Xander Schauffele is in position 1. (Photo: Getty)
The PGA Tour takes us this week to the Wells Fargo Championship, held in Charlotte, North Carolina at the prestigious Quail Hollow Club. This report focuses on the highlights of round one at this esteemed event.
The current leader of the tournament is Xander Schauffele, representing the USA, with a total result of -7 under par. The leaderboard’s second place is tightly contested. Collin Morikawa (USA), Alex Noren (SWE), and Rory McIlroy (NIR) share the position, each with a total result of -4 under par. Five players share fifth place. These include USA’s Justin Thomas, Sungjae Im from Korea, Australia’s Jason Day, Sepp Straka from Austria, and Lee Hodges from the USA, each with a daily score of -3 under par.
The Wells Fargo Championship holds an impressive tournament-prize-money of $20,000,000, unrated but undoubtedly substantial.
The video of the PGA Tour Highlights offers a compilation of the most significant moments from round one of the Wells Fargo Championship. In turn, the Wells Fargo Championship Highlights feature the key performances and major golf swings that stood out during the first round.
Given that golf tournaments conclude after four rounds, one can look forward to the escalating competition, as the golfers bring forth their best performance in the forthcoming rounds of the Wells Fargo Championship.
Wells Fargo Championship: The PGA Tour round 1 highlights
About the PGA Tour
The PGA Tour is the largest American professional golf tour. There are 36 tournaments on the tour’s schedule this season. The tournaments mainly take place in the USA, but there are also some international venues over the course of the season. The signature events introduced in 2023 offer higher prize money and a smaller field of participants. There will be a total of eight of these events in the 2024 season. The four Majors and the Players Championship are also part of the PGA Tour. At the end of the tours season, the 70 best players in the FedEx Cup season rankings will play in a three-tournament play-off for overall tour victory and an extra 18 million dollars in prize money.
Kentucky born Justin Thomas prepares on the PGA Tour for the PGA Championship in his home state. (Source: Getty)
The Wells Fargo Championship, a key fixture in the PGA Tour, is slated to get under way at the prestigious Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. This championship carries a massive prize fund totaling $20,000,000 and is anticipated to showcase top-tier golfing action at its finest. The par for this tournament is set at 71, and last year’s victor, Wyndham Clark, is among the players ready for the challenge.
Justin Thomas and Akshay Bhatia together with the canadian Taylor Pendrith will form the first American cohort to tee off at 11:00 for Round 1. Their second round starts at 11:55
A star-studded flight consisting of Rickie Fowler, Jordan Spieth and Collin Morikawa will tee off at 11:33 tee time is up next. Their second day starts at 12:28.
Max Homa, pegged at 12:39 tee time, playing with Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland and Tom Kim from South Korea. On Friday the trio will tee off at 11:33.
Tony Finau starts the tournament at 12:39 together with canadians Nick Taylor and Adam Hadwin. Their second day starts at 11:33
Another american has a 11:22 tee time on Thursday. Tom Hoge, Andrew Putnam and Adam Schenk will start on Friday at 12:28
Get all the Tee Times for the Wells Fargo Championship 2024 on the PGA Tour. (Source: Getty)
The PGA Tour is primed and ready for the Wells Fargo Championship in Charlotte, North Carolina. This prestigious event, hosted at the Quail Hollow Club, boasts a hefty prize pool of $20,000,000, attracting golfers from around the globe to vie for the top spot. As players seek to take the title from defending champion, Wyndham Clark, they will be tested on the par 71 course that challenges skill and strategy simultaneously.
PGA Tour Tee Times: British, Welsh, and Scottish Players
Justin Rose, an English standout, will be starting his first round at 11:55 alongside Grayson Murray and Webb Simpson from the United States and Their second round starts at 12:50
In the mix is also Tommy Fleetwood of England, getting his start at 12:28 with American Chris Kirk and compatriot Taylor Moore. They will tee off at 11:22 on Friday
Favourite Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland will kick off with an 12:39 tee time, in the company of Max Homa from the US and South Koreas Tom Kim. The second tee time is on 11:33
Matthew Fitzpatrick, hailing from England, is scheduled to begin his first round at 12:50. He will play alongside Adam Svensson from Canada and Corey Conners also from Canada. His second round starts at 11:44
One decade after Rory McIlroys win in the darkness the PGA Championship 2024 returns to Kentucky. (Source: PGA of America)
As the dust of the track and the cheers of the fans started to settle at the 150th Kentucky Derby in Churchill Downs, the agitation at nearby Valhalla Golf Club reignited with the preparations for the 106th PGA Championship. And the “most exciting two minutes in sports” gave way to “once in a decade golf celebration in Kentucky”.
The other big sport event in Kentucky: The Kentucky Derby. (Source: PGA of America)
Nose Margin Finishes at the PGA Championship in Kentucky
According to Churchill Downs, Mystik Dan’s win marked the first three-horse photo finish since 1947 and the first race decided by a nose margin since 1996. Like an echo of the Kentucky Derby, the three PGA Championships contested at Valhalla in the last three decades concluded with a photo finish or a nose margin – a playoff or one stroke difference in golf lingo. “I had a heartache in 96 when Mark Brooks beat me in a playoff,” said local golf star Kenny Perry about his defeat at the first PGA Championship in Kentucky. Four years later, Tiger Woods prevailed in a playoff against Bob May to win his fifth and third consecutive major at Valhalla. “Tiger was incredible,” remembers two-time Masters winner José María Olázabal, who shot a 9-under-par 63 course record on the third day and finished tied fourth. “I have great memories of that amazing round and Valhalla, a solid golf course with tough rough,” said the Spaniard. “But I specially remember the Ryder Cup there in 2008, when the Americans played really well.”
The Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club
Perry was part of that American winning team captained by Paul Azinger. “My dad, at 86 years old, came off the green in his bib overalls and gave me a hug. This is where I love to go, and to me, this is the pinnacle of golf in Kentucky,” added Perry about the 2008 Ryder Cup and Valhalla Golf Club. “We were fortunate to have epic and historic finishes,” said Jimmy Kirchdorfer, General Chairman of the 2024 PGA Championship. “A lot of people from Kentucky would say the Ryder Cup, when the US was struggling to win for a while, was the best sporting event they have ever been to.”
The PGA Championships 2024 Returns to Kentucky
After the memorable victory of Rory McIlroy by one-stroke in the 2014 PGA Championship in the darkness, Kirchdorfer, along with the new co-owners of Valhalla Golf Club and its membership have been instrumental in bringing the PGA Championship back to Kentucky one decade later.
LOUISVILLE, KY – AUGUST 10: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland hits his tee shot on 18 during the Final Round of the 96th PGA Championship, at Valhalla Golf Club, on August 10, 2014 in Louisville, KY. (Photo by Montana Pritchard/The PGA of America)
“The tremendous response from the Louisville and Kentucky community has been essential to make this event a record-breaking championship,” said 2024 PGA Championship Director, Ryan Ogle, as he supports his assessment with staggering numbers. Over 200,000 spectators are expected during the week, breaking the record ticket sales set in 2018. Valhalla will accommodate 700,000 square feet of temporary flooring, over 285 tent structures, and 600 TVs will be spread across the property. On The Rocks, the Elijah Craig Bourbon Speakeasy by the 14th hole of Valhalla Golf Club will be one of the massive hospitality structures showcasing the official bourbon cocktail of the 2024 PGA Championship, the Elijah Craig Mulligan. “In terms of size, it will be more than double compared with 2014,” added Ogle, also highlighting the over 500 million households around the world with access to over 250 hours of live coverage.
“I am very excited about the PGA Championship in Kentucky. When the time comes, it will be a very special week,” said two-time PGA Championship winner Justin Thomas, who will be playing a major in Valhalla for the first time.“I have been to Valhalla a handful of times. It is obviously well known and the most famous course in Kentucky, a special place,” added Thomas, who grew up playing golf at Harmony Landing Country Club, in Goshen, Kentucky, where his father Mike is still a pro. Thomas will be the only Kentuckian at the traditional Champions Dinner, hosted by the 2023 winner Brooks Koepka at the home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs. “Whatever my mom is cooking at home would be my recommendation for food in Kentucky,” noted Thomas as a potential culinary advice to Koepka, who finished T-15 in Valhalla in 2014.
Justin Thomas will be competing in his home state. (Source: PGA of America)
The Return of the People’s Hero
That year, Michael Block, the PGA of America Golf Professional who became the people’s hero in 2023 when he finished T-15 at Oak Hill, made his debut in the PGA Championship in Valhalla after winning the PGA Professional Championship. “Kentucky has been great. We have been staying downtown Louisville all week and everyone has been absolutely fantastic. It was a great experience,” said after missing the cut in 2014 Block, part of the Corebridge Financial Team of 21 PGA of America Professionals competing along the best in the world in the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club.
The field of the PGA Championship 2024 includes all of the biggest names in golf. (Source: Getty)
The PGA Championship 2024 takes places from May 16th to May 19th at the Valhalla Golf Club. Valhalla, nestled in the beauty of Kentucky, is no stranger to hosting major golfing events, and this marks its fourth time hosting the PGA Championship. Past championships at Valhalla have seen golfing legends like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy claim victory, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling tournament.
Brooks Koepka Eyeing Another Title at the PGA Championship
Leading the pack is the three-time and defending PGA Champion, Brooks Koepka. Koepka’s dominance on the course is undeniable, and he will be a force to be reckoned with at Valhalla. Joining him is an impressive field of 16 PGA Champions and 33 Major Champions, each poised to leave their mark on this prestigious event. The diversity of the field is a testament to the global appeal of golf, with players hailing from countries all around the world. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, the 2024 PGA Championship promises to showcase the best talent the sport has to offer. With two spots reserved for winners of this week’s PGA Tour events, the field is sure to see some last-minute additions.
With the PGA Tour season in full swing, professional golfers have been ardently competing in various tournaments to amass points that are crucial for climbing up the FedExCup rankings. Currently, Scottie Scheffler is the golfer leading the pack in the FedExCup rankings, with five English players successfully securing their spots in the top 100.
Dynamic Shifts in FedExCup Standings
The prominence of English golfers within the FedExCup becomes evident when scrutinizing the performances of the top two English players in the rankings. Matt Fitzpatrick, who sits at number 33 in the current rankings, has actively participated in 12 events this season, securing a total of 733 points. Despite not achieving a victory, Fitzpatrick has maintained consistent form with two top-10 finishes. Similarly, Tommy Fleetwood, ranked 39th, has amassed 639 points through his participation in 8 events, achieving three top-10 placements.
Top-5 FedExCup Contenders’ Analysis
A closer look at the FedExCup rankings reveals the formidable competition at its echelon. Scheffler, the current leader, with an impressive total of 3,915 points from 10 events, continues to hold his ground with 9 top-10 finishes and 4 victories. Behind him, Wyndham Clark at second, Xander Schauffele in third, Sahith Theegala in fourth, and Ludvig Åberg from Sweden completing the top-five have all held steady in their previous week’s positions. They respectively boast a balance of performance, with Clark enjoying a victory among his 4 top-10 finishes, Schauffele with 7 top-ten placements, Theegala and Åberg each with 5 top-ten finishes, and Matsuyama also holding a victory to his name.
How the PGA Tours FedEx Cup works
The FedExCup is the season ranking of the PGA Tour. The top 30 players in the FedExCup ranking are allowed to take part in the PGA Tour’s final play-off tournament at the end of the season. The season ranking also determines who is allowed to play on the PGA Tour the following year. At each tournament, the players who make the cut collect points. The total number of points earned at a tournament depends on the value of the event. Major tournaments earn the most points. The winner receives 500 points for winning a normal PGA Tour tournament.
Scottie Scheffler unassailable at the top. (Photo: Getty)
As the PGA Tour season progresses, numerous tournaments have already set the stage for a thrilling FedExCup race. The latest contest to shape the rankings was a display of skill and precision, ultimately leading to Scottie Scheffler’s victory. His stellar performance cements his position at the top of the FedExCup rankings, while 60 American players have secured their spot among the top 100, showcasing the depth of talent in the USA.
Dynamic Duel: Scheffler and Clark, FedExCup Standouts
Two American players are currently making waves in the FedExCup rankings. Scottie Scheffler, with remarkable consistency across 10 events, has accumulated a total of 3,915 points and boasts an impressive 9 top ten finishes, including 4 victories. His closest American competitor is Wyndham Clark, who occupies the second rank despite only securing 1,892 point so far. Clark has also played 10 events with 4 top ten finishes and a single victory to his name.
Top-5 FedExCup Gladiators: The Pursuit of Excellence
Leading the charge in the FedExCup rankings is the indomitable Scottie Scheffler, while Wyndham Clark, Xander Schauffele, Sahith Theegala, and Ludvig Åberg round out the top five positions. Xander Schauffele stands third without a win but has made a solid 7 top ten finishes in 11 events. Theegala, in fourth, with 5 top ten finishes, has participated in 12 events but is still eyeing his first victory. Åberg, hailing from Sweden, mirrors Theegala’s record of top ten finishes, but only played at 10 events.
How the PGA Tours FedEx Cup works
The FedExCup is the season ranking of the PGA Tour. The top 30 players in the FedExCup ranking are allowed to take part in the PGA Tour’s final play-off tournament at the end of the season. The season ranking also determines who is allowed to play on the PGA Tour the following year. At each tournament, the players who make the cut collect points. The total number of points earned at a tournament depends on the value of the event. Major tournaments earn the most points. The winner receives 500 points for winning a normal PGA Tour tournament.
Scottie Scheffler and Ben Kohles in the World Golf Ranking. (Photos: Getty)
At the summit of the World Golf Ranking, Scottie Scheffler of the USA retains his number one position, continuing his firm hold on the lead. Fellow American Wyndham Clark remains at number three, maintaining his presence in the upper echelon of the rankings. Both players have shown consistency, keeping their standings intact from the previous week.
World Golf Ranking: American dominance, Kohles with a big leap
In the second tier of top American golfers, Xander Schauffele holds steady at number four, Patrick Cantlay at number eight, and Brian Harman at number nine, all preserving their positions from the previous week, indicating a stable performance among the leading American contenders in the World Golf Ranking. Max Homa completes the US American dominance in the Top-Ten at position ten.
There is also good news for one US player at the end of the top 100 players in the World Golf Ranking. After Ben Kohles finished second behind Canada’s Taylor Pendrith at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson on the PGA, the 34-year-old climbed from 139th to a career-best 82nd place.
The World Golf Ranking narratives continue to evolve with shifts at the top. Rory McIlroy from Northern Ireland, a perennial figure in elite golf, is stationed at number two, a spot he has successfully defended from the prior week. Jon Rahm of Spain, at number five, and Viktor Hovland from Norway, ranked at number seven, contribute to the diverse international contingent in the upper ranks, reflecting the global competitiveness of the sport.
Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood in the World Golf Ranking. (Photos: Getty)
In the latest World Golf Ranking, Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy remains as the best UK player at second place. Tommy Fleetwood holds the top spot among British golfers at 11th, maintaining his position from the previous week. Close behind, Matt Fitzpatrick also retains his rank at 14th. These stable placements represent a sustained performance at the highest level.
World Golf Ranking: Hardly any changes among the UK players
Tyrrell Hatton, another significant name from England, sits at 17th, preserving his rank alongside his fellow countrymen. The unchanged positions of these top players suggest consistency in their recent performances on the tour. Having three British players within the top 20 highlights the continued presence of UK golfers in the upper echelons of the sport.
Turning to golfers from Scotland, Robert MacIntyre ranks 84th, undergoing a small slide down the ranking from the previous week. Matt Wallace from England makes strides moving up to 85th. While MacIntyre’s downward adjustment is a setback, Wallace’s improvement can be taken as a positive sign going into the upcoming tournaments.
The current leader of the World Golf Ranking remains Scottie Scheffler, who continues to hold the 1st position, matching his standing from last week. Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure in the sport, is the second-best golfer in the ranking. The stability at the pinnacle of the ranking with Scheffler and McIlroy reflects their dominant forms in recent competitions. Following these frontrunners, America’s Wyndham Clark stays at 3rd place, which completes the unchanged leadership trio in the World Golf Ranking. Down the order, Xander Schauffele (4th), Jon Rahm (5th), Ludvig Aberg (6th), Viktor Hovland (7th), Patrick Cantlay (8th), Brian Harman (9th), and Max Homa (10th) all maintain their previous week’s positions, revealing no movement among the top ten. In such an environment, maintaining position is a critical success factor for the elite golfers looking to cement their supremacy in the sport.
MCKINNEY, TEXAS - MAY 04: Taylor Pendrith of Canada chips on the ninth hole during the third round of THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson at TPC Craig Ranch on May 04, 2024 in McKinney, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
The PGA Tour finished its thrilling ride as “THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson” took center stage at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, USA. Now at round four, spectators eagerly anticipated the outcome of this high-stakes match.
With $9,500,000 on the line, the leaderboard showcases a stellar display of golf prowess. Taylor Pendrith of Canada tops the list with a total score of -23, followed by Ben Kohles of the United States with -22. Alex Noren of Sweden takes the third spot with a score of -21. Korean S.H. Kim matches strides with England’s Aaron Rai, both posting a total score of -20.
Meanwhile, the daily score, otherwise known as the performance of the day, saw powerful swings from American Kevin Chappell and Puerto Rico’s Rafael Campos, both securing a daily score of -8.
For those seeking the PGA Tour Highlights and THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson Highlights, a compilation of the day’s best moments provides an exciting recap of round four. The end of these tournaments signifies yet another thrilling chapter in PGA Tour history, with players demonstrating exceptional talent and fierce competitiveness.
THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson: The PGA Tour round 4 highlights
About the PGA Tour
The PGA Tour is the largest American professional golf tour. There are 36 tournaments on the tour’s schedule this season. The tournaments mainly take place in the USA, but there are also some international venues over the course of the season. The signature events introduced in 2023 offer higher prize money and a smaller field of participants. There will be a total of eight of these events in the 2024 season. The four Majors and the Players Championship are also part of the PGA Tour. At the end of the tours season, the 70 best players in the FedEx Cup season rankings will play in a three-tournament play-off for overall tour victory and an extra 18 million dollars in prize money.
