
T4 Russell Henley -19 $4,833,333
T4 Adam Scott -19 $4,833,333
T4 Xander Schauffele -19 $4,833,333
7 Sungjae Im -18 $2,750,000
8 Wyndham Clark -17 $2,250,000
T9 Rory McIlroy -16 $1,608,333
T9 Hideki Matsuyama -16 $1,608,333
T9 Shane Lowry -16 $1,608,333
T12 Viktor Hovland -15 $1,000,000
T12 Sam Burns -15 $1,000,000
T14 Justin Thomas -14 $905,000
T14 Taylor Pendrith -14 $905,000
16 Ludvig Aberg -12 $795,000
T17 Robert MacIntyre -11 $755,000
T17 Matthieu Pavon -11 $755,000
T17 Patrick Cantlay -11 $755,000
20 Tommy Fleetwood -10 $715,000
T21 Keegan Bradley -8 $660,000
T21 Byeong Hun An -8 $660,000
T23 Billy Horschel -6 $615,000
T23 Aaron Rai -6 $615,000
T23 Tony Finau -6 $615,000
26 Akshay Bhatia -5 $590,000
T27 Chris Kirk -3 $575,000
T27 Sepp Straka -3 $575,000
T29 Christiaan Bezuidenhout 3 $555,000
T29 Tom Hoge 3 $555,000
Categories
PGA Tour

PGA Tour: These 10 Golfers Earned the Most Prize Money in 2024

The top earners of the 2024 PGA Tour season (Source: Getty)
The top earners of the 2024 PGA Tour season (Source: Getty)

The 2024 PGA Tour season was not only a sporting highlight, but also a record year financially. Never before has so much prize money been paid out on the PGA Tour as this year. Every victory, whether at the prestigious majors or the regular tournaments, not only meant glory for the players, but also considerable sums in their accounts. Five players even broke the ten million dollar mark in official prize money.

Although there will be plenty more money handed out this week at the Tour Championship, including the 18 million dollars awarded to the winner, this is considered bonus money and not official earnings for the 2024 season. We are therefore already looking at the top earners for the 2024 season.

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The Top Earners of the 2024 PGA Tour Season

1. Scottie Scheffler – $29,228,357

Scottie Scheffler dominated the 2024 season, securing the top spot on the money list with over $29 million. A significant portion of this amount came from his triumph at the prestigious Masters Tournament, which not only earned him the green jacket but also provided a substantial boost to his bank account.

2. Xander Schauffele – $18,355,910

With his victory at the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon, where he lifted the legendary Claret Jug, Xander Schauffele secured second place on the money list. His consistent play throughout the season paid off, allowing him to earn nearly $18.4 million on the Tour.

3. Hideki Matsuyama – $11,237,611

Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama impressed with his win at the FedEx St. Jude Championship. This success significantly contributed to his earnings of over $11 million, securing his place in the top 5 of the money list just before the season’s end.

4. Wyndham Clark – $10,901,416

Wyndham Clark delivered an outstanding performance at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, where he claimed victory despite challenging weather conditions. His total earnings of nearly $10.9 million earned him the fourth spot on the list.

5. Rory McIlroy – $10,893,790

Northern Irish superstar Rory McIlroy secured his place in the top 5 of the money list with his win at the Wells Fargo Championship and other consistent performances. He landed just behind Clark with earnings of around $10.89 million.

6. Ludvig Aberg – $9,728,857

Swedish rising star Ludvig Aberg impressed with his performance on the Tour, consistently contending for victories in nearly all major tournaments. With almost $9.73 million in prize money, he highlighted his immense potential.

7. Collin Morikawa – $8,365,977

Collin Morikawa earned over $8.3 million. Although he didn’t secure a win this season, the world No. 6 delivered seven top-10 finishes in 20 tournaments, securing his place in the top 10 of the money list.

8. Sahith Theegala – $8,281,285

Sahith Theegala continued his impressive development, earning over $8.28 million in the 2024 season. Like Morikawa, the 26-year-old didn’t claim a title but displayed consistently strong performances. Nineteen cuts in 23 tournaments, including seven top-10 finishes, significantly boosted the Californian’s bank account.

9. Keegan Bradley – $6,879,455

Keegan Bradley earned nearly $6.88 million. In addition to his win at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, he added another highlight to his season by triumphing at the BMW Championship. This rounded off a very successful season for the newly appointed Ryder Cup captain.

10. Patrick Cantlay – $6,279,965

Rounding out the top 10 is Patrick Cantlay, who also had a solid season, securing a spot among the top earners with over $6.27 million in earnings. Cantlay remained largely in the top 10 of the world rankings throughout the season, thanks to 17 out of 18 successful cuts and four top-10 finishes, ensuring his substantial earnings.

Categories
Ladies Tours

AIG Women’s Open 2025 to Be Largest Ever Women’s Sporting Event Staged in Wales

The Women's Open 2025 will be hosted at the Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales. (Source: R&A Media)
The Women's Open 2025 will be hosted at the Royal Porthcawl Golf Club in Wales. (Source: R&A Media)

Following a historic week in St Andrews the AIG Women’s Open heads to Royal Porthcawl in 2025 where it will be the largest women’s sporting event to be played in Wales. The Championship which delivers an exceptional off-course experience to match the dramatic on-course action will be played from 30 July- 3 August 2025.

A complete success: the Women’s Open in St. Andrews

A bumper crowd of 52,887 fans watched Lydia Ko carve her name into the history books by winning the AIG Women’s Open by two shots at the Old Course in St Andrews. Reflecting on her win in St Andrews which followed an Olympic Gold Medal in Paris, Ko said, “It’s been a crazy past few weeks. Something that was too good to be true happened. I honestly didn’t think it could be any better and here I am as the AIG Women’s Open Champion this week. Obviously, being here at the Old Course at St Andrews makes it so much more special.”

While the world’s best women’s golfers put on an incredible display of golf at the home of golf, entertainment off the course also delighted fans in the Festival Village as BRIT and Ivor Novello-nominated singer-songwriter Tom Grennan headlined a spectacular concert.

Spectators attending the Championship also watched a screening of fans favourite, ‘Happy Gilmore’, in an open air cinema on Friday night, as well as enjoying a variety of attractions such as  golf lessons, lawn games, mini golf, shopping, bars, food trucks and live Q&A features with some of the biggest names in golf on the Sessions Stage.

Royal Porthcawl to host AIG Women’s Open 2025

Royal Porthcawl, a links which borders the Bristol Channel, will be a fitting test with the changeable wind directions a constant challenge. It has previously hosted The Amateur Championship on six occasions, the Walker Cup, featuring a young Tiger Woods, the Curtis Cup and on three occasions the Senior Open presented by Rolex.

Ko added, “I’ve never been to Wales. So it’s exciting to go to these new venues. It’s pretty crazy to say that I’m going to be the defending champion there in Wales.” 

Martin Slumbers, CEO of The R&A, commented, “The AIG Women’s Open is a world class championship which attracts the best players in the world. We have enjoyed an incredibly successful week in St Andrews and we now turn our focus to Wales where we will play the Championship at Royal Porthcawl for the first time.

“The famous Welsh links has  a cherished  history of hosting prestigious championships and the players will enjoy the challenge of competing for the AIG Women’s Open at another outstanding venue.

“It will be the largest women’s sporting event to be played in Wales and we hope to attract many Welsh sports fans, and those from further afield, to come and enjoy a true celebration of golf.”

The Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Ken Skates, said: “We’ll look forward to providing an unforgettable welcome to players, fans and spectators when the AIG Women’s Open comes to Wales in 2025. Porthcawl is sure to provide a warm Welsh Croeso to this prestigious golfing major and offers a course that will provide a true test to the very best players in the world.”

Categories
Highlights Tours

Solheim Cup: Jennifer Kupcho, Sarah Schmelzel and Lexi Thompson Complete US Team

Stacy Lewis has named Jennifer Kupcho, Sarah Schmelzel and Lexi Thompson to the team for the 2024 Solheim Cup. (Source: Getty)
Stacy Lewis has named Jennifer Kupcho, Sarah Schmelzel and Lexi Thompson to the team for the 2024 Solheim Cup. (Source: Getty)

U.S. Solheim Cup Team Captain Stacy Lewis has selected Jennifer Kupcho, Sarah Schmelzel and Lexi Thompson as her captain’s picks for the 2024 Solheim Cup, to be held Sept. 13-15 at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Va.

Kupcho, Schmelzel and Thompson join the nine automatic qualifiers for the U.S. Team who were named following the completion of play at the AIG Women’s Open. Nelly Korda, Lilia Vu, Lauren Coughlin, Ally Ewing, Allisen Corpuz, Megan Khang and Andrea Lee qualified via the U.S. Solheim Cup Team Standings, while Rose Zhang and Alison Lee qualified via the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings.

Lots of Experience for the US Team

hompson will represent the U.S. for the seventh consecutive time, joining 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021 and 2023. She moves into a tie for third for the most times competing for the U.S., joining Paula Creamer, Rosie Jones and Morgan Pressel, trailing only Cristie Kerr and Juli Inkster with nine appearances and Beth Daniel and Meg Mallon with eight.

“Lexi was probably the easiest pick to make of these three, with her experience. I know what Lexi can do at a Solheim Cup and that definitely helped her get a pick,” said Lewis. “She’s somebody who is going to help the team out a lot, on the golf course and also off. With her experience, everybody on the team’s going to be watching what she does to try to learn from her. I am very happy to have Lexi back.”

“It means the world to me. To be able to represent my country, it’s the highest honor that you can possibly have,” said Thompson of being selected to the U.S. Solheim Cup Team. “To be there again this year, especially stateside, it’s a dream come true. To be able to play alongside my teammates and under my captains and assistant captains, it’s everything I could ask for.”

Kupcho will wear the Red, White and Blue for the third time, while Schmelzel will join Lauren Coughlin as a U.S. Solheim Cup Team rookie.

“I think Jennifer probably more so than anyone is a great fit for this golf course. I love how high and how straight she hits a golf ball. You can see it in how many strokes she gains off the tee and her ball striking is always what carries her,” said Lewis. “Sarah’s just super solid and doesn’t beat herself up. She’s a player who can play both formats with a lot of different people. She’s somebody that we’ve been watching for a long time and so we’re excited for her to be playing her first Solheim Cup and teeing it up in Virginia.”

“I am so happy to be part of the U.S. Team again, back in the team atmosphere,” said Kupcho. I’m most excited to be back on U.S. soil and just representing the U.S. in my country is so special to me. I’m so, so excited to do this for my third time and to play under Stacy, who is a great captain.”

“It’s obviously something that I’ve thought about ever since I started getting invited to the Solheim meetings last year,” said Schmelzel. “It’s something that just kind of sits in the back of your mind, and it’s always there in the back of your mind. It’s always something that you’re working toward, so to finally get to that moment and realize that it had come to fruition, it was honestly really surreal.”

The Solheim Cup 2024

Players started accruing points toward the U.S. Solheim Cup points standings at the 2023 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions. Points were awarded to the top 40 participants at each ranking event, with double points awarded at the five major championships. In the Solheim Cup year, all points values increased by 50%. The full points breakdown is available at www.solheimcupusa.com/usa-points-standings/how-to-qualify.

The biennial Solheim Cup is the most prestigious international team event in women’s professional golf. In 2022, the European Team retained the Cup following a 14-14 tie with the U.S. Team at Finca Cortesin in Spain. The U.S. Team leads the European Team, 10-7-1, all-time in Solheim Cup competition.

Solheim Cup 2024: Team USA

Player Qualification
Nelly Korda U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Lilia Vu U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Lauren Coughlin U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Ally Ewing U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Allisen Corpuz U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Megan Khang U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Andrea Lee U.S. Solheim Cup Standings
Rose Zhang World Rankings
Alison Lee World Rankings
Lexi Thompson Captain’s Pick
Jennifer Kupcho Captain’s Pick
Sarah Schmelzel Captain’s Pick
Categories
Equipment

WITB Keegan Bradley: BMW Championship

Keegan Bradley WITB: Ryder Cup captains wins with mixed set. (Source: Getty)
Keegan Bradley WITB: Ryder Cup captains wins with mixed set. (Source: Getty)

Keegan Bradley won the BMW Championship with a mixed set of clubs. The Ryder Cup captain supplemented his iron set from the Japanese brand Srixon with a hybrid from Callaway, a 3-wood from TaylorMade and a driver from Ping. An Odyssey club was used as the putter. Bradley’s victory in Colorado not only secured him a hefty prize purse, but also vaulted him into the top 5 of the FedExCup rankings and secured his participation in the Tour Championship at East Lake. “I’m a little shocked because this time a week ago I didn’t think I’d be coming here,” Bradley said. He had barely slipped into the BMW Championship field in 50th place in the FedExCup rankings. “A lot of magical things had to happen for me to play in this tournament, and when I got here I was so grateful just to be here. I’ve been playing very steady all week, which is not normal for me.”

Keegan Bradley WITB: Company Mix Ensures Participation in the Season Finale

Image: Ping

Driver: PING G430 LST (10,5°)

Image: TaylorMade

3-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 (16,5°)

Image: Callaway

Hybrid: Callaway Apex Utility Wood

Image: Srixon

Irons (3-5): Srixon ZX5 Mk II

Image: Srixon

Irons (6-PW): Srixon ZX7 Mk II

Image: Cleveland

Wedges: Cleveland RTX ZipCore

Image: Srixon

Ball: Srixon Z-Star Diamond

Categories
PGA Tour

BMW Championship: Scottie Scheffler Loses It After Missed Green

Scottie Scheffler with a freakout at the BMW Championship. (Source: Getty)
Scottie Scheffler with a freakout at the BMW Championship. (Source: Getty)

Scottie Scheffler has played far below his expectations at the BMW Championship so far. After 36 holes, the leader of the FedExCup ranking is only tied 29th. During the second round at Castle Pines Golf Club in Colorado, the otherwise calm and controlled world number one showed an unusually emotional side. The normally level-headed Texan had a moment on Friday that many amateur golfers know only too well: Frustration after a failed shot.

Scottie Scheffler Freaks Out After Hitting the Water at the BMW Championship

After a solid start to the round, with a front nine one under par, Scheffler seemed to be on course. But there was a scene on the par-4 10th that quickly made the rounds on social media. Scheffler sent his tee shot 335 meters into the right rough, leaving him with a difficult approach shot over a water hazard. The attempt to reach the green failed and the ball landed in the water. On his next attempt to reach the green, this time from the drop zone about 90 meters from the flag, the situation got out of hand. His wedge shot missed the green, which visibly infuriated the otherwise so controlled professional. “Isn’t that uphill?” Scheffler asked loudly, while his caddie, Ted Scott, walked on silently. But the outburst didn’t end there: “How? HOW?” Scheffler repeated several times. “How is that possible? What the f*ck! That’s impossible!”

The following putt from around seven meters was solid, but Scheffler still had to settle for a double bogey – his worst result of the day. At the end of the round, his score was even-par 72, which dropped him to T29 in the tournament, twelve strokes behind the leader Adam Scott. However, Scheffler does not have to worry about his lead in the season rankings just yet. On the one hand, his lead is enormous and on the other, his closest rival Xander Schauffele has not performed brilliantly in Castle Rock so far.

Categories
Equipment Uncategorized

Versatility and Control: TaylorMade Introduces Hi-Toe 4 Wedges

The new TaylorMade Hi-Toe 4 Wedges. (Source: TaylorMade)
The new TaylorMade Hi-Toe 4 Wedges. (Source: TaylorMade)

In the world of golf, perfecting the short game can make the difference between a good score and a great score. TaylorMade recently introduced the Hi-Toe 4 wedges, an evolution of their successful Hi-Toe range, designed to set new standards in control and versatility. These wedges are the result of continuous research and development and promise to improve the game around the green for golfers of all abilities and playing conditions.

Source: TaylorMade

TaylorMade Hi-Toe 4 Wedges Continue Successful Series

Building upon the success of its predecessors, the Hi-Toe 4 wedges bring a new level of innovation to the course. As described by Matt Bovee, TaylorMade’s Global Category Director of Irons and Wedges, the new wedges “are a great option for any player who gains confidence from a wedge with a larger face and full-face grooves to ensure maximum spin regardless of where you strike it on the face.Now with Spin Tread RAW face technology and a new array of grinds, the Hi-Toe 4 has more performance and versatility than ever before.”

Full-face grooves ensure optimum spin. (Source: TaylorMade)

Larger Profile and Full-Face Grooves for Ultimate Control

One of the most noticeable changes in the Hi-Toe 4 wedges is the more pronounced toe mass pad, which gives the club a larger profile. This design feature provides golfers with an added layer of confidence, which should enable them to execute a full suite of short game shots with ease. Additionally, the wedges feature full-face grooves on lofts of 54°, 56°, 58°, and 60°, allowing golfers to utilize the entire face and strike the ball with good control from various parts of the face.

The Hi-Toe 4 wedges also incorporate an elevated center of gravity (CG), similar to the Milled Grind 4 wedges, promoting a low launch and maximum spin. This results in a penetrating, high-spin ball flight that should remain consistent across different playing conditions.

Debut of the Spin Tread Technology and Enhanced Aesthetics

TaylorMade’s Spin Tread technology makes its debut in the Hi-Toe wedge line with the Hi-Toe 4. This face finish is designed to increase friction and spin, displacing moisture in wet conditions to maintain control. Whether it’s a downpour or a dewy morning, golfers can expect the Hi-Toe 4 wedges to deliver consistent performance. The raw face finish reduces glare and enhances the overall appearance of the club.

Source: TaylorMade

The Hi-Toe 4 wedges not only perform but also stand out visually. The grooves extend across the entire clubface, ensuring maximum spin regardless of where the ball is struck. A distinctive gold bottom groove contrasts with the copper finish, assisting golfers in centering the ball at address and aiming accurately at the target. The copper finish not only reduces glare but also develops a unique patina over time, adding a touch of personalization to each wedge.

All-Terrain Grinds for All Playing Conditions

Recognizing the diverse needs of golfers, TaylorMade offers the Hi-Toe 4 wedges in multiple All-Terrain grinds. Each grind is machine-milled to ensure maximum sole consistency, catering to a wide range of playing conditions and swing styles. As Greg Cesario from the TaylorMade Wedge Design Team explains, these grinds were developed to offer golfers versatility and forgiveness, whether they are tackling bunkers or varying lies on the course.

Grind Description Available Lofts
ATS (All Terrain Standard Grind) The most versatile grind, suitable for players with a neutral club angle. It enables generous manipulation of the clubface. 50°, 52°, 54°, 56°, 58°, 60°
ATV (All Terrain Versatility Grind) Asymmetrical bounce with concave sole, ideal for flat entry angles and firm terrain. 56°, 58°, 60°
ATC (All Terrain C Grind) Lowest bounce option with unique C-sole. Suitable for players with flat turns and firm conditions. 58°, 60°
The different grinds. (Source: TaylorMade)

Pricing, Availability, and Customization

Golfers can pre-order the Hi-Toe 4 wedges starting August 14th at a price of £149 / €199 / SEK 2,199 / NOK 2,199 / DKK 1,499 / CHF 199 per wedge. The wedges come standard with the True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue 115g steel shaft and the Lamkin Crossline 360 Black/Copper 52g grip.

For those seeking a personalized touch, the My Hi-Toe 4 feature offers golfers the option to choose from fully raw, chrome, and black finishes, allowing them to tailor their clubs to their specific preferences.

Text: TaylorMade

Categories
Ladies Tours

Valhalla Golf Club to Host 2028 Solheim Cup

The Valhalla Golf Club has been chosen to host the 2028 Solheim Cup. (Source: Getty)
The Valhalla Golf Club has been chosen to host the 2028 Solheim Cup. (Source: Getty)

The LPGA Tour announced that the prestigious Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, will host the 21st edition of the Solheim Cup in 2028. The Solheim Cup, a biennial international match-play competition, pits the top American players from the LPGA Tour against the best of the Ladies European Tour (LET). This announcement marks a significant milestone as Valhalla joins an elite group of courses that have hosted both the Solheim Cup and the Ryder Cup, including The Greenbrier, Muirfield Village, and Gleneagles.

A New Chapter in Valhalla’s Illustrious History

Valhalla Golf Club, designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus and inaugurated in 1986, is no stranger to high-profile golf tournaments. The course has previously hosted the PGA Championship in 1996, 2000, 2014, and 2024, as well as the Senior PGA Championships in 2004 and 2011, and the Ryder Cup in 2008.

“We are thrilled to be selected to host the 2028 Solheim Cup. Valhalla has a history of providing compelling finishes, and we are excited to add this event to our championship lore,” said Jimmy Kirchdorfer, Owner of Valhalla Golf Club. “We look forward to welcoming golf fans from around the globe back to our Kentucky home for what promises to be an unforgettable week of competition and camaraderie.”

LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan emphasized the significance of choosing venues with a rich tradition of competitive excellence. “Showcasing our extraordinary athletes at venues that have hosted the world’s largest and most prestigious golf tournaments and that are recognizable to fans around the world will continue to elevate the LPGA Tour and the Solheim Cup,” she said. “Hosting the 2028 Solheim Cup at Valhalla Golf Club, with its rich tradition of competitive excellence, exemplifies this commitment. We are eager to bring the most exciting team competition in women’s golf to Louisville and Valhalla Golf Club.”

Road to 2028 Solheim Cup

As the LPGA Tour and the LET prepare for the 2028 Solheim Cup, the U.S. Team leads the all-time series against the European Team with a record of 10-7-1. The 2024 Solheim Cup will be held at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Virginia, and the 2026 edition will take place at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, Netherlands.

Categories
LIV Tour

Graeme McDowell Faces Suspension for Using Banned Substance in Nasal Spray

Graeme McDowell was suspended from the LIV Golf League for using a banned substance in a nasal spray. (Source: Getty)
Graeme McDowell was suspended from the LIV Golf League for using a banned substance in a nasal spray. (Source: Getty)

Graeme McDowell, the 2010 U.S. Open Champion, has been suspended from participating in the upcoming LIV Golf League event in Nashville, Tennessee. The suspension, accompanied by a hefty fine of $125,000, was imposed after McDowell tested positive for L-Methamphetamine, a banned substance found in an over-the-counter nasal decongestant he purchased.

Graeme McDowell Has Been Suspended from the LIV Golf League

The 45-year-old Northern Irish golfer had reportedly purchased the Vicks nasal spray from a local drugstore to alleviate his congestion. Unbeknownst to McDowell, the product contained the prohibited substance, leading to his positive test result during a routine doping control. “As a professional golfer, I understand the importance of thoroughly checking all medications and applying for a therapeutic use exemption when necessary,” McDowell expressed on the social media platform X. “Unfortunately, I neglected to do so in this case, as it was an over-the-counter medication, and I deeply regret this oversight. I fully accept the sanctions imposed by LIV.”

The consequences of McDowell’s oversight extend beyond personal penalties; his disqualification also led to the exclusion of his entire Smash GC team from the Nashville event. This incident serves as a stark reminder to all professional athletes about the importance of vigilance when it comes to medication, even those that are easily accessible.

McDowell Shifts Blame, Criticizes Other Tours Amid Doping Controversy

However, McDowell did not stop at accepting responsibility. In true LIV Golf fashion, he used the opportunity to take a swipe at the broader golf establishment. “LIV’s anti-doping policy is designed with thoroughness and transparency in mind,” he noted. “Unlike some other tours, LIV rigorously enforces these rules… They are essential for maintaining the integrity of the sport.”

McDowell’s comments echo sentiments often associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump, a known supporter of LIV Golf, who has a reputation for deflecting blame and turning personal missteps into criticisms of others. McDowell’s decision to turn his own violation into a critique of other tours highlights the ongoing tensions between LIV Golf and the traditional golf world.