Category: Panorama

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Panorama

Severe Weather at the PGA Tour: Two Injured by Lightning Strike

During the Travelers Championship of the PGA Tour on Saturday afternoon, two spectators were struck by lightning. (Photo: Getty)

On Saturday, two individuals were hospitalized after a lightning strike near the TPC River Highlands, the venue of the Travelers Championship. The lightning hit a tree close to a house north of the fifth green.

Thunderstorm Risks on Golf Courses, Even During PGA Tour Events

Thunderstorms pose a constant threat on golf courses. This risk was highlighted again when weather delays impacted the third round of the Travelers Championship on the PGA Tour. Earlier in the day, Cameron Young shot a remarkable round of 59.

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At around 4:30 PM local time, emergency calls reported a lightning strike to the Cromwell police. Responders found a struck tree and three individuals nearby. Two of them received medical attention and were taken to the hospital for further examination. The third declined treatment. In similar incidents, such as during the 2019 Tour Championship, six people were injured when lightning struck an 18-meter tall tree.

Safety Measures During Lightning on the Golf Course

Lightning strikes are particularly hazardous on golf courses, which are often expansive and open areas. During thunderstorms, golfers should seek immediate shelter, preferably in a clubhouse or a shelter equipped with a lightning protection system. Avoid carrying golf clubs and standing near trees. If the interval between lightning and thunder is less than 30 seconds, players should move to safety immediately. In cases of imminent danger (less than five seconds between lightning and thunder), crouching in a low-lying area such as a bunker is advisable.

First Aid for Lightning Strikes

Should a lightning strike occur despite all precautions, quick first aid is crucial. A lightning strike victim can be severely injured, making it essential to call emergency services immediately. First aid measures like CPR and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation can be life-saving. There is no risk in touching a person struck by lightning, as they do not carry an electrical charge. Such actions can be vital in saving the victim’s life.

Preparation and Caution

Golfers should check the weather forecast before playing and halt play at the first signs of a thunderstorm. Services like the German Weather Service and apps like Lightningmaps.org provide up-to-date information on lightning strikes and weather conditions. Cumulus clouds or the first sounds of thunder are warning signs. When the time between a lightning flash and thunder decreases to six seconds, it’s critical to seek safety. Recognizing and correctly responding to thunderstorms in a timely manner can prevent severe injuries and save lives.

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Panorama

Niall Horan Ventures into TGL Ownership

Singer Niall Horan and Rory McIlroy have been friends for years. (Source: Getty)
Singer Niall Horan and Rory McIlroy have been friends for years. (Source: Getty)

In a surprising move former One Direction heartthrob Niall Horan has acquired an ownership stake in Boston Common Golf. The singer-songwriter has long been associated with the sport through his friendship with golfing superstar Rory McIlroy.

Niall Horan Takes Ownership Stake in Tomorrow Golf League

Boston Common Golf, a team within the innovative Tomorrow Golf League (TGL), has welcomed Niall Horan as an investor. The TGL is an innovative indoor golf league created by Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods and is due to start in 2025. Other well-known investors include Serena Williams, Steph Curry and Justin Timberlake.

“I’m thrilled to be part of this venture that merges my passion for golf with the excitement of team competition,” Horan remarked in a statement released on the team’s official website. In addition to his role as an investor, Horan will also act as an ambassador for the team, according to a statement made on the golf team’s website.

Horan Served as a Caddie for Rory McIlroy

Horan has been in the golf business for some time now. From serving as a caddie for McIlroy during the prestigious Masters Par 3 Contest in 2015 to co-founding the successful golf management firm Modest! Golf. His new partnership with Boston Common Golf is the latest addition to Horan’s golf portfolio.

“I can’t wait to experience team golf in this unique format that merges technology with green grass play,” Horan said. “Being able to combine my love for the game and my friendship with Rory into a relationship that helps launch a new concept in golf is truly special.”

Boston Common Golf

Boston Common Golf is one of the six teams of the TGL. The team consists of the four Major winners Rory McIlroy, Hideki Matsuyama, Adam Scott and Keegan Bradley and is owned by the Fenway Sports Group. The investment group, headed by founders John Henry and Tom Werner, owns the Boston Red Sox, NASCAR’s RFK Racing, the Premier League’s Liverpool franchise and the National Hockey League’s Pittsburgh Penguins.

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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.

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Panorama

St. Andrews: “Irresponsible and Reckless” Approach Shot from Pavement

The Home of Golf: St. Andrews. (Image: Getty)
The Home of Golf: St. Andrews. (Image: Getty)

On the pavement outside the Dunvegan Hotel in St Andrews, Scotland, a guy chases a golf ball over the rooftops of ‘The Auld Grey Toon’ towards the St. Andrews Old Course, 18th green. And hits it – the green, fortunately not some evening strollers in front of the clubhouse of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club. Some celebrate the guy as a hero, he also celebrates himself and even tries to market his ‘Dunvegan Shot’.

Criticism of the golf swing and statement from St Andrews

Others – rightly and fortunately in the majority – shake their heads at the absurd action. The St Andrews Links Trust is also not amused by Wyatt Messmer’s behaviour: ‘This is an irresponsible and reckless act that shows disregard for the safety of the public and property. This type of behaviour is not welcome at the Home of Golf and we would discourage anyone from repeating it.” Well, passion for golf can sometimes lead to truly strange behaviour.

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Panorama

Bubba Watson at DJ Khaled Charity Golf Classic

Bubba Watson will play in the DJ Khaled Charity Golf Classic. (Image: Getty)
Bubba Watson will play in the DJ Khaled Charity Golf Classic. (Image: Getty)

The newly crowned Champions League winner Vini Jr. and the former Masters champion Bubba Watson are among the participants in the “We The Best Foundation Jordan Golf Classic hosted by DJ Khaled”. The tournament takes places on June 13th in Miami. Other notable stars competing in the charity event are: Golfers Michael Block and Mina Harigae, NFL players Tua Tagovailoa (Quarterback for the Miami Dolphins), Odell Beckham Jr. (Wide Receiver for the Miami Dolphins) and musician Luis Fonsi.

DJ Khaled: “We Are Making Bless Moves For a Great Cause!”

In one of his many promotional videos DJ Khaled presented the field for his charity golf event in Miami. The field includes a lot of star power. For fans of golf, Bubba Watson is definitely the highlight. The two-time Masters Champion Watson is not exempt for the 2024 US Open and therefore able to compete in Khaleds event. In the announcement from this week, the musician DJ Khaled wrote: “Unity is strength! Great Golf for a cause. Here in my home, the 305 Miami, where we are not just hitting the green, we are making bless moves for a great cause! Picture this: A day fillled with swings, birdies and giving back, all under the shining sun.”

The avid golfer DJ Khaled

The 48-year-old musician and producer is known to be an avid golfer. Khaled regularly posts videos of him golfing. In an interviev with the US sports talk First Take, Khaled spoke about Rory McIlroy teaching him “Swing thoughts” and his handicap, which according to his quote is “a seven on a great day”. He also made a hilarious comment about his competitiveness: “When it is competitve time, I go against the best of them – it can be Tiger Woods.” The full interview including an announcement for the charity event here:

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Panorama

New Career? Roger Federer Shows off his Impressive Golf Swing

Roger Federer finds joy in his new hobby: Golf. (Image: Getty)
Roger Federer finds joy in his new hobby: Golf. (Image: Getty)

After officially announcing his retirement in 2022, some time has now passed. He undoubtedly ranked among the greatest in tennis and defined an era. We are talking about Roger Federer, who, as seen in a video on X (formerly Twitter), has found a new hobby.

Roger Federer Picks Up Golf

The short video on social media shows the Swiss athlete playing golf. Even though the title “Roger Federer picking up a new hobby” teases that Federer is learning golf as a new sport, it quickly becomes evident, that it is not the first time he has held a golf club in his hand.

His impressive golf swing is causing a stir on the internet and is also receiving positive feedback from golf professionals. LPGA Tour player Nelly Korda seems eager to show Federer a few things. “Do you need a coach?” she commented under Federer’s video.

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International Panorama

Year-Round Golfing at Connemara Golf Links: Welcoming All Players

The Connemara Golf Links in Ireland. (Image: Connemara Golf Links)
The Connemara Golf Links in Ireland. (Image: Connemara Golf Links)

Connemara Golf Links, located in Galway, Ireland, within the region of Connaught, is a site renowned for its pristine condition and year-round playability. The golf course offers extensive facilities, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. Its location, surrounded by scenic views and rugged landscapes, adds to the allure of this golf destination.

Irish Links Golf: Connemara Golf Links

The course caters to all levels of golfers, providing a fair challenge for low handicap players while remaining accessible to high handicappers. This inclusive approach makes it a popular choice for families, groups, couples, and individual players. The welcoming nature of the club enhances the overall experience, contributing to its reputation as a friendly and accommodating golfing venue.

When navigating Connemara Golf Links, players are advised to allow extra consideration for their approach shots on the back nine holes. The course’s signature hole, the 13th Par 3, is particularly notable. This hole requires a 200-yard carry from the White markers and is surrounded by rocky outcrops, making it a unique and demanding part of the course. The combination of these features makes playing at Connemara both a challenging and memorable experience.

Connemara Golf Links hosts an Open Competition every Friday, with the exception of July and August. This regular event provides an opportunity for golfers to test their skills in a competitive environment. For those interested in long-term engagement with the club, membership options are available. Inquiries can be directed to the pro shop via email at [email protected].

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Panorama

World Golf Ranking: Scottie Scheffler Still Top American

Scottie Scheffler. (Photo: Getty)
Scottie Scheffler. (Photo: Getty)

The World Golf Ranking has seen notable shifts this week. Scottie Scheffler continues to maintain his position as the best American player, holding the first place in the ranking. His average point score remains unchanged. Xander Schauffele is also steady in the second spot, reflecting no change from the previous week and maintaining a strong average point score.

See the complete Official World Golf Ranking here

World Golf Ranking: Top American Golfers

Wyndham Clark remains the fourth-best American golfer, showing stability in his ranking position. Collin Morikawa has moved up from 9th to 8th place, reflecting a slight improvement in his standing. Patrick Cantlay, on the other hand, has slipped from 8th to 9th place, indicating a minor drop in his position within the ranking.

Top-10 in the World Golf Ranking

The top spot in the World Golf Ranking remains with Scottie Scheffler. Rory McIlroy retains his third position, with Viktor Hovland and Ludvig Aberg also sustaining their rankings at 5th and 6th place respectively. There have been minor changes in the top 10, with Max Homa advancing from 11th to 10th position, while Brian Harman moves down from 10th to 11th.

Rank Player Name Change Average Points
1 Scottie Scheffler 0 15.2952
2 Xander Schauffele 0 8.6358
4 Wyndham Clark 0 6.0534
8 Collin Morikawa +1 4.6088
9 Patrick Cantlay -1 4.5027

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Panorama

World Golf Ranking: Robert MacIntyre Takes a Big Leap

Winner of the RBC Canadian Open: Robert MacIntyre. (Photo: Getty)
Winner of the RBC Canadian Open: Robert MacIntyre. (Photo: Getty)

The latest World Golf Ranking has seen changes among British, Welsh, and Scottish players. Tommy Fleetwood rose to rank 12 from 13 with an average point score of 3.9455. Robbie MacIntyre is now ranked at 39, up from 76, with an average of 2.3428 points. Justin Rose leads as the top British golfer, moving to rank 53 from 56 with an average point score of 2.0410. Matt Fitzpatrick remains at rank 17 with an average of 3.3669 points. Additionally, Tyrrell Hatton improved to rank 18 from 19 with an average score of 3.2524 points.

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See the complete Official World Golf Ranking here

World Golf Ranking: British Movement

Next in the rankings, Aaron Rai is at position 74, up from 75 with an average of 1.6251 points over the last week. Matt Wallace dropped to position 90, while Jordan Smith has dropped to position 101 from 98. Laurie Canter, winner on the DP World Tour, made a significant jump to rank 114 from 224 with an average of 1.0431 points. Further down, Tom McKibbin, who holds dual nationality, is ranked at 143, down from 147.

World Golf Ranking: Top-10 Updates

Scottie Scheffler holds the top spot in the World Golf Ranking, followed by Xander Schauffele and Rory McIlroy. Collin Morikawa improved to 8th from 9th, while Patrick Cantlay dropped to 9th from 8th. Max Homa broke into the top-10, moving up to 10th from 11th. Other positions in the top-10 remained unchanged, with Wyndham Clark at 4th, Viktor Hovland at 5th, Ludvig Aberg at 6th, and Jon Rahm at 7th.

Player Name Current Rank Last Week’s Rank Nationality Average Points
Justin Rose 53 56 ENG 2.0410
Tommy Fleetwood 12 13 ENG 3.9455
Matt Fitzpatrick 17 17 ENG 3.3669
Robert MacIntyre 39 76 SCO 2.3428
Tyrrell Hatton 18 19 ENG 3.2524

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Charges against Scottie Scheffler dropped

Scottie Scheffler before the US Open Golf 2024. (Image: Getty)
Scottie Scheffler before the US Open Golf 2024. (Image: Getty)

Yesterday,Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell announced that the four charges against Scottie Scheffler will be dismissed. Scheffler was charged with charges including reckless driving and second-degree assault of a police officer following the events of May 17.

Scottie Scheffler’s explanation of the events “corroborated by the evidence”

Leading prosecutor Mike O’Connell: “Mr. Scheffler’s characterization that this was ‘a big misunderstanding’ is corroborated by the evidence. Mr Scheffler’s actions and the evidence surrounding their exchange during this misunderstanding do not satisfy the elements of any criminal offenses. For these reasons, I now tender to the courts a motion and order to dismiss all these charges in this case against Mr. Scheffler with prejudice.” According to Rex Hoggard, a NBC golf journalist, the announcement also means that there will be no further charges against the world number one, even if there is new evidence.

Statements from those involved

Both Scottie Scheffler and Bryan Gillis, the police officer, made comments after the prosecutor’s announcement. Scottie Scheffler: ” I hold no ill will toward officer Gillis. I wish to put this incident behind me and move on, and I hope he will do the same. I appreciate the support during the past two weeks and want to again encourage everyone to remember the real tragedy of May 17.”

Bryan Gillis, the officer, made the following comments: