Author: Victoria Sallmann

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Marcel Siem Claims He Set Three Course Records While ‘Completely Hammered’

(Picture: Getty)
(Picture: Getty)

Marcel Siem is one of the most colorful characters on the DP World Tour—successful on the course, approachable off it, and never shy of a good story. Now, the 44-year-old German is making headlines again: In the latest Life on Tour podcast episode with George Harper Jr. and Nicolas Colsaerts, Siem revealed he once set not one, but three course records while completely drunk.

“I think I had three course records—completely hammered, no sleep,” Siem said. Harper Jr., stunned, asked: “Sorry, say that again?” to which Siem repeated: “I had three course records in my life—completely hammered, no sleep. Totally crazy.”

The “Hungover” Course Records of Marcel Siem

One of the most legendary, according to Siem, was the third round at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am in 2015. “We started with Long Island Iced Teas, then five beers, and ended with champagne,” he recounted. “We partied until 6 a.m.—our tee time was at 8. It was horrible. I was really that drunk.”

Despite having to stop twice mid-round to throw up, Siem delivered one of the best performances of his career. “I just wanted to go to bed. But then they said: ‘No, interviews! You just tied the course record with Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods…’ I just said: ‘I three-putted the last hole, you idiots! Why didn’t you tell me earlier? I would’ve gone for eagle!’”

Title Defense in Italy

Fresh off his victory at the 2024 Italian Open, Siem returns this week to defend his title—this time on a new course: the Argentario Golf Club in Tuscany. The scenic par-71 track, known for its ocean views and challenging, undulating greens, hosts the 82nd edition of the tournament for the first time.

Siem impressed in 2024 with rounds of 69, 67, 70, and a final 68 to secure the win in a playoff against Northern Irishman Tom McKibbin. It marked his sixth DP World Tour title and an emotional return to the big stage.

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Ladies Tours LPGA Tour

Nelly Korda “hungry” for her first win of the season at the Women’s PGA Championship

(Photo: Getty)
(Photo: Getty)

Just a few weeks ago, Korda seemed nearly unbeatable. Four consecutive victories at the start of the 2025 season left little doubt that this year could be hers. But following an early exit at the Mizuho Americas Open and a missed opportunity at the U.S. Women’s Open in Erin Hills, the American superstar appears to have lost some momentum. Now, the third Major of the year awaits — and Korda is not at full strength.

On Tuesday, she had to skip the traditional Champions Dinner due to an acute neck cramp. “I’ve been playing in constant pain,” she told the media. While regular physical therapy is helping, she admitted she’s still not completely pain-free.

Fighting despite injury: Korda remains a top candidate

Despite her physical issues, Korda remains one of the favorites. With 15 LPGA Tour titles, an Olympic gold medal, and a Major win at the PGA Championship in 2021, the 26-year-old brings both talent and experience to the field. While she hasn’t won in 2025 yet, she has recorded four Top 10 finishes in nine starts, and she continues to hold the No. 1 spot in the world rankings.

“It just makes you hungrier,” Korda said of her Open heartache. “For me, I hate making mistakes; obviously I love winning. You don’t get to win often, but there’s nothing like it being in contention, so I think that’s kind of what makes me hungrier to come back and to work harder and put myself into that position.”

Reflecting on her runner-up finish at the U.S. Women’s Open, she added: “I was in the hunt, I was right there. That’s a good thing. You can look at it negatively, but a few weeks later, I can also use it as motivation. Hopefully, it makes me hungrier.”

Statistically, Korda was among the best at the U.S. Open in both Strokes Gained: Off the Tee and Approach. It was mainly her putting that kept her from lifting the trophy.

Another positive: Her older sister Jessica Korda is returning to competition after a long injury break. In tough moments, that family support seems especially meaningful.

Heat and Competition Add to the Challenge

In addition to her physical struggles, extreme heat will be a major factor at Sahalee Country Club, with temperatures expected to reach around 35°C during the tournament days — making both endurance and course strategy crucial.

The field is stacked, too: Lydia Ko, Brooke Henderson, Minjee Lee, Rose Zhang, and Sweden’s Maja Stark — whom Korda narrowly beat at the U.S. Open — are all heading into the Major with title ambitions. Revenge could be on the cards.

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Ladies Tours LPGA Tour

LPGA Tour: KPMG Women’s PGA Championship with record prize money

Increased prize money at the KPMG Women's PGA on the LPGA Tour. (Photo: Getty)
Increased prize money at the KPMG Women's PGA on the LPGA Tour. (Photo: Getty)

The 2025 KPMG Women’s PGA Championship on the LPGA Tour is making headlines with a significant prize money increase. With a total purse of 12 million U.S. dollars, the tournament now stands alongside the U.S. Women’s Open as the most lucrative event on the LPGA Tour calendar. The winner will receive a prize of 1.8 million U.S. dollars.

LPGA Tour: Record Purse Marks a Milestone for Women’s Golf

Compared to the previous year, this represents an increase of 1.6 million dollars – the total purse in 2024 was 10.4 million. KPMG CEO Paul Knopp emphasized the strategic significance of this development in an official statement: “We are incredibly proud to make this happen. It reflects our commitment to setting a standard of excellence in women’s golf. Prize money plays a central role in that. For us, this is a long-term strategy to support success. We continue to stage the tournament at iconic venues that earn recognition in the golf world year after year. We’re excited about the path we’ve chosen,” said Knopp.

Prize Money Growth Across the LPGA Tour

This increase is part of a broader upward trend on the LPGA Tour. Over the past years, total prize money has steadily climbed; in 2025 it reaches approximately 132.6 million U.S. dollars – a record amount. Other majors like the Chevron Championship (8 million USD) and the AIG Women’s Open (9.5 million USD) have also seen notable growth. The U.S. Women’s Open most recently offered 12 million dollars in total, with 2.4 million awarded to the winner, also a record.

For the first time, the tournament will be played at Fields Ranch East in Frisco, Texas. The modern course is part of the new PGA of America headquarters and is intended to become a long-term host for major championships. In addition to being a sporting highlight, Frisco offers the infrastructure to stage a globally prominent event.

Beyond the increased purse, this year’s edition features extensive media coverage. Over 100 hours of live broadcasts, including featured groups and real-time statistics, will be aired on NBC, Golf Channel, and the streaming platform Peacock. A special highlight is the use of AI-based tools providing detailed game analysis for players and viewers alike.

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Highlights Tours

How much does it really cost to start at a major tournament?

How much is left of the huge prize money? (Photo: Getty)
How much is left of the huge prize money? (Photo: Getty)

Participating in a major tournament like the U.S. Open is considered a career milestone. But behind the scenes, many players face a less visible opponent: the cost. For many professionals, especially those outside the top 50 a major appearance is far from a financial guarantee.

To even make the U.S. Open field, numerous players must battle through two stages of qualifying. American pro James Nicholas documented his expenses for the 2025 edition on Instagram. His total outlay including qualifying fees, flights, accommodation, meals, and caddie fees amounted to $7,220. Although Nicholas made the cut and finished T61, earning just under $43,500, his net profit only came after all expenses were deducted – solid, but far from guaranteed.

James Nicholas: U.S. Open 2025 Income and Expenses

Category Amount (USD)
Prize Money (T61) 43,455
Local Qualifying Entry Fee 200
Travel to Local Qualifier 450
Final Qualifying Entry Fee 100
Flight to Final Qualifier 580
Hotel Final Qualifier 350
Flight to U.S. Open 505
Food on Site 325
Locker Room Tip 150
Merchandise 250
Caddie Base Fee 2,500
Caddie Bonus 3,500
Total Expenses 7,220
Net Profit 34,894

Caddie expenses often weigh most heavily. Many players agree to flat daily rates plus performance bonuses—typically around ten percent of the winnings. Living costs, such as rental cars, lodging, and meals, add up quickly if not covered by sponsors or the tournament itself. Missing the cut can easily result in thousands of dollars lost. Fortunately for Nicholas, making the cut in his first major meant a respectable net profit of about $35,000.

J.J. Spaun Wins the U.S. Open – But Faces Massive Taxes

With his victory at the 2025 U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun achieved a career-defining moment and claimed a winner’s check worth approximately $4.3 million. A phenomenal sporting and financial success, but one with hidden costs. According to “GolfWRX”, Spaun will owe about $1.7 million in federal and state taxes based on current U.S. tax codes. On top of that, his caddie, Mark Carens, is expected to receive a customary 10% share, roughly $430,000. That leaves Spaun with an estimated net payout of $2.58 million. Still a great return, but far less than the headline number.

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Highlights Tours

US Open 2025: Wyndham Clark destroys locker room after missing the cut

(Foto: Getty)
(Foto: Getty)

The Oakmont Country Club once again proves to be a merciless test at the 2025 US Open. Only a handful of players are managing to stay under par on the historic par-70 course – and defending champion Wyndham Clark is not among them. After two disappointing rounds of 74 (+8), the American missed the cut and was eliminated from the tournament on Friday.

US Open 2025 Live Scores

According to a post by Tron Carter on X, Clark let his frustration boil over after the second round and damaged several lockers in the player area. Photos from inside the clubhouse show broken locker doors and torn panels, reportedly caused by kicks or punches. The USGA confirmed to U.S. media that the incident is under investigation. A fine or further sanctions are possible.

Clark faced heavy criticism on social media for his outburst. While frustration after an early major exit may be understandable, repeated misconduct on the big stage raises serious questions.

Wyndham Clark: US Open outburst not his first incident

Clark had already made headlines earlier this year during the 2025 PGA Championship. In the final round, he angrily hurled his driver into a sponsor board after a poor tee shot – all caught on live television.

Shortly afterward, Clark showed remorse and posted a public apology on Instagram, describing his behavior as “immature and disrespectful.”

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Panorama

“Rock what you got”: Nelly Korda swaps the golf course for a bikini

Bikinis instead of birdies: Nelly Korda at the swimsuit shoot (Photos: l. Instagram @golf_com | r. Getty)
Bikinis instead of birdies: Nelly Korda at the swimsuit shoot (Photos: l. Instagram @golf_com | r. Getty)

Currently, Nelly Korda is dominating the world of golf like few before her. With seven LPGA titles in 2024 alone—including the Chevron Championship—five consecutive wins, and the prestigious “Rolex Player of the Year” award, it has been a year to remember. But now, the 25-year-old is proving she can shine beyond the golf course as well: For the 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Korda was photographed by Ben Horton in Boca Raton, Florida.

Off the Fairway: Nelly Korda Embraces New Challenges

“It was such an exciting shoot,” says Korda. “I think that’s what the shoot is about. I think that’s what life is about, also, sometimes challenging yourself.”

The two-time Olympian posed in a variety of looks at the luxury resort The Boca Raton. Despite the bright lights and model poses, she remained completely true to herself. “I had such a great crew to work with and work alongside,” Korda shares. “It was just so much fun. When people look at these photos, I hope it inspires them to rock what they got.”

A Role Model On and Off the Course

For Korda, the shoot wasn’t just a fun detour into a different world—it’s also part of her mission to inspire others. “Golf has impacted my life in an incredible way outside the sport,” she explains. “I get to inspire the next generation. I see girls that look up to me.”
The world No. 1 remains on course for success—on the fairway and beyond. “I get to travel the world for a living and do what I love,” Korda says. “When you’re passionate about something, it’s never work.”

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Highlights Tours

One Year After Scandal: Scottie Scheffler’s Arrest PGA Championship 204

It's been a year since Scheffler's arrest at the 2024 PGA Championship (Photo: Getty)
It's been a year since Scheffler's arrest at the 2024 PGA Championship (Photo: Getty)

It was one of the most surreal scenes in golf history. On May 17, 2024, just before the start of the second round of the PGA Championship in Louisville, Kentucky, world number one Scottie Scheffler was arrested – in front of live cameras and stunned onlookers.

PGA Championship Chaos: Scottie Scheffler in Handcuffs

The day began with tragedy. Early in the morning, a tournament worker was struck and killed by a shuttle bus while crossing the road outside Valhalla Golf Club. Police sealed off the main entrance to the course, causing heavy traffic congestion.

Scheffler, en route to the course in an official PGA Tour vehicle, approached one of the blocked entrances. In the resulting confusion, a police officer attempted to stop his car. The situation escalated rapidly: Scheffler was pulled from the vehicle, handcuffed, and temporarily taken into custody.

An ESPN reporter captured the moment live. Images of Scheffler – in training clothes, clearly shocked, and in handcuffs – spread rapidly across social media and dominated global headlines.

Scheffler was released the same morning and returned to the course shortly thereafter. In a brief statement, he called the incident a misunderstanding and emphasized that he never intended to endanger anyone. He expressed his respect for law enforcement and declined to comment further.

“To be honest, I’m having a hard time processing it all. My adrenaline was high. I was shocked and saddened by what happened this morning,” Scheffler told ESPN after finishing his round.

Despite the dramatic events, the second round went ahead with a delay. Scheffler shot a remarkable 66 and remained in contention for the title.

Charges Dropped: No Consequences for World No. 1

Roughly two weeks later, all charges against Scheffler were dropped. During a court hearing in Jefferson County, the prosecutor requested the case be dismissed – and the judge agreed.
“Mr. Scheffler’s statement that this was a big misunderstanding is supported by the evidence,” said prosecutor Mike O’Connell, according to ESPN. The golfer’s actions did “not satisfy the elements of a criminal offense.”

One year on, Scottie Scheffler is back at the PGA Championship, this time without any off-course drama. He tees off alongside Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele – a true marquee group. Their first round begins Thursday at 2:22 p.m., followed by their second round on Friday at 5:47 p.m. (CET). So far, it’s all about golf.

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Highlights Tours

Is Tiger Woods playing at the PGA Championship 2025?

PGA Championship 2025: Is Tiger playing? (Picture: Getty).
PGA Championship 2025: Is Tiger playing? (Picture: Getty).

The answer is: no. That Tiger Woods won’t tee it up at the PGA Championship this year comes as no surprise. The 15-time major champion is currently recovering from surgery on his left Achilles tendon and has already announced that he will not compete in any major tournaments this season. Still, for many fans, it’s a disappointment. Quail Hollow has been the site of many memorable golf moments – but once again, Woods will be absent. The 49-year-old continues to battle the long-term effects of numerous injuries, and a return to golf’s biggest stages remains uncertain.

Woods isn’t the only prominent name missing this week – several other well-known players are also absent, some for surprising, others for understandable reasons.

Champions Tour over PGA Championship 2025

Notably, five former PGA Champions – John Daly, Y.E. Yang, Davis Love III, Vijay Singh, and David Toms – have chosen not to play in Charlotte, opting instead to compete in the Regions Tradition, a major on the PGA Tour Champions circuit. Since the PGA Championship moved to May in 2019, this type of scheduling conflict had been avoided – until now.

John Daly explained his decision to the Associated Press as follows:
“I can go there and miss the cut and get $6,000. But I’m playing Birmingham. I love Regions. They’re a great sponsor. But why are they scheduling Regions the same week as the PGA Championship, where I can see Brooks [Koepka] and all the guys?”

Why more big names are missing

A number of current top-ranked players are also absent. Billy Horschel, currently ranked No. 24 in the world, is out due to hip surgery and is expected to miss several weeks. Shaun Norris (No. 101) reportedly declined his invitation due to his mother’s health. And Luke Clanton, ranked inside the top 110, is ineligible as an amateur – the PGA Championship is reserved for professionals.

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Highlights Tours Uncategorized

Olympics 2028: Mixed Team Golf Event to Make Its Debut

Mixed team golf at the 2028 Olympics for the first time (Photo:Getty)
Mixed team golf at the 2028 Olympics for the first time (Photo:Getty)

With a historic innovation, golf will take a new step forward at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles: a mixed team event will be introduced for the first time. Approved by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the competition will take place between the men’s and women’s individual tournaments at the Riviera Country Club. This marks a milestone in the still-young Olympic golf history, which only returned to the Olympic program in 2016. In addition to the established men’s and women’s individual competitions, the mixed team event brings a new dimension to Olympic golf – focusing on team play, something that has long been absent from the Olympic schedule.

Mixed team event makes its debut in the Olympic program

The mixed team tournament will consist of two rounds of 18 holes each. The first round will follow the foursomes format, where the female and male players alternate shots. The second round will be a four-ball round – both players play their own ball, and the better score per hole counts towards the team’s total. Each nation is allowed to enter only one team, consisting of one male and one female athlete who are already competing in the individual tournaments. The decision to include this new format was made in close coordination with the International Golf Federation. The mixed team event is expected to give golf greater visibility within the Olympic Games.

Golf’s growing significance at the Olympics

This means golf joins the ranks of six sports that offer a mixed-gender competition in the Olympic program. Other sports with similar formats include archery, athletics with the 4×100-meter mixed relay, as well as table tennis and rowing.

Golf has only been part of the official Olympic program again since the 2016 Games in Brazil, making it one of the newer disciplines. The mixed team competition marks the first addition of a team format in Olympic golf since 1904.

At the most recent Games in Paris, Lydia Ko (gold), Esther Henseleit (silver), and Xiyu Lin (bronze) won medals in the women’s individual event. In the men’s competition, Scottie Scheffler claimed gold, Tommy Fleetwood took silver, and Hideki Matsuyama earned bronze.

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Highlights Tours

The Masters Tournament 2025: How much prize money does Rory McIlroy win?

US Masters 2025: How high is the prize money? (Photo: Getty)
US Masters 2025: How high is the prize money? (Photo: Getty)

Traditionally announced on Saturday morning, the prize money for the Masters Tournament 2025 has been revealed: A record total of $21 million will be awarded this weekend at Augusta National Golf Club. The winner will receive not only the iconic green jacket, but also $4.2 million—more than ever before in Augusta.

The Masters Tournament 2025: Golf Elite Competes for Millions

This weekend will decide who secures the record-breaking prize money and the legendary green jacket. While the money may be secondary for many at this prestigious event, the battle for glory, honor, and a mega check is on.

The Masters Tournament 2025 – All Live Scores

This is how high the record prize money is in 2025

The US Masters in Augusta is not only known for its traditions but also for its special prize money policy. While other majors already publish their prize money structure in advance, the prize money at the US Masters is traditionally only announced after the cut. This year, it amounts to a total of 21 million dollars – the highest amount ever awarded in the history of the tournament. It surpasses last year’s record prize money by 1 million dollars. The winner receives 4.2 million dollars, the runner-up can look forward to 2.268 million dollars. Third place brings 1.428 million dollars. But even beyond the podium, the payout remains above the million mark: fourth place is rewarded with 1.008 million dollars.

Rank Prize Money Player
Win $4,000,000 Rory McIlroy
2nd $2,268,000 Justin Rose
3rd $1,428,000 Patrick Reed
4th $1,008,000 Scottie Scheffler
T5 $798,000 Bryson DeChambeau, Sungjae Im
7th $703,500 Ludvig Åberg
T8 $588,000 Xander Schauffele, Zach Johnson, Jason Day, Corey Conners
T12 $462,000 Max Homa, Harris English
T14 $336,000 Jon Rahm, Bubba Watson, Jordan Spieth, Tyrrell Hatton, Matt McCarty, Tom Hoge, Collin Morikawa
T21 $210,000 Hideki Matsuyama, Davis Riley, Tommy Fleetwood, Daniel Berger, Byeong Hun An, Viktor Hovland
T27 $158,550 Aaron Rai, Michael Kim
T29 $142,800 Sahith Theegala, Denny McCarthy, Jaoquin Niemann
T32 $121,537 Rasmus Højgaard, Maverick McNealy, Max Greyersman
T36 $101,063 Justin Thomas, Brian Harman, Patrick Cantlay, Charl Schwartzel
T40 $88,200 Matt Fitzpatrick, Nick Taylor
T42 $75,600 Akshay Bhatia, Danny Willett, JT Poston, Shane Lowry
T46 $61,180 Wyndham Clark, Sam Burns, Davis Thompson
49th $54,600 Min Woo Lee
50th $52,920 JJ Spaun
51 $52,820 Nico Echavarria
T52 $52,670 Stephan Jaeger, Tom Kim

Players who made the cut but finish outside the top 50 receive decreasing prize money starting at $51,660. Unlike most other tournaments, even players who miss the cut don’t go home empty-handed: They each receive $25,000.