Connect with us

Golf

Paul McGinley Suggests PGA Tour Adopt LIV Golf’s Contract Model

Published

on

Paul McGinley Suggests PGA Tour Adopt LIV Golf’s Contract Model

Paul McGinley, a Golf Channel analyst and former DP World Tour board member, believes the PGA Tour should consider adopting a key feature of LIV Golf’s structure to improve its sustainability and competitiveness.

McGinley argues that the current model, which allows players to pick and choose tournaments, is outdated in the modern era of billion-dollar TV deals and media rights.

The Problem with Independent Contractors

McGinley explained that the PGA Tour’s reliance on players as independent contractors is no longer practical.

“I think as we’ve moved into the modern day, with billion-dollar TV contracts, media rights, and multi-billion-dollar businesses that sport has become, particularly golf, we need to evolve away from being a members organization,” he told Sky Sports.

“That includes moving away from independent traders for players picking and choosing the tournaments they want to play in. For the good of the game.”

Signature Events and Player Obligations

In response to LIV Golf’s emergence, the PGA Tour introduced designated (now signature) events in 2023.

Players were required to participate in all but one of these tournaments to retain their full Player Impact Program (PIP) bonus.

Rory McIlroy, for example, was fined $3 million for skipping two events. While the policy was relaxed in 2024, McGinley believes the Tour needs more control over its product.

“If it’s going to be really run as a business and compete against the NBA, NFL, soccer, etc., the administration needs to be more in control of the product,” McGinley said. “It’s very difficult to be in control of the product when you don’t know who is playing and you’re hoping the players are going to turn up.”

Learning from LIV Golf

LIV Golf’s model, which contracts players and requires them to compete in every event, is something McGinley thinks the PGA Tour should consider. “It’s one of the things that I think LIV have got right,” he said.

“I’m not saying pay the players less, but pay them differently. If they’re contracted, and you know what you’re selling, then it’s a whole different conversation from the business of golf.”

McGinley also emphasized the importance of top players competing internationally. “I’d love to see Scheffler, Morikawa, Schauffele, and those guys travel a bit more,” he said.

“They finish in the middle of August and, unless it’s a Ryder Cup year, they don’t play until January. I don’t think that’s a great dynamic for the game.”

McGinley’s comments follow his recent proposal for unity between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

He suggested allowing the top 10 LIV golfers to participate in five PGA Tour signature events and The Players Championship, while the PGA Tour could field two teams in LIV’s season-ending Team Championship.

By adopting a more structured approach, McGinley believes the PGA Tour can better compete with other major sports leagues and ensure the long-term growth of golf.

His insights highlight the need for innovation and collaboration in a rapidly evolving sport.

Golf

Not a Ripper day as Herbert bid folds at LIV Singapore

Published

on

Not a Ripper day as Herbert bid folds at LIV Singapore

Joaquin Niemann continued his red-hot form on the LIV Golf circuit, securing his second win in three tournaments with a commanding performance in Singapore.

Meanwhile, Australia’s Lucas Herbert saw his hopes of a maiden LIV Golf victory crumble during the final round at Sentosa Golf Club.

Niemann, the 26-year-old Chilean star, delivered a flawless six-under 65 on Sunday, the only bogey-free round of the day.

His dominant display saw him finish at 17-under 196, five shots clear of his nearest rival, Brooks Koepka, who matched Niemann’s final-round 65. Koepka, last year’s Singapore winner, was the only player to come close to challenging Niemann.

“Today was one of those days,” said Niemann, who also triumphed at LIV Golf Adelaide a month ago. “Everything went my way.” Niemann’s victory was all but sealed after he carded five birdies on the front nine, a start he credited with settling his nerves. “Yeah, I was a little bit nervous, you’re always nervous before a round about what’s going to happen,” he said. “It really kind of freed me up for the rest of the round, starting with a birdie on the first hole, and then being able to birdie the third and the fourth. Because of that start, I was able to be really, really free for the whole round.”

With this win, Niemann now leads the LIV Golf individual points standings, putting him in prime position to earn an exemption into the US Open if he maintains his form over the next few months.

Herbert’s Struggles and Ripper GC’s Disappointment

For Lucas Herbert, the final round was a stark contrast to Niemann’s brilliance. The 29-year-old Australian, who started the day tied for third, struggled to find his rhythm, carding a three-over 74 to finish tied for 14th at five under.

Herbert’s round was marred by six bogeys, derailing any chance of a late charge.

Herbert’s Ripper GC teammates also endured a tough day. Captain Cameron Smith shot a 72 to finish tied for 19th at four under, while Matt Jones carded a 71 to end the tournament at level par (tied-32nd).

Marc Leishman struggled the most, finishing nine over after a 72, leaving him tied for 51st. As a team, Ripper GC finished 10th in the 13-team standings, a far cry from their championship-winning form last year.

Fireballs GC Claim Team Victory

Despite their individual struggles, the team event saw Sergio Garcia’s Fireballs GC claim their third consecutive tournament win. The Spanish-led squad overcame an eight-shot deficit at the start of the day, even as Garcia battled bronchitis.

Their resilience and strong team performance highlighted the depth and determination within the Fireballs lineup.

Niemann’s victory in Singapore cements his status as one of LIV Golf’s standout performers this season, while Herbert and Ripper GC will look to regroup and bounce back in their next outing.

For now, the spotlight remains firmly on Niemann, whose sizzling form shows no signs of cooling down.

Continue Reading

Golf

Players Championship 2025: Heavy winds, possible thunderstorms will present playing challenges at TPC Sawgrass

Published

on

Players Championship 2025: Heavy winds, possible thunderstorms will present playing challenges at TPC Sawgrass

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL – After firing a record-tying 62 on Friday, Justin Thomas emphasized the importance of attitude and focus at the Players Championship.

On Saturday, those qualities will be put to the test as strong winds sweep across TPC Sawgrass.

A Tough Day Ahead at TPC Sawgrass

As players woke up to palm trees swaying in the wind, it was clear that Saturday’s round would be a mental and physical battle.

With steady 20 mph winds and stronger gusts expected, navigating one of the tour’s tightest courses, where water hazards lurk everywhere, will require precision, patience, and creativity.

Thomas, who bounced back from an opening-round 78 to move into a tie for 31st at 4-under, is embracing the challenge.

“I got excited early in the week when I saw the forecast,” Thomas said. “I love playing in these conditions. You’ve got to be creative, and it’s just tough.”

Players React to the Wind Challenge

Rickie Fowler (T-17): “I love playing in the wind. You can’t fake it, and especially at this course, you can’t fake it even without wind. It’ll be a big test—not just for controlling the golf ball but also for managing emotions. You won’t play perfect golf in 30 mph winds, so you have to accept the challenge.”

Rory McIlroy (T-4): “It’s important to flight the ball low and keep it under the tree line. Once it gets above, the wind can really take control. I enjoy this kind of challenge—hitting different shots, controlling ball flight, and being creative. I’ve improved in that aspect over the last few years.”

Scottie Scheffler (T-17): “It’ll be very difficult. At courses like the Open Championship, you can keep the ball low, but here, you have to get it airborne. The fairways are soft, so it’s all about controlling spin and making solid contact. At times, it might feel like you’re just guessing with the wind.”

Billy Horschel (T-11): “The next two days are going to be one hell of a challenge. When the wind is this strong, even quality shots don’t always get rewarded. It’s one of those times where you have to accept the conditions—some great shots will turn out well, while others could end up in terrible spots.”

Sunday’s Forecast: More Wind and Possible Storms

As if Saturday’s winds weren’t enough, Sunday could bring even more trouble.

Forecasts predict strong winds once again, but the bigger concern is the potential for scattered thunderstorms, which may arrive right around the time the final groups tee off.

With unpredictable conditions looming, will the tournament adjust tee times to avoid delays? That remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the 2025 Players Championship is shaping up to be a true test of resilience and adaptability.

Continue Reading

Golf

Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club in new sponsorship deal with Jewson South West

Published

on

Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club in new sponsorship deal with Jewson South West

Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club hosted its first major competition of 2025 on Sunday, as 61 members competed for the prestigious Brown Cup.

With reasonable conditions prevailing, the event saw some impressive scores, particularly among the lower-handicap players.

Dave Hillier, playing off a handicap of 6, emerged victorious with a nett 68, which included three birdies.

In a closely contested battle for second place, Ellis Taylor (8) secured the runner-up spot on countback with a nett 69, while Neil Megarry (6) finished third with the same score.

Meanwhile, the club has announced an exciting new sponsorship agreement with Jewson South West, marking the start of a Platinum Partnership.

This collaboration is a significant step forward in both organisations’ commitment to excellence and community development.

As the club’s Platinum Sponsor, Jewson South West will play a vital role in supporting its growth and future projects.

The sponsorship includes naming rights for the 1st and 18th holes, branding on the club scorecards, and the hosting of an Annual Golf Day for customers in July.

Andy Jordan, Regional Managing Director of Jewson South West, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are thrilled to enter into this Platinum Partnership with Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting local communities and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on the club and its members.”

As Somerset’s oldest links course, Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club boasts a rich tradition, a stunning course, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The new sponsorship deal represents a major milestone in the club’s ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and provide members and visitors with a first-class golfing experience.

“We are delighted to welcome Jewson South West as our Club Platinum Partner,” said Glenn Ross, General Manager of Minehead & West Somerset Golf Club.

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Sporty Elites. All Rights Reserved.