Jon Rahm hugs caddie after winning the 2022 Acciona Open de España // Credit: alamy.com
"Wednesday Fairway Focus" is a weekly look at golf's major tours. PGA Professional Brendon Elliott, a three-decade industry veteran, provides his insights for RG.org. In this installment, Canada hosts the Presidents Cup, the DP World Tour is in Spain, and Arkansas tees up the LPGA Tour.
Presidents Cup Heads North of the Boarder
The 2024 Presidents Cup is upon us, and this year's event promises an exhilarating mix of camaraderie, intense competition, and world-class golf. Held at the illustrious Royal Montreal Golf Club from September 24-29, 2024, this event marks a return to one of golf's most storied venues.
Founded in 1873, Royal Montreal is North America's oldest golf club, steeped in prestige and history. The Blue Course, designed by renowned architect Dick Wilson and later updated by Rees Jones, poses a challenging yet fair test to the world's best golfers. With its lush fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens, the stage is set for an unforgettable week of golf.
Turning our attention to the teams, the U.S. and the International boast impressive rosters filled with some of the game's biggest stars. Heavyweights like Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Collin Morikawa lead the U.S. charge. Their lineup also includes rising stars such as Sahith Theegala, who seems poised to make a significant impact.
On the International side, Hideki Matsuyama commands respect with his precise play and calm demeanor.
Seasoned stars like Adam Scott and emerging talents like Tom Kim and Corey Conners will accompany him. The blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm could be the formula needed to challenge the U.S. team's dominance in this event.
Speaking of that dominance, the U.S. Team has been an absolute powerhouse in the Presidents Cup. Securing their ninth consecutive victory in 2022, they showcased their depth and resilience with a 17.5 - 12.5 win. The Americans improved their overall record to 12-1-1, a testament to their consistency and competitive edge in this biennial event.
The dynamics surrounding how pairings will be made and the strategies employed by both teams' captains, Jim Furyk for the Americans and Mike Weir for the Internationals, will be fascinating to watch. The Royal Montreal Golf Club's layout will undoubtedly test every aspect of the player's games, from driving to putting.
Oh Captian My Captian- All Eyes on Bradley
This week at the 2024 Presidents Cup, all eyes will be on Keegan Bradley, who not only brings his immense talent to the U.S. Team but will also serve as the Captain for the 2025 Ryder Cup. Known for his tenacious competitive spirit and clutch performances under pressure, Bradley's presence is sure to inspire his teammates as they take on the International Team at Royal Montreal Golf Club.
My Prediction
As we close in on getting the 2024 Presidents Cup matches going, my prediction leans heavily towards the U.S. Team once again pulling out a victory. This squad is simply too solid, boasting a lineup that combines both seasoned champions and rising stars. With players like Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, and Xander Schauffele leading the charge, the depth of talent and experience on this U.S. Team is unparalleled.
Their recent history is a testament to their dominance, having secured nine consecutive victories and improving to a 12-1-1 record overall.
These players have faced immense pressure and hostile environments before and consistently risen to the occasion. The cohesion and synergy within this team, coupled with their individual skills, make them a formidable unit.
Given the challenges posed by Royal Montreal's Blue Course, the U.S. squad's versatility and adaptability will be key factors. It's just too solid of a group to lose this week.
DP World Tour in Spain
Madrid is buzzing with golf excitement this week as the Club de Campo Villa de Madrid hosts the 2024 Acciona Open de España. Here's what you need to know.
Jon Rahm is looking to make history by becoming the first-ever four-time winner of the event. With previous wins in 2018, 2019, and 2022, Rahm is joined by fellow Spanish heavyweights like Rafa Cabrera Bello and Alvaro Quiros. The field is packed with talent, including familiar Spanish names such as Nacho Elvira and Pablo Larrazábal.
Ryder Cup stars are also in the mix. Rahm's Team Europe buddies will be competing, including Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, and Sepp Straka. Add to that the American flair of Patrick Reed and Jimmy Walker, and you've got a recipe for some thrilling golf action.
Last year's champion, Matthieu Pavon, returns after a breakout year. His victory in Madrid last October, highlighted by emotional scenes on the final green, has propelled his career to new heights. Winning the Farmers Insurance Open and achieving solid finishes in other tournaments have set Pavon up as a player to watch.
This event is part of "The Back 9" series, crucial for those eyeing the top 110 spots on the Race to Dubai Rankings to secure their DP World Tour cards for 2025. The top 70 will qualify for the prestigious Phase Three, the DP World Tour Play-Offs, starting in November.
My Prediction
I'm going out on a limb and riding with the defending champ, Matthieu Pavon, this week. He has been solid all year and has good vibes coming into the Club de Campo Villa de Madrid.
LPGA Tour Heads to Arkansas
This week, the LPGA Tour heads to Arkansas for the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship, presented by P&G. Since its inception in 2007, this tournament has become one of the favorite stops for players and fans, boasting a competitive field and a vibrant atmosphere. Prominent past winners include Se-yeon Kim, known for her calm under pressure, and Brooke Henderson, celebrated for her powerful drives and consistent play. Each year, the event provides exceptional golf and community engagement with activities such as the 5K @ the LPGA and the #BiteNWA culinary experience.
This year, many eyes are on Lilia Vu, a remarkable talent in the LPGA. Vu has been showcasing impressive form, blending precision with strategic acumen on the course. Considering her recent performances, she stands out as a strong contender for this year's title. Her exceptional ability to handle high-pressure situations and her all-around game make her a top pick to add her name to the prestigious list of champions at the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship.
Tune in to The Golf Channel to see if my pick, Lilia Vu, can clinch the title in Arkansas.
Brendon Elliott, a distinguished PGA Professional, is best known for his dedication to the growth and development of junior golf. With nearly three decades of experience, Elliott has been recognized multiple times as one of the best instructors, both regionally and nationally.
Elliott's crowning achievement was being named the 2017 PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award Winner, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication. He is the founder of Little Linksters, an award-winning youth golf academy and nonprofit that works with kids of all abilities to help them develop a passion for golf. His innovative teaching methods and love for the game have made significant impacts on students and the broader golfing community.
Additionally, Brendon, a Golf Writers Association of America member, has become a renowned freelance golf writer, further solidifying his position as a top professional in the industry.
