Matt Wallace closed with a 73 after high winds made a return leading to high scores on moving day. The Englishman made just three birdies and six bogeys to head into the final day with a four-shot lead at 11-under.
"Where do I start? Brutal, really hard. Felt I hit the ball just as good, in the right areas - they were the wrong areas by the looks of it," said Wallace.
"Like 17, potentially impossible? I remember saying to Jamie (Laing, his caddie), 'maybe land it short?'. But you don't think like that, we are unbelievable golfers in hindsight, but what a great up-and-down I must say. I didn't think I would get that up-and-down.
"The other day I was saying it was cold and windy, but that was crazy, that was mental. The greens were fantastic but just really fast as well. Man, that was tough, Jamie and I are very tired now.
"Today wasn't about really shooting under par, it was about keeping my lead and I did that and I will try and take the ego out of the three over, which I'm not happy about those type of scores but I probably left two or three shots out there which would have been an unbelievable score."
Spain's Alfredo Garcia-Heredia came closest to catching up to the leader, climbing within two shots after a 23 foot birdie putt at the 3rd but a double bogey at the next hole and another bogey at the 8th pushed him back and he closed with a 71 to finish in solo second place at 7-under.
England's Andrew Johnston lies a shot further back in a share of third place alongside Sweden's Henrik Norlander after rounds of 72 and 73 respectively.
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Galvin Green's latest hi-tech golf apparel collection includes the most innovative rain gear line-up headlined by a new fully waterproof PFC-free fabric offering a super soft feel and best-in-class stretch designed specifically with serious golfers in mind.
The new Part Two range of fully waterproof jackets and pants is spearheaded by four pieces crafted from the highly breathable Pertex® Shield Stretch fabric in a long-lasting three-layer construction, which includes the brand’s stretchiest ever jackets – the AMES and AMY for men and women golfers respectively.
The brand also maintains an impressive selection of award-winning jackets and pants in GORE-TEX fabrics in an extended DRYVR™ waterproof collection comprised of a total of 21 garments for men, women and juniors in multiple size options, supported by a wide range of layering pieces to provide protection and comfort when playing in a variety of demanding weather conditions.
“We’ve been a pioneer in golf waterproofs for more than 30 years and this marks another landmark innovation in the sector,” said CEO Nicholai Stein. “Working closely with Pertex® and through rigorous testing, we’ve ensured the advanced fabric performs to our exceptionally high standards and are delighted to welcome it into our market-leading DRYVR™ product range,” he added.
Introduced as part of a drive towards greater environmental responsibility as outlined in the recent Sustainability Review, the bluesign® approved Pertex® Shield Stretch fabric is constructed with an advanced Hydrophilic polyurethane membrane that protects the wearer from the rain and disperses surface water quickly at the same time. Its lightweight nature and superior stretch capabilities make it an appealing option for avid golfers seeking 100% waterproof and windproof protection without hindering the swing.
Available in sizes ranging up to 5XL, the men’s DRYVR™ range comprises 10 waterproof jackets and three pants. The all-new AMES full-zip jacket comes in six eye-catching colours and headlines the top-quality line-up delivering impressive stretch and freedom of movement. The design features Pertex® Shield Stretch technology with a smooth ‘slide and glide’ interior; front pockets to keep hands dry; chest width tabs for extra comfort and protection; plus adjustable cuffs and shaped sleeves for the perfect fit and easy movement.
The matching ALAN waterproof pant is made from the same super stretchy fabric and is available in up to 17 different size options across waist and leg lengths. It comes in Navy, Black and Cool Grey and incorporates an elasticated waist and drawstring; front pockets with fleece lining for added warmth and a back pocket; plus an adjustable leg width at the hem.
The popular AMOS full-zip hooded jacket in GORE-TEX C-knit™ fabric with a smooth slide and glide interior is now available in Black as well as Navy and Sharkskin, while the feature-packed ALISTER is carried forward due to its best-in-class performance capabilities using super technical materials. A new line is the waterproof ANTON jacket with a lightweight mesh lining and front and inside pockets.
The versatile LYNDON jacket is a new addition in the men’s INTERFACE-1™ range providing windproof and water repellency. Available in four colours, it is complimented by the stylish LEX short-sleeve jacket with a stripe motif across the chest, plus the popular LAYTON in a new Cool Grey/Navy option.
The new DOUGLAS half-zip INSULA™ sweater features additional Thermore® padding across the chest and back to deliver top warmth in the coldest weather conditions. Available in two striking colours, it is complimented by the DONNIE hoodie with a spacious front pocket and sporty DAVE half-zip in as many as six colour combinations including the striking Alaskan Blue/Navy, Navy/Red and Black/Atlantis Green styles.
Incorporating an all-over pattern inspired by the Dopamine structure, the men’s VENTIL8™ PLUS shirt range is led by the futuristic MANNIX in up to six distinctive colourways, including a standout Cool Grey/Coral option. One of 12 shirt styles, it is accompanied by the sophisticated MILLER and MACOY designs offering an ultra-modern look. The NOX pant is the brand’s first ever jogger style trouser to provide advanced mechanical stretch and top breathability in a super modern design.
Women golfers can choose from three waterproof jackets in the DRYVR™ collection in sizes up to XXL, plus two pairs of pants. The elegant AMY jacket in Pertex® Shield Stretch fabric comes in three refreshing colours, including a refreshing Alaskan Blue/White combination, and incorporates similar performance-enhancing features as the men’s equivalent in a sleeker eye-catching silhouette. The matching ANGIE pant in the stretchy Pertex® fabric is available in waist sizes from XS up to XXL, plus short and regular leg lengths to complete the ultimate rainsuit for women golfers.
A super vibrant Camelia Rose colourway headlines the women’s INTERFACE-1™ range led by the dazzling LEORA jacket offering extra warmth via Thermore® padding. It is complemented by the chic LUCILLE vest in a similar diamond look design and the popular LARISSA full-zip jacket in a wide range of size and colour options, plus the versatile LEVANA pant.
The stylish DENISE hoodie in three bright colours enhances the women’s INSULA™ range to provide ultimate comfort in colder weather. The ultra-warm DARLENA full-zip sweater and eco-generation DOLLY half-zip are carried over for women golfers seeking a premium and sustainable layering piece.
Offering a supremely bold look, the MINNIE sleeveless shirt incorporates a free-flowing DNA helix pattern to deliver a distinctive 3D optical illusion. It pairs well with the MARSHA skort and NICOLINE leggings, designed to be worn both on and off the course, while the soft and comfortable NELLIE trouser is another all-new garment for women golfers to get excited about. The brand new patterned MANDY shirt in highly breathable VENTIL8 PLUS fabric offers UV 20+ protection and comes in three attractive colourways.
The junior collection is bolstered with the addition of the Golf Green and Blue/Navy colours on the popular ROBERT GORE-TEX jacket, while the new RICO INSULA™ hoodie and DNA print ROCCO shirt in VENTIL8™ PLUS fabric are the other new garments aimed at golfers aged nine to 15.
For full details of the latest Part Two golf clothing collection, visit www.galvingreen.com.
Matt Wallace made five birdies on the front nine, including four in-a-row from the fourth to make the turn in 30 then made three more consecutive birdies from the 14th to close with a 62 and take the Omega European Masters lead by four shots. He is the only player in the field still bogey-free after 36 holes.
"I'm swinging it nice, hitting it good and hopefully carry that on into the weekend," said the Englishman. "It's going to sound crazy, but I missed a few chances, I really did. The putter didn't really let me down, but I tried to be aggressive with the wedges, didn't really pull (it) off and then I was grinding in those areas.
"But that one on 16 was my hole of the day really because playing those par fives pretty good and missing that putt for eagle, but that par-three was really special - it was a great iron shot into the perfect spot and then the perfect putt so a lot of confidence taken from that.
"It is a golf competition at the end of the day and I love getting into competition, but I want to get away from the competition as much as possible so playing like that today helps and go again tomorrow."
Overnight co-leader Alex Fitzpatrick made four birdies and a single bogey at the par-3 16th for a 67 and lipped down into solo second place at 10-under.
Fellow Englishman Jordan Smith made seven birdies and two bogeys at the par-4s 10th and 12th for a 65 and a share of third place at 9-under alongside Sweden's Henrik Norlander who closed with a 67 featuring four birdies and a bogey at the par-4 17th.
Spain's Alfredo Garcia-Heredia who held a share of the lead overnight closed with a 69 to move down into a share of fifth place at 8-under alongside England's Andrew Johnston and Germany's Nicolai von Dellingshausen who both shot 67s.
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By James Patterson
Little, Brown and Company (2024)
Hatchette Book Group
439 pages
There is little question James Patterson is one of the most prolific and successful writers globally. He has been a master storyteller demonstrated by an array of bestsellers.
His latest involvement comes in outlining the life of Tiger Woods.
Since coming onto the scene - starting as early as a two-year-old when appearing on the Mike Douglas television show along with luminaries Bob Hope and James Stewart in 1978 - Woods has achieved a global stature, beyond sports, only a select handful have ever approached.
The Patterson involvement chronicles the ascendancy of Woods, from literally nearly just out of the womb into golf superstar, to his blundering fall and return to prominence.
The rise, fall and rise again narrative approach is a common formula used by authors.
Given the range of past books and articles on the life and times of Tiger Woods the mere regurgitation of what happened in his life is a clear disappointment given the stature of Patterson and the marquee presence of the subject in question.
We already know what happened. What remains missing is the more salient point -- why it happened?
That is the singular anchor that holds back the Patterson ship from truly sailing in a noteworthy and spellbinding manner.
One of the major handicaps for Patterson was the inability to get Woods to be interviewed. Since a clear self-imposed fumble when interviewed by a Gentleman's Quarterly writer as his professional career was just getting started, Woods has always viewed the media with a walls up protective approach. Whatever words he states are parsed in providing as little information as possible.
It's important to remember Woods was ever mindful of his leverage and demonstrated it when mandating during an interview in 2006 on 60 Minutes with interviewer Ed Bradley how questions would be limited to certain agreed upon topics. Interestingly, the highly successful program did not countenance world leaders' demands but did to snare Tiger.
Patterson's considerable power as a successful writer clearly prompts readers to wonder does this book penetrate and go where no writer has gone before?
The answer is no.
The book has moments where probing analysis is hinted at but never really aggressively pursued. One sees pivotal specific individuals enter the Woods world – Hughes Norton his first agent; Mike "Fluff" Cowan his first pro caddie; Butch Harmon his first prominent teacher; followed by his second notable instructor in Hank Haney; Steve Williams his long-time caddie during the prime years of Tiger's career and even his former wife Elin Nordegren.
The role people such as Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley played with Tiger are also mentioned but only in passing.
What we don't get is a more thorough analysis on how each of these figures assessed their intersection with Woods and how many of them were summarily pushed out in due course.
Patterson interjects enough public information but there's little real digging beyond what's been in the public realm for a number of years. When plunking down $32.99 for such a book - you expect more.
In that regard, the book disappoints.
Those who know little of the Tiger Woods story will find the Patterson effort worthy to read. The clarity of the prose is present and the totality of the dominance Woods demonstrated in professional golf is undoubtedly a powerful story even when retold.
But for those who have followed Tiger closely the Patterson book only remains in the shallow end of the pool. The deep water is rarely treaded and when it's provided comes only in limited quantities.
It's important to remember the Woods story captured worldwide attention from a very early age.
The expectations were considerable and the phenom not only met expectations but exceeded them in a number of ways.
Hs skills with his golf clubs were seen in his amateur years - winning six USGA championships (three consecutive Junior titles and three consecutive Amateur titles) before turning professional in 1996.
When Woods entered the professional ranks, the belief was that success would come but only after a period of time. Tiger fast-tracked matters in leveling the competition. Winning his first major title in 1997 at the Masters with a record12-shot victory and doing so as the youngest winner of the green jacket at age 21 years and 104 days.
Patterson captures the tsunami of Woods dominance in the sport in a chronological formula. During Tiger's superlative rise there was the false narrative Woods had cultivated in being the quintessential family man and that his marriage to Nordegren was the bedrock of his rise.
The fraudulence was amazing for its breadth and audacity in thinking it could continue indefinitely.
In a stunning development that amazingly has faded from view through the years, the life of Woods was upended with a massive self-implosion stemming from numerous illicit affairs over a period of years. The "image" of Woods disintegrated in the grandest of stages but Patterson fails to go beyond a regurgitation of what is already in the public domain.
A clear deception was carried out in a premeditated fashion by Woods. One finds it hard to imagine Patterson could not avail himself of various experts to inquire from them how they viewed the situation Woods had certainly caused. The same can be said on interviews with a number of the aforementioned people who were close to Tiger at different intervals of his life.
While Patterson is highly successful as a writer his failure to back-up the sub headline of the book - "His life (Woods) as it's never been told before" -- mandates an investigative journalist fully skilled in going beyond the low hanging fruit and illuminating the shadows that still remain to be flushed out into daylight.
Personal direct interviews are the staple in what takes a quality effort into a real page turner. News of note beyond what's already known is a crucial missing element here.
In the book, Patterson does mention how personal loyalty is only favored by Woods when the people involved show him the courtesy but rarely get the same effort in reverse.
Patterson does well in outlining the role Earl and Tida, Tiger's parents, and how they shaped him. The parents provided specific elements that Woods skillfully fused together during his adult years.
There is also the desire by Woods to sacrifice his body, and the more important time clock in golf, in seeking to follow in his father's footsteps in the military via special forces. Patterson ably provides the overview but adding context through interviewing those who saw Woods up close in this effort would have added perspectives that have only been touched upon in a limited manner previously.
At age 48 Woods is no longer competitive at the elite level. Tiger has stated numerous times he only enters tournaments because he believes he can still win and remain relevant.
Denial remains front and center with Woods.
To paraphrase Hall-of-Fame football coach Bill Parcells - "you are what your golf scores say you are."
Tiger's last win came in 2019 when capturing his fifth Masters title and 15th major championship. He remains an off-course presence now in shaping the future of the PGA Tour and its rival LIV Golf. There is also the possibility Woods may opt for a competitive presence when turning 50 and becoming eligible for the Champions Tour.
The competitive fire remains intact and may need another stage to rekindle itself.
However, the glaring reality is that the definitive book on the life of Tiger Woods remains to be written. Like an elusive tiger in the jungle - capturing that prey will require a skillset that only the most gifted of storyteller hunters can demonstrate.
To use a golfer's vernacular - Patterson scores a par with Tiger, Tiger, but a birdie is what was needed for a more meaningful effort.
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Imagine this: it's autumn, and while the skies over Europe are growing gloomier by the day, you're about to board a plane to the golden sands and sun-kissed fairways of the Middle East.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi, two jewels of the UAE, offer a golfing experience like no other. With world-class courses set against stunning desert backdrops, a wealth of luxury experiences, and year-round sunshine, winter is the perfect time to tee off in these vibrant destinations.
Dubai is a city synonymous with luxury, innovation, and extravagance, and its golf scene is no different.
Picture yourself starting your day at the Emirates Golf Club, home to the renowned Majlis Course. Ranked number three in the 2024 Golf World MENA Top 100 Courses, the stunning and equally challenging layout is home to DP World Tour's Dubai Desert Classic.
The course, a lush oasis in the heart of the city, offers challenging holes framed by palm trees and impressive skyline views. Just next door, the Faldo Course features 18 fully floodlit holes, allowing you the unique experience of playing a round at night.
If variety is your game, head to Jumeirah Golf Estates. Here, the Earth Course — coming in at number seven in the Top 100 MENA list — plays host to the DP World Tour Championship, with its immaculate condition, challenging fairways and strategically placed bunkers.
For a contrasting experience, the Fire Course offers a rugged, links-style layout that tests every level of golfer.
At Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the Championship Course, ranked eleventh in the MENA Top 100, provides yet another unforgettable round with its unique waterfront holes, particularly the spectacular par-4 17th that demands both precision and nerve.
And if you’re looking for something more relaxed, Topgolf Dubai offers a place to unwind, practice your swing, and enjoy panoramic views of the city with friends or family.
Abu Dhabi may be less frenetic than Dubai, but it’s no less impressive when it comes to golf.
Start at Yas Links, the leading course in the Top 100 MENA Rankings, where the green fairways meet the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Also recently voted among the top 50 golf courses globally, Yas Links is a challenge for even the most seasoned golfer, with sea breezes and natural dune landscapes adding to its allure. This course also hosts the Abu Dhabi Championship, drawing top names in golf to its idyllic shores.
Next, try the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club designed by the legendary Gary Player. Ranked tenth in the Golf World Top 100 MENA rankings and nestled along the pristine beaches of Saadiyat Island, this course offers more than just a game of golf—think encounters with dolphins, gazelles, and local wildlife as you play through a breathtakingly scenic course that’s part of the UAE Challenge on the Challenge Tour.
And, for those seeking a fresh challenge, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club offers a new, modern course experience with wide fairways, undulating greens, and water hazards that keep you on your toes.
Autumn and winter in the UAE are ideal for golfers, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F), ensuring perfect playing conditions from September to April.
While your friends back home are layering up against the chill, you’ll be basking in the sunshine, navigating palm-fringed fairways, and enjoying the cooling sea breeze.
Reaching Dubai and Abu Dhabi is a breeze, with direct flights from all major UK airports and only a seven-hour flight time.
The time difference? Just three hours ahead of the UK — no jet lag to slow you down. Once there, getting around is simple, thanks to the abundance of Ubers and taxis available at your fingertips.
For green fees, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have the Viya app. An all-in-one rewards booking app that makes it easy to book tee times, dining, and other activities.
And when it comes to accommodations, you'll find some of the world's best hotels, offering luxury at every turn, with exquisite culinary options that range from Michelin-starred dining to authentic local delicacies.
So, if you’re looking for a golfing holiday that combines world-class courses, unbeatable weather, and memorable experiences, now’s the time to book.
Alfredo Garcia-Heredia shot an eagle at the par-5 14th and five birdies to close with a 7-under 63 for a share of the lead at the Omega European Masters.
"I played really solid. You know I got lucky with the draw, no rain, a little bit windy, but I played really solid on the par fives, hitting greens, my irons were good. It was one of those rounds were everything flows," said the Spaniard.
"My putting has really improved since BMW International, my strength in the game is normally playing solid with my driving irons, the weakness has been my putting.
"But the last few weeks everything was off except the putter, so this week we were working with my coach the last couple weeks and my game looks back on track."
England's Alex Fitzpatrick made six birdies for his share of the lead and like his co-leader was among the late starters who enjoyed calmer conditions.
"I got the nice side of the draw to be honest, this morning was brutal and luckily the last eight or nine holes there was not much wind so it was nice to capitalise on the opportunities I had and hopefully the same tomorrow," said Fitzpatrick.
"The wind was a difficult factor for putting, later on in the day the greens, with how much its rained, were fairly soft and having three-footers on these greens with the wind was pretty tricky.
"I was happy to nudge them close as much as I could. Just happy to have a good back nine and finish the way I did."
Englishman Matt Wallace played through the rain in the morning but managed to close with a bogey-free 64 for a share of third place at 6-under.
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Justin Rose insists any thoughts of becoming Ryder Cup captain will be have to wait until after next year’s contest at Bethpage.
Rose helped Europe regain the trophy in Rome and hopes to make a seventh appearance in the biennial contest against the United States in 2025, but his name is already in the frame to potentially succeed Luke Donald in 2027.
The chances of that happening were increased by his appointment as captain of the Great Britain and Ireland side for January’s Team Cup, with Francesco Molinari hoping to again lead Continental Europe to victory in Abu Dhabi.
“It’s my first opportunity to captain a team, which is definitely a daunting prospect to go out there and be in control of some the decisions which will ultimately shape the result of the week,” Rose said as he revealed a record prize fund for the third Rose Ladies Open.
“It’s something I won’t take lightly. I’ll be 100 per cent prepared and go down there and try and do a good job for the team and forge some good feelings and relationships which will hopefully grow.”
Asked about being linked with the Ryder Cup captaincy in Ireland in 2027, Rose, who finished second in the Open at Royal Troon in July, said: “First and foremost I’d love to do the job at some point. It’s a huge honour.
“2027 would certainly be a special Ryder Cup. We all know what a special place Adare Manor is, we all know (owner) JP McManus and his love for the sport and how much he’s given back to golf.
“Timing the Ryder Cup captaincy is something you don’t have a huge amount of control over because your opportunity might just happen to come at a certain time.
“I think it’s very difficult to time it perfectly in your career. In 2027 I hope I’m still a strong contender to be playing in the team and front and centre right now really is 2025.
“Next year, whether I’m playing in the Ryder Cup as a player or involved in any other capacity, will start to shape what might happen in the future.
“Until 2025’s done with I think my head is down and focusing on putting some (qualifying) points on the board again.”
Rose and his wife Kate launched the Rose Ladies Series during the Covid pandemic before creating the Rose Ladies Open in 2022 on the LET’s Access Series (LETAS).
The event returns for the third consecutive season this week, with Brocket Hall hosting the 54-hole tournament from Friday as Curtis Cup stars Sara Byrne and Mimi Rhodes make their professional debuts.
The prize fund has increased by 15,000 euros to 85,000, with the winner taking home 13,600, the highest in LETAS history.
“It’s always been important for Kate and I to promote women’s golf and increase the narrative on what is happening in the women’s game,” Rose said.
“We are so appreciative of our partners for helping us make this happen.
“Seeing the growth of the tournament in staging and stature is incredible. It’s important for us that the LETAS players get the first-class experience they deserve and enjoy being treated as they should be.”
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The historic Royal Montreal Golf Club is set to host the 2024 Presidents Cup from September 24-29, and excitement is already brewing.
In a tournament that will feature some of the world’s top golfers, two captains — Jim Furyk for the US and Mike Weir for the International Team — have announced their final picks, filling out their 12-man rosters with a blend of experience, rising stars, and some strategic surprises.
Captain Jim Furyk, a veteran on the PGA Tour, has assembled a team that reflects his competitive drive. His six captain’s picks – Keegan Bradley, Sam Burns, Tony Finau, Brian Harman, Russell Henley, and Max Homa – combine both seasoned veterans and fresh energy.
While the picks aren't necessarily controversial, there were some big names left from the squad, including Justin Thomas, Billy Horschel and Akshay Bhatia.
At 38, Bradley is no stranger to the big stage, but his return to the Presidents Cup roster after a decade is a testament to his perseverance. Bradley's victory at the BMW Championship, his seventh PGA TOUR win, signalled a revival of form for the Ryder Cup captain.
"The grit he showed in the final round in Memphis followed by the win in Denver exemplified the competitive nature he has always played with," Furyk said. “ I know he will bring that same fire to Royal Montreal in a few weeks.”
The 28-year-old is emerging as one of the US team's most dynamic players. With eight top-10 finishes this year, including a T2 at the BMW Championship and a T3 at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Burns has proven himself as a top competitor.
“Sam is a great player who has consistently put himself on leaderboards over the last four years,” said Furyk. “He has proven to excel in match play competition and demonstrates an unwavering level of passion and determination on the course, which will be a great asset for our team in Montreal.”
The six-time PGA Tour winner carded five top-10 finishes this season, including a career-best finish in a major, finishing T3 in the US Open, two shots behind Bryson DeChambeau. And for Furyk, the 34-year-old brings a wealth of consistency and experience to the table.
“He has become a stalwart in U.S. team competition," Furyk noted. "His calm demeanour and ability to deliver under pressure will be invaluable, especially when paired with other powerhouses on the team.”
The world number 22 recorded three top-10 finishes this season, including a career-best effort in a major championship finishing T3 at the Masters.
With a perfect 4-0-0 record at the 2022 Presidents Cup, Homa is the emotional leader Furyk believes will rally the US team.
“Max plays his best on the biggest stages, and that was on full display at the 2022 Presidents Cup and 2023 Ryder Cup,” Furyk said. “He was an emotional leader for both teams and someone who rallied the 11 players around him time and again, and I can’t wait to have him represent the US again in Montreal.”
Brian Harman and Russell Henley may be first-timers in the Presidents Cup, but both players are seasoned professionals on the PGA Tour.
The 2023 Open Championship winner recorded three top-10 finishes this season, including a T2 at THE PLAYERS Championship, where he fell just one shot shy of winner Scottie Scheffler.
“Throughout his career, Brian has been one of the fiercest match-play competitors I’ve seen,” Furyk noted. “I’m looking forward to having that mindset on our side at Royal Montreal.”
Henley, on the other hand, is known for his consistency and clutch putting. The 35-year-old posted six top-10 finishes this season, including a solo fifth at The Open Championship.
"He is unflappable under pressure and without doubt one of the best putters in our game, which is a fantastic combination for match play success,” commented Furyk.
On the other side, Captain Mike Weir has gone for a mix of emerging talents and steady hands, hoping to build on the International Team’s growing competitiveness. Weir’s picks – Christiaan Bezuidenhout, Corey Conners, Mackenzie Hughes, Si Woo Kim, Min Woo Lee, and Taylor Pendrith – reflect a deliberate blend of experience and local flavour.
But, as always, not everyone can make the cut. The likes of Adam Hadwin, Cam Davis and Nick Taylor all missed out on a Presidents Cup pick.
The South African has had a breakout year, recording a career-best 12 top-25 finishes on the PGA Tour. Weir described him as "incredibly steady on and off the golf course," a characteristic that could help anchor the International Team.
“Christiaan is having the best year of his PGA TOUR career and it’s exciting to watch him cement his name alongside all of the great South Africans who have competed in multiple Presidents Cups,” said Weir.
This marks the first time in Presidents Cup history that three Canadians will represent the International Team.
Corey Conners has notched three top-10 finishes in 2024 including a season-best, solo-sixth-place effort at the RBC Canadian Open.
“Corey is one of the best ball-strikers on the PGA TOUR and his ability to consistently put himself and his playing partner in a position to attack is invaluable in team competition,” said the International Team captain.
Mackenzie Hughes recorded three top-10 finishes including a season-best T3 at the Valspar Championship this season, having only missed four cuts in 22 starts —a career-best.
“Canadian golf fans have followed Mackenzie’s career for nearly two decades and it’s incredible to know he’s going to make his Presidents Cup debut in his home country,” said fellow Canadian, Weir.
“He is steady and calm under pressure and is without doubt one of the best putters on the PGA TOUR, which is a great combination for our team.”
Taylor Pendrith, another Canadian, is experiencing his best year on the PGA TOUR with a first-career win at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson. Regarded as one of the longest hitters in the game, Pendrith could be a big asset on Royal Montreal’s long and demanding course.
“It was great to see him breakthrough for his first win in Dallas and advance to the TOUR Championship,’ commented Weir. “He has built a reputation as one of the longest hitters in our game, and that length should be advantageous in match play competition at Royal Montreal.”
A battle-tested player with a solid Presidents Cup record of 4-3-0, the 29-year-old recorded two top-10 finishes including a T6 at THE PLAYERS Championship and a T5 at the BMW Championship.
“Si Woo brings a wealth of experience to our team room, as well as a great record in the Presidents Cup,” Furyk emphasised. “He has been a stalwart on PGA TOUR leaderboards since 2016 and has demonstrated an ability to perform his best when the pressure is at its highest.”
A first-time participant, the 26-year-old recorded the best finishes of his PGA Tour career this season with matching T2 efforts at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches and Rocket Mortgage Classic.
“As one of the most popular players on the PGA TOUR, Min Woo is going to be an incredible addition to the International Team and our passionate fans in Montreal,” said his captain. “He is one of the best drivers of the golf ball on the PGA TOUR, and I can’t wait to let him cook at the Presidents Cup in a few weeks.”
Confirmed US Team
Confirmed International Team
Sotogrande is excited to announce the development of a brand-new Almenara Golf Academy at Almenara Golf, located within the five-star SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort.
This ambitious project will transform the existing 9-hole Alcornoques Course into a state-of-the-art golf academy, setting a new standard for golf training facilities in the region.
The Almenara Golf Academy will boast a comprehensive range of world-class amenities designed to cater to golfers of all skill levels.
Among its features are a natural grass tee line, a covered tee line with a VIP area, and the latest Toptracer driving range technology. The academy will also include a custom fitting centre, a bar and café, and facilities for night-time practice.
In addition, the new academy will feature a par-3 course with nine holes designed by legendary golfer Manuel Piñero, as well as a professional coaching centre.
This centre will be equipped with a professional practice zone, including a dedicated tee line and a short game area for putting and chipping practice.
“We are thrilled to begin this exciting project, which will elevate Almenara Golf to the next level as a premier destination in Sotogrande for golfers of all skill levels,” said Stephane Menou, General Manager of SO/ Sotogrande and Almenara Golf.
“The new academy will offer not only world-class coaching and practice facilities but also a lifestyle concept that combines entertainment with golf, allowing the community of Sotogrande and our visitors to enjoy the game in a relaxed environment.”
Construction of the new Almenara Golf Academy is already underway. The academy will complement the existing 18-hole championship layout at Almenara Golf, further underscoring Sotogrande's commitment to providing exceptional golf experiences and enhancing the overall offering for both guests and members.
“We are delighted to offer a new level of service and amenities to our guests through the Almenara Golf Academy,” said Rita Jordao, Director of Marketing for Sotogrande.
“This development is part of our ongoing mission to deliver the very best quality and innovation. By elevating the golf and leisure offering at Almenara Golf, we are further enhancing the overall offering in Sotogrande, which includes La Reserva Club, Real Club Valderrama, and Real Club Sotogrande – all ranked inside Spain’s top 10 courses – while also creating new opportunities for families and individuals to enjoy or take up the game.”
Golf Escape packages, which offer the opportunity to experience Almenara Golf along with other championship courses like La Reserva Club, are available to book through the Sotogrande website.
These packages are paired with a stay at Sotogrande's only five-star resort, SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort.
As one of the most exclusive and private lifestyle and residential destinations in Europe, Sotogrande continues to expand its offerings for residents and visitors alike.
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For more information on real estate opportunities in Sotogrande, visit their real estate page. For bookings and to learn more about the Golf Escape packages, you can visit the Sotogrande packages page.
