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Panorama

Showdown Between PGA Tour and LIV Golf: Four Stars in a Duel

The establishment of the Saudi Tour has split the professional golfing world: Since some of golf’s biggest stars have gained a foothold on the LIV Golf League, the players who have remained loyal to the PGA Tour only encounter them in exceptional circumstances such as the four Major tournaments. As a result, golf fans only very rarely get the chance to see the best players in the world compete for a title.

However, as part of a new TV event produced by BZ Entertainment and EverWonder Studio, there will now be a showdown between four of the most successful faces in golf. Two of them migrated to LIV Golf, two of them remained loyal to the PGA Tour. It is to be expected that the duel will be about more than just the better golf game.

PGA Tour and LIV Tour: McIlroy/Scheffler vs. Koepka/DeChambeau

Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler form the “PGA Tour” team. Scottie Scheffler was almost invincible in the 2024 season and recently crowned his countless successes with victory in the FedEx Cup. He has developed into a protagonist of the PGA Tour in recent years. The second face representing the PGA Tour is none other than Rory McIlroy. The Northern Irishman stood up for his home tour, the PGA Tour, like no other during the trouble on LIV Golf and is therefore an indispensable player in the duel between the tours.

On the opposing side, two players who once faced each other in “The Match” are teaming up. LIV stars Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau, who have already been known as brawlers. The two players have several major titles and other successes between them and regularly compete for the top positions on the leaderboard on the LIV Golf League. Together they want to face the power of the PGA Tour stars and win the duel.

“Intense golf” at a ”great show”

The constellation is reminiscent of the format “The Match”, in which selected golf stars – including Koepka and DeChambeau – have already dueled several times. However, the new duel clearly differs from this format. “We’re leaning towards making it more like a Ryder Cup to develop it into a series that’s completely separate from The Match,” Bryan Zuriff, longtime producer of The Match and executive producer of the December event, told Golf Digest. Viewers can expect “real, intense golf”.

In addition to the sporting competition, Rory McIlroy is also looking forward to the setting of the event: “I’m thrilled to partner with Scottie in what promises to be an exciting duel against Bryson and Brooks in Vegas this December,” he wrote in a text message to Golfweek. “This isn’t just a contest between some of golf’s major champions; it’s an event designed to energize the fans. We’re all here to put on a great show and contribute to a goodwill event that brings the best together again.”

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Travel

Affordable Golf with Stunning Views: Discover Tanka Golf Villasimius in Sardinia

Tanka Golf Villasimius is located in Villasimius, a town in the southern part of Sardinia, Italy. This course is situated within a landscape known for its natural beauty and vivid coastal views. Villasimius is recognized as one of the premier destinations in Italy, which adds to the allure of the Tanka Golf Villasimius for those seeking a golfing holiday.

Perfect Course for the Holidays

Tanka Golf Villasimius attracts many holiday golfers due to its setting and the range of services offered. The course is noted for its views and the natural landscape that surrounds it. These features make it a popular choice for golfers who are on vacation and wish to combine golf with the scenic beauty of Sardinia.

The golf club prides itself on courtesy and service. Staff members at Tanka Golf Villasimius are dedicated to ensuring that players have a positive experience. This focus on service is one of the reasons why the course maintains high satisfaction rates among visitors.

Tanka Golf Villasimius is also remarked upon for its cost-effectiveness. The club offers some of the lowest prices in the area, making it an attractive option for both locals and tourists. This affordability does not come at the expense of quality, as the course continues to provide an enjoyable golfing experience.

In summary, Tanka Golf Villasimius is a well-positioned golf course in Villasimius, Sardinia. Its appeal lies in its natural views, excellent service, and competitive pricing, making it a preferred choice for holiday golfers in one of Italy’s top destinations.

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Highlights Tours

Solheim Cup 2024: The Players for Team Europe

The Solheim Cup 2024 promises another exciting duel between the best female golfers in Europe and the USA. Under the leadership of captain Suzann Pettersen, Team Europe will compete with a strong selection of experienced and up-and-coming players. Here is an overview of the players who will be competing for the title against the American team, led by US captain Stacy Lewis, in Gainesville, Virginia.

Solheim Cup 2024: Team Europe

Player Qualification criteria 1 fact
Charley Hull LET Solheim Cup Points Four Top-10-finishes on the LPGA Tour in 2024
Esther Henseleit LET Solheim Cup Points Won the silver medal at the Olympic Games 2024
Celine Boutier Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings Six wins on the LPGA Tour
Carlota Ciganda Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings Six appearances in the Solheim Cup
Linn Grant Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings Four Top-10-finishes on the LPGA Tour in 2024
Leona Maguire Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings Won the Aramco Team Series – London in 2024
Madelene Sagstrom Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings Three Top-10-finishes on the LPGA Tour in 2024
Maja Stark Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings Three Top-10-finishes on the LPGA Tour in 2024
Georgia Hall Captain’s Pick Won the AIG Women’s Open in 2018
Anna Nordqvist Captain’s Pick Three-time major winner
Emily Kristine Pedersen Captain’s Pick Three Solheim Cup appearances
Albane Valenzuela Captain’s Pick Two Top-10-finishes on the LPGA Tour in 2024

Get to know Team Europe

Charley Hull

Charley Hull, one of the best-known faces in Team Europe, qualified via the LET Solheim Cup points. The Englishwoman is an experienced player who is taking part in the Solheim Cup for the sixth time. Hull has achieved considerable success in her career, including four top-10 finishes in the 2024 season on the LPGA Tour.

Esther Henseleit

Esther Henseleit from Germany secured her place in the team via the LET Solheim Cup points. She is one of the two rookies in Team Europe this year. Henseleit earned her first starting place in the Solheim Cup through her consistently strong performances on the LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour, including several top 10 finishes and a silver medal at the 2024 Olympic Games.

Celine Boutier

Frenchwoman Celine Boutier qualified via the Rolex World Ranking and brings an impressive record to the team. Boutier has played in three Solheim Cups and has been part of the last two winning teams. In the 2023 season, she scored a significant victory at the Amundi Evian Championship, which further strengthens her position in Team Europe.

Carlota Ciganda

Carlota Ciganda from Spain also qualified via the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. She is one of the most experienced players on the team and has already taken part in six Solheim Cups. Ciganda has won titles on both the LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour in her career and is known for her consistency in the match play format.

Linn Grant

Linn Grant from Sweden is an up-and-coming player who qualified via the Rolex World Ranking. This is her second Solheim Cup, having been part of the team in 2023. In the 2024 season, she celebrated a victory at the Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed, showing her potential for Team Europe.

Leona Maguire

Leona Maguire from Ireland secured her place on Team Europe via the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. Maguire, who made her debut in 2021, has quickly become a permanent fixture on the team. In the current 2024 season, she won the Aramco Team Series event in London.

Madelene Sagstrom

Madelene Sagstrom from Sweden qualified via the Rolex World Ranking and is competing in the Solheim Cup for the third time. Sagstrom has already achieved several top-10 finishes in her career.

Maja Stark

Maja Stark, also from Sweden, qualified via the Rolex World Ranking and is taking part in the Solheim Cup for the second time. Stark has already won six titles on the Ladies European Tour in her career and has already recorded three top 10 finishes on the LPGA Tour in the 2024 season and is one of the young, up-and-coming talents in European golf.

Georgia Hall

Georgia Hall was selected as captain’s pick by captain Suzann Pettersen. The Englishwoman has already played in four Solheim Cups and brings valuable experience to the team. Hall won the AIG Women’s Open in 2018 and achieved a top-10 finish on the LPGA Tour this season.

Anna Nordqvist

Anna Nordqvist, one of the most experienced players in Team Europe, was also selected as captain’s pick and will take on a dual role in the team as vice-captain. The Swede has already played in eight Solheim Cups and has already celebrated three Major victories in her career.

Emily Kristine Pedersen

Emily Kristine Pedersen from Denmark was selected as the third captain’s pick by captain Pettersen. Pedersen has already taken part in the Solheim Cup three times and achieved several top-10 finishes in the 2024 season. Her success on the Ladies European Tour makes her an important pillar of the team.

Albane Valenzuela

Albane Valenzuela from Switzerland, another captain’s pick, will make her Solheim Cup debut in 2024. Valenzuela has achieved two top-10 results on the LPGA Tour this season and is the second rookie player on Team Europe.

Captain Suzann Pettersen – The architect of success

Suzann Pettersen, captain of the European team, has made her selection for the 2024 Solheim Cup and is relying on a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers. With her extensive Solheim Cup experience, Pettersen is ideally equipped to lead Team Europe in this prestigious competition and defend the title.

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Highlights Tours

Solheim Cup 2024: The Players for Team USA

The 2024 Solheim Cup will once again bring together the best female golfers from the USA and Europe. Captain Stacy Lewis has nominated a balanced mix of experienced players and up-and-coming talent to lead Team USA into the competition and prevail against the European team. Here is an introduction to this year’s American team:

Player Qualification criteria 1 fact
Nelly Korda US Solheim Cup Ranking World Nr. 1
Lilia Vu US Solheim Cup Ranking Two-time major champion
Lauren Coughlin US Solheim Cup Ranking Two Top-5-finishes in the majors in 2024
Ally Ewing US Solheim Cup Ranking World Nr. 17
Allisen Corpuz US Solheim Cup Ranking Won the US Women’s Open at Pebble Beach in 2023
Megan Khang US Solheim Cup Ranking Fourth appearance in the Solheim Cup
Andrea Lee US Solheim Cup Ranking Second appearance in the Solheim Cup
Rose Zhang World Ranking Second appearance in the Solheim Cup after turning pro in 2023
Alison Lee World Ranking Legendary golfer Fred Couples is her biggest fan
Lexi Thompson Captain’s Pick Seventh consecutive appearance in the Solheim Cup
Jennifer Kupcho Captain’s Pick Married to the caddie of Allisen Corpuz
Sarah Schmelzel Captain’s Pick Makes her debut in the Solheim Cup

Meet the US Team for the Solheim Cup 2024

Nelly Korda

Nelly Korda, who qualified through the US Solheim Cup Rankings, leads the US team. As the world number one and multiple winner on the LPGA Tour, she is one of the strongest players in the world. Korda brings her extensive experience and six tournament wins -including one major title- from the 2024 season to the team.

Lilia Vu

Lilia Vu, also qualified via the US Solheim Cup rankings, has established herself as one of the strongest players on the team thanks to her outstanding performances in recent years. With victories at the Chevron Championship and the AIG Women’s Open 2023, she has established herself as one of the best female golfers in the world.

Lauren Coughlin

Lauren Coughlin qualified through the US Solheim Cup Rankings and will make her debut at the 2024 Solheim Cup. Coughlin had a successful 2024 season in which she recorded two tournament wins and five other top-10 finishes on the LPGA Tour.

Ally Ewing

Ally Ewing, who qualified via the US Solheim Cup rankings, is one of the most consistent players on Team USA. In the 2024 season, she achieved six top-10 finishes, demonstrating her consistent performance. With her experience from multiple Solheim Cup appearances, Ewing will be a key asset to the team and will look to lead Team USA to victory.

Allisen Corpuz

Allisen Corpuz secured her place on the US Solheim Cup Ranking and won the US Women’s Open at Pebble Beach in 2023. She brings her major experience to the team and is competing in the Solheim Cup for the second time.

Megan Khang

Megan Khang, who also qualified via the US Solheim Cup rankings, will be competing in the Solheim Cup for the fourth time. With three top-10 finishes in the 2024 season, she brings valuable experience and consistency to Team USA.

Andrea Lee

Andrea Lee, who also qualified via the US Solheim Cup rankings, will take part in the Solheim Cup for the second time in 2024. With several top 10 finishes this season and an LPGA tournament win, she is one of the up-and-coming players in the US team.

Rose Zhang

Rose Zhang, who secured a place on the team via the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings, is one of the biggest talents on the US team. Although she only turned professional in 2023, she has already won two tournaments on the LPGA Tour.

Alison Lee

Alison Lee, who is returning to Team USA after a nine-year absence, qualified via the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. Her experience and abilities could make her an important addition to the team.

Lexi Thompson

Lexi Thompson, who was selected as captain’s pick by captain Stacy Lewis, has extensive Solheim Cup experience. She will be making her seventh consecutive appearance for the US team. With eleven LPGA tournament wins in her career, Thompson is one of the most experienced players on the team.

Jennifer Kupcho

Jennifer Kupcho, also a captain’s pick, brings her experience from two Solheim Cups. Her four top-10 finishes in the 2024 season make her a reliable pillar for the team.

Sarah Schmelzel

Sarah Schmelzel, another captain’s pick, will make her debut in the Solheim Cup. With six top-10 finishes in the 2024 season, she shows her potential and will strengthen Team USA with fresh talent.

Stacy Lewis – captain and golfing legend

Stacy Lewis, the captain of the US team, has already made history in her career. With 13 LPGA victories, including two majors, and two Player of the Year titles, she is one of the most successful golfers of her generation. Lewis has topped the world rankings twice and has played in four Solheim Cups. After serving as co-captain in 2021, she took on the responsibility as captain for the 2023 and 2024 tournaments. Under her leadership, Team USA will do everything in its power to win the 2024 Solheim Cup on home soil in Gainesville, Virginia.

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Panorama

Justin Thomas Is Going to Be a Dad

Justin Thomas announced on Instagram yesterday that he will become a father for the first time at the end of November. In the post, he first wrote about his 2024 season, Scottie Scheffler and not being nominated for the Presidents Cup. In the final paragraph, JT announced the event briefly: “It will be nice to have some time to work on things, foundation event, some Rest and Recovery, and even become a dad at the end of November!” He did not reveal whether it would be a boy or a girl. It is the first child for Justin Thomas and his wife Jillian, who married in 2022. No further information about the birth was revealed in the social media post, but there were other interesting sections in his post.

JT about his season and the Presidents Cup

The two-time major champion started his statement with his 2024 PGA Tour season: “2024 season is a wrap. I’m very proud and happy about some signs of improvement that were shown. Although (per usual), I am far from satisfied. Finishing the year in Atlanta at the TOUR Championship is something I never want to take for granted. I look forward to working to get back there next year.”

Furthermore the 31-year old wrote about not being nominated for the Presidents Cup 2024: “I’m obviously very bummed to not be joining the boys in Canada for the Presidents Cup, but completely understanding. Jim has put together a great team. I will be the first one pulling for them and watching, while using it as motivation to not miss a team event again as they are some of my favorite weeks I’ve had.”

No captain’s pick for Justin Thomas

The teams for the 15th edition of the Presidents Cup were also finalized on Tuesday. Thomas, who had not qualified, did not receive one of the six captain’s picks from US captain Jim Furyk. Instead, the picks went to Keegan Bradley, Sam Burns, Tony Finau, Brian Harman, Russell Henley and Max Homa. The Presidents Cup will take place from September 24-29, 2024 at The Royal Montreal GC in Montreal, Canada. The US team will compete against the international team (rest of the world, excluding Europe). Of the 14 editions so far, the USA has won twelve times, the internationals have won once and one duel ended in a draw.

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Travel

Historic Designs and Scenic Views: Discover Waterford Golf Club’s Legacy

Waterford Golf Club is located in Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, nestling in a setting that offers panoramic views across the Suir Valley and the Comeragh Mountains. The club’s heritage is reflected in its course layout, with the front nine holes designed by Willie Park Junior, a two-time Open Champion, and the back nine holes crafted by James Braid, a five-time Open Champion.

“Keep the Ball in Play” – Waterford GC Calls for Strategic Play

In the front nine, the design by Willie Park Junior emphasizes maintaining the ball in play, while navigating through various layouts that demand strategic play. The historical influence of Park’s design philosophy can be seen in the course’s layout, which mixes challenges and opportunities, fitting for players of all skill levels. Park’s approach ensures that each round provides both a test of skill and a journey through golf history.

The back nine, designed by James Braid, brings a distinct character to the course. Known for his traditionalist approach, Braid’s design principles focus on precise shot placement and strategic decision-making. This section of the course complements the front nine, giving players a balanced experience that varies in both challenge and scenery. Braid’s influence is evident in the intentional placement of hazards and the subtlety in the architectural nuances of each hole.

Members of Waterford Golf Club benefit from exclusive access to a meticulously maintained course and state-of-the-art facilities. The club’s amenities cater to both seasoned golfers and newcomers, providing a comprehensive environment to improve skills, engage in friendly competition, and enjoy leisure rounds. The club hosts a variety of events and tournaments, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the sport’s traditions.

Additionally, the 18th Tee Box offers an iconic view across the natural beauty of the Suir Valley, Slievenamon, and the Comeragh Mountains. This signature feature encapsulates the club’s commitment to providing an enriching golfing experience intertwined with the surrounding landscape. Every visit to Waterford Golf Club is an opportunity to immerse oneself in the spirit of the game and the camaraderie fostered within its grounds.

In summary, Waterford Golf Club combines historical design, challenging play, and scenic beauty. Willie Park Junior and James Braid’s architectural specifics ensure a course that honors the past while offering a modern-day test for golfers. Membership at Waterford Golf Club means more than just access to the course; it signifies participation in a vibrant community dedicated to the love of golf.

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Panorama

Rory McIlroy to Shorten Tournament Schedule: “It’s Been a Long Season”

Rory McIlroy has announced plans to significantly reduce his tournament schedule beginning in 2025. The Northern Irish golf star revealed that he intends to participate in only 18 to 20 tournaments per year. McIlroy shared this decision following the conclusion of the Tour Championship in Atlanta, where he finished in ninth place.

He described this season as particularly challenging, especially after hitting a “wall” following the U.S. Open and still feeling the lingering effects of that intense stretch. “It’s been a long season, and I’m going to just have to think about trying to build in a few extra breaks here and there next year and going forward because I felt like I hit a bit of a wall sort of post-U.S. Open, and still feel a little bit of that hangover,” McIlroy explained in a post-tournament interview in Atlanta.

Rory McIlroy to Adjust 2025 Season Planning

The golf professional, who has regularly competed in over 20 tournaments per season in recent years, emphasized that the current season has pushed him to his limits. In the past, the PGA Tour star would typically participate in about 22 events a year, but this number is no longer sustainable given his current life circumstances. I’m usually sort of like a 22 sort of person. But again, that was when I was sort of in my 20s and didn’t have the responsibilities that I do now,” McIlroy said. As a result, he plans to limit his tournament participation to 18 to 20 events in the coming years.

This decision follows an especially dense tournament schedule. Over the past eight weeks, McIlroy has competed in six major events, including the Olympic Games in Paris and the British Open. This intense period, combined with his appearances in all three FedEx Cup Playoffs, has left him physically and mentally exhausted, according to McIlroy.

Future Outlook and Upcoming Tournaments

Although Rory McIlroy intends to reduce his tournament calendar in the future, he still faces several important tasks this season. He will compete in the Irish Open and the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship before concluding the DP World Tour season with two final events in Dubai in November. McIlroy currently leads the Race to Dubai standings on the DP World Tour and will aim to finish the season strong before implementing his planned reduction in tournament appearances.

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Travel

Explore Golf Club Asiago: Inclusive Experience and Unique Course Features

The Golf Club Asiago is located in Asiago, Italy. This golf course is known for catering to every type of player, including those with families who might not play golf. A unique feature of the course is the ninth hole, which has a significant tree situated directly in the middle of the fairway. The club offers numerous green fee subscriptions, encouraging golf enthusiasts to visit.

Regarding the terrain and layout, players are often advised to utilize fewer drivers and rely more on straight irons. This strategy is particularly useful given the tree in the fairway on the ninth hole, which presents a notable challenge. The course design seems to accommodate a variety of playing styles, making it suitable for different skill levels.

Golf and Family Time in Harmony at Golf Club Asiago

Family inclusivity is another highlighted feature of the Golf Club Asiago. The facilities are designed to be welcoming for non-player families, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their time at the club. This makes it an attractive destination not just for avid golfers but also for those looking to spend quality time with family members who might not be as interested in the sport.

Moreover, the club emphasizes its range of green fee subscriptions. This indicates a flexible approach to membership, likely aimed at making the club accessible to a broader audience. Potential visitors are encouraged to come and experience the offerings firsthand.

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Professionals

Jordan Spieth Hopes for Comeback After Successful Operation

Recently, we reported that Jordan Spieth would be using his early season exit to undergo surgery on his left wrist. Now, the three-time major winner has shared via social media that the operation went as planned and that he is on the road to recovery. “I had procedure on my left wrist last week, as I had mentioned was the plan. The operation went smoothly and I’m grateful for the exceptional medical team and support of Annie and my family. Focused on rest and rehab, and I look forward to returning to golf healthy and prepared for 2025,” Spieth wrote on X.

Jordan Spieth Hopes for a Swift Comeback

Despite the successful procedure, Spieth still has a long road ahead. The wrist is crucial for a golfer, and in Spieth’s case, his left wrist has been troubling him for some time. This has also been reflected in his performances, which have been rather inconsistent in recent years. Spieth’s last PGA Tour win came 28 months ago at the RBC Heritage in Harbour Town. Since then, his career has seen highs and lows: a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Masters, another near-win at the RBC, but also 14 missed cuts and a disqualification have marked his recent journey. Notably, his swing has changed – his clubface is now much more closed at the top of his backswing than it was during his peak in 2015. Experts like Brandel Chamblee expressed surprise at this change as golf.com reports.

Spieth’s ongoing issues with his left arm and wrist trace back to an injury in 2018 when he fractured a bone in his left hand, an injury he admits he never fully addressed. In May 2023, Spieth had to withdraw from the Byron Nelson tournament in his hometown of Dallas due to acute wrist pain. Although he competed in the PGA Championship at Oak Hill a week later, he wasn’t fully recovered. More setbacks followed in October of that year after the Ryder Cup when Spieth re-injured his wrist – this time while lifting a toaster at home. After several tests, doctors finally diagnosed ulnar nerve damage, providing him with much-needed clarity regarding his condition. “I believe that if I stay on top of this, I can structurally do what’s necessary to play my best golf again,” Spieth said optimistically at the time.

Now, after the successful surgery, the Texan begins the long journey back to his best form. It will be interesting to see how Spieth performs in 2025.

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Highlights Tours

World Golf Ranking: Tommy Fleetwood Closing In On Top 10

This week’s World Golf Ranking has brought several noteworthy changes for British, Welsh, Northern Irish and Scottish players. Leading the pack is Rory McIlroy at position three, followed by Tommy Fleetwood, who is currently ranked 11th. This is a significant improvement from his 12th position last week, with an average score of 4.3312 points. Robert MacIntyre follows as the top Scottish player, maintaining his position at 16th with an unchanged average score of 3.6928 points.

Positions for British Players in the Golf World Ranking

The fourth-best British player is Aaron Rai at 24, followed by Matt Fitzpatrick, who occupies the 27th position, slipping one place from his previous 26th with an average score of 3.0011 points. Tyrrell Hatton remains stable at the 36th spot, holding an average score of 2.7197 points. Justin Rose, another prominent figure, stands firm at the 37th position with an unchanged average score of 2.7038 points.

Top 10 in the Golf World Ranking

The top 10 sees Scottie Scheffler retaining his position as the leader in the Golf World Ranking. The most notable change comes from Collin Morikawa, who has leaped from the 6th to the 4th spot. Ludvig Aberg dropped from 4th to 5th, while Wyndham Clark moved down from 5th to 6th. Rory McIlroy remains the best Northern Irish player in 3rd place. The rankings from 7th to 10th witnessed stability with Hideki Matsuyama, Viktor Hovland, Patrick Cantlay, and Bryson DeChambeau preserving their respective positions.

Player NameNationalityCurrent RankingLast Week’s RankingAverage Score
Rory McIlroyNIR338.4917
Tommy FleetwoodENG11124.3312
Robert MacIntyreSCO16163.6928
Aaron RaiENG24243.2515
Matt FitzpatrickENG27263.0011
Tyrrell HattonENG36362.7197
Justin RoseENG37372.7038