Categories
Travel

Bundoran Golf Club: 18 Holes for All Levels with Wild Atlantic Way Views

The Bundoran Golf Club in Ireland. (Photo: Bundoran Golf Club)
The Bundoran Golf Club in Ireland. (Photo: Bundoran Golf Club)

Bundoran Golf Club, situated in Bundoran, Co Donegal, Ireland, offers a characteristic 18-hole course laid out in two loops. This location provides golfers of all levels the opportunity to test and hone their skills on a course with diverse challenges. The club emphasizes straight shots as a key aspect of playing successfully on this links course.

Bundoran Golf Club: Golfing at the Harry-Vardon-Designed Course in Ireland

The course at Bundoran, designed by Harry Vardon, accommodates golfers of all abilities. Responses highlight the welcoming atmosphere and efforts to meet the needs of all participants. The course’s layout and structure cater to both novice and seasoned golfers, making it an inclusive environment.

Additionally, one of the striking features of Bundoran Golf Club is the panoramic view of the Wild Atlantic Way. This scenic backdrop adds a unique element to the playing experience. The combination of landscape and sea views creates a memorable environment for a round of golf.

Bundoran has positioned itself as golfer-friendly, focusing on providing a welcoming and accommodating atmosphere. The club’s design and management aim to create an engaging and enjoyable experience for every golfer who visits.

In summary, Bundoran Golf Club offers an 18-hole course suitable for all levels of golfers. With a design by Harry Vardon, it emphasizes straight shots and provides a welcoming environment. The course features views of the Wild Atlantic Way, enhancing the overall golfing experience.

Categories
Ladies Tours

Solheim Cup 2024: Pairings and Tee Times for Day 1

Tee Times and Pairings for the Solheim Cup 2024. (Photo: Getty)
Tee Times and Pairings for the Solheim Cup 2024. (Photo: Getty)

This week at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, defending champions Team Europe will face Team USA, who have the home advantage at the 2024 Solheim Cup. The Europeans have taken home the trophy three times in a row, but the American fans will not make it easy for Suzann Pettersen’s team.

There are five sessions in total. Friday and Saturday will start with the Foursomes at 7:05 AM. In four matches, two Europeans will compete against two Americans, who will take it in turns to play a ball. The pairings have already been decided independently of each other by the captains on Thursday.

The fourballs will continue at 12 PM on Friday and Saturday, with the pairings often being decided before the first matches have been completed. In the fourballs, two Europeans and two Americans will again compete in one of four matches, but each will play their own ball. The better result of a team is counted.

The singles follow on Sunday. All twelve players from one team will compete head-to-head against the 12 players from the other team. The matches will start at 08:50 AM.

Solheim Cup 2024 Live Scores

Tee Times Solheim Cup 2024 Day 1 – Foursomes

Match Tee Time Players (USA) Players (Europa)
1 07:05 Nelly Korda / Allisen Corpuz Charley Hull /Esther Henseleit
2 07:17 Rose Zhang / Lauren Coughlin Albane Valenzuela / Celine Boutier
3 07:29 Ally Ewing / Jennifer Kupcho Maja Stark / Emily Pedersen
4 07:41 Lilia Vu / Sarah Schmelzel Linn Grant / Carlota Ciganda
Categories
Highlights Tours

Jon Rahm and the Ryder Cup Question

Jon Rahm at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome. (Image: Getty)
Jon Rahm at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome. (Image: Getty)

Jon Rahm could miss the 2025 Ryder Cup. In order to be eligible for the team event, Rahm needs to be eligible to play on the DP World Tour. He will only retain this if he plays four events (excluding majors) on the DP World Tour before the end of the 2024 season. The Spaniard has currently only played one event with his appearance at the Olympics. The Spaniard would like to fulfill the other three appearances at the Open de Espana, the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship and the Andalucia Masters. However, in order to be allowed to play there at all, he must pay the fines imposed by the Tour or appeal against them. The two-time major champion commented on the issue ahead of the LIV event in Chicago.

Jon Rahm: “ I Don’t Intend to Pay the Fines”

“We keep trying to have a discussion with [the DPWT] about how we can make this happen” said Rahm, who was asked about the issue at the LIV Chicago PK. The 29-year-old doesn’t have much time left, as the first of the three tournaments on the agenda, the Open de Espana, takes place from September 26-29.

Rahm’s LIV teammate Tyrrell Hatton has appealed against the sanctions (fines and suspensions). This appeal allows for a provisional stay of execution and thus participation in the DP World Tour tournaments. Even if the DP World Tour ultimately wins the case (previous cases involving other players have gone in the Tour’s favor), the players can still take part in the tournaments thanks to the postponement and thus meet the required number of participations.

Update: According to ESPN Jon Rahm appealed against the sanctions on Thursday and is therefore allowed to play DP World Tour events until an independent panel decides whether he has to pay the fine.

Brooks Koepka also Wants to Play in the Links Championship – Just Like the LIV Boss in 2023

Brooks Koepka also announced in the run-up to the tournament in Chicago that he wants to tee it up at the Links Championship in October. “St. Andrews is my favorite course in the world,” Koepka said. The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship takes place on three courses, including the Old Course in St. Andrews. LIV players are regular guests on the former European Tour – but not only the players, but also PIF boss Yasir Al-Rumayyan. He took part in the prestigious Links Championship as an amateur in 2023. Curious: the head of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia was initially known by the pseudonym Andrew Watermann.

Incidentally, Al-Rumayyan’s LIV golfers have already won seven tournaments in the current DP World Tour season, and five of the first six events of the season were won by LIV players.

Categories
Travel

Historic and Sustainable Golfing Experience at Antognolla Golf in Umbria

Antognolla Golf in Italy. (Photo: Antognolla Golf)
Antognolla Golf in Italy. (Photo: Antognolla Golf)

Antognolla Golf is located in San Giovanni del Pantano, Italy, near Perugia. This golf course is notable for its blend of historic charm and modern sustainability, set against the backdrop of a 12th-century castle.

Antognolla Golf: The Best Italian Golf Course of 2020 and 2022

The Antognolla Golf course is highly regarded on an international scale, having received accolades such as Best Italian Golf Course in 2020 and 2022 by the World Golf Awards. It also holds premier positions on platforms like Worldclass and Leading Courses. The course is home to the first branded residences and resort in the region, managed by Six Senses, which emphasizes both its historical allure and commitment to sustainability. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course offers a challenging layout that attracts discerning golfers.

Antognolla Golf is noted for its integration of GEO-certified sustainability practices and state-of-the-art course infrastructure. The facilities include a full-length driving range, the latest Puma rental sets, and personalized services aimed at enhancing the player’s experience. The La Boiola restaurant provides traditional Umbrian cuisine, rounding out the luxurious offerings that blend seamlessly with the historic environment. The course features undulating terrain, demanding a versatile playing style, which makes it suitable for golfers of all skill levels.

The 18th hole at Antognolla Golf is particularly memorable, with a water hazard along the right side of the fairway and a bunker on the left. This par 4 requires a tee shot that favors the left side but also demands precise control. The view of the Antognolla Castle, visible throughout the course, serves as a significant distraction. This final hole not only challenges the player’s skills but also their focus, offering a rewarding conclusion to the round.

Flexible pricing options are available, particularly during the low season, accommodating various group sizes and preferences. This ensures that visitors have an exceptional experience on the course. Located in Umbria, Italy’s “green heart,” the region offers a serene escape with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi, enrich the experience by blending world-class golfing with historical and cultural exploration.

In summary, Antognolla Golf provides a unique combination of luxurious amenities, challenging play, and a rich historic setting. The course’s sustainability practices and high-quality infrastructure enhance its appeal, making it a top-tier destination for golfers. Visitors can take advantage of flexible pricing and special rates, while also immersing themselves in the tranquil and culturally rich region of Umbria.

A Short Interview with Antognolla Golf

Q: What are you particularly proud of at your golf club?

A: At Antognolla Golf, we are particularly proud of our seamless blend of historic charm and modern sustainability, offering an exceptional golfing experience that surrounds a stunning 12th-century castle. We celebrate our growing international recognition, including Best Italian Golf Course 2020 and 2022 by the World Golf Awards, and premier positions on platforms like Worldclass and Leading Courses. Additionally, we are excited to be home to the first branded residences and resort in the region, managed by Six Senses.

Q: Our golf course is particularly suitable for…

A: Our golf course is particularly suited for discerning golfers who value a challenging and beautifully crafted layout by Robert Trent Jones Jr., seamlessly integrated with a historic setting. Antognolla Golf offers a top-tier experience for players of all levels, featuring GEO-certified sustainability, cutting-edge course infrastructure, and recognition as one of Italy’s finest golf courses. With a full-length driving range, the latest Puma rental sets, personalized services, and premium facilities, along with the charming and traditional La Boiola restaurant offering authentic Umbrian cuisine, Antognolla Golf provides the perfect destination for those seeking both luxury and a truly immersive golfing experience in the heart of Umbria.

Q: What makes your signature hole special?

A: Our signature hole, the 18th, stands out as one of the most memorable and challenging on the course. This par 4 features a strategically placed water hazard along the right side of the fairway and a well-positioned bunker on the left, demanding a precise tee shot that favors the left side but requires excellent control. Adding to the challenge, the breathtaking view of the historic Antognolla Castle serves as both an awe-inspiring backdrop and a beautiful distraction, making it not just a test of skill but also of focus. It’s the perfect finishing hole, offering a rewarding conclusion to the round for those who can navigate its demands.

Q: The quick insider tip for your golf course is?

A: When playing at Antognolla Golf, make sure to bring your full arsenal of clubs—this course demands versatility. With very few flat areas, you’ll be challenged by the undulating terrain on nearly every hole. And don’t be too distracted by the stunning views of the 12th-century castle, which is visible throughout the course. Stay focused, especially on the signature 18th hole, where precision is key to conquering both the water hazard and strategically placed bunkers.

Q: What special offers (green fee bargains, discounted memberships, etc.) or training classes does your golf club offer?

A: Our golf club offers special rates during the low season, with pricing that can be tailored based on group sizes. Whether you’re interested in green fee bargains we provide flexible options to ensure you have an exceptional experience on our course.

Q: Anything you would like to add?

A: Visiting Antognolla means immersing yourself in the hidden gem of Umbria, Italy’s “green heart,” where rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see. This serene and authentic region, still largely undiscovered by mass tourism, offers a tranquil escape infused with rich culture and breathtaking natural beauty. With UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi nearby, Antognolla provides a unique opportunity to blend world-class golfing with the historical and spiritual richness of this magnificent landscape.

Categories
Travel

The Cabot Collection Announces Investment in Lofoten Links

The Cabot Collection invests in Lofoten Links. (Source: Lofoten Links)
The Cabot Collection invests in Lofoten Links. (Source: Lofoten Links)

The Cabo Collection, renowned for its incomparable portfolio of luxury resort and residential golf destinations, announces a strategic investment in Lofoten Links, built majestically into the rugged, seaside landscape of Norway’s remote Lofoten Islands. This visually stunning property is a natural fit for Cabot, offering an unparalleled blend of alluring landscapes and outstanding golf. Cabot plans to welcome the property into its growing portfolio, extending its international presence to Northern Europe.

Lofoten Links right by the sea. (Source: Lofoten Links)

Lofoten Links: Golfing North of the Arctic Circle

Located above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten Links stands out as the world’s northernmost links-style golf course. Ranked No. 24 in the world by Golf Digest and No. 88 in the world by Golf Magazine, its dramatic scenery and remote coastline provide a breathtaking backdrop for golf enthusiasts. The fabled course is known for its challenging yet rewarding design, featuring 18 holes that are playable under the midnight sun in the summer and the northern lights in the fall.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Lofoten Links, a spectacular property that effortlessly aligns with our vision of delivering world-class golf and experiences across the globe’s most remarkable destinations,” said Ben Cowan-Dewar, CEO and co-founder of The Cabot Collection. “General Manager Frode Hov is a true visionary, and we couldn’t be more excited about the future of this extraordinary site.”

Golfing with auroras in Norway. (Source: Lofoten Links)

Golf Resort Directly on the Ocean

In addition to its celebrated golf course, Lofoten Links offers guests a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the splendor of Norway’s coastline while enjoying unsurpassed service and amenities. The property offers a variety of cozy, Nordic-style lodges designed to complement the striking scenery and a charming onsite restaurant. Lofoten Links presents a myriad of activities for discerning travelers seeking authenticity and adventure, including horseback riding, hiking, and kayaking. Situated on the island’s northern edge and facing directly north towards the Norwegian Sea, the property is perfectly positioned to see the northern lights, one of nature’s most dazzling phenomena.

Cabot’s investment in Lofoten Links comes amidst a period of exciting international expansion plans. The company recently announced Cabot Bordeaux, previously known as Golf Du Médoc Resort, a premier destination for golf and wine enthusiasts located in Bordeaux, France. Additional luxury resorts anchored by world-class golf courses in extraordinary locations include the award-winning Cabot Cape Breton in Nova Scotia, Cabot Saint Lucia in the Caribbean, Cabot Revelstoke in British Columbia, Cabot Citrus Farms in Florida, and Cabot Highlands in Scotland.

Categories
Travel

Southworth Receives Green Light For Major Machrihanish Dunes Resort Expansion

The Machrihanish Resort (Image: Azalea)
The Machrihanish Resort (Image: Azalea)

Southworth – a Boston-based, privately-held global golf company specialising in the development and management of clubs and residential communities – has unveiled plans for a significant resort expansion to The Village at Machrihanish Dunes in Argyll, Scotland and is actively vetting hospitality investors and operators regarding potential partnerships.

New Links Course Added to Historic Golf Venue

Southworth is honoured and excited to expand Scotland’s most sustainable golf resort, which currently includes the renowned Machrihanish Dunes golf course, an authentic, David McLay Kidd-designed links. Machrihanish Dunes has been dubbed “one of the most natural golf courses in the world” and is proud to be the first-ever GEO-certified golf course in the UK. In addition to the celebrated golf course, the resort includes two historic hotels, lovingly restored to modern hospitality standards, five restaurants and pubs, and eight seaside golf cottages.

The expansion project will add a seaside links course adjacent to Machrihanish Dunes – and is to be developed in the same manner.

Tommy Southworth, President of Southworth, said: “Machrihanish Dunes lies on one of the most unique pieces of land in the world, so it is only fitting that we expand our offerings for all types of visitors to this special corner of Scotland, while being sensitive to the stunning natural landscape. In combination with Machrihanish Dunes and other area links courses, including the acclaimed Machrihanish Golf Club, a world top 100 links designed by Old Tom Morris, the addition of another 18-hole links will help turn the Kintyre Peninsula into the next great golfing destination in Scotland.”

Along with the new golf course, these approvals include an expansive golf training facility and practice facility, 73 additional hotel rooms, and 50 golf cottages, and a myriad of additional amenities. Upon completion, Southworth’s assets within the resort will total more than 200 rooms and seven food and beverage outlets to support the 36 holes of golf along with the surrounding acclaimed courses.

Southworth has sought out these expansion permits with the goal of partnering with a world-class hospitality partner to create a resort destination with broad appeal and generous amenity sets that offer something for everyone and expand interest in this beautiful location. Preliminary discussions are underway.

The new golf course sits, in part, on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and will be created and maintained using the same sustainable practices in use on the existing course. An unwavering dedication to preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of this special landscape has proven successful at Machrihanish Dunes, as evidenced by the re-emergence and flourishing of a number of wildlife and plant species. The new 18-hole routing will meet Machrihanish Dunes in the linksland along the ocean’s edge and meander its way through the rugged dunescape and into the foothills, creating a unique design that features a mix of awe-inspiring views, dramatic elevation changes and traditional seaside links.

Eleanor Brown, Director of Sustainability with Southworth, said: “Southworth believesit is paramount that we support and protect the communities and environments where we operate, ensuring we keep each club setting spectacular for generations to come. Being stewards of land and community means operating with a sustainability-first mindset from ideation through the execution of any project or initiative. It also means supporting the communities in which we operate, through local hiring and training, philanthropic initiatives and more.”

The project, true to Southworth’s ethos, has included significant input from the local community through regular contact and focus groups. The project aims to not only be respectful to its surroundings but also go a step further by increasing the area of dune vegetation habitat.

To ensure a wealth of species thrive, Southworth will partner with NatureScot on a long-term habitat management plan for the lifetime of the golf course, in keeping with the successful model in place at Machrihanish Dunes.

One of the largest teaching facilities in the UK is planned for the site, with indoor and outdoor practice bays, and a nine-acre short-game area. To complement the golf amenities, a new sports and racquet centre will provide visitors with state-of-the-art tennis, pickleball and football facilities.

The development will also include an approximately 35,000-square-foot clubhouse with a 150-seat restaurant and a large function room that will host up to 250 guests – making it ideal for weddings and corporate events. The clubhouse will also be home to an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness area and spa for members to use at their leisure.

These additions join the historic Ugadale Hotel, which sits just steps from the “Best Starting Hole in Golf” and the Old Tom Morris Pub, and the captivating Royal Hotel, which is located in the heart of Campbelltown and overlooks its impressive harbour, among the components of a resort steeped in history and situated at one of the world’s most beautiful and preserved locations.

Southworth added: “We will ensure the pure and authentic surroundings of Machrihanish remain, while creating a significant boost to the local economy, not only through the creation of hundreds of jobs upon completion, but through utilising the skillsets of a myriad of local companies,” Southworth adds.

“We remain hopelessly in love with Machrihanish Dunes – the place, the people and the golf experience.”

Text: Azalea

Categories
Equipment

Big Max Presents New Products for the Fall Golf Season

Big Max has unveiled new products for the fall 2024 golf season. (Source: Getty)
Big Max has unveiled new products for the fall 2024 golf season. (Source: Getty)

Big Max has unveiled new products for September 2024, ensuring you are well-equipped for your autumn rounds. The right golf equipment can make all the difference. The latest products from Big Max and Zoom set new standards in terms of lightness, comfort, and functionality. Here’s an overview of some of the most exciting new items in the golf world.

Big Max: Two New Bags for Autumn

DRI LITE FEATHER – Ultra-Light Design for Maximum Comfort

The DRI LITE Feather Stand Bag impresses with its ultra-light design, especially appealing to golfers who value comfort and functionality. Weighing only 1.6 kg and made from lightweight nylon, this bag is barely noticeable on the shoulder. Despite its light weight, it offers ample storage space for equipment and personal items with its 5-way full-length divider and six water-resistant pockets. With the Leg Lock system and a trolley-compatible base, the bag is perfect not only for carrying but also for use on a golf cart.

The new feather-light golf bag from Big Max (Source: Big Max)

DRI LITE SEVEN G – Compact Lightness for a Quick Round

The DRI LITE Seven G is the ideal choice for golfers looking for a quick 9-hole round or a short practice session without sacrificing functionality. Despite its compact size, it provides ample space to store all the essentials. The winter top and four storage compartments are well-suited to the needs of golfers who play even in wet conditions. Water-resistant materials and zippers keep your equipment dry. Weighing 2.0 kg, it is slightly heavier than the Feather but remains light and comfortable to carry.

Optimally equipped for the fall. (Source: Big Max)

Precision at Every Distance

With the ZOOM Focus Tour, measuring distances becomes effortless. This premium rangefinder features a compact, elegant design and is incredibly easy to use. The device accurately measures distances up to 800 meters and offers brilliant optical clarity, thanks to its 7.5° field of view and 6x magnification. Practical functions like target vibration mode and the slope function, which can be disabled for tournaments, make the ZOOM Focus Tour an essential companion on the course. With an excellent price-performance ratio, this device is one of the top contenders in its category.

High-precision measuring. (Source: Big Max)

Protection from Wet Autumn Weather

The AQUA UV Umbrella is the perfect companion for both rain and sun. With a diameter of 132 cm, the umbrella provides generous coverage, while its special UV coating (50+) offers excellent protection from harmful sun rays. The automatic opening function allows for quick and easy handling, and the soft grip ensures maximum comfort. This umbrella is available in six different colors and comes with an included fabric cover for easy storage.

Perfect protection in any weather. (Source: Big Max)
Categories
Live

PGA Tour Tee Times: Danny Willett at the Procore Championship

PGA Tour Tee Times for UK Players at the Procore Championship. (Source: Getty)
PGA Tour Tee Times for UK Players at the Procore Championship. (Source: Getty)

The PGA Tour Tee Times for the upcoming Procore Championship in Napa, California, USA, are set. The tournament will be held at the Silverado Resort (North Course) with a Par of 72 and a prize fund of $6,000,000. The PGA Tour event will be televised on Sky with the following schedule: Thursday at 19:00, Saturday and Sunday at 00:30, and Monday at 00:00. The current titleholder of the tournament is Sahith Theegala.

PGA Tour Tee Times for the Procore Championship

Danny Willett, representing England, will start his first round at 07:00 alongside Nick Watney from the USA and Chesson Hadley from the USA. In the second round, they will tee off at 12:05.

Russell Knox, from Scotland, will tee off at 08:17 for his first round with Kevin Chappell (USA) and Martin Trainer (FRA). His second-round tee time is 13:22.

Martin Laird, also from Scotland, starts his first round at 08:17 with Ryan Palmer from the USA and Matthias Schmid from Germany. Their second-round start time is set for 13:22.

Ben Taylor, representing England, will start his first round at 08:06 and will be grouped with Wesley Bryan (USA) and Hayden Buckley (USA). Their second-round start time is 13:11.

Callum Tarren, from England, will tee off at 08:28 for his first round with Zac Blair from the USA and Brandon Wu from the USA. Their second-round tee time is 13:33.

Player First Round Tee Time Second Round Tee Time Playing Partners
Danny Willett (ENG) 07:00 12:05 Nick Watney (USA), Chesson Hadley (USA)
Russell Knox (SCO) 08:17 13:22 Kevin Chappell (USA), Martin Trainer (FRA)
Martin Laird (SCO) 08:17 13:22 Ryan Palmer (USA), Matthias Schmid (GER)
Ben Taylor (ENG) 08:06 13:11 Wesley Bryan (USA), Hayden Buckley (USA)
Callum Tarren (ENG) 08:28 13:33 Zac Blair (USA), Brandon Wu (USA)
Categories
Live

PGA Tour Tee Times: Defending Champion Plays With Clark and Homa

Sahith Theegala, Wyndham Clark and Max Homa tee it off together on the PGA Tour in Napa. (Source: Getty)
Sahith Theegala, Wyndham Clark and Max Homa tee it off together on the PGA Tour in Napa. (Source: Getty)

The PGA Tour Tee Times for the Procore Championship at the Silverado Resort (North Course) in Napa, California, USA, are set. This tournament, part of the PGA Tour, will be played on a Par 72 course with a total prize purse of $6,000,000. Defending champion Sahith Theegala will be looking to defend his title.

PGA Tour Tee Times for American Golfers

Stewart Cink will be teeing off at 7:55 AM in the first round and 1:00 PM in the second round. He will be playing alongside Lucas Glover from the USA and Matt Kuchar, also from the USA. Keep an eye on these PGA Tour Tee Times for crucial moments.

Harris English starts his first round at 7:44 AM and his second at 12:49 PM, accompanied by fellow Americans Chad Ramey and Adam Schenk. Be sure to follow these PGA Tour Tee Times as they unfold.

Kevin Kisner will commence his first round at 7:55 AM and his second round at 1:00 PM. He will be joined by Andrew Putnam and Keith Mitchell, both also from the USA. Keep these PGA Tour Tee Times in mind for upcoming action.

Brandt Snedeker is scheduled to start his first round at 1:00 PM, followed by his second round at 7:55 AM. His playing partners will be Camilo Villegas from Colombia and Chris Gotterup from the USA. Don’t miss these key PGA Tour Tee Times.

Sahith Theegala will be teeing off the first round at 07:44 AM and the second round at 12:49 PM. His group includes Wyndham Clark and Max Homa both from the USA.

Player First Round Tee Time Second Round Tee Time Playing Partners
Stewart Cink 7:55 AM 1:00 PM Lucas Glover (USA), Matt Kuchar (USA)
Harris English 7:44 AM 12:49 PM Chad Ramey (USA), Adam Schenk (USA)
Kevin Kisner 7:55 AM 1:00 PM Andrew Putnam (USA), Keith Mitchell (USA)
Brandt Snedeker 1:00 PM 7:55 AM Camilo Villegas (Colombia), Chris Gotterup (USA)
Sahith Theegala 7:44 AM 12:49 PM Wyndham Clark (USA), Max Homa (USA)
Categories
Panorama

Barack Obama Visits the USA Solheim Cup Team

Barack Obama visits the US Solheim Cup Team. (Source: Instagram @lpga_tour)
Barack Obama visits the US Solheim Cup Team. (Source: Instagram @lpga_tour)

The Solheim Cup week has a special surprise in store for the US team: former US President Barack Obama, himself a passionate golfer, paid the team a visit in Washington D.C. on Monday evening. During a dinner together, Obama expressed his support for the players and even shared some insights about the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, where the Solheim Cup is being held this year. The 44th President of the United States has been a member of the club since 2017.

The Leaderboard of the Solheim Cup 2024

Barack Obama at the Solheim Cup 2024

Barack Obama left a lasting impression on the players, including stars such as Nelly Korda, Lilia Vu and Lexi Thompson. Nelly Korda, currently ranked number one in the world, was particularly impressed: “He knew all our names and congratulated us on our successes. That was really something special.” Megan Khang, also part of the team, emphasized: “It was incredible that he took the time to meet us. It shows how much he cares about golf.”

 
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This year is a very special Solheim Cup for the US team. After defeats in 2019 and 2021 and a draw in 2023, in which the Europeans retained the trophy, the team’s motivation to settle scores is greater than ever. Obama seems to have given the team exactly the motivation they need to stand up to the Europeans this year. Alison Lee, whose nine years between Solheim Cup appearances is the longest break in US team history, said Obama’s visit showed the power of golf, which she believes no other sport can offer. “It just shows how much golf brings people together,” Lee said ahead of her second appearance at the Solheim Cup. “Meeting him in person after only seeing him on TV before – as our former president – and seeing him connect with us was incredible. That’s something that only golf can make possible.” Whether Obama’s visit and his motivational words will lead the US team to victory remains to be seen.