Monday, February 28
Monday Top 5: Iowa State rallies back
Iowa State caught the nation's attention last week in Puerto Rico, but came up short. The Cyclones made up for it this week at the Central District Challenge.
Bonds run deep for CSUMB at Golfweek Invite
Scott Yeakel and his well-traveled CSU Monterey Bay teammates are a cohesive group. Ryan Lavner reports.
First Tee invests in expansion of values
The unyielding pressure of chasing quarterly sales projections can make golf business people an ornery bunch.
TaylorMade renews Creamer endorsement deal
TaylorMade-Adidas Golf announced it has extended its long-time endorsement relationship with LPGA star Paula Creamer.
LPGA continues cultural education with LTC
Continuing its effort to better market the tour globally, the LPGA has agreed to a two-year partnership extension with the Language Training Center.
Zurich Classic, Capital One to host summit
Tournament directors always are seeking new ways to help partners "activate" their sponsorships. At the Zurich Classic, organizers selected Capital One Bank to host, appropriately, an economic summit.
Team of the Week: Alabama
The Crimson Tide made it a clean sweep in Puerto Rico. One week after the Crimson Tide women won the Lady Puerto Rico Classic, the ’Bama men captured the Puerto Rico Classic at Rio Mar Country Club.
Player of the Week: Austin Ernst, LSU
The freshman shot 72-69-72 for a 3-under 213 total and a one-shot victory over TCU’s Brooke Beeler at the Central District Invitational.
Player of the Week: Jason Millard, Middle Tennessee
The senior posted a final-round 9-under 63 in earning medalist honors by seven shots at the Mobile Bay Intercollegiate, leading the Blue Raiders to the team title and breaking a 34-year-old school scoring record.
Tour stresses urgency of new Heritage sponsor
The longtime Heritage golf tournament likely won’t make it past April without finding a title sponsor.
Fashion Q&A: The Girls Golf Collection
Girls Golf Collection founder and designer Annie Margulis sat down with Ashley Crain to talk about her bold Spring fashion line.
Reality or fantasy: Golfweek Div. II Spring Invite
Division II teams are often overlooked, but should they be? Let’s dive into that topic in this week’s “Fantasy or Reality?”
Sunday, February 27
McElhennon, Barton lead at Golfweek Invite
Dermot McElhennon and Barton College lived up to expectations Sunday at the Golfweek D-II Spring Invite, and lead the field after Round 1.
5 Things: Bubba’s clear perspective
Bubba Watson obviously has figured something out. He played off for the PGA Championship last August. He qualified for the 2010 Ryder Cup team.
5 Things: Donald's path to Match Play glory
Rapid reaction: Luke Donald’s victory at Match Play capped one of the most dominant weeks in the tournament’s history.
Worldly players stand to rule the game
If you wanted to know why the Official World Golf Ranking has taken on such a cosmopolitan look since its inception in 1986, then the recent Portuguese Amateur Championship may provide a clue.
Goggin captures Nationwide opener in Panama
The Panama Claro Championship marked the beginning of the 2011 Nationwide Tour season.
Kaymer’s summit climb deserved more attention
Hopefully, Martin Kaymer now will get the respect he truly deserves.
Desert glory
Luke Donald captured his first World Golf Championships title Sunday at the Match Play, but something more significant transpired in the Arizona desert. For the first time in nearly two decades, Europeans will occupy the top four spots when the new world rankings are released Monday, including new No. 1 Martin Kaymer.
5 Things: Storylines from N'wide opener
The Panama Claro Championship marked the beginning of the 2011 Nationwide Tour season. Erik Compton, a two-time heart transplant recipient, started the final round with the lead, but was overtaken after a back-nine 39. Mathew Goggin, a member of the PGA Tour the past five seasons, collected a two-shot victory:
Wagner tops Levin to win Mayakoba playoff
Johnson Wagner won the Mayakoba Golf Classic on Sunday for his second PGA Tour title, beating Spencer Levin with a par on the first hole of a playoff.
Yang shows signs of progress at WGC-Match Play
A resurgent Y.E. Yang bowed out in the quarterfinals of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.
Donald takes down Kaymer to win Match Play
Luke Donald spoiled Martin Kaymer's rise to No. 1 in the world by winning the WGC Match Play Championship at Dove Mountain on Sunday.
Goggin wins in Panama; Compton fades late
Mathew Goggin won the Nationwide Tour’s season-opening Panama Championship, shooting a 2-under 68 on Sunday for a two-stroke victory over countryman Alistair Presnell and American Darron Stiles.
Coetzee hangs on to win Telkom PGA Championship
George Coetzee was having to pour in birdies just to keep pace and was wondering if his swing would hold up under pressure.
Becka right at home with St. Andrews men
Some might consider Lisa Becka, head men's coach at St. Andrews Presbyterian, out of her element. As Julie Williams explains, it couldn't be further from the truth.
Is Tiger any closer to finding his game?
On the front nine, Thomas Bjorn twice hit tee shots wide right onto the desert, from where he had to punch sideways back to the fairway. He hit five bunkers.
Webb stops Tseng’s streak, wins in Singapore
Australia’s Karrie Webb used four straight birdies on the back nine Sunday to surge past Japan’s Chie Arimura for a one-shot victory at the HSBC Women’s Champions.
Snow coats course before Match Play final
Martin Kaymer and Luke Donald are awaiting the start of the final of the Match Play Championship with snow covering the fairways.
Webb wins in Singapore for 37th LPGA title
Australia’s Karrie Webb used four straight birdies on the back nine Sunday to surge past Japan’s Chie Arimura for a one-shot victory at the HSBC Women’s Champions.
Saturday, February 26
Match Play: Kaymer shows off fashion sense
Martin Kaymer wore a stylish white neck muffler with black fly — as in fly fishing — designs Saturday in the Match Play Championship.
Wagner leads by 1 at Mayakoba Golf Classic
Johnson Wagner shot a 6-under 65 on Saturday to take a one-stroke lead over Chris Stroud after the third round of the Mayakoba Golf Classic.
Kaymer reaches finals, becomes World No. 1
Martin Kaymer will face Luke Donald in the final of the WGC-Match Play, assuring that Kaymer will be No. 1 in the next world ranking.
Donald tops Kuchar, reaches Match Play finals
Luke Donald has reached the final of the WGC-Match Play Championship, where he will face either Martin Kaymer.
Holmes collapses on back nine at Match Play
For more than four hours, it figured to go down in Accenture Match Play Championship history as the quickest, yet most boring, set of quarterfinal matches.
Watson rallies to advance to Match Play semis
Bubba Watson stormed back from a 5-down deficit to stun J.B. Holmes and advance to the semifinals of the WGC-Match Play Championship.
Arimura leads Webb by 1 at HSBC Champions
Japan’s Chie Arimura shot a 1-under 71 to maintain a one-stroke lead over Australia’s Karrie Webb after the third round of the HSBC Women’s Champions on Saturday.
Friday, February 25
Preview: Golfweek's Div. II Spring Invite
Three of the nation's top 10 Div. II programs will head to Central Florida this week for the Golfweek Division II Spring Invitational. Take an early look at the field here.
Moore takes down Watney at WGC Match Play
Yawners out ahead, routs coming in from behind. Corporate chalets were jammed packed with folks who had plenty to drink and much to eat, but very little competitive golf to watch.
With 8 straight birdies, Stroud leads Mayakoba
Chris Stroud made eight straight birdies – one off the PGA Tour record – and shot a 63 on Friday to take a three-stroke lead at 11-under 131 after the second round of the Mayakoba Golf Classic.
Watson rolls at WGC; Fowler, Manassero out
Bubba Watson overpowered two-time champion Geoff Ogilvy on Friday and rolled into the quarterfinals of the Match Play Championship with a performance so dominant he has played only 43 holes in three days.
Feng, 15, emerges on upside of swing changes
In the past year, Simin Feng has been to rock bottom, but now – with a smile on her face – she’s working her way back.
Watson reaping benefits of attitude adjustment
Bubba Watson has yet to trail this week at the Match Play Championship. Jeff Rude says he credits an attitude adjustment.
State Farm will drop LPGA tourney sponsorship
The organizers of the annual LPGA tour stop in Springfield say State Farm has declined to renew its sponsorship of the tournament after this year.
Forecast forces Match Play schedule change
If this were about the giant slalom, chances are there wouldn’t be any need for a change to the schedule here at Dove Mountain.
Gibbs (No. 90, 2012) commits to Virginia
Jack Gibbs, the No. 2-ranked Georgia player in his class, has given a verbal commitment to Virginia. Gibbs also was recruited by Ole Miss, UNC, Georgia and Vanderbilt.
Cal rolls to top-5 ranking with three transfers
Daniela Holmqvist is one on a trio of transfers that has spelled big success for California. Julie Williams explains.
Golfweek collects GWAA writing awards
Golfweek writers were awarded top honors in the Golf Writers Association of America’s annual writing contest.
Meesawat, three others claim British Open spots
Prom Meesawat of Thailand and Jason Knutzon of the United States will make their British Open debuts in July after grabbing two of four reserved spots in an international qualifier on Friday.
Arimura builds lead to two in Singapore
Chie Arimura of Japan shot a 6-under 66 to widen her lead to two strokes over Karrie Webb in the second round of the HSBC Women’s Champions on Friday.
Thursday, February 24
Toms among leaders at Mayakoba Classic
David Toms got off to a good start in a bid for his first PGA Tour victory in more than five years, shooting a 5-under 66 on Thursday for a share of the first-round lead in the Mayakoba Golf Classic.
Notes: Crane sailing under Match Play radar
Perhaps now the myth of Ben Crane’s tortoise-like pace of play can be put to rest. Just ask his opponent in Thursday’s second round of the Accenture Match Play Championship.
Fearless Fowler tops Mickelson in record fashion
Rickie Fowler has made a lot of statements in his brief PGA Tour career, but Thursday's win over Phil Mickelson may have been the loudest yet.
Watney bounces No. 1 Westwood at WGC
For the 11th straight time, Lee Westwood failed to advance out of the second round at the Match Play. The top seed lost to Nick Watney in 18 holes.
Video: Feherty takes a shot during campus visit
David Feherty met recently with students at J. Erik Jonsson Community School (a beneficiary of the HP Byron Nelson Championship) in Dallas to pass along some lessons in life and golf.
UNCG’s Hoadley named Sullivan semifinalist
Robert Hoadley isn’t quite sure just how he got chosen as a semifinalist for what is perhaps the nation’s highest honor for amateur athletes, but those who know him best say he is more than worthy.
Crane rolls past McIlroy; Fowler downs Lefty
Ben Crane and Rickie Fowler rolled to huge wins Thursday, bouncing Rory McIlroy and Phil Mickelson out of the Match Play Championship.
Player of the Week: Celine Boutier
Celine Boutier, of Montrouge, France, shot 3-under 213 (71-66-76) at Reunion (Fla.) Resort’s Independence Course to win the AJGA Annika Invitational by two shots.
Player of the Week: Jordan Spieth
Jordan Spieth, of Dallas, shot 10-under 206 (70-66-70) at The Club at Carlton Woods in The Woodlands, Texas to win the AJGA’s HP Boys Championship.
Events to watch: Sugar Bowl, D-II, John Hayt
As the spring season begins to pick up steam, here are three interesting tournaments to watch:
Spieth extended return invite to Byron Nelson
After a breakout performance last spring, Jordan Spieth has been invited back to play the PGA Tour’s Byron Nelson Championship. The event will be held May 26-29 at TPC Las Colinas, less than 30 minutes from Spieth’s home in Dallas.
Compton still rolling after Riviera
Erik Compton has brought the good form he displayed at last week’s Northern Trust Open to this week’s Nationwide Tour season opener.
For Vongvanij, short game focus pays dividends
Florida’s Arnond Vongvanij has turned his work around the greens into tournament victories and the nation’s best head-to-head record. Sean Martin explains.
Nationwide Tip Sheet: Panama Championship
The Nationwide Tour kicks off in Central America this week with the Panama Claro Championship. Here's a look at who the Golfweek Fantasy experts are keeping an eye on.
Kern (No. 168, 2011) commits to Boston College
Charlie Kern of Mercer Island, Wash., has given a verbal commitment to play college golf at Boston College.
Arimura leads in Singapore; Tseng 2 back
Japan’s Chie Arimura overcame strong winds to shoot a 4-under 68 and take a one stroke lead after the first round of the HSBC Women’s Champions on Thursday.
Wednesday, February 23
Commentary: Rude: When will we see Tiger again?
Flashes of the old Tiger Woods emerged Wednesday, but as we've seen for the past year, something was missing. Jeff Rude explains.
Note: Holmes prepares for Els match
J.B. Holmes felt he needed to clear the air with the man he’ll play in Thursday’s second round of the Accenture World Match Play Championship.
Woods ousted by Bjorn at WGC Match Play
After an errant drive at the first playoff hole, Tiger Woods lost his first-round match to Thomas Bjorn at the WGC Match Play.
Biershenk, 37, finds way back to Nationwide Tour
Like many U.S. companies, Biershenk Golf Investments, LLC, is in the midst of a recovery after some rough years.
McCabe: Cink rallies to knock off Poulter
Halving the sixth with double bogeys, Stewart Cink and Ian Poulter proved just how wild the match play format can be Wednesday in Arizona.
Live Chat Replay: Round 1, WGC-Match Play
Our Golfweek experts live-chat the opening round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. Join the discussion!
Manassero, 17, tops Stricker at Match Play
Matteo Manassero of Italy made an impressive debut as the youngest player ever at the Match Play Championship, beating Steve Stricker as the wildest day in golf lived up to its reputation Wednesday.
In this issue: Feb. 28, 2011
Inside the Feb. 28, 2011 issue of Golfweek:
International course designer Knott dies at 65
Bob Knott, a champion golfer and international course designer, has died. He was 65.
Italian Manassero becomes youngest player in WGC event
Matteo Manassero’s meteoric rise to prominence reached another level this week at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.
Thumbs up: Alabama | Thumbs down: Big Ten
There were several teams that made some statement victories this past week, but there were also a few that failed to perform up to expectations. Let’s see who did well, and who disappointed, in thumbs up/thumbs down.
Arizona's LaRose earns 6,000 head-to-head wins
For years, no one paid much attention to a team’s head-to-head won-lost record. All that really mattered was what place a school finished at a tournament.
5 Things: Match Play Minutiae
For being the defending champion at the 2011 Accenture Match Play Championship, Ian Poulter you get to . . . tee off at 7:25 a.m.? When the temperature will be on the south side of 40 degrees?
Continental divide
The WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship is the most individual of PGA Tour pursuits, but it sure feels like it’s the U.S. PGA Tour versus the European Tour this week in the Arizona desert. Isn’t it imperative – if only for the health of pro golf – that they are all in this together?
Tseng aims for win No. 5 as LPGA heads to Singapore
Yani Tseng of Taiwan, the No. 1 player in the world, tees off at this week’s HSBC Women’s Champions with a chance to capture her fourth straight tournament title.
Golfweek Fantasy Tip Sheet: Mayakoba Classic
While the stars duke it out in Arizona, the rest of the PGA Tour tees it up at the Mayakoba Classic. See who our experts like this week.
A Ryder Cup mentality at WGC-Match Play?
They went to a PGA Tour event and the Ryder Cup broke out. This year's Match Play Championship has the players fired up, writes Jim McCabe.
Tuesday, February 22
OWGR shows golf is becoming more global
If you have a second to get away from your 64-man WGC-Accenture Match Play bracket, here’s an idea of how much the fabric at the top level has changed in the last 25 years. Consider the difference between the Official World Golf Ranking now versus when it debuted in April 1986.
The world is watching
The World Golf Championships are more worldly than ever, as 15 countries are represented in this week's WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. Indeed, a rivalry is taking shape – not between two players, but two continents.
Hate to be Rude: Tiger’s Match Play prospects
Tiger Woods says his game is coming around, that work on the range at home looks promising. We’ll find out Wednesday in the WGC-Match Play.
Match Play: Poulter’s early time, Ryo’s army
And for being the defending champion, Mr. Ian Poulter, you get the honor of playing in the first match of the 2011 Accenture Match Play Championship.
Korea’s RNY stages winter training camp in U.S.
Pyung Hwa Kim dreams of winning the gold medal at the Asian Games so that he can skip Korea’s mandatory military service.
5 Things: Iowa State claims Central District
Iowa State arrived at River Wildnerness Golf Club this week with some unfinished business. After falling just five strokes short of knocking off top-ranked Alabama at last week’s Lady Puerto Rico Classic, the Cyclones finished the job Tuesday at the Central District Invitational.
Toy Box notes: No yips in win for Langer
Who would ever guess that Bernhard Langer, a runaway winner in the ACE Group Classic, has battled a severe case of the yips during his career?
U.S. Am’s move in 2012 shakes up summer
In a nod to the college players who make up the majority of the field at the U.S. Amateur, the U.S. Golf Association will adjust to accommodate the academic calendar.
Five Things: Puerto Rico Classic
Led by junior Bud Cauley, Alabama won the Puerto Rico Classic on Tuesday. Here are five things you need to know:
Unrest in North Africa won’t divert eGolf Tour
North Africa’s recent unrest hasn’t changed a U.S. mini-tour’s plans to host two events in the region. In light of massive political protests in Egypt and Tunisia, the eGolf Professional Tour still plans to visit Morocco for the Samanah Classic on March 6-9 in Marrakech and the El Jadida Classic on March 12-15 in El Jadida.
Nationwide Tour kicks off 22nd season in Panama
The Nationwide Tour’s 22nd season begins Thursday with the Panama Claro Championship at Panama Golf Club in Panama City.
Clark WDs from WGC-Match Play; Holmes in
Tim Clark has withdrawn from the Match Play Championship because of an elbow injury and been replaced in the 64-man field by J.B. Holmes.
Swing coach Gilchrist: 5 reasons Tseng is dominating
Five reasons why Yani Tseng is No. 1, according to her swing coach Gary Gilchrist.
Ex-Amateur champion, LPGA player Hicks dies
Betty Hicks, a former U.S. Women’s Amateur champion and LPGA player, died Sunday. She was 90.
Monday, February 21
Play our Match Play Challenge and win prizes!
With the first match under way, so is our Match Play Challenge. Check back here to see how you stack up against the field!
Top 5: McCready wins Battle at the Beach
He may not have been a favorite coming in, but San Diego's Kenneth McCready's solid play at the Battle at the Beach helped him earn medalist honors and vault up the college rankings.
Spieth closes AJGA career with HP Boys title
Jordan Spieth capped his AJGA career in style Monday, pulling ahead during a wild stretch on the back nine to win the HP Boys Championship in his final AJGA start.
5 Things: Boutier wins AJGA Annika Invite
Julie Williams: Celine Boutier, a member of the French national team, held on for a hard-fought victory Monday in the AJGA Annika Invitational.
Island of Oahu delivers big wow factor
From the rainforest of Ko'olau to calm Ko Olina, the Island of Oahu delivers a big wow factor. Josh Sens explains.
By the numbers: Breaking down each match
Tiger Woods is 84-9 against Thomas Bjorn. Take a look at a breakdown of each of the WGC Match Play Championship's first-round matches.
Sorenstam to become health advocate for First Tee
The First Tee has earned accolades for introducing America’s youth to golf and teaching them life skills. Now, with the help of Annika Sorenstam, it’ll provide them with health and wellness instruction, too.
Biershenk, 37, finds way back to N’wide Tour
Tommy Biershenk, 37, finds himself back on the Nationwide Tour, but this time with a different outlook on life.
Wildman Q&A: Former UCF player Jhared Hack
Asher Wildman reminisces about a college player and wonders how great he could have been.
Player of the week: Carlota Ciganda, Arizona State
The Sun Devils junior defeated a strong field at the Northrup Grumman Regional Challenge by two shots with rounds of 73-70-72. The victory moved Ciganda into the top 10 at No. 9 in the Golfweek/Sagarin College Rankings.
Player of the week: Kenneth McCready, San Diego
The Toreros senior posted rounds of 65-67-71 for a 7-under 203 total and a breakthrough victory at the Battle at the Beach.
Team of the week: Iowa State
The Cyclones didn’t win the Lady Puerto Rico Classic, but they sure made a statement.
Team of the week: UCLA
The Bruins, led by runner-up Patrick Cantlay and third-place Connor Driscoll, posted a 1-over 351 in the final round to come from behind and win the Battle at the Beach by three shots over San Diego in Newport Coast, Calif.
Sunday, February 20
5 Things: Why Tseng is dominating the world
Five reasons why Yani Tseng is No. 1 and dominating the women's golf world, according to her swing coach Gary Gilchrist.
Match Play bracket presents plenty of intrigue
Welcome to golf's version of March Madness . . . but in the Accenture Match Play Championship, No. 64 could realistically knock off No. 1.
5 Things: One man’s misfortune . . .
When Toru Taniguchi dropped out of this week’s WGC-Match Play Championship with a neck injury, focus immediately turned to the player who would fill his No. 64 spot.
Rapid reaction: Baddeley's big win at Riviera
Jim McCabe: Aaron Baddeley beat Vijay Singh and Fred Couples at Riviera to end a four-year winless drought.
Australian Baddeley outlasts Singh at Riviera
Aaron Baddeley returned to his old swing and a title he hadn’t seen in four years – a PGA Tour winner.
Otto cruises to victory in Dimension Data Pro-Am
With a steady hand down the stretch, and a deft wedge to tap-in range on the 18th, Hennie Otto cruised to a four-stroke victory Feb. 20 in the Dimension Data Pro-Am.
Tseng-sational
Yani Tseng has dominated every event – no matter what tour – in 2011. The 22-year-old from Taiwan cruised to win No. 4 Sunday at the Honda LPGA Thailand, beating Michelle Wie by four strokes and cementing her place as the World No. 1.
Baddeley outlasts Couples, Singh at Riviera
In a battle of two generations, Aaron Baddeley, 29, outlasted veterans Vijay Singh and Fred Couples to win at Riviera.
Asian aces gearing up for British Open qualifying test
Seventy-seven golfers compete this week at Amata Spring Country Club, but only four will earn spots in the 2011 British Open. The Open Championship International Final Qualifying – Asia, a two-day, 36-hole qualifier, gets under way Thursday in Bangkok and showcases a who’s-who of Asia-Pacific region golfers.
Langer wins ACE Classic in record fashion
Bernhard Langer shot a 6-under-par 66 Sunday to set a tournament record with a 20-under 196 total and win the ACE Group Classic by four shots.
Spieth (66) moves into share of HP lead
Jordan Spieth erased a five-shot deficit at the HP Boys Championship Sunday, moving into a share of the lead with Cody Proveaux at Carlton Woods.
Boutier battles wind for four-shot Annika lead
Celine Boutier battled wind Sunday at the Annika Invitational to post a 6-under 66 for a four-shot lead. Julie Williams has five things from Round 2.
Stenson enters WGC-Match Play field; Taniguchi withdraws
Toru Taniguchi of Japan has withdrawn from the Match Play Championship next week because of a neck injury, putting Henrik Stenson in the 64-man field.
Smith overtakes Sergas to win NZ Women’s Open
Australia’s Kristie Smith shot a 4-under 68 to overtake Italy’s Giulia Sergas and win the New Zealand Women’s Open on Sunday.
Vaughn looks to capitalize on home advantage
Monica Vaughn has stayed under the junior golf radar by playing close to her home Oregon, but she may be poised for a breakout year in 2011. Julie Williams explains.
Chowrasia claims second career title at Avantha Masters
Shiv Shankar Prasad Chowrasia of India earned his second professional win at the Avantha Masters on Sunday, shooting a 5-under 67 for a one-stroke victory over Robert Coles of England.
Sterne plays catchup after back ailment
Richard Sterne stepped off the 72nd green at Emirates Golf Club and uttered a common golfing lament: “I’m hitting the ball nicely; I just can’t get it in the hole.” After his recent travails, it’s almost a welcome frustration for the 29-year-old South African.
Japanese collegian leads inaugural female amateur ranking
Mitsuki Katahira of Japan has etched her name into golfing history. She is the top amateur golfer in the world, courtesy of the first-of-its-kind ranking specifically for women.
Australia’s Kristie Smith wins NZ Women’s Open
Australia's Kristie Smith shot a 4-under 68 to overtake Italy's Giulia Sergas and win the New Zealand Women's Open on Sunday.
India's Chowrasia wins Avantha Masters
Shiv Shankar Prasad Chowrasia of India got his second professional win at the Avantha Masters on Sunday, shooting a 5-under 67 for a one stroke victory over Robert Coles of England.
Tseng wins LPGA Thailand; Wie second
Top-ranked Yani Tseng wins her third title in three weeks, outlasting Michelle Wie for a five-shot victory in the LPGA Thailand.
Saturday, February 19
Cal wins John Burns, third title of season
California claimed a six-shot lead Friday at the John Burns Intercollegiate, topping Texas A&M by six shots at Turtle Bay Resort.
Baddeley leads Na, Couples by one at Riviera
Aaron Baddeley made only one mistake in shifting weather at Riviera, posting a 4-under 67 to grab a one-shot lead over Fred Couples and Kevin Na in the Northern Trust Open.
Langer grows lead to four at ACE Group Classic
Bernhard Langer shot a 6-under 66 on Saturday and leads the ACE Group Classic by four strokes heading into the final round.
Again in contention, Na waits for first win
His stats look like a grizzled veteran's, but Kevin Na is only 27. Sunday at Riviera, the question remains: Will this be his breakthrough week?
Sorenstam gives junior clinic at Reunion
Annika Sorenstam put on a junior golf clinic Saturday as part of the American Junior Golf Association's Annika Invitational at Reunion Resort.
Proveaux leads Spieth by five at HP Boys
After winning the Polo Junior last year, Cody Proveaux made a bold statement about his place in junior golf. In his first round of 2011, he took a five-shot lead at the HP Boys Championship.
Five things: Round 1 at the Annika Invite
The presence of Annika Sorenstam was enough to draw a top-notch field at Reunion Resort this week for the Annika Invitational. Julie Williams has five storylines from Round 1.
Stenson into Match Play after Taniguchi WD
Toru Taniguchi of Japan has withdrawn from the Match Play Championship next week because of a neck injury, putting Henrik Stenson in the 64-man field.
Plagued with illness, Kim WDs from NTO
Anthony Kim has withdrawn from the Northern Trust Open because of an illness.
Larrazabal (66) takes Avantha Masters lead
Pablo Larrazabal of Spain eagled the 18th hole in fading light to take the clubhouse lead of the third round of the fog-plagued Avantha Masters on Saturday.
Tseng takes lead in Thailand, Wie one back
Looking for her third straight win, Yani Tseng closed with a 4-foot eagle Saturday to take a one shot lead in Thailand.
NASCAR star Montoya's second love? The links
On the NASCAR track, Juan Pablo Montoya carries a rugged persona. On the links, he shows a softer, more fatherly side, says Martin Kaufmann.
Friday, February 18
Jobe, Flesch push through weather to make cut
Bad weather wreaked havoc on the entire field, especially those who played in the afternoon, but Brandt Jobe and Steve Flesch managed to take advantage of opportunities to squeak under the cut line.
5 things: Couples' charge impressive at Riviera
Forget that columnist in Naples. Fred Couples will make for good TV this weekend. That and 5 more things you need to know from Riviera:
Gophers contend despite distractions
Minnesota finishes two shots behind Coastal Carolina, but shows toughness in light of controversy over former coach.
Cochran, Langer share Champions lead
Russ Cochran and Bernhard Langer shot 8-under-par 64s to share the lead after the first round of the ACE Group Classic on Friday.
George W. Bush to be honorary chair of First Tee
Former President George W. Bush is following after his father again, this time as the honorary chair of The First Tee program.
Couples turns back clock at Riviera
Fred Couples, 51, starts fast with an eagle and sits two shots up on the field, which is battling the weather to finish the second round.
Golf Channel removes Jim Gray from Riviera
The Golf Chananel removed Jim Gray from its coverage of the Northern Trust Open on Friday for his handling of Dustin Johnson's penalty for nearly missing his tee time.
Cabrera-Bello leads by 1 at fog-delayed Avantha
Rafael Cabrera-Bello of Spain held a one-stroke clubhouse lead at the fog-delayed Avantha Masters after shooting a 3-under 69 Friday despite two bogeys in his final three holes.
Wie, Tseng one shot back in Thailand
Michelle Wie fired a second-round 68 to sit one shot back of In-kyung Kim, who shot 73 after a record-tying 63 on Thursday.
Player of the Week: Courtney Ferguson
Courtney Ferguson, of Houston, shot 9-over 153 (76-77) at the Horshe Bay (Texas) Apple Rock Course to win the TJGT Tour Championship by two shots.
Player of the Week: Taylor Termeer
Taylor Termeer, of Austin, shot 8-over 150 (70-80) at the Horseshoe Bay (Texas) Ram Rock Course to win the TJGT Tour Championship by two shots.
Poulter talks fashion and his Twitter affection
Ian Poulter has skills on the golf course. He's pretty entertaining on Twitter. But is his best asset his fashion sense? Take a ride in Ian's Ferrari . . .
Thursday, February 17
If USGA needs pinch-hitter, Trump is ready
It looks like carefully calibrated mutual interest might just bring together two powerful golf forces in New Jersey.
‘Bragging rights’ on the line for Mahan, O’Hair
If everything stays as is, Hunter Mahan and Sean O’Hair will be playing against each other in the first round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship next week.
Nine tied for lead at Northern Trust Open
Robert Allenby, once the winner of a six-man playoff at Riviera, was part of a nine-way tie for the lead Thursday at the Northern Trust Open.
Watson out of NTO with stomach muscle pain
Bubba Watson has withdrawn from the Northern Trust Open with a strained stomach muscle.
Tiger commits to Match Play Championship
After sitting it out in 2010, Tiger Woods commits to play at next week's Match Play Championship at Dove Mountain
Junior Fantasy: HP Boys and Annika Invite
The year's first AJGA Invitationals kick off this weekend and Golfweek.com's Junior Fantasy Experts have made their picks for the HP Boys Championship and the Annika Invite.
Fujikawa, Anderson build starter-tour friendship
Tadd Fujikawa has a long career ahead of him. Together with Stuart Anderson, he’s hoping that road leads to the PGA Tour.
USGA mandate could hit top amateurs in wallet
The U.S. Golf Association announced Thursday that players must use the new conforming grooves in local qualifying for the 2011 U.S. Open, a mandate that could require thousands of amateur golfers to buy new clubs in coming months.
HP Boys, Annika Invitational previews
AJGA Invitational season kicks off this weekend with the HP Boys Championship at Carlton Woods and the Annika Invitational. D.J. Piehowski and Julie Williams provide a preview.
Johnson late to tee at Riviera, penalized 2 shots
Dustin Johnson wound up in the middle of another bizarre penalty and had to add two strokes to his score.
Derksen leads fog-delayed Avantha Masters
Robert-Jan Derksen shot a 6-under 66 Thursday to take the lead in the suspended first round of the Avantha Masters.
Events to watch: Puerto Rico, Central, Mobile Bay
With tournaments being staged every few days, it’s safe to say the college season is in full swing. Here are three tournaments to keep an eye on next week.
Brr, y'all: Southern discomfort on road to Gator
Plagued with cold winter weather, Mississippi State got creative to get in some practice. Ryan Lavner explains.
Commentary: India and its love for cricket hold promise for golf
Indian golfers account for just under a quarter of the field in this week’s Avantha Masters.
Kim takes early three-shot lead in Thailand
South Korea’s In-Kyung Kim tied a course record with a 9-under-par 63 to take the lead after the first round of the season-opening LPGA Thailand on Thursday.
Sergas leads by three in New Zealand
Giulia Sergas of Italy shot an 8-under-par 64 Thursday to take a three-stroke lead after the first round of the New Zealand Women’s Open.
Wednesday, February 16
Compton earns qualifier spot at Riviera
Erik Compton, a two-time heart transplant recipient, won his own version of the lottery by qualifying at Riviera, says Jeff Babineau.
Who can contend at soggy Riviera?
The PGA Tour is in Los Angeles this week for the Northern Trust Open. Here are five things you need to know before the first tee shot is struck:
5 Things: Who can contend at soggy Riviera?
Jeff Babineau is on the scene at soggy Riviera. Here are five things to watch for in the Northern Trust Open.
5 Things: A new U.S. women’s tour?
Myra Blackwelder considers herself an LPGA activist. Later in her career, the 1980 Rookie of the Year insisted, for example, that the tour provide childcare. Blackwelder has a history of getting things done. Her latest quest: developing America’s Golf Team.
In this issue: Feb. 18, 2011
Inside the Feb. 18, 2011 issue of Golfweek:
AP: Barclays looking at Bethpage Black for ’12
The Barclays wants to take its FedEx Cup playoff event to Bethpage Black in 2012.
India and its love for cricket hold promise for golf
Indian golfers account for just under a quarter of the field in this week’s Avantha Masters. If you were looking for signs of where future Asian major winners might come from, then that stat should give you a clue.
All eyes on Yani
Is there a hotter player in women’s golf than Yani Tseng? Coming off back-to-back victories in Australia, Tseng takes her new No. 1 ranking into the LPGA season opener in Thailand.
Thumbs up: UCLA | Thumbs down: Arkansas
There were several tournaments taking place this week, with many impressive victories.
Stakes high at Sunshine Tour’s Dimension Data Pro-Am
It’s not the celebrity-filled gala that is the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, but professionals and amateurs will team up again this week at the 16th annual Dimension Data Pro-Am in George, South Africa.
The highest standard for Woods are his words
It’s hard enough for Tiger Woods to live up to the standards he set with a golf club in his hand.
UCLA back on top of the Golfweek rankings?
Don’t be surprised to see UCLA back in the top spot when the new Golfweek/Sagarin College Rankings come out next week.
Commentary: Hate to be Rude: Can you hear me now?
In a nod to 21st-century life, the PGA Tour has relaxed its cell-phone ban. Jeff Rude ponders the move’s significance.
Noh earns WGC-Match Play bid; to face Kaymer in Round 1
Seung-yul Noh has qualified for the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship for the first time in his career. He’ll need a first-round upset to prolong his stay.
Breaking down the player-of-the-year race
There’s a lot of college golf remaining, but it’s never too early to analyze what should be an exciting race for player-of-the-year honors.
Singh, Howell headline field at Avantha Masters in India
After four big events on the European Tour’s desert swing, life gets back to a more leisurely pace with the €1.8 million Avantha Masters at the DLF Golf & Country Club in New Delhi, the fourth European Tour event to be held in India.
Kim, Choi poised for breakout 2011 seasons
As the LPGA opens in Asia, Song-Hee Kim and Na Yeon Choi – friends and neighbors – are poised for big seasons. Beth Ann Baldry explains.
Tuesday, February 15
Commentary: Pebble Beach, USGA a match made in heaven
At Pebble Beach, the ripple effects of a stunning landscape help make waves with the USGA. Jim McCabe explains.
Molinari decides to play Match Play event
Francesco Molinari of Italy says he will play in the Match Play Championship.
Lefty thought of Seve for Champions Dinner
Phil Mickelson was planning a Spanish menu for the Champions Dinner at the Masters to honor two-time champion Seve Ballesteros until realizing the Spaniard was not healthy enough to travel.
Coastal Carolina claims UCF Challenge by 1
After a tense final hour, Coastal Carolina escaped with a one-stroke victory Tuesday in the UCF Challenge. Julie Williams reports.
Toy Box notes: Points sticks with favorites
D.A. Points provided the most recent example of a winner sticking with old favorites.
Alabama rallies to win Lady Puerto Rico Classic
Freshman Stephanie Meadow led top-ranked Alabama to a five-shot victory Feb. 15 at the Lady Puerto Rico Classic, its third team title of the season.
Charting a new course in Bahamas, Florida
Projects in the Bahamas and Florida buck recent development trends. Martin Kaufmann explains.
Irish inspiration infuses Engh's Awarii Dunes
Much of Jim Engh’s formative time as a course architect was spent in Ireland, which probably would come as a surprise to many people familiar with some of his more mind-bending designs. He fell hard for the untamed Irish style, and says he has tried to bring that same no-holds-barred spirit to his own work.
Dubai spitting fine breaks with golf protocol
Unlike other sports that report disciplinary actions and fines handed down by a league against a player, the major professional golf tours have been reluctant to do so.
Golfweek Fantasy Tip Sheet: Northern Trust
This week the PGA Tour heads to Riviera Country Club for the Northern Trust Open. See whom our Golfweek experts are picking.
PGA Tour event in Tampa recruits Kaymer, Quiros
PGA champion Martin Kaymer and 17-year-old Matteo Manassero have accepted exemptions to play in the Transitions Championship at Innisbrook during the Florida swing.
Fans allowed to bring phones to Tour events
Starting with the Honda Classic in March, fans at PGA Tour events will have select areas to use phones, which must be kept on silent.
Fashion Q&A: Cutter & Buck’s part in the ‘lifestyle’ trend
Ashley Crain says that Cutter & Buck is playing to the "lifestyle" trend with its 2011 clothing line.
Wildman’s Q&A: Former Duke standout Adam Long
Meet recent Duke grad Adam Long, who had a strong career with the Blue Devils, during which he had 22 career top-20 finishes and graduated second on the school’s career stroke-average list.
Monday, February 14
Albrecht, Kentucky looking for playoff berth
Ashley Albrecht and 61st-ranked Kentucky are trying to secure a postseason berth. As Julie Williams writes, they can make a move at this week's UCF Challenge.
Norman undergoes second shoulder surgery
Greg Norman has had surgery on his left shoulder for the second time and hopes to get back to his limited golf schedule by July.
Q&A: Hall of Fame inductee Frank Chirkinian
Frank Chirkinian, a pioneer in televised golf, will be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame after being selected Feb. 9 via the hall’s Lifetime Achievement category.
Five amateurs receive sponsor invites at Kraft
The Kraft Nabisco Championship announced Monday that five amateurs have received sponsor invitations to the year’s first major. U.S. Women’s Amateur champ Danielle Kang, a sophomore at Pepperdine, headlines the list, followed by fellow college players Cydney Clanton (Auburn) and Lisa McCloskey (USC).
Tseng talks new World No. 1 ranking
Yani Tseng attended her first U.S. Women’s Open as a 13-year-old in Hutchinson, Kan. She walked outside the ropes in the relentless Midwestern sun and told her American host, Ernie Huang, that she wanted to play: “I feel I can beat some of these girls.”
Instruction: AT&T champion D.A. Points
Sean Martin takes a look at the swing of AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am champion D.A. Points.
Murray to purchase scores from AT&T Pro-Am
Bill Murray is about to become even more popular in Northern California.
Els withdraws from Riviera with sore neck
Ernie Els has withdrawn from the Northern Trust Open at Riviera because of a sore neck.
Blackwelder hopes to develop America’s Golf Team
Myra Blackwelder considers herself an LPGA activist. The 1980 Rookie of the Year was later the “voice in the wilderness” who insisted the tour have childcare. Blackwelder has a history of getting things done. Her latest quest: developing America’s Golf Team.
France views bid for ’18 Ryder Cup as building block
The history of French golf is a short story.
Player of the week: Isabelle Boineau, Arizona
The junior shot 69-70-73 to beat Cal’s Pia Halbig by two shots and notch her second title this season. Boineau, who is from Marseilles, France, improved to No. 23 in the Golfweek rankings.
Player of the week: Andres Echavarria, Florida
The senior shot 69-70-71 and won a four-way playoff for the individual title at the Gator Invitational. The Colombia native rose 16 spots to No. 27 in the Golfweek rankings with his third career victory and third top 10 in four starts this season.
Team of the week: Arizona
The host Wildcats shot a final-round 303 to win the Arizona Wildcat Invitational. Arizona finished with an 11-over 875, 11 shots better than Pac-10 rival California. The victory was Arizona’s second in five starts this season.
Team of the week: Florida
The Gators won the SunTrust Gator Invitational for the eighth consecutive season on their home course. Florida, No. 3 in the Golfweek/Sagarin College Rankings, defeated Auburn by nine shots.
R&D, discipline pay dividends for Wilson Golf
Wilson Golf posted a double-digit percentage sales gain in 2010. That’s no small feat in a tough economy. Gene Yasuda explains how the nearly century-old brand rejuvenated itself.
Monday Top 5: Northwestern wins Match Play
Northwestern defended its title at the Big Ten Match Play Championship last week, with Eric Chun improving his overall record in the event to 10-0-1.
Saltman won’t appeal ban, denies cheating
Elliot Saltman says he will not appeal his three-month ban from the European Tour for marking his ball incorrectly but reiterates that he did not cheat.
Woods fined for spitting, apologizes
Tiger Woods was fined by the European Tour on Monday for spitting during the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic.
Reality or fantasy: The Big Ten Match Play
The Big Ten Match Play Championship was won by Northwestern, but did the best team come out on top? There are several things to considered, so let’s play “Fantasy or Reality?”
Sunday, February 13
Founders tweaks prompt Creamer to commit
LPGA star Paula Creamer committed to play the RR Donnelley Founders Cup after the LPGA announced Feb. 11 that the amount being donated to charity would double.
Q&A: Joe Kernen, CNBC anchor
Kernen, 55, co-anchor of CNBC’s “Squawk Box” show, has spent his life in golf.
5 Things: 'Cinderella story. Outta nowhere.'
D.A. Points’ victory on one of America’s iconic courses earns him a tee time at another classic. By virtue of winning at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, Points earned his first trip to Augusta National for the Masters in April.
Points wins Pebble Beach with Murray at his side
Sunday at Pebble Beach turned out to be a real Cinderella story. D.A. Points captured his first PGA Tour victory and dragged along his amateur, Bill Murray of "Caddyshack" fame, to the pro-am title.
5 things you need to know from Pebble
D.A. Points used some back-nine dramatics to earn his first PGA Tour victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. Here are 5 things you need to know:
Italian pioneer Rocca lauds Molinaris, Manassero
Costantino Rocca has taken a back seat in the Italian golf world. And he couldn’t be more pleased. With the emergence of brothers Edoardo and Francesco Molinari and teen Matteo Manassero, Rocca is no longer carrying Italy’s flag alone, as he did in the 1990s when he won five European Tour titles.
Tanaporn survives 9-hole playoff at Thailand Ladies Open
If playing for her first Ladies Asian Golf Tour title weren’t grueling enough for Tanaporn Kongkiatkrai, then nine playoff holes compounded the stress. The 19-year-old Thai prevailed after an exhausting playoff against Korean Cho A-ram in the Thailand Ladies Open at Lakewood Country Club.
Five things: Tulane tops tight UCF leaderboard
Janine Fellows and Tulane top a tight leaderboard at the UCF Challenge. Julie Williams presents five things to watch in Round 2.
Points claims two-shot win at Pebble Pro-Am
Thanks to a hole-out eagle at the par-5 14th, D.A. Points claimed a two-shot win at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am Sunday.
Lehman closes with birdie to win Allianz
Tom Lehman birdied the final hole to finish at 13 under, breaking a tie with Jeff Sluman and Rod Spittle and winning the Allianz Championship on Sunday.
Mickelson decides to play WGC Match Play
Phil Mickelson says he has decided to compete in the Match Play Championship.
Gators, Echavarria sweep SunTrust Invite
Chalk up an eighth consecutive win for Florida at the SunTrust Invite. Andres Echavarria won the individual title in a four-way playoff.
With high blood pressure, Garrigus out of AT&T
Robert Garrigus has had to withdraw from the final round of the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am because of high blood pressure.
Tiger battles demons in new swing
The 12th tee of the Emirates Course in the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic encapsulated the frustration Tiger Woods is enduring with his golf swing. Frustration that could drive him to distraction.
Westwood shows rookie Dubuisson the ropes
For rookie Victor Dubuisson, Saturday’s round of 77 at the Dubai Desert Classic was more academic than anything. While much of the attention at Emirates Golf Club focused on the battle between the game’s top three players, the third round paired world No. 1 Lee Westwood with Dubuisson, the former world amateur No. 1.
Lahiri scorches course in PGTI Players victory
Anirban Lahiri didn’t let up Friday at the Aircel PGTI Players Championship.
Tseng claims No. 1 ranking after Australian Masters win
Taiwan's Yani Tseng has taken over the No. 1 ranking in women's golf after shooting a final-round 68 to win the Australian Ladies Masters by four strokes.
Aced
Victory at the Dubai Desert Classic was there for the taking for Tiger Woods, Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy. But Alvaro Quiros sneaked in under the radar and stole the show – with the help of a hole-in-one.
Tseng wins Aussie Masters to claim top ranking
Taiwan’s Yani Tseng has taken over the No. 1 ranking in women’s golf after shooting a final-round 68 to win the Australian Ladies Masters by four strokes.
Quiros takes Dubai; Tiger falls apart with 75
Tiger started the day a shot off the lead. He finished T-20 after his worst Dubai round of his career. Alvaro Quiros capitalized behind a hole-in-one.
Saturday, February 12
Northwestern defends Big Ten Match Play title
Northwestern successfully defended its title Saturday at the Big Ten Match Play Championship, knocking out Indiana in the final match to its record to 10-1 in the three-year history of the event.
Notes: Celebs steal the show at Pebble Beach
Bill Murray slipped on a floppy red hat in the first fairway, stuck a twig in his mouth, looked over to the swarm of fans along the ropes and yelled, “It’s official. We are in the hunt.”
Five things: Gators continue to be tough at home
As usual, Andres Echavarria and Florida are the ones to beat at the SunTrust Gator Invite. Ryan Lavner checks in with five things to watch.
Marino battles to maintain lead at Pebble
About the only thing that went right for Steve Marino was staying in the lead Saturday at the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.
Five things: Marino chasing maiden Tour win
Steve Marino remained in position Saturday at Pebble Beach to claim his first PGA Tour victory. Jim McCabe has five things from Round 3.
Senior posts 67 for two-shot lead at Allianz
Peter Senior shot a 67 to take a one-stroke lead after two rounds of the Alianz Championship on Saturday.
Tseng leads in Australia, chases No. 1 ranking
Taiwan’s Yani Tseng, who can take the No. 1 ranking in women’s golf with a victory at the Australian Masters, took a three-stroke lead into the final round Saturday, shooting a 9-under-par 63.
McIlroy among Dubai leaders; Woods one back
Tiger Woods overcame a poor start in windy conditions to shoot an even-par 72, one shot behind leader Rory McIlroy and two others going into the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic.
World's best fighting for glory in Dubai
With one round remaining at the Dubai Desert Classic, a handful of storylines are waiting to play out among the world's top players.
Friday, February 11
Five things: Saunders, Bradley rolling at Pebble
Sam Saunders, grandson of Arnold Palmer, is making the most of his sponsor exemption at Pebble. Check out the rest of today's Five Things.
Marino opens four-shot lead at AT&T Pro-Am
Steve Marino made seven birdies for the second straight day and shot a 6-under 66 to build a four-shot lead in the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.
Blake leads Lehman after Round 1 of Allianz
Jay Don Blake shot an 8-under 64 to take a one-stroke lead over Tom Lehman after the first day of the Allianz Championship on Friday.
Daly adds mini flatscreen TV to golf bag
John Daly is going multimedia. He now has a TV built into his golf bag.
Founders Cup modified after player concerns
The LPGA has announced modifications to its controversial Founders Cup after several prominent players voiced concern. Beth Ann Baldry reports.
How they match up: Tiger, Westwood, Kaymer
Golf's new "Big 3" was paired together in Dubai this week. Take a look at how they've fared against each other throughout their careers.
Lewis, Smith share lead at Australian Masters
American Stacey Lewis and Australian Kristie Smith each shot 7-under-par 65s to take a share of the second-round lead at the Australian Ladies Masters on Friday.
Lovemark (back) WDs at AT&T after opening 81
PGA Tour rookie Jamie Lovemark has withdrawn from the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am with a back injury that will keep him out of Riviera next week.
McIlroy leads in Dubai; Woods, Garcia lurking
After a dreadful Thursday in Dubai, a flawless Tiger Woods shot 66 Friday to move into contention. Which Tiger will we see this weekend?
Thursday, February 10
5 things: Points makes most of Murray pairing
D.A. Points was thrilled Tuesday when he found out he would be playing with Bill Murray at Pebble Beach. Now he's leading the tournament.
Marino, Points share early lead at Pebble
D.A. Points and Steve Marino took the first-round lead at 7 under at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am Thursday.
TaylorMade, Golfsmith to stage NYC white-out
An expected white-out Feb. 15 in New York City just might cause traffic havoc on 54th Street – and we’re not talking about another snowstorm.
Q&A: Former World Cup hero Brandi Chastain
The amateur field at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am is 156 deep. It is a list that features more than one billionaire, several musical superstars, a handful of actors, too many investment honchos to mention and a healthy number of lawyers.
Report: Woods received $55M for Dubai design
A United Arab Emirates business magazine says Tiger Woods received $55.4 million from a developer to promote a local golf resort that has yet to be built.
Toy Box: Wilson sticks with winning lineup
Phoenix Open champion Mark Wilson didn’t change one piece of equipment from victory No. 1 (Sony Open) to victory No. 2 in 2011.
Bracketology at Big Ten Match Play
Today, the Wildman is in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., watching teams practice for the Big Ten Match Play Championship.
How Kaymer could take over No. 1 ranking
The most-watched group in golf this week is in Dubai, where World No. 1 Lee Westwood, World No. 2 Martin Kaymer and World No. 3 Tiger Woods are paired together. There’s a good chance their rankings might change by the time the Dubai Desert Classic is complete.
Webb among leaders at Australian Masters
Seven-time major winner Karrie Webb had eight birdies and two bogeys for an opening-round six-under 66 and was in a six-way tie for the lead Thursday at the Australian Ladies Masters.
McIlroy (65) leads in Dubai; Woods 6 back
Rory McIlroy shot a 7-under 65 Thursday to take the lead after the first round of the Dubai Desert Classic, four shots better than Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer and six ahead of Tiger Woods.
Commentary: Woods struggles in opening round in Dubai
Only a closing eagle helped Tiger Woods salvage an opening-round 71 in Dubai. As Alistair Tait writes, he’s still a lost soul on the course.
Kang and Na give Pepperdine a jump on spring
Danielle Kang and Grace Na are the latest Pepperdine recruits to report early to Malibu. After visiting the campus, it's tough to blame them.
Wednesday, February 9
Notes: Rucker sings for PGA Tour charity
Darius Rucker has been involved with golf and charity for years, starting with his former band, Hootie and the Blowfish, staging a tournament with several PGA Tour players the Monday after the Masters.
Hall to welcome TV golf pioneer Chirkinian
Frank Chirkinian, a pioneer in televised golf, will be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Arizona, Boineau charge into spring with home win
Isabelle Boineau and Arizona got off to a strong start to the spring season with wins Feb. 8 at the Arizona Wildcat Invitational.
Wittenberg searches for return to grace
Eight years have passed since Casey Wittenberg's standout amateur summer. As Ryan Lavner writes, he still has the tools to be successful.
After 25 years, Faxon reflects on Pebble Beach
Last week in Pebble Beach, Brad Faxon spoke with Jim McCabe and reflected on what the tournament has meant to his career.
5 Things: No pressure, Tiger
The heat is on. On Tiger Woods, that is. Full blast. This week’s $2.5 million Dubai Desert Classic might just define how the former world No. 1 is going to play the rest of the year.
Indonesia PGA kicks off OneAsia’s 2011 season
The inaugural Indonesia PGA Championship will raise the curtain on the 2011 OneAsia season, the tour announced this week. The US$1 million tournament scheduled for March 24-27 at Imperial Klub Golf is one of 13 tournaments on this year’s schedule.
Five Things: Wednesday at Pebble Beach
Eight months ago on the visit to Pebble Beach, Dustin Johnson lost his grip on the U.S. Open trophy with a miserable approach to the second hole and a wild drive at the third.
Main attraction
Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer now are No. 1 and No. 2, supplanting Tiger Woods from his perch atop golf's hierarchy. But both insist they want to topple Woods at his best. Here's hoping Woods can find his form at the Dubai Desert Classic, where all three will be paired together in the early rounds.
After 25 years, Faxon reflects on Pebble Beach stop
Brad Faxon, preparing for his 25th AT&T National Pro-Am at Pebble Beach, reflects on what the tournament has meant to his career.
World ranking system gains clout
Tony Greer found enough spare time between the two to devise a world ranking for golfers, and it turned into more than a hobby. His system got the attention of Mark McCormack, the late founder of IMG who had been publishing his own rudimentary rankings in the annual "World of Professional Golf." Neither could have imagined how it would shape golf's growing landscape.
Top 5: Recapping the Arizona Invitational
The Arizona Wildcat Invitational ended yesterday and there was some home cooking down in the desert. Arizona won their own event by 11 shots over California, but this tournament told us so much more than that.
Commentary: Woods' Dubai performance may define 2011
As Alistair Tait writes, Tiger Woods' performance in Dubai this week could set the tone for the rest of his 2011 season.
Rookie Rashid Khan ahead at PGTI Players
Gaganjeet Bhullar may be the hottest player in India, but teen rookie Rashid Khan is taking some the spotlight for himself.
Big Ben aims to set new Malaysian milestone
Ben Leong is longing to become the first Malaysian to win multiple Asian Tour titles when the new season begins at the Avantha Masters in India next week.
Tiger owes more to fans in Dubai
Put it this way, if I was a school teacher marking Tiger’s report card for his first two days in Dubai, my comment would read: Must try harder – a lot harder – with an E grade.
Webb seeks eighth title at Australian Masters
Can Karrie Webb do it again? That’s the question on the lips of many this week at the Australian Ladies Masters, which gets under way Thursday at RAVC Royal Pines Resort.
Euro Tour honors Westwood for lifetime contributions
Lee Westwood has joined an elite group of golfers. The European Tour awarded Westwood an honorary lifetime membership this week. The 37-year-old Englishman gained world No. 1 status Oct. 31, when he replaced Tiger Woods atop the Official World Golf Ranking.
U.S. serviceman thrilled by round with Woods
When the call came to the home of Lt. Col. Michael Rowells, his wife Molly assumed it was a joke. Why else would someone insist her husband had won a chance to play a round of golf with Tiger Woods?
Singh needs success at Pebble to make Match Play
Vijay Singh’s streak of seven consecutive WGC-Accenture Match Play appearances is in jeopardy.
Hate to be Rude: West aligns stars in L.A.
Jerry West, known for his clutch play in another arena, scores some top talent for L.A.’s Tour stop at Riviera. Jeff Rude explains.
Woods in talks to revive Dubai course
Tiger Woods says he plans to talk with developers about reviving his stalled Dubai golf estate, which was hit by the financial downturn.
Five Things: Dubai Desert Classic
With the world’s top three golfers in the field, Alistair Tait lists five storylines to watch at the Dubai Desert Classic.
Tuesday, February 8
Euro Ryder Cup captain to have fewer picks
Europe is changing its Ryder Cup qualifying process to strengthen its team through the world ranking and reducing the captain’s picks to two players.
FSU, others need to find form quickly
Was I surprised when I saw that Oklahoma State won the Amer Ari Invitational last week on Hawaii’s Big Island? Or that Texas, UCLA, Georgia Tech and Southern California followed in the standings?
Finchem: Tour won’t stop TV viewer call-ins
PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem wants to see more common sense used enforcing penalties for rule violations phoned in by TV viewers but he says halting their input completely is “not an option.”
Golfweek Fantasy Tip Sheet: Pebble Beach
The PGA Tour returns to the Monterey Peninsula this week for the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. See whom our fantasy experts picked.
Rookie diary: A homecoming at Pebble Beach
We are lucky enough to be playing this week on the Monterey Peninsula, at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.
Wildman’s Q&A: Michigan coach Andrew Sapp
Today on Wildman’s Corner, I caught up with Michigan coach Andrew Sapp. The Wolverines and the rest of the Big Ten conference are headed to Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., this week to play in the Big Ten Match Play.
Tiger, Westwood, Kaymer paired in Dubai
Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Tiger Woods – Nos. 1-3 in the world ranking – will be paired together for the first two rounds in Dubai.
Monday, February 7
Pinehurst launches No. 2 renovations website
Golfers won’t be able to play Pinehurst No. 2 until March 4, but they can keep tabs on the year-long restoration through a new website.
Lost and ultimately profound
Every sport has its code of conduct. High on golf’s list, north of “winner buys” and south of “no foot wedges,” is this: Help your playing partner try to find his lost ball.
How to buy 2010 U.S. Open garment for cheap
In a world of rising prices, it’s always nice to see sales, especially in these economic times. But at Pebble Beach?
Great Escapes: Anguilla's Cap Juluca
Once found, Anguilla and Temenos are worth a return visit. Martin Kaufmann explains.
Perry Golf, Azamara team up on cruises
Perry Golf has expanded its golf-cruise operations through a partnership with Azamara Golf Cruises.
Who will receive a coveted Kraft exemption?
Lorena Ochoa often talked about the 2002 Kraft Nabisco Championship, when she was paired with Annika Sorenstam during the third round.
NeSmith, Talbert win Sea Pines Junior Heritage
Matthew NeSmith and McKenzie Talbert put their hometown of North Augusta, S.C., on the map Feb. 6, sweeping the Junior Heritage at Sea Pines Resort.
Monday Top 5: Cowboys roll in Hawaii
Even without top-ranked Peter Uihlein, Oklahoma State won the Ameri Ari Invitational by five shots to claim the top spot in the Golfweek/Sagarin Rankings. Read the rest of this week's Monday Top 5.
Player of the Week: McKenzie Talbert
McKenzie Talbert, of North Augusta, S.C., shot 3-over 146 (72-74) at the Sea Pines Resort’s Ocean Course and Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island, S.C., to win the Junior Heritage by one shot.
Player of the Week: Matthew NeSmith
Matthew NeSmith, of North Augusta, S.C., shot 4-under 139 (68-71) at the Sea Pines Resort’s Ocean Course and Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island, S.C., to win the Junior Heritage by three shots.
Peter Jacobsen Sports to represent Kuchar
PGA Tour player Matt Kuchar, who had a career-best season in 2010, has selected Peter Jacobsen Sports as his official management group.
Illinois’ Small inks equipment deal with Wilson
Mike Small, the head coach at the University of Illinois and the reigning PGA Professional National Champion, has signed a multiyear equipment deal with Wilson Golf, the company announced Monday.
Commentary: One game, two sets of rules?
If we let golfers tee up every shot, swing clubs with “trampoline-powered” faces, toss their golf balls out of bunkers and putt into 15-inch cups, would golf still be golf?
SkyGolf locates online following
Calling it the next Facebook would be a stretch, but SkyGolf has created an online golf community that stands to transform the company – and the way its consumers interact with one another.
Wilson edges Dufner to win Phoenix Open
Mark Wilson captured his second PGA Tour event of the season on Monday, beating Jason Dufner in a playoff to win the Phoenix Open.
Uihlein, Langley top early Walker Cup watch list
The Jones Cup was created 10 years ago to serve as a Walker Cup preview. With the tournament in the books, Sean Martin kicks off Golfweek's watch list.
Wildman’s Corner: Bold predictions for spring
The spring season is officially under way, and some things never change. Arizona continues to struggle, but now the Wildcats finished behind their jayvee team at their own tournament! Oklahoma State won in Hawaii, and Florida, led by senior Bank Vongvanij, won in Jacksonville.
Woods to play with U.S. Army officer in pro-am
An American Army officer serving in Afghanistan has won the chance to play with Tiger Woods in the Dubai Desert Classic pro-am on Wednesday.
Sunday, February 6
After Gainey miscues, Wilson leads in Phoenix
Tommy Gainey had a pair of bogeys before play was halted for darkness Sunday, giving Packers fan Mark Wilson a two-shot lead in Phoenix.
Wilson wins playoff in Phoenix Open
Mark Wilson has won the frost-delayed Phoenix Open, beating Jason Dufner on the second hole of a playoff.
5 Things: Super cheesy
Cold Arizona felt like the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field this week. And you can even find a faithful contingent of Cheeseheads – a.k.a. Packers fans. Count Mark Wilson among them at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
USGA joins R&A’s World Amateur Ranking system
The USGA announced Saturday that it has joined the R&A in the existing World Amateur Golf Ranking and the new Women’s World Amateur Golf Ranking. What this means for top amateurs, male or female: Make it into the top 50 in the world and earn exemptions into all USGA amateur championships (for which a player is otherwise eligible).
Peterson tops Spieth for Jones Cup title
After starting the day in a tie for 12th, John Peterson had to scramble to catch a flight after winning the Jones Cup in a playoff over Jordan Spieth.
With 18 to play, Gainey leads by one in Phoenix
Tommy Gainey took a one-stroke lead into the fourth round of the Phoenix Open, the frost-delayed tournament that will end Monday.
Qatar win gives Bjorn opening to make amends at Open
Thomas Bjorn is eager to get back to Royal St. George’s for this year’s Open Championship. Eight years ago, Bjorn blew a three-shot lead at St. George’s in the final round of the game’s oldest major.
Siddikur signals rise of Bangladeshi golf with victory
Siddikur completed a wire-to-wire victory at the Grameenphone Bangladesh Masters on Sunday and vowed to spearhead golf’s growth in the country.
India rallies to win gold at Asian Junior
India won the Asian Juniors Golf Team Championship at the Damai Laut Golf & Country Club recently.
Asia’s road to British Open begins at Amata Spring
Amata Spring Country Club will become the first Thai venue to host Open Championship International Final Qualifying Asia.
On the way up Down Under
By year’s end, Yani Tseng wants to be No. 1 in the world. The 2010 LPGA Player of the Year took a step closer to her goal Sunday with victory at the Women’s Australian Open. Jiyai Shin, who is atop the world pecking order, was among the runners-up.
Bjorn wins Qatar Masters by four over Quiros
Thomas Bjorn of Denmark won the Qatar Masters on Sunday, shooting a bogey-free 3-under 69 to beat Alvaro Quiros of Spain by four shots.
Tseng defends Aussie Open title with 7-shot win
Taiwan’s Yani Tseng successfully defended her Women’s Australian Open title, shooting a final-round 2-under 71 Sunday to win by seven strokes.
Saturday, February 5
Monday finish? No complaints from Wilson
A Monday finish in Phoenix is just fine with second-place Mark Wilson. He can now watch his beloved Packers in the Super Bowl on Sunday.
Mickelson, Fowler in contention at WMPO
Thrilling the loudest hole in golf with a 30-foot birdie, Phil Mickelson shot 65 Saturday to pull within four shots of the lead in Phoenix.
5 Things: Cauley, Spieth take Jones Cup lead
With his driver under control, former Walker Cupper Bud Cauley is tied with Jordan Spieth for the second-round lead at the Jones Cup.
U.S. Open to lean on rankings to decide field
After a pair of top players missed out last year, the U.S. Open has decided to rely more on the world ranking than the money list to fill its field.
Bjorn takes lead in Qatar; Kaymer 10 back
Denmark’s Thomas Bjorn shot a 6-under 66 Saturday to take a one-shot lead into the final round of the Qatar Masters.
Tseng grows lead to three at Aussie Open
Defending champion Yani Tseng shot a 5-under 68 Saturday to take a three-stroke lead into the final round of the Women’s Australian Open.
Friday, February 4
Oklahoma State, Miernicki notch wins in Hawaii
Oregon's Daniel Miernicki survived a seven-hole playoff for individual medalist honors Friday at the Amer Ari Invitational as Oklahoma State took the team title.
5 things: Frost and cold throw WMPO off kilter
With more frost delays and a Monday finish looming, the Phoenix Open is not your normal Tour event. Jim McCabe explains.
Gainey, Wilson lead WMPO; more delays loom
Mark Wilson and Tommy Gainey share the lead in chilly Phoenix as more frost delays prevented completion of the second round.
Tseng leads by 2 at storm-delayed Aussie Open
Defending champion Yani Tseng shot a 6-under-par 67 to maintain a two-stroke lead at the storm-interrupted second round of the Women’s Australian Open on Saturday.
Fields, juniors shine in Round 1 of Jones Cup
Scores were high in Round 1 of the Jones Cup as Jack Fields, the only man under par, took the early lead. Also shining on Day 1 were junior standouts Jordan Spieth (pictured) and Patrick Rodgers.
Play resumes in Phoenix; 36-hole Sunday likely
Tom Lehman knows the difference between chilly and cold.
Brier leads in Qatar; Westwood misses cut
Lee Westwood has missed the cut at the Qatar Masters, opening the door for Martin Kaymer to replace him at the top of the rankings.
Defending champ Tseng leads Aussie Open
Defending champion Yani Tseng shot a 6-under-par 67 to take a two-stroke lead in Friday’s rain-interrupted second round of the Women’s Australian Open at Commonwealth Golf Club.
Surf Coast Knockout brings welcomed change
Why does professional golf have to consist of an endless round of 72-hole stroke play tournaments week after week?
Thursday, February 3
Five things: 1 year later, Fowler still laying up
Jim McCabe looks at five stories from Round 1 of the Phoenix Open, including Rickie Fowler's decision at the 15th: To lay up, or not to lay up?
Four tied atop WM Phoenix Open leaderboard
Bill Haas, Jason Bohn, Tom Gillis and Tom Lehman shared the lead Thursday in the suspended first round of the Phoenix Open.
Golfweek Amateur Fantasy Picks: Jones Cup
The 2011 amateur golf season kicks off Feb. 4 at the Jones Cup Invitational, played at Ocean Forest Golf Club in Sea Island, Ga. Golfweek’s amateur experts weigh in with their favorite and sleeper picks.
5 Things to Watch: Jones Cup Invitational
The Jones Cup Invitational, the first major amateur event of 2011, tees off Friday in Sea Island, Ga. Sean Martin offers five things to watch.
Mickelson talks wedges at TPC Scottsdale
Here at frosty TPC Scottsdale, Phil Mickelson, AKA Wedge Man, was holding court.
Play starts in Phoenix after 4-hour delay
Play has started in the Phoenix Open after a four-hour delay because of heavy frost at TPC Scottsdale.
Goosen leads by 1 in Qatar; Kaymer struggles
South Africa’s Retief Goosen shot a 3-under-par 69 to take a one-shot lead in the first round of the Qatar Masters on Thursday.
Shin, Song tied for Women’s Aussie Open lead
Jennifer Song of the United States shot a 6-under-par 67 on Thursday to earn a share of the first-round lead at the Women’s Australian Open.
Wednesday, February 2
5 things: Will Lefty, Vegas get hot in cold Arizona?
It'll be chilly at the Waste Management Phoenix Open, but Jim McCabe says Phil Mickelson should be revved up for TPC Scottsdale.
Top priority
Martin Kaymer isn’t obsessed about his place in golf’s pecking order. He says he’s just focused on doing his best at the tournament at hand. But for the young German, that could mean victory at this week’s Qatar Masters and a title he doesn’t even covet: World No. 1.
5 Things: Welcome to the club, ladies
Five years after establishing the World Amateur Golf Ranking for men, the R&A has announced it will launch a women’s equivalent.
NCGA, NCPGA merge junior tours
The Northern California Golf Association and the Northern California Section of the Professional Golfers’ Association of America have merged to form the Junior Tour of Northern California.
Frost, cold conditions could delay Phoenix Open
Frozen turf wiped out the pro-am round at the Phoenix Open and frost was expected to lead to long delays before play Thursday and Friday.
Get Golf Ready revamps growth strategy
With fully engaged facilities far fewer than projected, Get Golf Ready leaders are preaching a new mantra for their initiative: Quality over quantity.
Thomason to captain U.S. at University Games
Diane Thomason, the former head coach at the University of Iowa, has been selected to coach the U.S. women’s team at the World University Games.
Twitter offers glimpse of Euro bond
Want to know why the Europeans have won six of the last eight Ryder Cups? Check out Twitter. It provides proof of the giant intangible that has helped spur Europe to so much success in the biennial match.
Callaway to open pilot store in India
Callaway Golf India, a subsidiary of the global equipment maker, will open its first store in Delhi in the second quarter of this year.
Rookie diary: Missed opportunity at Torrey Pines
Wow, what a great finish to the Farmers Insurance Open!
McCarley named president of Golf Channel
Mike McCarley was named president of the Golf Channel in an announcement that came down Wednesday from Dick Ebersol, chairman of the newly-formed NBC Sports Group.
Gonzalez (No. 10/2012) commits to Oklahoma
Eloy Gonzalez has given a verbal commitment to play college golf at the University of Oklahoma.
Montgomerie backs Middle East expansion
Despite the political turmoil in Egypt, former Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie supports extending the European Tour’s 4-event “Desert Swing.”
Despite pain, Tseng to defend at Australian Open
Yani Tseng is raring to defend her Women’s Australian Open title, despite some elbow tendinitis. The 3-time major winner is in Melbourne this week for the start of the Ladies European Tour season.
In this issue: Feb. 4, 2011
Inside the Feb. 4, 2011 issue of Golfweek:
Asian Development Tour kicks off in Bangladesh
Local prospect Hossain Sohel Shakhawat hopes this week’s Grameenphone Bangladesh Masters will provide a springboard for his career as he vies to emulate the success of countryman Rahman Siddikur.
Toy Box: Watson uses old clubs, new grooves
Bubba Watson won the Farmers Insurance Open with Ping S59 irons that were introduced in 2003.
Stricker makes Middle East debut in Qatar
American Steve Stricker says the growing strength of the European Tour has convinced him to make his Middle East debut at the Qatar Masters.
As LET season starts, Davies has no retirement plans
English veteran Laura Davies is playing some of her best golf at age 47 and finds herself among the favorites in a strong field for the Australian Women’s Open starting Thursday.
Commentary: Hate to be Rude: What’s wrong with Tiger?
In short, he’s trying to fix something – his swing – that wasn’t broken. Now, at 35, he’s working against time. Jeff Rude reports.
Westwood, Kaymer battle for No. 1 in Qatar
Lee Westwood will be defending his No. 1 world ranking against Martin Kaymer when they tee off in the Qatar Masters on Thursday.
Davies says she has no plans to retire soon
English veteran Laura Davies is playing some of her best golf at age 47 and finds herself among the favorites in a strong field for the Australian Women’s Open starting Thursday.
Notes: TV ratings up after first month of season
PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem said golf doesn’t depend solely on TV ratings, although good news never hurts.
Dustin Johnson's wins meaningless? Not so fast
Will World No. 1 Lee Westwood win a major? Have Dustin Johnson's wins been meaningless? Jim McCabe reports.
Tuesday, February 1
San Diego State wins Arizona Intercollegiate
Led by Alex Kang, Todd Baek and Johan Carlsson, San Diego State shot a closing-round 5-over 289 and rolled to victory in the Arizona Intercollegiate
No. 3 Florida, Vongvanij notch wins at JU Invite
Florida began the spring season Tuesday the same way it started the fall: with a resounding victory.
Golfweek Fantasy Tip Sheet: Phoenix Open
Plenty of big names are in the field this week at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. See who Golfweek’s fantasy experts like in the desert.
After Torrey, Mickelson eyes successful season
One of the more compelling images from Torrey Pines apparently won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
Tour Monday qualifiers never an easy task
So you want to play on the PGA Tour? Sure you do, only you’d better have status because chasing these Monday qualifiers is hardly a lifestyle to be desired.
Barrington offers trendy, personalized leather line
Golf accessories are so much more than just a ball marker, divot repair tool and hat.
San Diego St., Putnam brace for finale in Arizona
With the second round finally complete, and the third and final round well under way, San Diego State and Pepperdine’s Andrew Putnam lead the way heading into the last 18 holes of the Arizona Intercollegiate.
