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Professionals

Rory McIlroy: A Season Between Victories and the Futile Hunt for the 5th Major

A year full of contrasts – characterised by triumphs, setbacks and the eternal dream of the next major title. Rory McIlroy looks back on an eventful season highlighted by great moments on the course and personal turmoil off the fairway.

Rory McIlroy’s majors, personal crises and a missing fifth title

The season got off to a successful start for Rory McIlroy: he made an early statement on the DP World Tour with a victory at the Dubai Desert Classic. Back on the PGA Tour, he showed a different face – not alone, but as part of a well-rehearsed duo. Together with Shane Lowry, he triumphed at the Zurich Classic, a team event that often promises more fun than strategy. But when it came to the play-off, there was no more relaxation: McIlroy’s approach on the 18th hole was accurate to the millimetre and the subsequent putt secured the first PGA title of the season.

But McIlroy’s individual brilliance on the PGA Tour was evident at the Wells Fargo Championship. At Quail Hollow, he secured his fourth title at this tournament and dominated with a flawless final round, which was characterised by two eagles and a spectacular birdie putt on the 15th hole. ‘When Rory is on form, he’s unbeatable,’ said second-placed Xander Schauffele. The victory marked McIlroy’s 26th PGA Tour title – a strong signal ahead of the upcoming majors.

A rocky road to the US Open

But golf remains a game of uncertainties – and 2024 also had some bitter moments in store for McIlroy. The US Open was another chapter in the quest for his fifth major, which has been going on for years. Two shots ahead, only a few holes left to play, the end almost in sight – and yet victory slipped away from him. Two missed putts on the final holes not only left their mark on his score, but also on McIlroy’s expression. His withdrawal without talking to the media spoke volumes.

‘It was incredibly painful,’ admitted McIlroy at a later point after he was ready for interviews again. ‘I could be sitting here with a fifth major title – but I’m not. It stings and that’s something I have to come to terms with.’ At the same time, he looked at the positive aspects of his season: ‘I was incredibly consistent again. I’m proud of that. But the thoughts of the missed opportunities remain.’

Headlines off the fairways too

In addition to his sporting achievements, Rory McIlroy also made headlines off the course in 2024. Active as ‘Player Director’ on the PGA Tour Policy Board since 2022, he became a central figure in the negotiations between the PGA Tour and the controversial LIV Golf League. But the burden grew: ‘It wasn’t what I signed up for,’ McIlroy explained after his surprise resignation in November.

Just a few months later, however, he hinted at a return to the committee after Webb Simpson vacated his seat. ‘I think I can be helpful,’ said McIlroy, who continues to see a united golf world as a goal.

This back-and-forth comes alongside another setback for the Northern Irishman: reports of an impending divorce from his wife Erica Stoll appeared to be weighing on his mind. But in a surprise twist just before the US Open, the separation was withdrawn – a personal birdie putt that put McIlroy back on his feet.

The grand finale in Dubai: a worthy end to the season

The months between the majors were a rollercoaster ride of emotions: From missing the chance to win the Irish Open at home to losing the play-off at the BMW PGA Championship to the season finale, McIlroy experienced highs and lows. This phase, characterised by frustration, culminated in a moment of redemption: the triumph in Dubai.

Like the experienced golfer that he is, McIlroy found his way back to his best form. At the DP World Tour Championship, he left no doubt as to why his name has been at the top of the world’s leaderboards for years. The duel with young Dane Rasmus Højgaard had it all: setbacks, comebacks, and finally a determined McIlroy, who sealed his third title of the tournament and sixth DP World Tour title of the season with a birdie on the 18th hole.

blockquote class=”twitter-tweet”>

That feeling when you win your sixth Race to Dubai title😎🏆#DPWTC | #RolexSeries pic.twitter.com/ACZjqqLGcz

— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) November 18, 2024

With tears in his eyes, he spoke about the legacy of this victory: ‘Seve was always a role model for me. To catch up with him in the number of wins this season is something I never thought possible.’ For a moment, it was clear that even a player like McIlroy, whose name has long been a legend, is still inspired by the great gestures of the game.

The comparison with Seve Ballesteros emphasises McIlroy’s position in golf. But despite this historic success, there was still one downer: McIlroy’s long search for a fifth major title, which did not lead him to his goal in 2024.

A year full of meaning

Rory McIlroy’s 2024 season was a mixture of extraordinary successes and painful moments. While he equalled Seve Ballesteros and further cemented his place in golf history, the pursuit of more majors remains the drive of a player who is never satisfied. ‘If I had to rate the season, it would probably be an eight out of ten,’ said McIlroy in Dubai. ‘Not perfect, but a solid year.’

Categories
PGA Tour

Scottie Scheffler Withdraws from Season Opener

Scottie Scheffler misses the PGA Tour season opener in Hawaii. The 28-year-old suffered an injury to his right palm while preparing dinner on Dec. 25. Scheffler’s manager, Blake Smith, said in a statement released Friday: “On Christmas Day while preparing dinner, Scottie sustained a puncture wound to the palm of his right hand from a broken glass. Small glass fragments remained in the palm which required surgery. He has been told that he should be back to 100 percent in three to four weeks. Unfortunately, he will have to withdraw from The Sentry.”

The US American will therefore not be able to compete at “The Sentry” in Hawaii, the season opener. The tournament takes place from January 2 to 5 on Maui, a Hawaiian island. The venue is the “Plantation Course at Kapalua” (par 73). Scheffler’s next planned tournament is “The American Express” from January 16 to 19, according to his manager Blake Smith.

Scottie Scheffler and his historic season

Scottie Scheffler has had a memorable 2024 season. He won seven official PGA Tour tournaments, including the US Masters and the Players Championship, where he became the first player ever to successfully defend the title. In August, he won Olympic gold and shed tears at the award ceremony afterwards. Scheffler was also successful in team competitions in 2024. With Team USA, he defeated Team International by 18 1/2 to 11 1/2 points at the Presidents Cup in Canada at the end of September.

As a logical consequence of all this success, Scheffler was voted Player of the Year on the PGA Tour (Jack Nicklaus Award) for the third time in a row. He is also the first player since Tiger Woods in 2009 to spend an entire year at the top of the world rankings.

Categories
Panorama

From Arrests to Fan Chaos: The Biggest Golf Controversies of 2024

Golf in 2024 wasn’t just about birdies and bogeys. From legal entanglements and organizational blunders to unruly fan behavior, the year highlighted how golf often took a backseat to off-course drama. Here are the most talked-about moments.

Police Cars on the Fairway: Scottie Scheffler’s PGA Championship Saga

Sometimes reality outshines fiction. On the morning of the second round of the PGA Championship, world number one Scottie Scheffler found himself in an unexpected setting: handcuffed in the back of a police car.

The bizarre incident stemmed from a misunderstanding. While heading to the Valhalla Golf Club, Scheffler attempted to bypass a roadblock, assuming participants were allowed through. Unaware of his identity, the officers detained him briefly. Despite the ordeal, Scheffler made it to his tee time, but the episode became a defining narrative of the tournament.

The usually composed Texan caused yet another stir at the BMW Championship.

During the second round at Castle Pines, nothing seemed to go Scottie Scheffler’s way. After a poorly executed approach shot sent his ball into the water, his frustration boiled over into an uncharacteristically emotional outburst. “How is that possible? What the f*ck! That’s impossible!” he shouted, his caddie, Ted Scott, silently walking ahead.

The incident was followed by a double bogey, and Scheffler’s round ended on a disappointing even par.

WM Phoenix Open: When the Party Spirals Out of Control

Known as one of the liveliest stops on the golf calendar, the 2024 WM Phoenix Open teetered on the edge of chaos. With over 50 arrests, countless reports of alcohol-related misconduct, and overcrowded stands, the event’s exuberance reached its tipping point.

The 16th hole, famous for its electric atmosphere, became a safety concern as fans packed in beyond capacity. Organizers temporarily shut the gates, vowing stricter controls and considering attendance limits for future events. While players like Sahith Theegala praised the passionate crowd, others called for a return to a more traditional tournament ethos.

No Dutch Golfers at the Olympics: A Scandal in Paris

In one of the year’s most contentious stories, the Dutch Golf Federation barred its players from competing in the Paris Olympics, despite them meeting the qualification criteria. Joost Luiten, Darius van Driel, and Dewi Weber were deemed unlikely to finish in the top eight, prompting the federation to withhold their entries.

Luiten took legal action and won. However, by the time the ruling was made, his spot had been given to another player. This debacle underscored how bureaucratic decisions can overshadow athletes’ aspirations, sparking widespread criticism across the golf community.

Fitzpatrick’s Broken Driver Sparks Rule Debates

The BMW Championship brought golf’s rulebook under scrutiny when Matt Fitzpatrick was denied a replacement for his cracked driver. Despite visible damage affecting performance, officials ruled the defect insufficient to warrant a replacement.

Forced to finish his round without a driver, Fitzpatrick called the decision “an absolute disgrace.” The incident ignited debates on social media, with fans and experts alike calling for modernized rules to avoid such controversies in the future.

Empty Stands at the Solheim Cup: A Transportation Fiasco

The 2024 Solheim Cup started on a sour note due to massive logistical failures. Shuttle services intended to transport fans to Virginia’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Club collapsed under the strain, leaving thousands stranded in long lines while players teed off to sparse crowds.

Players like Lexi Thompson worked hard to energize the few attendees, but the iconic opening atmosphere was noticeably lacking. Organizers faced heavy criticism and pledged to overhaul the transport system for future events.

Ryder Cup 2025: Golf for the Elite?

Even before its first shot, the 2025 Ryder Cup stirred controversy with record-breaking ticket prices, reaching up to $749 for a single day. Fans voiced frustrations, accusing organizers of turning the beloved event into an exclusive luxury experience.

While the PGA of America defended the pricing as reflective of the tournament’s premium status, the backlash highlighted growing concerns about alienating the sport’s broader fanbase. Many wonder if the Ryder Cup’s spirit can survive this shift toward exclusivity.

Categories
Panorama

A Golf Year in Review 2024: The Emotional Highlights

Golf in 2024 was marked not only by outstanding performances on the course but also by moments off the greens that highlighted the human side of the sport. From personal milestones to emotional victories, this year was filled with stories that went beyond birdies and bogeys.

An Alpine Fairytale Wedding: Martin Kaymer’s Personal Highlight

Martin Kaymer turned Castle Elmau in the Bavarian Alps into a picturesque venue for love and camaraderie. Celebrating with his wife Irene Scholz, Kaymer hosted a festive wedding ceremony two years after their private vows. Their son Sam, born in early 2022, took part in the festivities, carrying the rings in a touching moment. Fellow golfers, including Adrian Meronk, shared glimpses of the joyous occasion.

A Painful Loss: Grayson Murray’s Absence Felt Deeply

On May 25, 2024, the golf world was stunned by the tragic news of Grayson Murray’s passing. The 30-year-old, who had celebrated victory at the Sony Open earlier in the year, took his own life after a long struggle with mental health challenges.

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan remarked, “We lost not only a talented golfer but also a unique individual. The Tour is like a family, and this loss affects us all deeply.”

Olympic Gold: Scottie Scheffler Reaches a Career Pinnacle

The Olympic golf event at Le Golf National became the stage for an intense final. Scottie Scheffler secured the gold medal with a flawless 62 in the last round, clinching the title with a decisive birdie on the 17th hole.

During the medal ceremony, Scheffler tearfully sang the U.S. national anthem as the flag was raised.

Bernhard Langer’s Final Curtain in Europe

Bernhard Langer, the German golf legend, bid farewell to European tournaments in 2024. Despite an Achilles tendon injury that nearly ended his season, the 66-year-old returned to compete in the BMW International Open, his last major European event.

The crowd honored Langer with standing ovations, acknowledging a career that spanned decades. Teeing off with Martin Kaymer and Marcel Siem, Langer reflected on the changes in the game, joking, “The courses are getting longer, and I’m getting shorter.”

Rory McIlroy: US Open of Missed Opportunities

The US Open 2024 at Pinehurst was supposed to be Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited breakthrough, nearly a decade after his last major victory. With a two-shot lead over the final five holes, everything seemed to be going according to plan. But the drama unfolded: two short putts, missed at the 16th and 18th holes, cost McIlroy the title. McIlroy left the course without comment and withdrew from public life for several weeks. Later, he admitted, “It was a tough day, probably the hardest of my career.”

Bryson DeChambeau: Major Win and a Path Back to the Fans’ Hearts

While McIlroy faltered down the stretch, it was Bryson DeChambeau who emerged as the hero at Pinehurst. With a spectacular bunker shot on the 18th hole, which he later called “the shot of my life,” DeChambeau secured his second US Open title after his 2020 triumph. The victory was not only a sporting milestone but also marked a remarkable image transformation.

Once considered a polarizing figure, particularly due to his involvement in the LIV Golf controversy, DeChambeau showed a new side in 2024. In his post-win press conference, he dedicated the victory to his late father and golf legend Payne Stewart, who won the US Open at the same venue in 1999. “I wanted to do it for them,” he said, tears in his eyes.

His behavior on and off the course noticeably shifted. He engaged more with fans and earned praise for his emotional display. The US Open victory thus became both a sporting and personal triumph, symbolizing the evolution of a player committed to change.

A Rising Star: Robert MacIntyre Triumphs in Canada

The RBC Canadian Open 2024 was a breakthrough moment for Robert MacIntyre. The Scotsman demonstrated nerves of steel on a tense final day to secure his first victory on the PGA Tour.

It was not just the sporting achievement that made the story special. His father served as his caddie and shared the defining moment with him. “This is a dream I’ve shared with my dad since childhood,” said an emotional MacIntyre.

Team Spirit and Karaoke: McIlroy and Lowry Win in New Orleans

At the Zurich Classic, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry showcased the power of friendship on the course. With a playoff victory, the Irish duo clinched the title, proving how much fun golf can be as a team. “Winning with Shane by my side was something special. We’ve known each other for over 20 years – it makes this success even more meaningful.”

The fun didn’t stop on the course: after their victory, McIlroy and Lowry celebrated with gusto, surprising fans with a karaoke rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.” Images of the singing duo with their WWE-inspired championship belts went viral, making their win one of the year’s most entertaining moments.

Categories
PGA Tour Champions

Charlie Woods plays the first ace of his life at the PNC Championship 2024

For Charlie Woods, it was the first ace of his life. And at the PNC Championship, where all eyes have been on the teenager for several years. Except, in this case, those of his father Tiger Woods. He was busy with his bag when Charlie hit the ball into the hole from the tee on the par-3 4th.

Hole-in-one for Charlie Woods

It was a picture-book Sunday at the Ritz-Carlton GC in Florida. Team Langer and Team Woods met in the final flight and played a cat-and-mouse game over 18 holes to make it into the play-off. Early in the day, 15-year-old Charlie Woods provided a highlight when he holed out for an ace on the first par-3 of the course. Pictures between surprise and joy:

Charlie Woods just made his first ever hole-in-one!! 📺: GOLF Channel pic.twitter.com/yEvN3HuYWP — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) December 22, 2024

Although it was the first hole-in-one in ten years (and the second ever) at the PNC Championship, it wasn’t to stop there. Paddy Harington, son of Padraig Harrington, also played an ace. Just a few moments after Charlie’s hole-in-one on the 4th, he put the ball in the hole on the 8th.

The 2nd(!!) ace of the day 🤯 Paddy Harrington makes a hole-in-one to tie the lead! pic.twitter.com/Al3AEbr5wX — PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) December 22, 2024

Charlie and Paddy were not the only players to attract attention. Carson Kuchar, the son of Matt Kuchar, also wowed the crowd. He put the ball into the hole on the par-4 16th with his second shot: hole-out eagle for Team Kuchar.

Eagle from long range 😲 Carson Kuchar holes it for eagle on No. 16! 📺: NBC pic.twitter.com/Eny6z8hOEi — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) December 22, 2024

And last but not least, we look at Gary Player, who at 89 was the oldest player in the field at the 2024 PNC Championship. In round 1, he played “only” even par with his grandson Alexander Hall. On Sunday, they improved by a total of ten strokes. The highlight: Gary Player holed his final putt on the 18th for eagle.

Gary Player for eagle! The 89-year-old goes out with a bang on No. 18 🔥 pic.twitter.com/j8om5RUOM9 — PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) December 22, 2024

Categories
PGA Tour

TGL: Internationality and Team Spirit at The Bay Golf Club

The Bay Golf Club will start in the TGL from January 2025. The American West Coast team bears the name of the “Bay Area” around San Francisco. The main investor is Avenue Sports Fund, and NBA superstar Stephen Curry is also on board.

Marc Lasry, CEO of Avenue Capital Group, emphasized the importance of the region and the innovative focus of the team: “Avenue Sports Fund invested in The Bay Golf Club because we are excited to bring a new team and innovative game to the growing number of Golf fans regionally and nationally,” said Lasry.

TGL: Players at The Bay Golf Club

The team is characterized in particular by the internationality of its squad: With team members from Sweden, the USA, Ireland and Australia, it unites three continents.

Ludvig Åberg experienced a meteoric rise as a professional. The talented Swede turned professional in 2023 and quickly established himself on the PGA Tour. In the same year, he celebrated his first title win at the RSM Classic and successfully represented Team Europe at the Ryder Cup.

The team also has a major winner in Wyndham Clark: the American triumphed at the US Open in 2023 and added two more PGA Tour titles to his record. In 2024, he represented the USA at the Olympic Games and the Presidents Cup.

The third member of the team, Min Woo Lee, has already celebrated international success and achieved several top 10 finishes on the PGA Tour. The Australian is also very active on social media and is appreciated for his humorous nature.

Shane Lowry is known for his great passion for team competitions, which he also demonstrated as part of the victorious 2023 Ryder Cup team. His victory at the Open in 2019 represents his greatest individual success. The professional from Ireland, who has been active on the international golf scene since 2009, brings a wealth of experience with him.

Behind the Scenes in the Simulator

A series of short videos published by The Bay Golf Club on Instagram give an insight into the team’s press day. You can see game scenes in the simulator, including playing from an indoor bunker and on the putting green.

 
Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an
 

Ein Beitrag geteilt von the smylie show (@thesmylieshow)

TGL: The Most Important Information on “The Bay Golf Club” at a Glance

Teamname The Bay Golf Club
The Four Players  Ludvig Åberg (Sweden), Wyndham Clark (USA), Min Woo Lee (Australia), Shane Lowry (Ireland)
Ownership Avenue Sports Fund with Marc Lasry, Stephen Curry
Limited Partners Andre Iguodala, Klay Thompson, Alex Albon, Leonardo Fioravanti, Kanoa Igarashi, John Stones
Logo Landscape with three sequoias, a golf ball in the background
Team Colors Green, Turquoise

Match Dates:

  • January 7, 2025: vs. New York Golf Club
  • February 17, 2025: vs. Atlanta Drive Golf Club
  • February 17, 2025: vs. Boston Common Golf
  • February 25, 2025: vs. Florida Jupiter Links Golf Club
  • March 3, 2025: vs. Los Angeles Golf Club
Categories
Travel

A Breath of Fresh Air in Portugal’s Golf World – Part 2

Heading south on cruise control

From PGA Aroeira Lisboa, we take the quickest route to the Algarve, where the Details – Hospitality, Sports & Leisure Management company is realising further impressive projects. It takes just over two and a half hours to reach the Dom Pedro Resort & Golf in Vilamoura via the A2 motorway, which carries very little traffic and has a maximum permitted speed of 120 km per hour.

Vilamoura was created in the 1960s as a modern holiday resort to offer a wide range of leisure activities and recreational opportunities. It was created as an exclusive holiday destination that stood for luxury and lifestyle. The management company Details is now building on this to attract new, upmarket target groups to the resort. The aim is to develop it into one of the leading golf destinations in Europe. The current portfolio that Details manages here includes various hotels, golf courses, an equestrian centre and the marina.

As a first step, the existing assets of the Dom Pedro Hotel & Golf Collection were revalued. As part of a multi-year development project, these will now be renovated, remodelled, replaced or expanded with new units. The plan is to place them under internationally recognised premium brands, such as Hyatt and Hilton. This should also increase the attractiveness of Vilamoura as a high-quality leisure and lifestyle destination.

Other planned measures include the expansion of the equestrian centre. This will have a capacity for 1,000 horses and will be suitable for Grand Prix events for professionals. A high-end multiple sports centre is also planned, which will attract attention as a real game changer in the region.

Centrally located with great views

We are staying at the four-star Dom Pedro Marina Hotel & Golf. It immediately catches the eye with its terraced architecture and reddish-brown colour. From our 49 square metre, one-bedroom suite with balcony on the seventh floor, we enjoy an excellent view of the pool below and the beach within walking distance.

Renovated Dom Pedro Marina Hotel (Photos: Dom Pedro Hotel)

On the other side of the hotel, built in 1988, it is just a stone’s throw from the marina. During the adaptations initiated by Details, numerous renovations were carried out without the hotel losing any of its original charm.

Pure golfing pleasure

The Dom Pedro Group in Vilamoura has five golf courses in the immediate vicinity: the legendary Old Course, the Laguna, Millennium, Pinhal and the Victoria Course.

The Victoria Course is currently closed. It is due to reopen next spring after being completely remodelled as the first private members’ club in the Algarve. The former world number one, South African Ernie Els, has been brought in as architect and namesake. It will be his first golf project in Europe. The other courses are also being continuously upgraded.

The grande dame of the Algarve

We are lucky enough to get to know the current jewel among the aforementioned golf courses in Vilamoura. The Old Course is the second oldest course in the Algarve and is considered the “grande dame” of the courses in the south of Portugal. It is a real gem – prestigious and beautiful.

A smooth start to the round (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

As soon as we enter the club premises we are struck by a feeling of “wow!”. A member of staff is waiting for us in a buggy to take us to the entrance of the newly renovated clubhouse. This is where tradition meets modernity. Everything is new. We enjoy the luxurious ambience in the pro shop, the restaurant, the bar and on the inviting terrace. With its dignified atmosphere, it is reminiscent of a traditional British pub and pays homage to the course’s first architect Frank Pennink, who designed the course in 1969.

Brand new clubhouse (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Hawtree & Sons made extensive changes to the course in 1997, including the introduction of a new irrigation system. Now, in addition to the clubhouse, the putting green has also been renovated.

The view from the terrace over the huge practice green, the first and tenth tees and the driving range conveys the feeling of endless expanse. The fairways through the hilly terrain are wide and surrounded by pine trees on both sides. The paths have been redesigned and are now of the same high standard as the rest of the course. To describe it as well maintained would be an understatement. It often gives the impression that the greenkeepers have been at work with nail scissors.

After a smooth start, the first interesting par 3 awaits us with hole four. It is not only visually extremely appealing but is also a delight to play. Water at the front, a tree in the centre of the fairway and the green protected by plenty of bunkers, – what more could you want as a golfer?

Danger lurks on all sides (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

As the course progresses, the bunkers are just as impressive as the huge, fast greens.

Impressive layout and state of maintenance (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The par 73 championship course, which is 6,254 metres long from the back tees, is a joy to play, thanks to the great layout and the well-kept condition. This outstanding course and the free shuttle are also included in the hotel’s Stay & Play packages.

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf Resort

From Vilamoura, we continue westwards on the A22 motorway, where Details’ next project awaits us near Lagos. The Palmares Ocean Living & Golf resort is located here in complete tranquility, with the bay and Meia Praia Beach stretching out in front of it like an amphitheatre.

We check into our room at the five-star Beach House Hotel. Contrary to what its name suggests, it is not located directly on the beach, but high above it. Its 20 rooms offer a sensational 180-degree view that stretches from the town of Alvor on one side to Lagos on the other.

Beach House Hotel (Photos: Beach House Hotel and Juergen Linnenbuerger (right) )

The view is like a painting. Whether at sunrise or sunset, we savour every one of these moments (see photo at the beginning of the article). In 2025, work is set to begin on integrating it into a new hotel with around 150 rooms.

If you are looking for absolute tranquility, this is the place for you. As an alternative to the hotel, there is a range of exclusive Signature Apartments available to book. According to the masterplan, the resort will one day have 460 residential units, which will be carefully integrated into the existing landscape.

Number one in Europe

The impressive clubhouse, which has just been voted the best golf clubhouse in Europe at the World Golf Awards 2024, towers above the hotel. Designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning company RCR Arquitectes, the steel and glass building integrates an unrivalled accent into the coastal landscape. The spectacular views from its terrace over the golf course to the sea are just as impressive as its location, design and extraordinary atmosphere.

A dream made of steel and glass (Photos by Azalea)

The warm, red-brown colour of the building is fascinating both inside and out. The high, angled interior areas surprise with their asymmetrical layout and always offer unique views through the huge glass fronts.

Fine dining at the highest level

However, it is not only its location and architecture that are impressive, but also its gastronomic offering. The AL SUD restaurant in the clubhouse was awarded a Michelin star just five months after it opened. Head chef Louis Anjos spoils guests with fresh seafood specialities and Portuguese dishes. The use of local products is a high priority. The hotel’s own oyster farm is just 200 metres away.

The main restaurant of the clubhouse and of the Beach Hotel are also under the management of Louis Anjos and are also characterised by freshness, sophistication and quality. With a chilled Vino Verde, the savoury of the Camarāo Piri Piri (prawns) and the Peixhinos da Horta (green beans in tempura) are a delight.

Pure enjoyment (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

Fantastic views

Originally designed by architect Frank Pennink, the golf course was opened in 1975. It was redesigned and extended in 2011 by world-renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Junior. The nine holes of the Alvor, Lagos and Praia loops each have magnificent layouts with considerable differences in altitude to overcome. The constantly impressive views of the sea link all three.

Challenging tee shots deep into the fairways (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)

The Alvor and Lagos nines are laid out as parkland courses, and we are particularly impressed by the tee shots into the fairways deep below. While some of their holes run through the hilly terrain behind the clubhouse, we can look down from its terrace and that of the Beach Hotel onto the Praia Loop below.

Some of its holes lead over sandy, natural terrain, which, separated only by the dune, reaches as far as the sea. The waste areas and large bunkers, some of which run directly into them, give them a links feel. Railway tracks and a road separate the holes here from the rest of the course. The final hole is magnificent, a steeply rising par 5 that ends with a shot into the hidden green below the clubhouse.

Picturesque final hole (Photo: Azalea)

While the greens are in good condition, the maintenance of the rest of this loop does not yet reach the high quality of the Alvor nine during our visit but this will soon change. As part of a longterm plan, Details will be carrying out significant upgrades on all loops, which will also raise this facility to a leading level in Europe. Its co-CEO and head greenkeeper have already demonstrated this impressively in their previous roles at Costa Navarino in Greece.

Sustainability is a top priority

Environmental aspects play a key role here, with the reduced use of water in course maintenance being an important factor. The remodelling of the rough, which currently still requires a lot of water, into less water-consuming areas should contribute to this.

Convincing concepts promise success

Extraordinary developments cast their shadows ahead. We were able to see this for ourselves during our visits south of Lisbon and at the Algarve. We gained the impression that the ambitious plans of the prominent company Details – Hospitality, Sports & Leisure will be successfully realised in the coming years. The speed and quality with which the first steps have been achieved leave us in no doubt about this.

Categories
LIV Tour PGA Tour

PGA destroys LIV Golf: A showdown at Shadow Creek

It was billed as a clash of giants, but in the end the “showdown” between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour at Shadow Creek turned out to be a one-sided affair. Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy (PGA Tour) gave their opponents Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka (LIV Golf) no chance and showed who currently has the upper hand in professional golf.

Rory McIlroy’s: A picture-book eagle putt

Scheffler and McIlroy made it clear from the very first minute that they had arrived as favorites. Rory McIlroy, who was on top form right from the start, provided the highlight of the evening with an eagle putt over 12 meters on the fourth hole. “Rory’s start was important for our team,” said Scheffler, praising his partner. This gave the PGA stars an unassailable lead early on.

Rusty and outclassed: LIV remains without a chance

DeChambeau and Koepka, who had not competed since the end of the LIV season in September, looked visibly rusty and were unable to counter the pressure from their opponents.

The format of the match was divided into three segments: a six-hole four-ball match, a six-hole four-ball match and singles matches over the last six holes. Despite the different formats, the LIV players were not in the lead in any of the matches. In the four-ball, they were already hopelessly behind after just four holes, and Koepka also sealed the loss of points in the foursome with a three-putt bogey on the last hole.

The singles matches on the last six holes finally decided the outcome: McIlroy and Scheffler won confidently, and the match ended on the 16th hole – before the spectators even got to see the famous par-3 17th hole at Shadow Creek.

DeChambeau, who wore an oversized jacket against the chilly evening air during the match, was nevertheless combative: “I’d love to get another opportunity,” said DeChambeau. “It was a bit of a pillow fight for us.”

Scheffler and McIlroy’s victory earned them 5 million dollars each in cryptocurrency and capped off a successful year for both players. Scheffler had previously won in the Bahamas, while McIlroy had won the European Tour final in Dubai.

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Highlights Tours

More money for U.S. Ryder Cup team: $200,000 available for the first time

The PGA of America has made a historic decision: Effective immediately, American Ryder Cup players and captains will receive direct compensation. Of the total 500,000 dollars that each player receives for their participation, 300,000 dollars will continue to go to charitable organizations. However, the remaining 200,000 dollars can be used freely by the athletes for the first time. The new regulation is causing discussion on both sides of the Atlantic.

Ryder Cup: Pay to play – or paid to play?

The PGA emphasized in its statement that the players had not actively asked for compensation. Nevertheless, the PGA believes it is justified to reward the players’ achievements. An official statement said: “The players and captains of the past and present are responsible for making the Ryder Cup one of the most special competitions in golf and one of the most sought-after events on the international sporting scene.” Since 1999, the amount of 200,000 dollars for charity has not been adjusted.

The news of the new compensation scheme triggered controversial reactions. European players such as Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry made it clear that for them the honor of taking part in the Ryder Cup was above all else – so much so that they would even pay for it. Tiger Woods countered these comments with a clear statement: “If the Europeans want to pay for the Ryder Cup, that’s their decision.”

Despite the new addition, the American team seems to be keeping charity in mind. Captain Keegan Bradley announced that the players could donate the entire amount of 500,000 dollars. However, the decision of how to use the 200,000 dollars is up to each player. The discussion over the payments has sparked an unexpectedly emotional December – nine months before the 2025 Ryder Cup at the iconic Bethpage Black. While the USA is changing its structure, Europe is sticking to its tradition of playing exclusively for charity.

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European Tour

Gambling in golf: DP World Tour pro suspended for golf betting

The English DP World Tour player Marco Penge has been banned for three months after it was revealed that he had placed bets on golf tournaments on several occasions. In addition, the Tour imposed a fine of 2,000 pounds on the Englishman. The suspension, which began on December 13, 2024, does not allow Penge to participate in tournaments again until February 13, 2025. One month of the sentence was suspended to prevent him from committing further offenses. The 26-year-old Englishman violated Rule 3(a)(i) of the Tour’s Integrity Program.

No betting on own games according to DP World Tour

According to the DP World Tour, Penge did not place any bets on his own matches or tournament events in which he was involved. This ensured that the integrity of the competitions in question was not compromised. A DP World Tour spokesperson stated: “Penge did not place bets on himself or on the outcome of tournaments on the days he participated.”

The disciplinary committee, made up of legal and sporting experts, took into account Penge’s “immediate admission” and his cooperation, which mitigated the penalty imposed. “His candor and cooperation with the proceedings played a decisive role in the imposition of the penalty,” the spokesperson added.

Gambling in golf

Penge is not the first golfer to be sanctioned for gambling. In 2023, Vince India and Jake Staiano of the Korn Ferry Tour were hit with similar penalties. Staiano had only bet a total of 116 dollars, which was nevertheless penalized as a violation of the gambling guidelines. Marco Penge had earned a DP World Tour card in 2023 after topping the Challenge Tour Order of Merit. His first full season on the DP World Tour was bumpy. However, his good performance at the Genesis Championship in November 2024 secured him Tour status for 2025 after making the cut in Korea.