Planet Golf News for Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Tiger Woods, Jupiter Links records first victory, top Boston Common in overtime | Tom Kim steals TGL show with famous, fiery Presidents Cup-like celebrations | David Ortiz, Mike Trout among notable attendees at Tiger Woods vs. Rory McIlroy TGL match

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PGN News Team
January 28, 2025

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

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[ THE LEADERBOARD ]

Today’s Top Golf News in Three Minutes

Good Morning,

In a day where golf once again proved it can deliver drama, laughs, and maybe a touch of chaos, let’s dive into the highlights. Tiger Woods and his 21-year-old dynamo teammate Tom Kim sent Rory McIlroy packing in a TGL showdown that had more twists than a soap opera. Against all odds (and let’s be honest, the Jupiter Links team’s abysmal average world ranking of 664), they clawed their way to a 4-3 overtime win over Boston Common. Tom Kim basically transformed into a one-man highlight reel, almost acing a par-3 and draining clutch putts while fending off heckling chants. Who says golf isn’t electric?

Meanwhile, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is gearing up for its usual mix of golf excellence and celebrity charm. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is back after hand surgery, ready to intimidate the field at Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill. Defending champ Wyndham Clark will try to repeat last year’s magic, but with Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, and Collin Morikawa in the field, it won’t be a walk on the beach. Throw in a no-cut format and a $20 million purse, and we’ve got ourselves a prime event.

Across the pond—or, technically, the Persian Gulf—the DP World Tour is spicing things up with the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship. This Montgomerie-designed beast of a course promises desert drama and strategic lagoon dodging. Dylan Frittelli is back to defend his title, but with the likes of Padraig Harrington and Patrick Reed chasing the win, the competition will be fierce. Oh, and someone get David Puig’s agent on the phone because he’s apparently the hot pick.

The LPGA is starting its 75th season with the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, blending elite golf with celebrity antics. Lydia Ko leads the charge to defend her title, with Nelly Korda and Brooke Henderson close behind. Meanwhile, NFL legends, NBA champs, and even a sitcom star or two will be there to keep things interesting. Modified Stableford scoring, a $2 million purse, and nightly concerts? Sign us up.

Not to be left out, the Korn Ferry Tour kicks off in Panama, while LIV Golf teams are busy showing off shiny new sponsorships. Majesticks GC’s deal with Castore seems to suggest golf fashion is still a thing, and Ian Poulter couldn’t be happier. Meanwhile, Pat Perez, unceremoniously dropped as a LIV player, now takes on the mic for FOX Sports. It’s a career pivot we didn’t see coming, but hey, stranger things have happened.

Oh, and Tiger Woods took us on a nostalgia trip, reminiscing about his insane seven-shot comeback at the 2000 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Just another reminder of why he’s, well, Tiger Woods. If only the current pace of play on the PGA Tour could keep up with his highlights. Fans are over the slow play slog, but the Tour seems to be taking its sweet time addressing the issue.

From TGL theatrics to Pebble Beach prep, this week in golf has been a masterclass in excitement, unpredictability, and the occasional comedic gold moment. Strap in—there’s more to come.

Today’s Top Golf News 

Tiger Woods, Tom Kim score TGL win in more ways than one against Rory McIlroy, Boston

In a thrilling TGL match, Tiger Woods and Tom Kim led the underdog Jupiter Links Golf Club to a surprising victory over the favored Boston Common Golf Club, scoring 4-to-3 in overtime. Despite an average world ranking of 664, the Jupiter Links team showcased remarkable skill and energy, particularly from Kim, who made crucial putts and nearly achieved a hole-in-one. Woods expressed his delight at the engaging display of golf, emphasizing the importance of competition and entertainment in the league. The match not only provided the much-needed excitement for TGL but also highlighted the camaraderie and banter among players, making it a memorable event for fans.

Major Golf Tournaments happening this week

TGL: Tiger Woods' team beats Rory McIlroy's despite shot clock violation

TGL - PGA Tour - SoFi Stadium - Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Monday night’s TGL showdown between Jupiter Links Golf Club and Boston Common Golf Club delivered the excitement that Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy envisioned when they founded the league. The event, held at SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, showcased a mix of clutch performances, drama, and energy from both players and fans.

While the spotlight initially centered on Woods and McIlroy, 21-year-old Tom Kim stole the show in his TGL debut. Kim made multiple clutch putts, including an 8-footer under pressure to halve a hole where Boston had invoked “The Hammer,” and nearly aced the par-3 12th, giving Jupiter a crucial lead. His passion and crowd engagement brought a fiery energy reminiscent of his Presidents Cup performances.

The match remained tight throughout, tied 3-3 after regulation, leading to TGL’s first-ever overtime. In the best-of-three closest-to-the-pin competition, Kim and Kevin Kisner outperformed Keegan Bradley and Adam Scott to secure Jupiter’s victory. McIlroy had earlier rallied Boston with a dramatic entrance and steady play, but a missed opportunity early in the match and strong finishes by Jupiter sealed the outcome.

This thrilling contest set a high standard for TGL, blending high-stakes golf with fan engagement, and highlighted the league’s potential as a new format for showcasing golf’s biggest stars and rising talents. Jupiter Links earned two points to join a four-way tie atop the SoFi Cup standings, while Boston claimed one point for the overtime loss. Both teams return to action in February, promising more memorable moments to come.

WATCH: Tom Kim challenges TGL crowd on hole-tying putt after Scottie Scheffler chants

Tom Kim faced the TGL crowd during a match against Boston Common Golf, successfully making a hole-tying putt despite chants for Scottie Scheffler aimed at distracting him. The friendly rivalry between Kim and Scheffler, who are both competitive yet good friends, was highlighted as Kim recalled past encounters, including their spirited exchanges during the Presidents Cup. Kim expressed gratitude for maintaining focus during the pressure of the moment, while he and Scheffler continue to support each other off the course. As Kim enjoyed the TGL festivities alongside teammates like Tiger Woods, Scheffler reflected on the fun yet challenging nature of competing against friends.

Tiger Woods, Kevin Kisner drop hilarious 1-liners during TGL match you need to see

Tiger Woods and Kevin Kisner showcased their humor during a TGL match against Rory McIlroy, Adam Scott, and Keegan Bradley, with Woods playfully yelling to his mother before the game. Following a rough debut, where Woods' team lost dramatically, they turned the tables this time, defeating Boston Common in overtime for their first TGL victory. Kisner humorously attributed his improved performance to a workout with Woods before the match, highlighting his newfound confidence and the absence of penalty shots, contrasting sharply with his struggles in the previous match.

David Ortiz, Mike Trout among notable attendees at Tiger Woods vs. Rory McIlroy TGL match

David Ortiz and Mike Trout were among the notable attendees at the inaugural TGL match featuring Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens. Ortiz rallied the crowd by declaring Boston as their city, while Trout expressed excitement about the unique fan engagement and atmosphere of the event. Other celebrities present included former One Direction member Niall Horan, singer Noah Kahan, and several sports figures like Jozy Altidore and Jessica Korda, all showing their support for the new golf league.

2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Betting Preview: Picks, Predictions and Odds

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am - PGA Tour - Spyglass Hill GC & Pebble Beach Golf Links - Pebble Beach, CA

The 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the second Signature Event of the PGA Tour season, is set to take place from January 30 to February 2 at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course. This prestigious tournament features a star-studded field of 80 professional golfers competing for a $20 million purse, with the winner taking home $3.6 million.

The event will see the return of world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, making his 2025 PGA Tour debut after recovering from hand surgery. Other notable players in the field include Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, Collin Morikawa, and Jordan Spieth. Defending champion Wyndham Clark, who won the shortened 54-hole event in 2024 with a course record 60 in the third round, will be looking to secure back-to-back victories.

The tournament format includes two rounds played across both courses, with professionals paired with amateur partners for the first two days. The final two rounds will be held exclusively at Pebble Beach for the professionals. With its no-cut format and elevated status, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am promises to deliver exciting golf action along the stunning Monterey Peninsula coastline.

Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament 2025: TV Schedule, where to watch & streams

Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament at Champions - LPGA - Lake Nona Golf & Country Club - Orlando, FL

The 2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, set for January 30 to February 2 at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida, will kick off the LPGA Tour season. This unique event features 32 LPGA Tour winners competing for a $2 million prize, alongside about 50 celebrities vying for a separate $500,000 purse. Defending champion Lydia Ko will face top players like Nelly Korda and Brooke Henderson in the 72-hole stroke play format. The tournament also includes a three-night concert series and will be broadcast nationally, offering a blend of professional golf and celebrity entertainment to start the LPGA season.

Five Things to Know About the 2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions

The 2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions marks the LPGA Tour's 75th season, featuring a unique format where winners from the past two seasons compete alongside celebrities. With 32 players committed, including notable figures such as Lydia Ko and Nelly Korda, the tournament promises excitement as players vie for a total purse of $2 million and celebrities engage in a points-based competition for $500,000. The event takes place at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club, showcasing a mix of returning champions and first-time participants, alongside a roster of nearly 50 celebrities from various fields, making it a highly anticipated kickoff to the golf season.

17 players to watch as the LPGA opens its 2025 season

The LPGA is set to kick off its 75th season with the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions, highlighting 17 standout players to watch in 2025. Among them, Nelly Korda, ranked first, looks to build on her impressive seven-win season in 2024, while Lydia Ko, ranked second, aims to defend her title after a year filled with significant achievements, including an Olympic gold medal. Rising stars like Ruoning Yin and Jeeno Thitikul are also expected to make waves, alongside experienced players such as Jin Young Ko and Lilia Vu, who strive to reclaim their winning form. As the season unfolds, fans can anticipate a mix of new talent and seasoned veterans showcasing their skills on the tour.

2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions: Celebrities in the LPGA Tour field

The 2025 Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions features a diverse field of celebrities competing alongside LPGA Tour professionals at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida. With 50 celebrities participating, the event offers a $500,000 purse, including $100,000 for the winner, and utilizes a modified Stableford scoring system to determine the top performer. Notable participants include NFL Hall of Famer Marcus Allen, NBA champion Ray Allen, and actress Anthony Anderson, highlighting the blend of sports and entertainment in this unique tournament setting.

Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship Prize Money Payout 2025

Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship - DP World Tour - Royal GC - Al Mazrowiah, Bahrain

The Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship, a DP World Tour event, is set to take place from January 30 to February 2, 2025, at the Royal Golf Club in Al Mazrowiah, Bahrain. This prestigious tournament marks the third event of the DP World Tour's 'International Swing' and is the penultimate stop on the Persian Gulf before the Tour heads to Qatar.

The championship will be played on the Montgomerie Course, designed by Colin Montgomerie, which measures 7,302 yards and presents a challenging par-72 layout. With a purse of $2.5 million and the winner receiving $425,000, the event has attracted a strong field of international golfers.

Defending champion Dylan Frittelli returns to defend his title, joined by an impressive lineup including Major winners Patrick Reed, Padraig Harrington, and Jimmy Walker. Other notable participants include Ewen Ferguson, Elvis Smylie, David Puig, Laurie Canter, and Angel Hidalgo. The tournament will also feature Ryder Cup stars and DP World Tour champions, promising intense competition over the four-day event.

Bahrain Championship 2025 Picks, Predictions And Odds

The Bahrain Championship 2025, hosted at the Royal Golf Club, marks a key event in the DP World Tour's International Swing, featuring over 150 competitors, including defending champion Dylan Frittelli. With a challenging par-72 course measuring 7,302 yards, players will navigate perilous desert waste areas and strategically placed lagoons. David Puig is highlighted as a favorite due to his recent strong performance, while Ugo Coussaud presents value as an outsider. The championship offers identical prize money to last week's Ras Al Khaimah Championship, making it a vital opportunity for golfers to enhance their standings in the Race To Dubai.

The Panama Championship - Korn Ferry - Club de Golf de Panama - Panama City, Panama

The 2025 The Panama Championship is set to kick off the Latin American swing of the Korn Ferry Tour, marking an exciting start to the international portion of the season. Scheduled for January 30 - February 2, 2025, this prestigious event will once again take place at the Club de Golf de Panama.

The Club de Golf de Panama has been a challenging and consistent host for this event. Known for its tight fairways and tricky greens, the course typically rewards precision over power, making it a true test of skill for the up-and-coming golfers on the Korn Ferry Tour.

Today’s Best Golf Videos

What’s in the Bag (WITB)

Majesticks GC Sign New Apparel Deal Ahead Of 2025 LIV Golf League

Majesticks GC has announced a multi-year partnership with Castore, a prominent sportswear brand, ahead of the 2025 LIV Golf League season. The team, featuring players like Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, will wear Castore's clothing, including teamwear and golf accessories. Co-Captain Ian Poulter expressed excitement about showcasing their partnership on a global stage and emphasized the commitment to better serve fans and golf enthusiasts. This collaboration is part of a broader trend, as several LIV Golf teams have recently secured sponsorship deals with various brands in preparation for the upcoming season.

Overheard in the Club House

Tiger Woods remembers seven-shot comeback win at 2000 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Tiger Woods made a remarkable seven-shot comeback to win the 2000 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, showcasing his skill with a memorable eagle shot on the 15th hole. This victory marked his sixth consecutive PGA TOUR title and foreshadowed his historic U.S. Open win later that summer.

Time is running out on the PGA Tour's slow play problem

The PGA Tour faces a critical slow play issue, exacerbated by fan frustration and competition from LIV Golf. Despite plans to reduce field sizes, deeper reforms are needed to enhance the pace of play and retain viewer loyalty in a rapidly changing sports landscape. The introduction of stricter penalties and potential timing mechanisms could help address the problem, reflecting a shift in viewer expectations for quicker, more engaging content.

The 18 Golfers Making Their Masters Debut In 2025

Eighteen golfers will make their Masters debut in 2025, including notable amateurs like Jose Luis Ballester and several players who qualified through PGA Tour victories, such as Taylor Pendrith and Aaron Rai. The tournament promises to showcase both emerging talents and seasoned competitors.

World Golf Hall of Famer responds after LPGA cancels even that she hosts

Seri Pak expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the LPGA Tour event named after her due to the underwriter's failure to meet payment obligations. She hopes for the tournament's return and emphasized the importance of maintaining reputations amid misleading reports. The LPGA is working to reschedule the event, which was set for March near Los Angeles.

Pat Perez Joins LIV Golf Broadcast Team After Being Dropped From League As Player

Pat Perez, after finishing 48th in the 2024 LIV Golf League, will not play in 2025 but will serve as an on-course analyst. This change coincides with LIV Golf's new multi-year TV deal with FOX Sports and the addition of YouTube star Rick Shiels as a brand ambassador.

Latest Official World Golf Ranking

Click HERE for the latest Official World Golf Ranking

Latest FedExCup Standings

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UPCOMING TOURS

PGA TOUR Schedule 2025

Click to see the entire PGA Tour Schedule for 2025 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LIV Golf Schedule 2025

Click to see the entire LIV Tour Schedule for 2025 including the Previous winners and Purse.

LPGA Tour Schedule 2025

Click to see the entire LPGA Tour Schedule for 2025 including the Previous winners and Purse.

TGL Schedule 2025

View the latest match schedule for TGL presented by SoFi, including times, dates and broadcast partners.

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