Author: niklas.golling

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Highlights Tours

The PGA Championship 2024 Playoff Format: Three Holes Decide Winner

One of the holes in case of a playoff at the PGA Championship 2024. (Image: Getty)
One of the holes in case of a playoff at the PGA Championship 2024. (Image: Getty)

The PGA Championship 2024, like all major tournaments, has a playoff format. However, it differs from that of the Masters and the U.S. Open. Since 1958, the PGA Championship has been played in stroke play, which has also changed the playoff procedure.

If two or more golfers are tied after 72 holes, they play a three-hole playoff. The player with the lower score wins the playoff.

If two or more golfers are still tied after the three-hole playoff, they continue in a “sudden-death playoff.” In this format, the first player to complete a hole in fewer strokes than their competitors wins.

PGA Championship 2024 in Valhalla

For the major tournament, if a tie occurs, a three-hole playoff will be played first. If this does not result in a winner, a sudden-death playoff begins. At Valhalla Golf Club, the playoff will take place on holes 13, 17, and 18. If a winner is still not determined after these three holes, the sudden-death playoff will continue on holes 18, 13, 17, and 18, repeating until someone makes a mistake. The first player to achieve a lower score on a hole wins.

 

To the PGA Championship 2024 Leaderboard
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Equipment

WITB: Shane Lowry’s Clubs for the PGA Championship 2024

Trailing close behind at the PGA Championship 2024: Shane Lowry. (Image: Getty)
Trailing close behind at the PGA Championship 2024: Shane Lowry. (Image: Getty)

The Moving Day of the PGA Championship 2024 is over and Shane Lowry just missed a record score that hasn’t been broken for over 100 years by a few centimeters. The 62 he played has been played only four times in the history of the major event. With two mediocre rounds on the first two days, Lowry’s only goal was to get himself back into the tournament, which he certainly did. Helping him reach the newest record round after Schauffele’s 62 on the first day, was his selection of clubs.

PGA Championship 2024: Shane Lowry WITB

Driver: Srixon MX5 MKII (8.5°)

(Image: TaylorMade)

Fairway Wood: TaylorMade Stealth Plus (18°)

(Image: Srixon)

3-iron: Srixon ZX Utility

(Image: Srixon)

4/5-iron: Srixon ZX5 MKII

(Image: Srixon)

6-iron-PW: Srixon ZX7 MKII

(Image: Cleveland)

50°/54° Wedges: Cleveland RTX 6

(Image: Cleveland)

58° Wedge: Cleveland RTX ZipCore Full Face

(Image: TaylorMade)

Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour Z

(Image: Srixon)

Ball: Srixon Z Star XV

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Equipment

Arccos Announces Matthew Fitzpatrick as Investor & Tour Ambassador

New investor and Tour ambassador for Arccos: Matt Fitzpatrick.
New investor and Tour ambassador for Arccos: Matt Fitzpatrick.

Arccos proudly welcomes U.S. Open Champion Matthew Fitzpatrick as an investor and Tour Ambassador, which will see him continue using Arccos to analyze his performance and refine his preparations for PGA Tour events, major championships and Ryder Cups.

Currently No. 14 on the Official World Golf Ranking, Fitzpatrick has tracked his on-course data for over a decade, leveraging it to become the world’s top-ranked amateur by winning the 2013 U.S. Amateur Championship. As a pro, the native of Sheffield, England has represented Europe in three Ryder Cups and claimed eight DP World Tour titles along with the 2022 U.S. Open and the 2023 RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour.

Matt Fitzpatrick as Arccos’ pioneer

Fitzpatrick became the first client of Molinari’s analytics service, now called Arccos Pro Insights, which he credits as key to his U.S. Open victory at Brookline Country Club. Arccos Pro Insights counts more than 35 top professionals as clients – including Fitzpatrick, Viktor Hovland, and Nelly Korda – with Molinari serving as Arccos’ Chief Data Strategist and Lead Tour Ambassador.

“Matt’s success to this point and the role data has played is so impressive to me and speaks to the authenticity of his relationship with Arccos,” said Sal Syed, Arccos CEO & Co-Founder. “He is a user and true advocate for the power of what we have built, especially through his accomplishments while working with Edoardo. With Matt now an investor in Arccos and using the system to capture his data, the insights he provides will help fuel our product development and further accelerate our growth.”

Large variety of data

Arccos has built the sport’s largest on-course dataset, now encompassing over 900 million shots and more than 1.5 trillion data points across 18 million rounds recorded by Arccos members. The system, featuring a smart sensor in each club grip paired with a mobile app, is a trusted tool for both amateurs and elite players worldwide.

“I’ve always had a huge interest in the power of data and how it can help me play my best. That’s why I started to work with Edoardo Molinari and what drove me to use Arccos,” Fitzpatrick shared. “After learning more about the company and meeting CEO Sal Syed, I’m thoroughly impressed by how much they’ve helped golfers make smarter decisions and shoot lower scores. On Tour we use the data to shave a fraction of a stroke so you can imagine the impact Arccos insights have for amateur players.”

New convenient tracking device

Arccos recently launched Link Pro, a device that tracks a player’s shots automatically without a phone and works inside a player’s front pocket to seamlessly capture on-course data. Ideal for use in professional competitions, Link Pro is the size of a car key fob and comes standard with a wireless charging case that provides up to 12 rounds on a single charge.

About Arccos Golf LLC

Arccos Golf LLC offers a game tracking experience that integrates Artificial Intelligence with real-time on-course data to deliver insights that help players maximize their potential. Listed among the “World’s Most Innovative Companies” by Fast Company, Arccos boasts the golf industry’s richest data set. Among its official partners and investors are PGA Tour, PING, Cobra PUMA Golf, TaylorMade, Srixon-Cleveland Golf, Club Champion, EA Sports, Golf Digest, Topgolf, Callaway Brands Corp. and others.

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Highlights Tours

Scottie Scheffler Announces Birth of His First Child

Happy about the new addition to the family: Scottie Scheffler. (Image: Getty)
Happy about the new addition to the family: Scottie Scheffler. (Image: Getty)

For world number one Scottie Scheffler, a lot has happened in the past few days. Recently, the American golfer took a short break from the PGA Tour. Last week, his son was born. Scheffler had already announced beforehand that he would exclude participation in the PGA Championship 2024 if the birth of his child falls within the tournament period. After the birth, there is now nothing standing in the way of his participation in the second major of the year.

Scottie Scheffler’s announces Family Addition

Scheffler recently provided an update to his fans via Instagram, where he directed heartfelt words to his newborn: “Welcome to the world little one. Your mom & dad love you so much.”

For PGA Tour star Scottie Scheffler and his wife Meredith Scudder, it is their first child. Although there has been no confirmation from the parents themselves, the official PGA Tour website announced that they have welcomed a baby boy named Bennett. Scheffler’s son was born on May 8th.

PGA Championship 2024: Scottie Scheffler to Compete in Major

These news should bring joy not only to Scottie Scheffler and his wife but also to golf fans, as Scheffler will not only become a father for the first time but also compete in the second major tournament of the year, the PGA Championship 2024. Previously, the 27-year-old had announced that he would exclude participation if the birth fell during the tournament period. With son Bennett being born last week, he will be part of the field for the PGA Championship 2024, competing for his second major title of the year.

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Highlights Tours

PGA Championship 2024: Talor Gooch Receives Special Invitation

Part of the field at the PGA Championship 2024: Talor Gooch. (Image: Getty)
Part of the field at the PGA Championship 2024: Talor Gooch. (Image: Getty)

From May 16th to 19th, the PGA Championship 2024 will take place at the Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky. Following the US Masters 2024 in April, it’s the second major of the year. Among the players in the field is Talor Gooch, who typically competes in the LIV Golf League. The PGA extended a special invitation to him for the tournament.

PGA Championship 2024 with Talor Gooch

As announced by Talor Gooch via social media, the American has received an invitation from the PGA of America for the PGA Championship 2024. It will be Gooch’s fifth appearance in the tournament. In addition to him, Joaquin Niemann, who also plays in the LIV Golf League, received a special invitation. An official list of participants in the major will follow in the coming days. However, it is known that the two LIV players will compete next week and will be part of the 156-player field.

First major for Gooch this year

After not receiving an invitation for Talor Gooch for the US Masters 2024 in April, the PGA Championship 2024 marks the first major of the year for the 32-year-old. Leading up to the Masters, Gooch made headlines by criticizing the PGA for the absence of invitations for some LIV players, questioning the level of the tournament.

Talor Gooch has already participated in the past four PGA Championships. His best finish came in 2022 with a tied 20th place. Last year, he missed the cut.

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Equipment Live

TaylorMade and Under Armour Sign Young Prodigy Kris Kim

Young prodigy takes his first steps on the PGA Tour: Kris Kim. (Image: Getty)
Young prodigy takes his first steps on the PGA Tour: Kris Kim. (Image: Getty)

For young talent Kris Kim, the past weeks must have been really exciting. This week, Kim ist making his debut on the big stage of the PGA Tour at the The CJ Cup Byron Nelson at TPC Craig Ranch. Apart from his debut, the 16-year-old has also signed a contract with Under Armour and TaylorMade, as the two brands have revealed.

Kris Kim now signed to Under Armour and TaylorMade

As the two major brands have revealed, they both signed Kris Kim this week. As the English player stated in an interview, he has been in contact with Under Armour for some time now. “Under Armour has helped me for some time now. I’m very grateful for their support and very happy to continue the partnership”, says Kim.

The same goes for TaylorMade who have been surveying the progression of his game and keeping in touch with him for the past three years. In his bag, Kim has switched to the P-7MB irons providing him with a good feel and control over the ball. His interesting choices also include a P-770-2-iron, which he likes to tee off with. Here is a full list with his set of golf clubs.

Kris Kim WITB

Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 (9°)

Fairway Wood: TaylorMade Qi10 (15°)

2-iron/4-iron: TaylorMade P-770

5-iron to PW: TaylorMade P-7MB

Wedges: TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 (50°/56°/60°)

Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour

Ball: TaylorMade TP 5

“No doubt Kris is among the very best”

The exceptional talent also has the officials of the two brands raving. “It’s great to be working with such an exciting talent as Kris. His hard work ethic and humble nature aligns with the values of Under Armour perfectly. We look forward to supporting Kris reach his goals over the coming years.” says Kevin Ross, Managing Director at Under Armour EMEA.

Mark Thistleton, Senior Tour Representative at TaylorMade, also only has kind words for the Englishman. “There is no doubt Kris is among the very best of not just young British Golfers, but junior golfers from around the World. He showed his skills on the big stage during a successful Junior Ryder Cup in 2023 which capped off a very dominant year in junior golf for him.” states Thistleton and adds: “We at TaylorMade are all about using our equipment expertise to help nurture young talented golfers like Kris as they develop skill, speed and power at an increasingly young age and fast pace. We are thrilled to see his success to date and that he continues to put his trust in us and our products.”

The stage is definitely set for Kris Kim, with lots of expectations to be met. With the The CJ Cup Byron Nelson underway, Kim is making his first steps in a possibly promising career.

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Equipment

Watch: Luke Donald Switches to New Mizuno Irons after Test Session

Luke Donald tested the Mizuno 245 irons. (Image: Getty)
Luke Donald tested the Mizuno 245 irons. (Image: Getty)


In October, Luke Donald made his way to Sea Island for a video session featuring the Mizuno Pro 245 iron. Little did he know, this gathering would actually mark a turning point. Following the shoot, Luke expressed interest in acquiring a full set of the 245’s, a decision influenced not only by the allure of extra distance but also by the comprehensive package offered by these irons. Of particular importance was the control over trajectory, a test the 245’s passed with flying colors. Luke’s choice to opt for the most forgiving model made quite an impression, especially considering his initial reservations. It was a moment captured on film, marking the beginning of a notable journey with the Mizuno Pro irons.

The test that made Luke Donald switch to a hollow body iron

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Highlights Tours

The Masters Tournament 2024: Bryson DeChambeau holes out on 18

Delighted about his hole-out on 18: Bryson DeChambeau at the The Masters Tournament 2024. (Image: Getty)
Delighted about his hole-out on 18: Bryson DeChambeau at the The Masters Tournament 2024. (Image: Getty)

On the third day of the The Masters Tournament 2024 yesterday, several players struggled with the demanding requirements of the Augusta National. Good results were achieved only rarely.

To the Highlights of Round 3

This also applies to Bryson DeChambeau, who had to relinquish his shared lead from the second day and now trails the leader Scottie Scheffler by four strokes.

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The Masters Tournament 2024: Bryson DeChambeau with good conclusion

Despite his rather modest round with too many bogeys, DeChambeau was able to conclude the third day with a hole-out at the 18th.

All in all, the American can start the final day with a good feeling and hopes for an overall victory. Scottie Scheffler, as the solo leader, has the best chances, with Collin Morikawa closely behind him after a very good third day.

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Highlights Tours

The Masters Tournament 2024: Highlights of Round 3

Had a good Moving Day at the The Masters Tournament 2024: Collin Morikawa. (Image: Getty)
Had a good Moving Day at the The Masters Tournament 2024: Collin Morikawa. (Image: Getty)

The third day at the The Masters Tournament 2024 in Augusta has concluded, and an interesting Moving Day with many changes at the top of the leaderboard provided some highlights for the spectators.

The remaining 60 players after the cut once again struggled with the challenging conditions in Georgia. Only a few players were able to achieve under-par scores, with Scottie Scheffler leading the way, followed by Collin Morikawa, who had a good day, at the top of the leaderboard.

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The Masters Tournament 2024: Highlights of Round 3 on video

While the wind subsided somewhat on the third day in Augusta, it didn’t make it any easier for the players. Challenging pin positions required thoughtful and precise play, making birdies a rarity. However, despite or perhaps because of the demanding conditions, there were still some highlights in the third round.

The Masters Tournament

The US Masters 2024, taking place from April 11th to 15th, is set to thrill the hearts of many golf fans. In 2023, Jon Rahm triumphed at the Augusta National Golf Club, securing his second major title. The US Masters Tournament in Augusta is the first of the four annual major tournaments in professional golf. It always takes place in April and is held on the same golf course – the Augusta National in Georgia, USA. For professional players, the Masters in Augusta is a true prestige event and perhaps the most important of the four golf major titles. The winner of the US Masters Tournament receives a lifetime membership at the Augusta National Golf Club and, additionally, the iconic Green Jacket, which can be worn for one year before being returned to the Augusta National Golf Club for safekeeping. Furthermore, the tournament winner gets to take home a small trophy in the shape of the Augusta clubhouse and can look forward to the annual invitation to the Champions Dinner as well as a lifetime exemption.

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Highlights Tours

The Masters Tournament 2024: Can Jon Rahm defend his title?

What are the odds of Jon Rahm defending his title in The Masters Tournament 2024? (Image: Getty)
What are the odds of Jon Rahm defending his title in The Masters Tournament 2024? (Image: Getty)

As the The Masters Tournament 2024 is coming closer, the discussions about possible title contenders are getting louder. Of course a relevant influencing factor to suggest who’s could be coming out on top is the current form. When looking at the PGA Tour, names like Scottie Scheffler, Windham Clark, or Rory McIlroy come to mind. However, at the Masters, one should not forget about players who currently play on the LIV Tour. Among them – the defending champion Jon Rahm.

The Masters Tournament 2024: 3 reasons why Jon Rahm will defend his title

With his latest move to the LIV Golf League Jon Rahm may have been off the radar for some golf fans. The Masters Tournament 2024 will be his first major after leaving the PGA Tour. Here are three reasons why Jon Rahm is keen to defend his title at this weeks major tournament.

1. Stats don’t lie

To silence critics right away, let’s start with some of his statistics, which are famously indisputable. Within his last 20 major appearances, he finished within the top 10 ten times, meaning half of his majors played since 2019. Overall, he has won two of these majors and narrowly missed victory in several others. The statistics also suggest a rising form curve throughout his career in these events since first turning pro in 2016.

2. Jon Rahm is in good form

Which leads us to the next argument as to why Jon Rahm will win the Masters again: His current form speaks for itself. Since joining LIV Golf, the Spaniard is yet to finish outside of the top 10. Starting off early in February, the reigning Masters champion finished tied for 3rd at the Mayakoba event. He followed up finishing 8th and 5th, then tied for 8th place in Hong Kong, with a tied 4th place at last weeks event in Miami. It can’t be denied that these are impressive and very consistent results, although there is one flaw. He did not yet win a tournament this year.

3. He is the reigning champion

Maybe reminiscing on his last victory may bring back his winner qualities. It surely is one he will fondly remember and dates back exactly one year today. With a very convincing 4-shot-lead, he brought his last Masters to the finish line, securing his second major victory of his career after winning the US Open in 2021. Even though it is difficult to predict the outcome with the tough conditions at the Augusta National Golf Club, it surely helps when players can start the tournament with some good confidence.