Today in Golf

On October 4th, 2025, Garrick Higgo took the solo lead at the Sanderson Farms Championship after a bogey-free 66, while the cut-line at -4 produced heartbreak and high drama for players on the bubble.HIGGO'S GRIND TO THE TOPGarrick Higgo sits alone at -13, the culmination of a grueling recovery from a torn labrum and a complete swing overhaul with Sean Foley that he admitted was "not fun at all."He's chased by Eric Cole, who has made a staggering 17 birdies in 36 holes, and Taylor Montgomery, who fired a blistering 9-under 63 fueled by a season of frustration.Danny Walker, alone in fourth, is feeling the "unavoidable" pressure of the FedEx Cup bubble as the weekend looms.THE AGONY OF THE CUTThe cut at -4 delivered pure drama, highlighted by Brandt Snedeker's cruel, full lip-out on his final hole to miss by one in a moment of pure agony that defined the brutal nature of the bubble."Heartbreaking but insufficient" was the story for Keith Mitchell, who hit the flagstick from 236 yards for a tap-in eagle on 18, only to still miss the cut by a single stroke.The fine line between weekend play and going home early claimed several notable names, including Nicolai Højgaard and Min Woo Lee.Quick HitsBubble players Vince Whaley & Tom Kim are in contention • Max Homa struggles to make a move • Notable MCs: Snedeker, Højgaard, Min Woo Lee Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On October 3rd, 2025, the first round of the Sanderson Farms Championship concluded with a four-way tie for the lead and a leaderboard so crowded that 33 players are within three shots of the top spot.Sanderson Farms Championship - Round 1A four-way tie at the top highlights a packed leaderboard described as being "as crowded as a London tube station." From Rookie of the Year frontrunner Eric Cole to underdog Danny Walker, each leader has a compelling story.A staggering 33 players are within three shots of the lead, including twenty-one players stacked up at four-under par.We check in on amateur Michael La Sasso, who shot an impressive 68 just days after a prickly encounter with a sea urchin on vacation.Ryder Cup Competitor Check-inMax Homa showed absolutely no signs of a letdown after Rome, firing a five-under 67 to get right into contention. Meanwhile, Rasmus Højgaard and Zach Johnson battled through fatigue to post solid opening rounds of 69.Rasmus Højgaard admitted he's "running on fumes, but his talent is carrying him through."Team USA Captain Zach Johnson proved he's still got game, matching Højgaard's resilient 69 to start his week.Quick HitsAkshay Bhatia (+1) & Adam Hadwin (+2) have work to do • Amateurs Gordon Sargent & Michael La Sasso impress at -4 • Friday is officially 'Moving Day' in Mississippi Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On October 2nd, 2025, the Ryder Cup fallout escalated as Paul Azinger blasted Rory McIlroy's comments on fan behavior, Tyrrell Hatton refuted US claims, and a weary Rasmus Højgaard returned to the PGA Tour grind.RYDER CUP DEBATE RAGESThe transatlantic argument over fan behavior intensifies, with Paul Azinger labeling Rory McIlroy's call for a "higher standard" as "hypocritical" following his parking lot outburst, while Tyrrell Hatton flatly rejected comparisons between the Rome and US crowds.Azinger on GOLF's 'Subpar': "You can't say the fans need to behave better and then in the meantime, lay them to waste."The conflict highlights a growing cultural divide in golf, with players and pundits on both sides of the Atlantic digging in on what constitutes acceptable fan conduct.THE RYDER CUP HANGOVERFresh off Team Europe's victory, Rasmus Højgaard is the lone Ryder Cup player at the Sanderson Farms Championship, candidly admitting his "energy level is not very high" as he fights for his tour card and a top-50 world ranking.He described the Ryder Cup as the most "stressful and pressure filled situation" he's ever experienced.The quick turnaround from team euphoria to the individual pressure of the PGA Tour grind showcases the immense mental and physical toll of the biennial event.Quick HitsMichael La Sasso's "eleven" out of ten sea urchin pain • Phil Mickelson jokes that golf "challenges" mental health, not helps it • Tyrrell Hatton says Rome and US fan behavior weren't "close at all." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On October 1st, 2025, Tom Watson's apology for Ryder Cup fan behavior dominated the conversation, while Rasmus Højgaard fights for his card, DJ plans his off-season, and an amateur defies incredible odds.Ryder Cup FalloutTom Watson issued a powerful public apology to Team Europe for the "rude and mean spirited behavior" of fans at Bethpage Black, shifting the conversation from home-field advantage to the very character and integrity of the sport."As a former player, Captain and as an American, I am ashamed of what happened." - Tom WatsonWatson's statement as a respected elder statesman gives the apology significant weight, forcing a moment of reflection for American golf fans.PGA Tour: From Glory to the GrindFresh off the Ryder Cup high, European rookie Rasmus Højgaard faces a harsh reality at the Sanderson Farms Championship, going from team glory to a fight for individual survival on the PGA Tour.Currently 87th in the FedEx Cup standings, Højgaard is battling to stay inside the top 100 and secure his card for next season.This highlights the stark contrast between the celebratory atmosphere of the Ryder Cup and the week-to-week pressure of the professional grind.LIV Golf's Off-Season MovesDustin Johnson has announced he will compete in the International Series Philippines, offering a glimpse into the off-season strategy for LIV players and providing a significant boost for the Asian Tour.DJ stated his goal is simply to "stay sharp" during the league's downtime.This move shows how top LIV players are using the Asian Tour to maintain competitive form during their longer off-season.Amateur Hour: The 67 Million-to-One RoundIn a story that defies belief, amateur golfer Gavin Bourne made two holes-in-one during a single round in his Club Championship final at Droitwich Golf Club, accomplishing a feat with astronomical odds.The odds of an amateur golfer making two aces in one round are estimated to be 67 million-to-one.Bourne's reaction was priceless: "I wish someone would have told me the odds before I played, I would have had a quid on that."Quick HitsWatson's Ryder Cup shame • Højgaard's PGA Tour grind • An amateur's two aces Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 30th, 2025, we break down Europe's Ryder Cup victory, from Rory McIlroy's fiery response to "abusive" fans and Luke Donald's secret preparations to the heavy criticism of the Bethpage Black course setup.RORY ROARS BACKRory McIlroy didn't hold back, condemning the "unacceptable and abusive" fan behavior at Bethpage Black. He called for golf to maintain a higher standard and promised a different, more respectful atmosphere at Adare Manor in 2027."I think golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week." - Rory McIlroyMcIlroy noted the crowd seemed more focused on tearing him down than supporting their own players like Scottie Scheffler, highlighting the personal nature of the heckling.CAPTAIN DONALD'S SECRET WEAPONSCaptain Luke Donald's victory was built on meticulous, almost obsessive, preparation. He secretly employed virtual reality to acclimate his team to the hostile crowd and implemented a laser focus on the crucial aspect of putting inside six feet.His strategy included off-course optimizations like providing new bedding and even light-blocking covers to ensure his players were perfectly rested and prepared for battle.The level of detail extended to personal comfort, proving that for Donald, every single percentage point of performance, on and off the course, mattered.THE BETHPAGE BACKFIREThe Bethpage Black course setup faced scathing criticism, with many arguing it backfired on the American team. The decision to make the course excessively soft neutralized its primary defense and played directly into European hands.Commentator Shane Bacon didn't mince words, calling it a "disaster" and potentially the "worst golf course setup ever."A Long Island fan's apology to McIlroy on Instagram went viral, showing a moment of reflection amidst the post-event chaos.Quick HitsShane Lowry's "He's in your head, Rory!" bus chant • The team's locker room chant directed at Donald Trump • Trump's social media response. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 28th, 2025, Team USA mounted a furious Sunday singles charge at Bethpage Black, but Europe held on to win the Ryder Cup 15-13.A VALIANT SUNDAY CHARGEDespite trailing big, Team USA roared back on Sunday, dominating the singles session. Key wins from Scheffler, Thomas, and Schauffele put a massive scare into Europe, turning a potential blowout into a nail-biting finish at Bethpage.The Americans won the Sunday singles session 8.5 to 3.5, creating what commentators called "a couple of very scary hours" for the Europeans.After losing his first four matches, World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler found redemption by defeating Rory McIlroy one up in the day's marquee matchup.BLAME, BEHAVIOR & THE ENVELOPEWe break down the off-course drama, from Captain Keegan Bradley taking full responsibility for a course setup that backfired to the obscure "envelope rule" that cost the US a chance at a full point when Viktor Hovland withdrew.Captain Keegan Bradley: "I definitely made a mistake on the course set up," admitting the unexpectedly soft greens neutralized the American advantage.Rory McIlroy called for fans to hold golf to a "higher standard," pleading for them to "support your players" rather than just heckling the opposition.Quick HitsLowry's clutch halve • The 2027 Ryder Cup heads to Adare Manor • Rory's challenge to win on the road Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 29th, 2025, we break down Team Europe's dramatic 15-13 Ryder Cup victory, sealed by Shane Lowry's clutch putt amidst a tense Sunday, crowd controversy, and a tale of two captains.EUROPE'S DRAMATIC VICTORY AT BETHPAGETeam Europe held off a ferocious American charge on Sunday, with the Ryder Cup coming down to the final moments. Shane Lowry's six-foot putt on the 18th secured the half-point needed to retain the cup after a "very scary" final day."That was the hardest couple of hours of my whole life... The Ryder Cup for me is everything." - Shane Lowry.The day began bizarrely with the "envelope rule" in effect, as Viktor Hovland's injury forced Harris English to sit out, resulting in a crucial half-point for each team before play even started.CONTROVERSY & CAPTAINCYThe event was marred by "unacceptable and abusive" crowd behavior, prompting a fiery response from Rory McIlroy. We also contrast Luke Donald's "captaincy masterclass" with US Captain Keegan Bradley's major regret over his course setup decisions."What happened here this week is not acceptable... [golf] should be held to a higher standard." - Rory McIlroy on the crowd's behavior.While Luke Donald was praised for meticulous details, Keegan Bradley was left ruing his decision to cut the rough, a choice that may have fueled the American's Sunday comeback.Quick HitsFinal Score: Europe 15 - USA 13 • The 2027 Ryder Cup heads to Ireland • Rory's new mission: "Winning an away Ryder Cup." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 28th, 2025, Team Europe established a dominant 11.5 to 4.5 lead over a collapsing Team USA, setting the stage for a potential Ryder Cup rout on Sunday.RYDER CUP DAY 2: THE BETHPAGE BREAKDOWNEurope opened a chasm-like lead, capitalizing on a complete American mental collapse. The day was defined not just by points, but by on-course confrontations, crowd hostility, and baffling captaincy decisions that have Team USA on the brink."We have a plan. We're going to stick to it." - US Captain Keegan Bradley on his failing strategy.Rory McIlroy silenced a heckler on the 16th, telling him to "shut his mouth" before hitting a legendary approach shot, channeling his frustration into a pivotal moment for Europe.EUROPEAN DEPTH VS. AMERICAN COLLAPSEWhile World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler suffered a historic 0-4 collapse, Europe's depth shone through. From Fleetwood and Rose's breathtaking 11-under performance to key shots from Hatton and MacIntyre, every European player contributed to the massive lead."I questioned whether, I was like, it's my putt, right." - Justin Rose on the tense confrontation with DeChambeau's caddie on the 15th green.The magic moment of the afternoon may have been Tyrrell Hatton's incredible bunker chip-in, a shot that perfectly encapsulated Europe's momentum and flair.Quick HitsEurope needs just 3.5 points to win • Lead singles match: McIlroy vs. Scheffler • Luke Donald's captaincy masterclass Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a disastrous Day Two of the Ryder Cup, September 28th, 2025, Team USA fell into a massive 11.5 to 4.5 hole against Europe, setting up a monumental task for Sunday's singles matches.The Scheffler ShockWorld Number One Scottie Scheffler made Ryder Cup history for all the wrong reasons, becoming the first player since 1967 to lose all four of his opening matches as Team USA's anchor completely unraveled at Bethpage Black."I'd like to think that I'm not difficult to pair with people," a confused Scheffler said, as his overall Ryder Cup record plummeted to a shocking 2-4-3.The media was quick to draw comparisons to Tiger Woods' own well-documented struggles in the team-play format, raising questions about Scheffler's role in Sunday's singles.Captain's Calls & On-Course ClashesCaptain Keegan Bradley faced intense scrutiny for his pairings, particularly the statistically worst-ranked duo of Morikawa and English, while a heated argument between Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Rose on the 15th green provided a rare spark of American fight.Bradley defended his strategy by invoking a famous comeback: "Twenty eight to three. I was at that Super Bowl."The on-course conflict, which Rose admitted he "didn't say it as politely as I could have," was seen by many as a welcome, if late, sign of passion from the struggling American side.The Bethpage Roar BackfiresThe boisterous New York crowd tried to be Team USA's 13th man, but their attempts to rattle Rory McIlroy on the 16th hole backfired spectacularly, fueling the European star to hit a dagger of an approach shot.After telling the hecklers to "shut the heck up," a furious McIlroy immediately stuck his shot close, silencing the gallery and helping secure another crucial point for Europe.The incident served as a perfect example of how the intense, often-hostile Ryder Cup atmosphere can motivate the very players it's meant to intimidate.Quick HitsDeChambeau & Young's dominant win • J.J. Spaun's clutch birdie on 17 • USA needs 9.5 points for a 'Miracle at Bethpage.' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a wild opening day at Bethpage Black, September 27th, 2025, Team USA fell into a deep 5.5 to 2.5 hole against Europe, despite a spirited afternoon rally and the full force of the New York crowd.WORLD NO. 1 WOESWorld No. 1 Scottie Scheffler suffered the worst opening day for a top-ranked player since Tiger Woods in 2002, going 0-2 and leaving Captain Keegan Bradley with a "huge conundrum" for Saturday's pairings."It really just came down to me not holing enough putts," Scheffler admitted, taking full accountability for his performance.Analyst Alex Miceli called Scheffler's foursome play "atrocious," highlighting the massive decision facing Captain Bradley on whether to sit his best player.THE THIRTEENTH MANThe infamous New York crowd made its presence felt as the "thirteenth man," with a 5 a.m. "Running of the Fans" and relentless chants creating an electric, and at times intimidating, atmosphere for both teams at Bethpage Black."We knew the crowd was going to be loud," Jon Rahm acknowledged, as the Europeans weathered the storm of "U S A!" chants and military flyovers.European Captain Luke Donald viewed President Trump's attendance as a "mark of respect" for the event, adding another layer of spectacle to the day.THE AFTERNOON FIGHTBACKDown big, Team USA showed signs of life in the afternoon four-balls. The charge was led by Justin Thomas and hometown hero Cameron Young, who delivered a historic 6 & 5 thrashing to ignite the home crowd.The bedrock pairing of Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay finally got the Americans on the board, securing the team's first full point of the day.Despite a loss, Bryson DeChambeau brought "needed fire," while Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns ground out a crucial half-point to keep the deficit from growing.Quick HitsNBC's 'unabashedly partisan' broadcast • Ken Griffey Jr. joins as team photographer • Michael Jordan spotted supporting Team USA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a wild opening day of the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, September 27th, 2025, Team Europe silenced the home crowd, building a commanding 5.5 to 2.5 lead over a struggling American squad.BLUE WAVE AT THE BLACKEurope's veterans put on a masterclass in hostile territory. The reunion of 'Fleetwood Mac' and Jon Rahm's on-course generalship dismantled the American pairings, establishing a huge lead and silencing the famously loud New York crowd.Rory McIlroy on playing with Tommy Fleetwood: "There's so much freedom and so much trust..."Jon Rahm, after winning two points, deflected individual praise to embody the team ethos: "I can't take all the credit... we can't do this alone."AMERICAN AGONYThe stars and stripes faltered badly under pressure, with World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and the 'Bryson experiment' both going winless (0-2). The team's top players looked lost, unable to find answers for Europe's relentless charge.Bryson DeChambeau chalked up Europe's success to "luck" after his two losses.The simmering feud from Rome between Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay boiled over, culminating in a dramatic, hard-fought halved match to end the day.Quick HitsNBC's 'unabashedly partisan' coverage • Donald Trump's appearance & Luke Donald's classy reaction • Pressure mounts on US Captain Keegan Bradley for Day 2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the eve of the Ryder Cup, September 26th, 2025, we explore the deep emotional core of Team Europe, from Seve's legacy to the next generation, culminating in the reveal of the crucial Friday morning foursomes pairings.THE SEVE EFFECTWe explore the powerful emotional foundation of Team Europe, anchored by a moving story from Rory McIlroy about a 2010 conference call with an ailing Seve Ballesteros that brought the entire team to tears.Rory McIlroy: "That is... that's it. That's the embodiment of what the European Ryder Cup team is."This legacy inspires the next generation, with Rasmus Højgaard recalling how he was captivated by the "Miracle at Medinah" as an 11-year-old.INTO THE LION'S DENThe conversation shifts to the immense challenge of facing the notoriously partisan New York crowd at Bethpage Black, and what it will take for Europe to silence the noise and achieve a historic away victory.Rory McIlroy: An away win would be "one of the greatest accomplishments of my career."Team camaraderie is key, from Tyrrell Hatton joking about his receding hairline to Jon Rahm recalling a celebratory night fueled by "strawberry lemonade vodka things."Quick HitsDonald Trump's planned attendance • Team USA's motivation: "losing sucks" • Friday Foursomes: Rahm/Hatton vs. Thomas/DeChambeau leads the charge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 26th, 2025, Captain Keegan Bradley unveiled his Friday morning foursomes pairings for the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, setting the stage for Team USA's quest for redemption.FRIDAY FOURSOMES UNVEILEDCaptain Keegan Bradley reveals his strategy for the opening session, sending out a "fireworks factory" of Thomas and DeChambeau first, followed by the steady Scheffler/Henley, surgical Morikawa/English, and the bedrock anchor team of Cantlay and Schauffele."It's going to be a sporting event to remember." - Captain Keegan Bradley on the first tee atmosphere.Donald Trump is confirmed to be the first sitting U.S. President to attend a Ryder Cup, adding to the electric atmosphere.FUELED BY ROMEThe entire US squad is driven by the sting of their loss in Rome. From team-wide motivation to personal missions, players like Cameron Young and Bryson DeChambeau are channeling past disappointments into a powerful desire for victory at Bethpage."It sucks in general... we're definitely using those memories as fuel." - Sam Burns.Rookie Ben Griffin, a mortgage loan officer just four years ago, embodies the team's fighting spirit and confidence, declaring simply, "I'm ready for it."Quick HitsBryson's "mission project" • Cameron Young's redemption • Morikawa's irons vs. Fleetwood Mac Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 25th, 2025, we break down the explosive off-course Ryder Cup drama, where a new 'pay for play' model for Team USA and a unified defense of Bryson DeChambeau have exposed a massive philosophical rift between the two teams.RYDER CUP: CASH VS. COUNTRYTeam USA's new payment structure—$200k per player—has ignited a firestorm, creating a stark philosophical clash with a European side that insists the honor of playing should be enough. The debate is amplified by high fan costs at Bethpage."I would actually be willing to pay in order to play in the Ryder Cup." - Rory McIlroyThe controversy echoes Patrick Cantlay's "hat gate" saga, with Cantlay himself still insisting, "For the millionth time, the hat didn't fit," as the financial questions swirl.TEAM USA'S 'SECRET WEAPON'In response to sharp criticism from Rory McIlroy and Brandel Chamblee, who labeled Bryson DeChambeau a "captain's nightmare," the American squad has circled the wagons, framing their most polarizing player as an essential X factor for victory."We want to unleash him." - Scottie SchefflerWhat critics see as a disruptive force, Captain Keegan Bradley and the U.S. team see as a source of "energy" and a key strategic advantage they plan to deploy at Bethpage.Quick HitsCharley Hull's "secret weapon" ADHD diagnosis • Sky-high fan costs at Bethpage • Cantlay's hat still doesn't fit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 24th, 2025, we break down the R&A's landmark decision to grant an Open exemption to a LIV golfer, Luke Donald's mentorship from Michael Jordan, and player updates from Xander Schauffele and Jon Rahm.THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPThe R&A has officially created a new exemption category for The Open, starting in 2026. The leading player in the LIV Golf Individual Standings after their Louisiana event will earn a coveted spot at Royal Birkdale.The official wording states the spot goes to: "The first player and anyone tying for that place, not otherwise exempt..."This move marks a significant, albeit small, step in bridging the gap between the traditional tours and the LIV Golf circuit, offering a direct merit-based pathway into golf's oldest major.RYDER CUP PREPEuropean Captain Luke Donald is turning to an unlikely source for leadership advice: basketball icon Michael Jordan. Donald is focused on building a cohesive unit, emphasizing the importance of a "championship team" over a "team of champions."Donald's philosophy: "We're always stronger together."The great irony is that after mentoring the European captain, the fiercely competitive Jordan will be passionately cheering for Team USA when the matches begin.Quick HitsNew dad Xander Schauffele is back, confirming his son Victor was *not* named after Viktor Hovland • Jon Rahm is taking on a dozen-donut challenge, quipping the golf is harder: "It's just shooting nine under, that's an issue." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 23rd, 2025, we break down the controversial decision to pay Team USA players for the Ryder Cup, Rory McIlroy's unique preparation, and Justin Rose's dismissal of the golf ball rollback.Ryder Cup: Money, Motivation & MayhemThe Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black is already sparking controversy as the PGA of America more than doubles Team USA's compensation, introducing a personal stipend for the first time and creating a stark philosophical divide with their European counterparts.US Captain Keegan Bradley defends the move to "bring the Ryder Cup into the present day," while European Captain Luke Donald insists his team doesn't "need any motivation or monetary rewards."To combat the notoriously tough New York crowd, Rory McIlroy is using virtual reality to "become as desensitized as possible" to the hostile environment he'll face at Bethpage.The Rollback Debate Rolls OnAs the golf world continues to debate the new ball rollback, one veteran voice is tuning it all out. Justin Rose offers a candid, skeptical take on the rule changes, questioning their ultimate impact on the professional game.Rose admits he's "paid no attention to it," comparing the current debate to the past switch from square to V grooves and doubting it will make a significant difference for the pros.The episode concludes with the incredible story of Sister René Parman, a 105-year-old nun who finds her weekly golf game to be "a wonderful place to be, very meditative."Quick HitsPresident Trump averts a Long Island Rail Road strike ahead of the Ryder Cup • Bryson DeChambeau praises Trump's "decisive leadership" • Keegan Bradley defends Team USA's new $500k player payment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 22nd, 2025, we cover Stacy Lewis's emotional retirement announcement, John VanDerLaan's long-awaited first victory, and the future challenges facing the Ryder Cup and the golf industry.LPGA TOURStacy Lewis announces her retirement at the end of the year, citing a six-year battle with a rib cage injury that has taken a severe physical toll. The announcement came at the poetic location of her first amateur win."I physically can't do it anymore."Lewis's announcement at the NW Arkansas Championship brings her incredible career full circle, ending where one of her first major victories began.KORN FERRY TOURAfter 141 starts, John VanDerLaan finally broke through for his first Korn Ferry Tour victory, showing incredible mental toughness with a crucial bounce-back birdie on Sunday after a costly double bogey threatened his chances.He "called his shot" to his wife before the week began, predicting his victory.The win is a testament to perseverance, a career-changing moment for a journeyman pro who refused to give up on his dream.RYDER CUPEuropean Captain Luke Donald is already setting the stage for the next Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, acknowledging the immense challenge of winning on US soil and the unique intensity of the New York crowd.Donald noted that winning in New York "is a different animal."The challenge echoes Tony Jacklin's historic 1987 European team, which was the first to ever win on American soil, setting a precedent for the modern rivalry.GOLF BUSINESSA new venture from former Topgolf executives, Blue Jeans Golf, aims to create a more accessible pathway to the traditional game with its "Golf Ranch" concept, designed for players not yet ready for a full 18 holes.Founder Devin Charhon says the goal is to ease the "big and intimidating" jump from entertainment golf to the course.This concept directly addresses the golf industry's biggest challenge: converting the millions of off-course participants into on-course players.Quick HitsLewis's back rotation issues • VanDerLaan's clutch 12th hole birdie • Bethpage Black's Ryder Cup challenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 21st, 2025, with the Ryder Cup just days away, Rory McIlroy escalated the mind games by predicting a clash with the Bethpage crowd and a European victory, as Brooks Koepka surged into the lead in France.BATTLE FOR BETHPAGERory McIlroy is drawing a line in the sand, predicting an "inevitable" clash with the New York crowd and taking a personal shot at Bryson DeChambeau, all while confidently forecasting a European victory on away soil."One of the biggest accomplishments in golf right now is winning an away Ryder Cup. And that's what we're going to do at Bethpage."To prepare for the hostile environment, Team Europe is using VR headsets to simulate Bethpage and even hired a comedian to heckle Tyrrell Hatton.A MESSAGE FROM PARISJust when Team USA needed a boost, Brooks Koepka delivered a third-round 65 at the FedEx Open de France to grab a share of the 54-hole lead, sending a clear message about his form heading to Bethpage.Koepka's bogey-free 65 moved him into a tie for the lead with Min Woo Lee, a major psychological boost for the Americans.This timely performance comes just four days before the Ryder Cup begins, signaling Koepka is peaking at the perfect moment.Quick HitsRory on the rollback: players should be mad at elite pros, not governing bodies • A poignant follow-up on John Harris's final round, a 2&1 victory • Rory on Bryson: "The only way he gets attention is by mentioning other people." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 19th, we break down the escalating war of words ahead of the Ryder Cup at Bethpage, LIV Golf anointing Jon Rahm its champion, and remember the life of a Minnesota golf legend.RYDER CUP COUNTDOWN: BETHPAGE BEDLAMWith just one week until the Ryder Cup, the war of words is hitting a fever pitch. Players are bracing for what Justin Rose calls "absolute chaos" as Rory McIlroy makes a bold promise to win on US soil.Rory McIlroy: "Winning a Ryder Cup away from home is the biggest accomplishment in golf... And that's what we're going to do at Bethpage."Former President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend on Friday, adding another layer of spectacle. Chubby Chandler shared a wild anecdote about Trump's views on cheating in business, with women, and on the course.LIV GOLF: THE KING IS CROWNEDLiv Golf has officially crowned Jon Rahm its 2025 Individual Champion. We dive into their marketing strategy of manufacturing a legend in real-time, using slick video packages to build a narrative around their biggest star.The league released a "Top Five Shots" video package to immediately cement Rahm's dominant season in the minds of fans.This move highlights LIV's focus on creating defined stars and season-long narratives, a stark contrast to the PGA Tour's week-to-week model.IN MEMORIAM: JOHN HARRISWe end on a somber note, remembering Minnesota golf legend John Harris, who passed away at 73. A titan of amateur golf, his career was highlighted by a memorable victory at the 1993 U.S. Amateur.Harris on his 1993 win: "To have my son on the bag, that was the ultimate."His victory at age 41 made him one of the oldest champions in the event's history, a testament to his enduring skill and passion for the game.Quick HitsMarcus Armitage leads the FedEx Open de France after a 64 • Brooks Koepka shoots 69 in his Ryder Cup tune-up • Tiger Woods drops new all-black Sun Day Red apparel with the tagline, "The difference between good and great? It's in everything." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On September 18th, 2025, we break down Stacy Lewis's retirement announcement, Liv Golf's landmark sponsorship deal with HSBC, and Team USA's unique preparation strategy for the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.LPGA TOURStacy Lewis, a two-time major champion and former World No. 1, announced she will retire at the end of the 2025 season, capping a remarkable career that began after overcoming scoliosis and spinal fusion surgery."My body has told me it's time," Lewis said in her announcement, urging fellow players to "continue to push the tour forward."Her journey from wearing a back brace 18 hours a day as a teenager to reaching the pinnacle of women's golf remains one of the sport's most inspiring stories.LIV GOLFLiv Golf secured a massive "stamp of legitimacy" by signing global banking giant HSBC as the first-ever title sponsor for its 2026 Hong Kong event, a powerful endorsement for the league's future and commercial viability.The deal is being framed as a "powerful endorsement" that signals growing corporate acceptance of the tour.This partnership could open the floodgates for other major brands to partner with Liv, significantly altering the financial landscape of professional golf.RYDER CUPWith the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black looming, Captain Keegan Bradley is focused on keeping his players tournament-sharp, a strategy that has Scottie Scheffler feeling prepared but leaves Xander Schauffele as a "major question mark.""It's weird to have such a long break," Scottie Scheffler said, but insisted the team feels "very prepared" for the challenge.After a long layoff for the birth of his child, all eyes are on Schauffele to see if he can find his form in time for the pressure cooker of Bethpage.Quick HitsDP World Tour adds a new $4M India Championship with Rory & Hovland • Anthony Kim continues his comeback on the Asian Tour, saying "I one hundred percent believe in myself." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.