This week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, Florida, marks the reunion of golf’s top three ranked players.
For the first time since last season’s Tour Championship, Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele, the world’s top three golfers, will all participate in the same PGA Tour event.
Xander Schauffele, absent since early January due to a rib injury, expressed his enthusiasm for returning after recovering. Scheffler, a two-time API winner, also faced an injury earlier in the season. McIlroy, after playing in Dubai, secured a victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in February.
Tiger Woods’ Schedule
Tiger Woods is unlikely to compete in the upcoming Players Championship. Following his mother’s death in February, Woods mentioned he has not been practicing much and his focus is currently elsewhere.
It appears increasingly probable that Woods will not participate in any tournaments before the Masters in April, although he is currently listed in the Masters field.
Woods last played in a PGA Tour event at The Open in July. He withdrew from the Genesis Invitational in February and recently watched his daughter win a state soccer championship.
DeChambeau Refutes Claims
Bryson DeChambeau has denied reports suggesting dissatisfaction with his LIV Golf contract. He affirmed his commitment to LIV Golf and his team, Crushers GC, emphasizing his excitement for the league’s future.
DeChambeau mentioned testing a new golf ball in preparation for the Masters, where he had a strong showing last year.
PGA Tour and LIV Golf Negotiations
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan indicated ongoing discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund regarding a potential agreement to unify professional golf, although immediate optimism seems limited.
Monahan described a recent meeting with PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan and Donald Trump as a positive step in complex negotiations. He acknowledged that fan feedback supports reunification of the tours.
Monahan expressed hope for a resolution that benefits the PGA Tour and the broader game of golf in the long term, despite potential challenges in satisfying all parties involved.
Aberg’s New Home Advantage
Ludvig Åberg, who has quickly adapted to the PGA Tour, now benefits from a home-course advantage at the Players Championship. He relocated to the Jacksonville area and practices at TPC Sawgrass.
Aberg, fresh off a win at the Genesis Invitational, has been practicing at TPC Sawgrass, focusing on short game techniques suited to the course conditions. He performed well at last year’s Players Championship and appreciates the challenging nature of TPC Sawgrass.
Homa Takes Social Media Break
Max Homa, known for his engaging social media presence, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), has taken a break from the platform. He cited a need to disengage from the app’s less enjoyable aspects and plans to focus on other platforms like TikTok.
