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Daily Mirror
20-07-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Matt Fitzpatrick annoyed that coach gave Scottie Scheffler secrets to The Open success
Matt Fitzpatrick and Scottie Scheffler both work with putting expert Phil Kenyon, whose work with the latter has seen the American become the dominant figure in the world of golf Matt Fitzpatrick jokingly admitted he's been left annoyed by Phil Kenyon's partnership with Scottie Scheffler due to the American's dominance at The Open Championship. The 28-year-old held a four-stroke lead heading into the final round of the tournament at Royal Portrush. Having already won the PGA Championship earlier this year, the world No. 1 was the favourite going into the event and has so far met expectations given the high level of performance he's exhibited for several years now. It was after Scheffler's 2022/23 season - where he won just two events - that he contacted Kenyon in an attempt to improve what was the weakest aspect of his game in putting. The pair began working together three days after Scheffler texted the Brit, which has resulted in the two-time Masters champion becoming golf's biggest force of nature since the days of Tiger Woods. He's since won 10 PGA Tour events, including two majors and an Olympic gold medal, while having been ranked as the sport's number one player since May 2023. After the third round of The Open, Fitzpatrick was asked about Scheffler's impressive play, and he poured praise on his rival's improved putting thanks to the coach they both share. "His putting is night and day obviously," the 2022 US Open champion said on Saturday. "From what you guys all talk about how bad it was at one point, I didn't play with him really in that period. He's just not missed a putt today." With a pinch of humour, Fitzpatrick - who was then at third on the leaderboard with a score of nine under - shared his displeasure that Kenyon's work with Scheffler has resulted in his extended and continued dominance on the course. He added: "There isn't one putt that he's missed, and that's obviously the difference that's taken him to this unbeatable run, which is annoying for me that Phil Kenyon shared those secrets." Fitzpatrick admitted Scheffler's run of form is reminiscent to that of Woods ', but he himself is one player that's earned huge success from working with Kenyon, with the pair first joining forces when the Englishman was just 15 years of age. In 2022, Kenyon was asked by GolfMonthly on how he felt watching his student claim his maiden major at the US Open given the journey they'd be on. "It's amazing. When you say it like that, it kind of makes you feel a little bit emotional," he answered. "The hairs have just stood up on my arms. No one works harder and he's applied himself over his short career so well, it's just nice to see someone who has those dreams and works so hard achieve something. "Because you see it step by step, it just means a little bit more. It's been a real high to see him enjoy that moment and see how much it means to him. "During the celebrations, you could see how giddy he was. His family as well, Russ and Sue and his brother Alex, are such good people, down to earth people, so to see them experience that with their son and brother is phenomenal."
Pink Villa
04-07-2025
- Sport
- Pink Villa
Max Homa quits X after online hate grows louder than the support, calls it a ‘safe haven for…'
Max Homa, once a fan-favorite on social media for his humor and relatability, has pulled the plug on online platforms. The six-time PGA Tour winner, currently battling a sharp dip in form, cited relentless negativity as the breaking point in a recent press conference. With his world ranking falling to 99 and mounting criticism online, Homa said that continuing to engage with social media had become 'a waste of energy.' This is especially the case during the golfer's period of professional struggle. From witty posts to withering abuse Homa gained popularity on Twitter (now X) for playfully critiquing amateur golf swings and sharing candid sports takes. But as his performance declined—missing cuts in seven of his last 13 events—so did the tone of online interactions. During a press conference at the John Deere Classic, Homa didn't mince words: 'It has become a safe haven for people who are angry themselves… You wouldn't choose to sit around a table with somebody being that mean.' According to Sports Illustrated, Homa explained that while he enjoyed connecting with fans, the volume of hate eventually outweighed the benefits. Some commenters, emboldened by anonymity and gambling frustration, told him he 'should die.' Homa added, 'I have yet to meet somebody in person that has said anything even remotely mean. Yeah, it's a safe haven for a**holes, for lack of a better term. Sorry, PGA Tour.' Struggling on the course, scrutinized off it Once ranked in the world's top 10, Homa now finds himself barely within the top 100. His best finish this year is a tie for 12th at the Masters. He failed to qualify for the U.S. Open and currently sits 122nd in the FedEx Cup standings—far from the top 70 cut-off for playoff contention. Per Golf Monthly, Homa also addressed the pressure of being a recognizable name. "The lack of anonymity is a bit hard," he said. "I used to really like going to sports bars and watching games with my friends, and that's just not exactly a safe haven anymore." For now, Homa is focusing on rebuilding his game and finding peace offline.
North Wales Live
02-06-2025
- Sport
- North Wales Live
Sign up for golf news from our free newsletter The Stroke Index
If you want to keep up to date with the latest pro tour news and results, the best of the amateur coverage from the UK regions and further afield, or simply want to find out the latest bit of kit hitting the headlines that could improve your game then our new newsletter The Stroke Index is for you. Golf is booming with more and more people finding time to pick up their clubs and play a few holes. The major tournaments and international team events obviously steal the lion's share of coverage and draw in huge audiences with so much content to consume it can feel overwhelming. To be honest, it's almost impossible to keep track of everything - especially the easily missed stories not making national headlines. But what happens when the media caravan moves on? The Stroke Index, written by journalist Simon Payne, is hoping to bridge the gap by providing a digest of the best golf content and trends all in one place, reliably delivered to your inbox - for free. Our mission is simple: deliver a streamlined, ad-free newsletter with the latest tour previews, results, global golf news, and curated links to equipment, fashion, and travel for every golfer. For expert analysis, the latest stats, and informed commentary, join The Stroke Index and be part of a growing golf community. Who is Simon Payne - author of The Stroke Index? Simon Payne has almost three decades of experience working in broadcast and print media. Having started his career at Sky TV before moving on to journalism roles including news and picture editor at Golf Monthly magazine and a number of years as a freelance sports writer, he settled back behind a desk as a sub-editor in the regional press industry where his focus has been on helping to deliver local news across the South East of England. Yet his passion for all things golf has never diminished and he feels now is the right time to get back in the game. He said: 'I have been playing golf for many years, and watching for even longer. I remember being inspired by Sandy Lyle playing THAT bunker shot on the 18th at Augusta on the way to winning the Masters in 1988. But I must have been interested long before that because I can still recall the crazy footage of Bernhard Langer climbing a tree to play a ball that had lodged in the trunk, back in 1981. The seed was well and truly sown. 'Of course, the sport has moved on tremendously since then and the professional game is bigger than ever, commanding more attention and allowing fans multiple media platforms on which to access the latest news. And that is where The Stroke Index comes in. Rather than trawling through a range of content you want to read behind the main headlines, why not enjoy receiving a regular email with links to some of the best stories out there? It will save time yet still keep you fed with up-to-date news and trends. 'The newsletter also aims to go beyond the professional game, giving amateur golfers a fix of articles from the business of golf to tournament and event news. Added to this will be links to the best stories on equipment, fashion and travel for those looking to expand their game and the experiences that come with it. 'I'm hoping The Stroke Index will in time go beyond just being a platform to source golf news and will actually play its own small part in helping to grow the game.' The Stroke Index is more than just a newsletter – it's about building a community. A place where people can come together to share ideas, discuss the highs and lows and dissect every key moment from tee to green. If you love golf, this is your new home! So where and how do I join? The Stroke Index is published on Substack, an independent platform with no ads. You can read it on the desktop, the Substack app or directly from your inbox. No need to scroll or rely on algorithms - once it's live, the newsletter is sent straight to you. You can join by clicking here or entering your email into the sign up box further up the article. So what's on our scorecard? Every newsletter will consist of a number of sections each with just what you need to stay one step ahead on the range, at the course, or sitting in front of the TV. These will include: - View From the Tee: Bringing you the best news lines from respected sources inside golf, pre- and post-tournament analysis, the stats that matter, updates from the heart of the professional game, and so much more. - Around the Greens: News from the UK regions and around the world. Business updates and feature articles to inspire any club or recreational golfer. - Clubhouse Chat: If you're looking for the latest bit of golf kit, technology, clothes to wear, or places to visit, then sit down with a cuppa and find the stories you need to improve your game and, more importantly, enjoy it. There will also be the best of golf socials, things you might have missed and light-hearted moments guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Wales Online
02-06-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
Sign up for golf news from our free newsletter The Stroke Index
Sign up for golf news from our free newsletter The Stroke Index Whether it has been the fine Spring, the 'Rory' effect or a combination of both, more people have been getting out on the fairways for a round of golf this year. As participation rises so does an interest in the latest golf news, and that's where our newsletter The Stroke Index comes in Rory McIlory and caddie Harry Diamond with the Masters trophy (Image: AP Photo/Ashley Landis ) If you want to keep up to date with the latest pro tour news and results, the best of the amateur coverage from the UK regions and further afield, or simply want to find out the latest bit of kit hitting the headlines that could improve your game then our new newsletter The Stroke Index is for you. Golf is booming with more and more people finding time to pick up their clubs and play a few holes. The major tournaments and international team events obviously steal the lion's share of coverage and draw in huge audiences with so much content to consume it can feel overwhelming. To be honest, it's almost impossible to keep track of everything - especially the easily missed stories not making national headlines. But what happens when the media caravan moves on? The Stroke Index, written by journalist Simon Payne, is hoping to bridge the gap by providing a digest of the best golf content and trends all in one place, reliably delivered to your inbox - for free. Our mission is simple: deliver a streamlined, ad-free newsletter with the latest tour previews, results, global golf news, and curated links to equipment, fashion, and travel for every golfe r. For expert analysis, the latest stats, and informed commentary, join The Stroke Index and be part of a growing golf community. Who is Simon Payne - author of The Stroke Index? Article continues below Simon Payne has almost three decades of experience working in broadcast and print media. Having started his career at Sky TV before moving on to journalism roles including news and picture editor at Golf Monthly magazine and a number of years as a freelance sports writer, he settled back behind a desk as a sub-editor in the regional press industry where his focus has been on helping to deliver local news across the South East of England. Yet his passion for all things golf has never diminished and he feels now is the right time to get back in the game. He said: 'I have been playing golf for many years, and watching for even longer. I remember being inspired by Sandy Lyle playing THAT bunker shot on the 18th at Augusta on the way to winning the Masters in 1988. But I must have been interested long before that because I can still recall the crazy footage of Bernhard Langer climbing a tree to play a ball that had lodged in the trunk, back in 1981. The seed was well and truly sown. 'Of course, the sport has moved on tremendously since then and the professional game is bigger than ever, commanding more attention and allowing fans multiple media platforms on which to access the latest news. And that is where The Stroke Index comes in. Rather than trawling through a range of content you want to read behind the main headlines, why not enjoy receiving a regular email with links to some of the best stories out there? It will save time yet still keep you fed with up-to-date news and trends. 'The newsletter also aims to go beyond the professional game, giving amateur golfers a fix of articles from the business of golf to tournament and event news. Added to this will be links to the best stories on equipment, fashion and travel for those looking to expand their game and the experiences that come with it. 'I'm hoping The Stroke Index will in time go beyond just being a platform to source golf news and will actually play its own small part in helping to grow the game.' The Stroke Index is more than just a newsletter – it's about building a community. A place where people can come together to share ideas, discuss the highs and lows and dissect every key moment from tee to green. If you love golf, this is your new home! So where and how do I join? The Stroke Index is published on Substack, an independent platform with no ads. You can read it on the desktop, the Substack app or directly from your inbox. No need to scroll or rely on algorithms - once it's live, the newsletter is sent straight to you. So what's on our scorecard? Every newsletter will consist of a number of sections each with just what you need to stay one step ahead on the range, at the course, or sitting in front of the TV. These will include: - View From the Tee : Bringing you the best news lines from respected sources inside golf, pre- and post-tournament analysis, the stats that matter, updates from the heart of the professional game, and so much more. Article continues below - Around the Greens : News from the UK regions and around the world. Business updates and feature articles to inspire any club or recreational golfer. - Clubhouse Chat: If you're looking for the latest bit of golf kit, technology, clothes to wear, or places to visit, then sit down with a cuppa and find the stories you need to improve your game and, more importantly, enjoy it. There will also be the best of golf socials, things you might have missed and light-hearted moments guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Daily Mirror
15-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Reason the PGA Championship isn't played at same course each year like Masters
This year's PGA Championship is set to tee off at the prestigious Quail Hollow course in Charlotte, North Carolina - but last year's tournament played out on the greens and fairways of Kentucky's Valhalla The 2025 PGA Championship tees off at Quail Hollow on Thursday, with a field of 156 professionals vying for major glory. The tournament lands as the second major of the golfing calendar, following on from April's Masters and preceding June's US Open and the Open Championship in July. And while there are many similarities between the US PGA and the Masters that always comes before – including the ability for golfers from the PGA Tour, DP World and LIV Golf to come together and compete alongside one another – there is one major difference. That is how the Masters is always played at the same course, while the other majors are not. As many golf fans will know, the Masters always takes place on the famed fairways and greens of Georgia's Augusta National, however, the PGA Championship – along with the US Open and the Open – change home each and every year. But why is this? It all dates back to the creation of the Masters. Amateur golfer Bobby Jones – who was born in Atlanta, Georgia, spotted a plant nursery in the nearby Augusta that he thought would be a brilliant space for a course. As per Golf Monthly, Jones said of the plot: "I shall never forget my first visit to Augusta National. The long lane of magnolias through which we approached was beautiful... but when I walked out on the grass terrace under the big trees behind the house and looked down over the property, the experience was unforgettable. "Indeed, it even looked as though it were already a golf course." Alongside Alister MacKenzie, he designed the course that later became Augusta National, with a vision for an invitation-only event to be played there. Construction began on the course in 1931 before it was complete the following year, with the Masters seeing its first tournament at Augusta National in 1934. An invite-only event with a smaller field, the Masters was turned into a major in 1960 due to the tradition surrounding the event – and organisers announced that it would continue to be held at the course it was conceived on every year. Fast forward to 2025, and it's a tradition that still rings true, with professional golfers from all walks of life dreaming of playing at the famed course and acquiring the coveted Green Jacket which is awarded to winners. Rory McIlroy famously won this year's event at Augusta, doing so in historic fashion. After sweeping up titles at the PGA Championship, the US Open and the Open, the Green Jacket was the only major accolade that had eluded him through the course of his career. And after a nail-biting play-off of the 18th against Justin Rose, McIlroy etched his name into the annals of history by completing the career Grand Slam by finally earning his win on the 17th time of asking. For his efforts, he joined an incredibly exclusive club made up of just Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods in completing the career Grand Slam - a feat that many professional golfers will only ever dream of given the stiff competition surrounding them week in, week out. It comes as McIlroy will hope to double down in terms of majors at this week's PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, after seeing success on the very same course at last year's Wells Fargo Championship (renamed as the Truist Championship this year). There, he ran out victorious after registering a total score of 17-under-par – five strokes clear of Xander Schauffele. Last year's PGA Championship, of course, was played at Kentucky's Valhalla Golf Club, while it was contested at the Oak Hill Country Club in New York the year prior. The last time the event was played at Quail Hollow came in 2017, when Justin Thomas clinched a win with a margin of two strokes over Francesco Molinari, Louis Oosthuizen, and Patrick Reed.
