Daily News 19

Tag: PGA Tour

  • Trump Pardons PGA Tour Caddie’s Drug Conviction to Allow Play in British Open

    Trump Pardons PGA Tour Caddie’s Drug Conviction to Allow Play in British Open

    Key Highlights

    • Former President Donald Trump issued a presidential pardon for Eric Larson, a golf caddy who had already completed an 11-year prison sentence.
    • The pardon enables Larson to travel internationally for PGA Tour events, including the British Open, which he was unable to attend last year due to travel restrictions.
    • Larson’s conviction stemmed from a non-violent offense, and the clemency action was taken specifically to restore his ability to work at major golf championships abroad.

    Trump Grants Clemency to Caddy Eric Larson, Restoring Access to International PGA Events

    Former President Donald Trump has exercised his executive clemency power to grant a full pardon to Eric Larson, a professional golf caddy who had previously served an 11-year prison term. The decision, confirmed through official channels, removes the remaining legal barriers that prevented Larson from accompanying players to tournaments outside the United States, most notably the British Open Championship.

    Background on the Conviction and Travel Restrictions

    Larson’s criminal conviction, which resulted in more than a decade of incarceration, had imposed severe limitations on his international mobility even after his release. As a caddy on the PGA Tour, his profession requires frequent travel to major championships in the United Kingdom and other overseas destinations. The British Open, golf’s oldest major championship, rotates among links courses in Scotland and England, making a valid passport and unrestricted entry essential for any caddy seeking to work the event.

    Missed Opportunity at Royal Liverpool

    The practical impact of these restrictions became evident last year when Larson was forced to miss the 151st Open Championship at Royal Liverpool. His absence highlighted the career-limiting consequences of a felony record for professionals in global sports. Sources close to the situation indicate that the pardon was pursued specifically to resolve this impediment, allowing Larson to resume his full duties on the international tour circuit.

    Why This Matters

    The pardon of Eric Larson illustrates the intersection of criminal justice reform and professional sports licensing. For individuals with felony convictions, careers in industries requiring international travel—such as professional golf, tennis, or motorsports—often remain inaccessible long after sentences are served. Presidential clemency in this case functions not merely as a symbolic gesture but as a functional restoration of livelihood. The decision also reflects a broader pattern of Trump using pardon authority for individuals in his social and professional orbit, particularly within the golf community where he maintains extensive business and personal ties. For the PGA Tour and its members, the ruling ensures that a veteran caddy can return to elite competition without bureaucratic obstruction.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What was Eric Larson convicted of?

    The source material indicates Larson served an 11-year sentence but does not specify the underlying offense. It is described as a non-violent crime that resulted in felony travel restrictions.

    Does a presidential pardon erase the conviction record?

    A presidential pardon restores civil rights and removes legal disabilities such as travel bans, but it does not automatically expunge or seal the conviction record itself.

    Can Larson now work all PGA Tour events internationally?

    Yes. The pardon clears the federal barriers to international travel, allowing Larson to obtain necessary visas and enter the United Kingdom for the British Open and other overseas tournaments on the PGA Tour schedule.

  • Tiger Woods Closer to Return

    Tiger Woods Closer to Return

    Tiger Woods has remained largely absent from public life since the car accident he was involved in during March. However, this week he may participate in several Nexus Cup matches in New York, a charitable event with which he is associated.

    Woods Spotted Practicing at Liberty National

    Today, the Californian was seen hitting balls on the practice range at Liberty National Golf Club. During the clinic he conducted, Woods was asked about the progress of his game. He replied: “I can hit pretty much anything.” Observers noted a very smooth swing during the session.

    Extended Absence from Competitive Golf

    Woods has not played a competitive round since the 2024 British Open at Royal Troon, marking more than two years away from tournament play. On March 11, 2025, he underwent surgery after rupturing his left Achilles tendon. In October of that same year, he had his seventh back surgery to replace a disc in his lower back.

    Previous Setbacks and Legal Issues

    A potential return had been considered for the last Masters, until he was involved in an accident that resulted in a five-year driver’s license suspension. The golfer pleaded guilty to reckless driving and to refusing to submit to a legal test following the incident. Before settling his case with the U.S. Justice Department, Woods spent three months in a rehabilitation center in Switzerland.

    Speculation Surrounds Baycurrent Classic Appearance

    Recently, there has been discussion regarding the possible participation of the 15-time Major winner in the Baycurrent Classic, scheduled for October 8 to 11. The PGA Tour event is held in Japan, and Woods’s image appears on the promotional poster. However, he has not confirmed anything related to a potential return to competition.

  • PGA Tour Not Planning Return Program for LIV Golf Stars

    PGA Tour Not Planning Return Program for LIV Golf Stars

    PGA Tour Emphasizes Meritocracy as DP World Tour Pathway Remains Uncertain

    The PGA Tour has reinforced its commitment to merit-based entry as negotiations continue with the DP World Tour over the number of players who will earn promotion to the American circuit. Starting in 2028, the PGA Tour plans to split into Championship and Challenger tiers, introducing a promotion and relegation system that could reshape how golfers ascend to the top level.

    Rules and Accountability Remain Central

    PGA Tour executive Ron Rolapp underscored that the organization’s structure is built on earned opportunity. “The PGA Tour is built on meritocracy,” Rolapp said. “Every player, whether they are a member or want to become one, must earn their place.”

    He stressed that the tour’s regulations serve a broader purpose. “We are a membership organisation; we have rules, and those rules exist for lots of reasons, including fairness and competitive balance. Rules matter, and they must be enforced.”

    Rolapp added: “Accountability and discipline, these are essential elements for any sports league and are certainly for the integrity of the PGA Tour and the sport. It’s what holds the tour together.”

    “Those are guiding principles for us.”

    DP World Tour Negotiations Still Unresolved

    Currently, the top 10 finishers on the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai secure PGA Tour cards for the following season. However, that allocation may be reduced as discussions progress. Rolapp confirmed no agreement has been finalized.

    “That’s very much under discussion both internally and as we continue our discussions with the DP World Tour,” Rolapp said.

    He characterized the talks as collaborative but complex. “The spirit of those conversations are very productive. Both sides are trying to think creatively about how we modify and improve the relationship we have.”

    “Like any discussions, there’s things we agree on, things we don’t agree on, things we’re trying to work through, and we’ll continue to do that.”

    McIlroy Questions Appeal of Challenger Series

    Rory McIlroy, a two-time Masters champion, said he is not concerned by the ongoing negotiations but warned that the proposed Challenger Series may not attract DP World Tour players.

    “I don’t see any reason why a DP World Tour player would go to the Challenger Series,” said the two-time Masters champion. “I don’t see that as an upward move in your career. I see it as a very lateral move.”

    McIlroy added: “No one’s going to argue that the Championship Series is going to be the highest level of tour golf that you can play, and then it’s just deciding what an adequate number of cards is to go from here to the Championship Series.”

    The outcome of these discussions will determine the competitive landscape for international players seeking a pathway to the PGA Tour’s elite tier, with implications for tour membership, scheduling, and the broader professional golf ecosystem.

  • LIV Bankruptcy Protection: What’s Next for Players as PGA Tour and DP World Tour Wait?

    LIV Bankruptcy Protection: What’s Next for Players as PGA Tour and DP World Tour Wait?

    Court documents reveal that LIV Golf estimates its assets between $100 million and $500 million (£74 million–£370 million), while liabilities range from $500 million to $1 billion (£370 million–£739 million). The proposed restructuring, dubbed LIV 2.0, is intended to be built around a sustainable business model.

    Player Retention Emerges as Critical Hurdle

    It remains unclear how many of LIV’s current players will commit to the new entity. Although LIV executives are optimistic about transitioning to a new era early next year, both the bankruptcy filing and the first U.S. court hearing on Wednesday underscored that player retention is the pivotal issue, with tight deadlines and stringent criteria.

    Key Milestones and the 35-Day Deadline

    The bankruptcy paperwork outlines several key milestones. Most immediately, within 35 days of the petition, a requisite number of players must have entered into the restructuring agreement. The documents define this threshold precisely:

    Requisite players’ means players holding eligible player claims… that equal or exceed (a) 2/3 in amount and (b) 1/2 in number of such eligible player claims held by all players.

    In practical terms, at least half of all players with claims against LIV Golf need to sign on to LIV 2.0 by mid-October. Because the largest claims belong to the sport’s biggest names, securing commitments from several top players is essential.

    Top Creditors Headlined by Jon Rahm

    Jon Rahm leads the list of unsecured creditors, owed $7.5 million (£5.5 million) for the third quarter of this year. The next four largest claimants are Bryson DeChambeau, Dustin Johnson, Cameron Smith, and Adrian Meronk.

  • Brooks Koepka Gives Muted Response to Tiger Woods’ League Debut While Owed $1.7M by LIV

    Brooks Koepka Gives Muted Response to Tiger Woods’ League Debut While Owed $1.7M by LIV

    Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour has not gone according to plan, with the five-time major champion securing just one top-10 finish. Adding to the setback, recent revelations show he is still owed $1.7 million after LIV Golf filed for bankruptcy, leaving the breakaway circuit he championed in tatters.

    Koepka Returns at Irish Open After Bahamas Trip

    Koepka returns to action at the Irish Open on Thursday, fresh off a trip to the Bahamas. He is looking to “completely reevaluate everything” in his game ahead of the 2027 season. Quitting LIV for a United States-heavy schedule has also given him more time at home with wife Jena Sims and their three-year-old son, Crew.

    “I’ve had a blast. It’s been a bunch of fun,” Koepka said. “Everybody’s happy. My wife’s happy, I’d say my son’s happy, and I’m happy, so that’s all that matters.”

    TGL Debut with Motor City Golf Club

    Koepka still has opportunities to play on the PGA Tour’s fall schedule if he wishes and will make his debut in Tiger Woods’ TGL for the 2027 season. He has joined the expansion Motor City Golf Club, which is set to represent Detroit when the third edition begins at SoFi Center — not far from his Florida home.

    “I felt comfortable when I met with [TGL],” he said. “It’s something to do.

    “It’s close by, and I think if you kind of look at it, the guys who have played well over the last little bit have played in it.”

    “I don’t know if there’s an advantage to it or not. But it seems like something fun, something I’m interested in. I think it will be a cool experience.”

    Fan Reaction to Koepka’s TGL Comments

    Fans were loving Koepka’s muted response.

    “It’s something to do.” —Brooks Koepka on TGL,” one fan wrote.

    “It’s like a blurb you see on a book jacket from a famous person who hates both the author and the book, but is willing to do them a favor.”

    Working with Pete Cowen and Ricky Elliott at Portrush

    Koepka has been working with coach Pete Cowen and caddie Ricky Elliott looking to hit form in Portrush.

    “It’s hard to tell. It’s just practice,” he told the Mirror when asked if it was working. “You can’t really get a feel for it until the competition. But, everything feels like it’s going in the right direction.

    “I’m just trying to stay positive. I still believe I can go win any week, any day, any tournament. But when you’re putting like that and it’s holding you back, it’s very tough to win.

    “You’ve just got to deal with it and move on and make some changes.”

    Son Crew Shows Early Interest in Golf

    His son is also showing early signs he could carry on the family legacy.

    “He hits it around a little bit,” Koepka added. “I think more when he sees me prep for an event or my clubs kind of sitting by the front door for a day.

    “Knowing I’m going to leave, he likes to play a little bit more. He enjoys it. We’ve got a warehouse. He goes over there and knocks the ball around and just enjoys being around it, I guess.”

    “I would say he’s not too interested in sports right now. Everything is Hot Wheels, Monster Jam, anything car-related, he’s pretty into. And airplanes. So I just let him pick. I’m not going to force anything down his throat.”

  • Tour Championship: Viktor Hovland Tied for Lead Heading Into Weekend

    Tour Championship: Viktor Hovland Tied for Lead Heading Into Weekend

    Viktor Hovland and Ryan Gerard share the lead at 10 under par after the second round of the Tour Championship in Atlanta, setting up a closely contested weekend in the PGA Tour’s season-ending event.

    Hovland, the 2023 FedEx Cup champion, birdied the final hole to complete a four-under-par 66. Gerard had earlier set the clubhouse target with a five-under 65.

    Hovland’s putting once again played a key role, while Gerard responded with one of the round’s most memorable moments by holing a spectacular 78-foot birdie putt that travelled the length of the seventh green.

    Morikawa and Gotterup remain in contention

    Collin Morikawa and Chris Gotterup are joint third at nine under. World number one Scottie Scheffler recovered from two early bogeys with a 67 and is two shots off the lead.

    Cameron Young, winner of the Players Championship in March, is also on eight under after a scintillating 62 featuring seven birdies and an eagle on the par-five 18th.

    England’s Justin Rose and Matt Fitzpatrick are three strokes behind the leaders at seven under and remain firmly in contention for Sunday’s $10m (£7.4m) prize.

    Rose produced a bogey-free 65, but Rory McIlroy endured another mixed day. The Northern Irishman opened with a birdie but was two over par after four holes.

    McIlroy’s frustration was clear on the third hole. After missing the green with his approach, he twice failed to chip onto the putting surface from the same spot and eventually made a double bogey.

    He recovered with two birdies over the final three holes, but the Masters champion will need to make significant progress on Saturday from his current position, tied for 23rd at three under.

    MacIntyre struggles after the turn

    Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre also had a difficult second round, particularly on the back nine.

    The 30-year-old made three consecutive bogeys before adding a double bogey on the par-three 15th after finding water off the tee. He signed for a six-over 76 and, alongside Min Woo Lee and Xander Schauffele, was one of only three players to finish the second round over par.

    MacIntyre’s route to a bogey on the 18th was unusual, but not as unusual as Jacob Bridgeman’s. Bridgeman’s wayward tee shot landed inside a stall selling pizza.

    Tour Championship leaderboard after round two

    • -10: Ryan Gerard (US), Viktor Hovland (Nor)
    • -9: Collin Morikawa (US), Chris Gotterup (US)
    • -8: Scottie Scheffler (US), Cameron Young (US)
    • -7: Matt Fitzpatrick (Eng), Justin Rose (Eng), Adam Scott (Aus), Ludvig Aberg (Swe)
    • -6: Ryan Fox (NZ)
    • -4: Tommy Fleetwood (Eng), Alex Fitzpatrick (Eng), Wyndham Clark (US)
    • -3: Rory McIlroy (NI)
    • +3: Robert MacIntyre (Sco)

    Source: www.bbc.com

  • Tour Championship: Scottie Scheffler Wins Second PGA Tour Season-Ending Title

    Tour Championship: Scottie Scheffler Wins Second PGA Tour Season-Ending Title

    Scottie Scheffler leads the leaderboard at 16 under par with a total score of 264.

    Alex Fitzpatrick is second at 11 under par, finishing on 269. Xander Schauffele follows in third place at 9 under par with a score of 271.

    Leaderboard

    Position Player Score Total Status
    1 Scottie Scheffler 16 under par 264 Finished
    2 Alex Fitzpatrick 11 under par 269 Finished
    3 Xander Schauffele 9 under par 271 Finished
    4 Hideki Matsuyama 5 under par 275 Finished
    4 Matthew Fitzpatrick 5 under par 275 Finished
    6 Robert MacIntyre Level par 280 Finished

    Source: www.bbc.com

  • Tour Championship: Alex Fitzpatrick on Stepping Out of Matt’s Shadow

    Tour Championship: Alex Fitzpatrick on Stepping Out of Matt’s Shadow

    Alex Fitzpatrick quickly discovered how dramatically life can change after winning on the PGA Tour. While celebrating his Zurich Classic pairs victory alongside his older brother, world No. 4 Matt Fitzpatrick, Alex received an unexpected congratulations from basketball legend Michael Jordan at a golf club north of Palm Beach, Florida.

    “I look over and it’s Michael Jordan,” Fitzpatrick says. “I’m like ‘wow’, it’s insane.”

    “He walks past the table. He’s got a bag full of cigars, t-shirt untucked, he looks like the coolest person ever.”

    “He walked past me, saw Gary Woodland, who won the previous week, and was like ‘wow, it’s a room of winners in here’. That was the coolest thing ever.”

    “When I started to really love basketball, I watched videos of him. I love his shoes. I loved everything about him. It was surreal having that moment.”

    “I’m not someone who gets starstruck but Michael Jordan, having him say stuff to me, it was a different world.”

    That world now appears to be one Fitzpatrick is increasingly comfortable inhabiting. Alongside his maiden DP World Tour victory at the Indian Open in March, he has recorded five top-10 finishes in 13 PGA Tour starts.

    Some critics questioned whether Fitzpatrick deserved the two-year tour card he received after winning the Zurich Classic in April. His performances in 2026, however, have strengthened his case for competing alongside the world’s best golfers.

    Fitzpatrick is so confident in his place among the elite that he has not relied heavily on Matt for advice.

    “The truth is, we haven’t spoken that much about a lot of stuff. I’ve picked his brain once this year, maybe twice,” he says.

    “I feel comfortable out here and comfortable around the group of people playing on this tour.”

    “I’ve been doing this a long time, I’ve been playing golf since I was four.”

    “I haven’t asked him a lot of questions about how things work, maybe how to get better with certain things.”

    “He’s always someone I can text or call but he’s still my brother and that’s more important than the golf side.”