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DP World Tour and J.Lindeberg Announce Partnership

The DP World Tour and J.Lindeberg are delighted to announce an exclusive, multi-year partnership which sees the global fashion and lifestyle brand become the Official Clothing Supplier of the DP World Tour.

The announcement heralds a significant expansion of J.Lindeberg’s influence in the world of golf, deepening its commitment to the sport. Founded in 1996, the renowned Swedish clothing brand bridges the worlds of sport and fashion, combining sophistication and contemporary fashion, with high performance and comfort to suit the modern active lifestyle.

The DP World Tour – golf’s global Tour with 44 tournaments in 24 countries – attracts top-tier talent from across the globe and this partnership is set to significantly elevate both the on- and off-course experience for staff, fans, and J.Lindeberg ambassadors such as DP World Tour players Viktor Hovland and Matt Wallace. 

J.Lindeberg becomes Supplier for Rolex Series events

Today’s announcement also sees J.Lindeberg become the Official Clothing Supplier of two of the Tour’s most iconic Rolex Series events in 2024 – the Genesis Scottish Open, taking place at The Renaissance Club, North Berwick (10-14 July); and the BMW PGA Championship, at Wentworth Club, Virginia Water (17-22 September).

As part of this exclusive partnership, not only will J.Lindeberg be outfitting DP World Tour personnel with a range of bespoke products, specifically designed to suit their active and travel-intensive lifestyles, but it will also extend its distinctive signature styles and innovative sports apparel to the golfing community who can purchase tournament branded J.Lindeberg ranges at these select events.

DP World Tour X J.Lindeberg: Excellence and innovation

Commenting on the partnership, Hans-Christian Meyer, CEO of J.Lindeberg, said: “We are incredibly proud to partner with the DP World Tour, a prestigious organisation that exemplifies excellence and innovation in golf – qualities that J.Lindeberg stands for and always wants to champion.

“We are especially excited to outfit the Tour’s dedicated staff, ensuring they look great while showcasing the professionalism of the Tour. The Genesis Scottish Open and the BMW PGA Championship offer great touchpoints throughout the 2024 season for us to showcase our latest collections and designs, centred around unique functionality and forward-thinking style.”

Guy Kinnings, Chief Executive Officer of the DP World Tour, added: “Golf has never been more fashionable and this extends to the premium lifestyle brands that are flocking to the sport. J.Lindeberg has been leading this trend for decades, with ranges that perfectly bridge sport and fashion. We’re excited to have a brand of their calibre come on board as our Official Clothing Supplier. Not only will our personnel be wearing J.Lindeberg apparel as they travel the world, but we will be providing opportunities for fans to purchase their ranges online and at select events each season.”

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Lifestyle

EURO 2024: Harry Kane Shows Off Skills on Driving Range

Drives with Harry: The content shared by the English FA’s social media team during the European Football Championship is somewhat entertaining – certainly more entertaining than the Three Lions’ performances so far at this EURO 2024. It is even more worth watching when one of the good golfers in the team appears in front of the camera, of which there are quite a few, and shows off his skills.

England’s Harry Kane on the Driving Range

First and foremost, of course, is captain Harry Kane, who presenter Josh Denzel takes to the driving range of the Spa & GolfResort Weimarer Land in Blankenhain, Thuringia, where the English lions have set up their team base camp in this episode of “Lion’s Den”:

 
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Captain Kane also showed his skills, albeit very late, in last night’s 2:1 win after extra time in the round of 16 match against Slovakia. After all, with the winning goal in the first minute of extra time, the goalscorer fulfilled the golf oracle in Weimarer Land, who had predicted England’s victory with a putt:

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Technology in Golf: A Behind-the-Scenes Look By Marques Brownlee

Golf broadcasting has been transformed by cutting-edge technology, enhancing the viewing experience and bringing fans closer to the action. Marques Brownlee, tech enthusiast and avid golfer, delves into the intricate tech behind golf broadcasts in his latest video.

Transforming Golf with Hidden Tech

Golf is challenging to watch on TV due to its vast playing field and the small size of the golf ball. Unlike other sports confined to a single area, golf takes place across 18 different holes, making it difficult to follow all the action. To address this, a range of advanced technologies have been implemented, including cameras, lasers, radar, and fiber optic cables.

The Role of Shot Tracer Technology

One of the most crucial innovations in golf broadcasting is the Shot Tracer. This technology allows viewers to see the trajectory of the golf ball, which is otherwise invisible once hit. The system relies on strategically placed towers around the golf course, each equipped with a camera, radar, and wireless transmitter. The radar, known as Trackman, measures the golf ball’s launch speed, angle, and spin rate, enabling precise tracking and immediate data transmission to broadcast trucks.

Real-Time Updates on the PGA Tour Website

For those who can’t watch golf on TV, the PGA Tour website offers a real-time play-by-play portal. This feature allows fans to see live updates from any hole on the course. Volunteers equipped with laser rangefinders and tablets tag the ball’s exact location as soon as it lands, ensuring up-to-the-minute accuracy. The data is then instantly uploaded, providing an interactive and immersive experience for online viewers.

Innovations with Apple Vision Pro

The PGA Tour’s Apple Vision Pro app represents the next level of golf broadcasting. The app offers a combination of live broadcast, real-time leaderboard, and a detailed map of the golf course. The map is created using drone footage, providing an incredibly accurate representation of each hole. This futuristic approach allows viewers to follow the golf ball’s flight and see the course’s layout in unprecedented detail.

Challenges and Logistics

Setting up this advanced technology for each tournament is a massive logistical challenge. It involves transporting and assembling dozens of trailers, miles of fiber optic cables, and numerous towers and cameras. Despite these challenges, the PGA Tour manages to implement this technology for high-profile events, enhancing the viewing experience for fans worldwide.

Watch Marques Brownlee’s Video in full here:

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Panorama

Joe Biden And Donald Trump in a Golf Duel?

In the first presidential debate of 2024 on CNN between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, the two candidates discussed central political issues such as the Ukraine crisis and the war in Gaza, as well as their golfing abilities. When the question arose whether the candidates, despite their advanced ages, were still fit enough to run for the presidency, the discussion shifted to golf.

Joe Biden and Donald Trump boast about their golf skills

Donald Trump took the opportunity to emphasize his physical and mental fitness by referring to his recently won golf championships. “I just won two club championships, not seniors, regular club championships,” Trump boasted. “To achieve that, you have to be pretty smart and hit the ball far, which I can do. Biden can’t, he can’t hit the ball 50 yards.”

Joe Biden, who would be 86 years old at the end of a second term, responded calmly and pointedly to Trump’s taunts. He reminded everyone that during his time as Vice President, he was able to improve his handicap to an impressive six. “I’m ready to have a driving competition with him. I got my handicap down when I was Vice President,” Biden countered. The 81-year-old incumbent also proposed a golf match on the condition that Trump carry his own golf club. “I once told him before he was sworn in, when he came into the Oval Office, ‘I’ll give you three strokes if you carry your own bag,'” Biden told the crowd.

Both the 81-year-old incumbent Joe Biden and his 78-year-old challenger Trump have repeatedly faced criticism because of their high ages. At the first TV debate, the two candidates tried to use their enthusiasm for golf to highlight that they are still fit and vital despite their advanced ages.

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

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.

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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Niall Horan Ventures into TGL Ownership

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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Rory McIlroy Takes Break Following Heartbreaking US Open 2024 Defeat

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.

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

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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Bubba Watson at DJ Khaled Charity Golf Classic

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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New Career? Roger Federer Shows off his Impressive Golf Swing

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.