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Fun Panorama

Bryson DeChambeau Duels Martin Borgmeier with Children’s Clubs

Bryson DeChambeau and Martin Borgmeier are clearly having fun together. (Source: Youtube Martin Borgmeier)
Bryson DeChambeau and Martin Borgmeier are clearly having fun together. (Source: Youtube Martin Borgmeier)

In an entertaining YouTube video, former long drive world champion Martin Borgmeier and major winner Bryson DeChambeau engage in an unusual duel. The special thing about this three-hole match: DeChambeau plays with children’s golf clubs from the supermarket.

Bryson DeChambeau shines with children’s clubs

The video begins with a humorous challenge: can Bryson DeChambeau beat Martin Borgmeier with children’s golf clubs? The four clubs in this set are a driver, a seven-iron, a pitching wedge and a putter. Before the challenge, the two joke that if DeChambeau wins, he will have to play left-handed and blind in the next match.

The first hole, a par 4, begins with a tee shot from DeChambeau. His driver hits the ball perfectly and lands about 240 metres away on the fairway. Borgmeier counters with an impressive shot that is considerably longer, as the Long-Drive-Pro repeats the whole way to their balls. Borgmeier remains cool on the green and converts his birdie putt after the LIV pro’s putt from the edge of the green missed the hole by just a few centimetres. Between holes, the duo talk about interesting topics such as DeChambeau’s swing technique in long drive competitions, technical details about DeChambeau’s driver or how many balls the golf pro has already hit in his life. But it also remains exciting on the course.

As the match progresses, Bryson DeChambeau’s technical diversity becomes apparent. After another good tee shot, DeChambeau plays the ball to within a few metres of the flag with his second shot, from where he subsequently holes out. Borgmeier is able to play a similarly good approach shot, but misses the decisive putt, allowing DeChambeau to equalise. DeChambeau shows all his class on the final par-3 and leaves the German long driver no chance.The LIV pro emerges victorious from the challenge with a score of 2 to 1 and spectators may soon be able to look forward to the next match between the likeable duo. DeChambeau jokingly commented under the video: “I guess I’ll have to play you blindfolded and left-handed now…”

 
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Ein Beitrag geteilt von Martin Borgmeier (@martinborgmeier)

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Panorama

Parents Confirm Grayson Murray’s Suicide

Grayson Murray's parents confirm the suicide in a statement. (Photo: Getty)
Grayson Murray's parents confirm the suicide in a statement. (Photo: Getty)

The parents of professional golfer Grayson Murray have disclosed that the 30-year-old has committed suicide. In a statement, Terry and Eric Murray write, among other things: “We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone […] Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know that he rests peacefully now.”

Grayson Murray passed away at 30

The two-time PGA Tour winner had retired on Friday during the second round of the Charles Schwab Challenge on hole 16 at Colonial Country Club – due to illness, according to the PGA Tour – and was found dead on Saturday under as yet unknown circumstances.

Grayson Murray Passed Away Unexpectedly at the Age Of 30

After suffering from alcohol and mental problems, including depression, in recent years, Murray had reconnected with the world’s elite in 2024. After his rookie success at the 2017 Barbasol Championship, he won the Sony Open in Hawaii this year and announced at the time that he had been sober for eight months and was newly engaged: “My story isn’t over yet. I think it’s just beginning. I hope I can inspire a lot of people who have their own problems.” He was subsequently even appointed to the PGA Tour’s Player Advisory Council. He made the cut in his Masters debut in April and finished 51st, tied 43rd at the PGA Championship and was a certainty in the US Open field as 58th in the world.

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Panorama

Tabloids Speculate about Rory McIlroy’s Divorce

Why is Rory McIlroy divorcing Erica Stroll? (Image: Getty)
Why is Rory McIlroy divorcing Erica Stroll? (Image: Getty)

The British golf media are speculating about the separation between Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll; the four-time major winner filed for divorce the day before arriving at the PGA Championship in Valhalla. The obvious explanation is that the couple had grown apart. Either because the professional was focussing too much on golf and his wife consequently felt neglected and only concentrated on their daughter Poppy. Or because Erica Stoll had only taken care of their child since Poppy was born on 31 August 2020, which made the golfer feel left behind and bury himself in work.

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll File for Divorce Amid Major Preparations

Rumour: McIlroy’s love affair with CBS presenter

The rumour of a love affair between “Rors” and “CBS” golf presenter Amanda Balionis (38), who is married to football coach Bryn Renner but has not worn a wedding ring since the Masters, is also persistent, as is the case with juicy aspects. As she has also dropped the Renner suffix from her actual double name on her social media accounts, the tabloids, which even tracked Erica Stoll on her way to the nail salon (“Daily Mail”), are sensing amorous reasons for McIlroy’s move and are also said to have identified particularly affectionate interviews between Balionis and the golf star.

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Panorama

Grayson Murray Passed Away Unexpectedly at the Age Of 30

Grayson Murray has died at the age of 30. (Source: Getty)
Grayson Murray has died at the age of 30. (Source: Getty)

The golf world is mourning the death of Grayson Murray, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 30. Murray, who won his second PGA Tour title this year at the Sony Open in Hawaii, leaves a huge void in professional golf. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan expressed his shock and sadness: “We are deeply saddened and heartbroken by the loss of Grayson Murray. The PGA Tour is a family, and when you lose a member of that family, it changes everything. We mourn the loss of Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones.” Monahan reported that he had personally contacted Grayson’s parents to offer his deepest condolences. Despite their pain, the parents asked that the Charles Schwab Challenge continue. “They were convinced that Grayson would have wanted us to continue. As hard as it will be, we want to honor their wishes,” Monahan continued. Grief Counselors have been provided at recent PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour events to offer support to players and staff. Commissioner Monahan traveled from the Florida headquarters to Fort Worth, Texas to be there in person and promised to release more information as it becomes available.

Statement Confirmes Suicide

Grayson Murray’s parents have disclosed in a statement, that the 30-year-old has committed suicide. Terry and Eric Murray write: “We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone […] Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know that he rests peacefully now.”

Parents Confirm Grayson Murray’s Suicide

Grayson Murray: Already outstanding at an early age

Grayson Murray was an outstanding golfer from early on. At a young age, he won the Callaway Junior World Championships three times in a row (2006-08) and was the top-ranked golfer in his age group. At the age of 16, he was the second youngest player ever to make the cut on the Korn Ferry Tour. After stops at Wake Forest University, East Carolina University and Arizona State University, he received a sponsor invitation to a Korn Ferry Tour event near his hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina in 2016. His top-10 finish at this tournament, the Rex Hospital Open, helped him to further starts and ultimately to his breakthrough in professional golf. A win at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship earned him second place on the Korn Ferry Tour money list and secured his promotion to the PGA Tour for the 2016-17 season. As a rookie, Murray wasted no time winning the 2017 Barbasol Championship. He finished the season impressively with a 66th place finish in the FedExCup and earnings of almost 1.5 million dollars. However, the following years were difficult for Murray. It was not until 2023 that he regained his old form on the Korn Ferry Tour, winning two tournaments and thus securing his return to the PGA Tour. At the start of the 2024 season, he achieved his second victory on the tour at the Sony Open in Hawaii, where he defeated Byeong Hun An and Keegan Bradley in a play-off. After this victory, Murray spoke openly about his mental challenges: “My parents have been through hell with me over the last six years because I’ve struggled with some mental issues,” he said at the time. “It’s not easy for me and it’s not easy for the people who love me. They don’t like to see me down. They’ve always been my biggest supporters, as well as some friends, and that makes those moments extra special.”

Numerous players in mourning

Following the news of Murray’s death, numerous prominent golfers expressed their deepest sorrow. World number one Scottie Scheffler said: “The news hasn’t really sunk in yet, but I’m thinking of his family and praying for them. I can’t imagine how difficult this time must be for them.” Webb Simpson, who had known Murray since childhood, also expressed his dismay and fought back tears: “When you get news like this over the phone, you can’t realize it’s true at first. I am very grateful for the time I was able to spend with him before this terrible news. It really is devastating.” The English golfer and captain of the European Ryder Cup team, Luke Donald, wrote on social media: “It’s unbelievable that Grayson Murray has passed away. He asked me for advice on how to play Augusta a few months ago and I saw him at the PGA Championship last week. Life is truly precious. My condolences and prayers go out to his entire family.” Two-time major winner Bubba Watson said: “It’s very sad to hear of Grayson Murray’s passing. Life is so fragile. I just hugged you at the Masters and told you how proud I am of you. I’m grateful to have known you.”

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Panorama

Dashcam Video Released Shows Scottie Scheffler’s Encounter with Police

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

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

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

Scottie Scheffler at the PGA Championship: The Police Incident

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

Release of Dashcam Footage

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

Scottie Scheffler’s View On The Incident

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

Disciplinary Action Against Officer Involved in Scottie Scheffler Incident

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

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

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

The Released Video Footage

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Panorama

Student Films Rough Handling of Golf Baggage

The view out of the plane window. (Source: X @ETSU_MGolf)
The view out of the plane window. (Source: X @ETSU_MGolf)

A recently released video shows appalling behavior by airport employees when handling golf bags. The video, recorded by a member of the East Tennessee State men’s golf team, is currently causing outrage on social media. It documents how airport staff rudely throw golf bags off the plane. When unloading the plane, the golf bags were not handled with care, but were literally thrown to the ground. From there, they were then lifted onto a trolley by another employee.

Rough Handling of Golf Baggage Goes Viral

The student who recorded the video shared it on X (Twitter), where it quickly went viral and gained more than seven million views. In the comments, many users expressed their outrage at the behavior of the airport employees. “This sucks, and it’s not saving him any time. Just poor effort and bad service.,” wrote one user. Another commented: “This is horrible. However, I always put my clubs in a hard case if I check them for travel . Can’t trust the baggage handlers!”

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Highlights Tours Panorama

Is Scottie Scheffler Facing Prison? – The Charges Against Him Explained

The charges Scottie Scheffler has to face after the PGA Championship 2024. (Image: Getty)
The charges Scottie Scheffler has to face after the PGA Championship 2024. (Image: Getty)

Scottie Scheffler could face serious consequences after the events of early Friday morning at the 2024 PGA Championship. The world number one got into an altercation with police in the wake of the traffic chaos following the fatal road traffic accident at the gates of Valhalla Golf Club, where a member of the security team was killed. Scheffler wanted to avoid the traffic jam in front of the course and therefore pulled into the free lane next to him about a mile before the course. According to his own statement, this was followed by a misunderstanding of the officer’s instructions and the subsequent arrest of the tour star. Bryan Gillis, the Louisville Metro Police detective involved in the incident, later stated that Scheffler “refused to comply and accelerated forward, dragging (him) to the ground.”

What charges await Scottie Scheffler after his arrest?

Although Scheffler was released on bail in time for the start of his second round, prosecutors are now filing four charges against the Texan. Scheffler is charged with second-degree assault on a police officer, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving and disobeying traffic signals of a traffic control officer. The first charge is a felony, the other charges are misdemeanours.

His lawyer Steve Romines has now commented on the next steps in an interview with Golf.com. The arraignment before a judge is scheduled for Tuesday and will initially decide whether the case goes to trial or the charges are dropped. At this first hearing, according to his lawyer, they will plead not guilty and if the judge decides in favour of charges, the case will go to trial.

If Scheffler is convicted, he could face between five and ten years in prison for “second-degree assault on a police officer”. However, it must be proven that Scheffler intentionally caused serious injury to another person or acted wilfully. In the meantime, Romines said his team will continue to gather evidence, eyewitnesses and video footage from the officers’ body cams.
In closing, Scheffler’s attorney said, according to Golf.com, “Scottie did not intentionally do anything wrong. He was doing exactly what they told him to do.”

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Panorama

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll File for Divorce Amid Major Preparations

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

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

McIlroy’s Statement on Divorce

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

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

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

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

Divorce Filing Amid PGA Championship Preparations

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

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

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Panorama

England Declares a Fight Against Slow Play

England Golf implements new slow play rule. (Photo: Getty)
England Golf implements new slow play rule. (Photo: Getty)

The English golf association “England Golf” is introducing stricter regulations at the start of this season to combat the slow play “epidemic”. Checkpoints will be set up at all championships taking place under the sovereignty of England Golf: Playing groups must have passed the checkpoints after holes 4, 9 and 14 of each round within a predetermined period of time, otherwise warnings and penalty strokes will be issued if the dawdling is not made up for in the following round. The rule is that the distance to the previous group should not exceed twelve minutes.

England Golf: “We try to make the game a bit quicker”

The new rule is to be “strictly enforced” in this year’s test phase: “What I looked at is what we can do as an organisation to try and make the game a little bit quicker,” said James Crampton, the governing body’s director of championships.

“What I wanted to do was put the onus much more back onto the players – rather than the players thinking it’s the referee’s responsibility to get people round in a suitable time. Previously, if there were instances of players playing slowly, the policy was difficult to implement in terms of applying penalties,” Crampton added according to the National Club Golfer.

After an initial warning after the first delay, players have the chance to clear the backlog until the next check point. If this does not happen, two penalty strokes are added to the scorecard. In addition to the new rules on flight speed, individual time penalties can still be imposed, up to disqualification after four offences.

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Panorama

Decline in Numbers: Less Golf Played on the British Mainland

Compared to the past two years, participation in golf was lower in the first quarter of the year. (Photo: Getty/Sporting Insights)
Compared to the past two years, participation in golf was lower in the first quarter of the year. (Photo: Getty/Sporting Insights)

The average monthly number of rounds played per course in England, Wales and Scotland dropped to 1,385. Compared to the same period in 2023, this represents a decrease of 14%. The greatest impacts were felt in the Midlands and the North, although there were green shoots for the latter in the form of a year-on-year growth in March. Scotland and the South experienced single digit percentage drops against Q1 2023. It should be noted however that 2023 enjoyed strong February and March performances. For March 2024 to finish 3% down year-on-year is a decent result that should not be interpreted as cause for pessimism as golf moves into the critical summer window.

Positive conditions despite falling figures

While the professional game remains unstable and unsettled, the first majors of the season testified to the strength of golf’s current undisputed dominant forces, Scottie Scheffler and Nelly Korda. With rounds played setting regular records in Great Britain over recent years, the split in the men’s professional game has not so far translated to waning interest in amateur participation. In fact, with initiatives like iGolf making many golfers’ experiences more rewarding, conditions remain positive for golf to put up strong numbers through the rest of 2024. The caveat to that is that the continuing high cost of living does appear to be impacting on leisure spend, albeit at lower levels than might have been predicted.

“It’s much too early to worry at this stage”

“A few things are important to bear in mind,” noted Richard Payne, joint managing director of Sporting Insights. First is the relative strength of 2023 and 2022 when looking at any downward shifts in performance. March for example remains ahead of 2019’s numbers. The second is that, while not insubstantial – in fact the appetite for winter golf reflects the hardiness of so many GB golfers – Q1 rounds are dwarfed by summer numbers that are 2-3 times higher on average than we see over Q1, so there is more than enough time for the year to end in growth. Finally, it’s worth pointing out that like any outdoor sport, fluctuations in participation happen. This is the first quarter to see a year on year drop in rounds played since Q1 last year. If declines in rounds played persist throughout the year, then there may be conversations that the industry needs to have, but it’s much too early to worry at this stage.”

For now, clubs across Great Britain will hope for fine weather and regular tee time bookings over the next six months.

(Text: Sporting Insights)