RG's "Wednesday Fairway Focus" is a weekly look at golf's major tours. PGA Professional Brendon Elliott, a three-decade industry veteran, provides his insights. In this installment, FedExCup Fall Series Heads to Utah; Vive La Golf! DP World Tour's FedEx Open de France; LPGA in Shanghai
The Beauty of Utah Golf On Full Display in PGA TOUR Inaugural Event
This week, the PGA TOUR is set to unveil a brand new event – the Black Desert Championship at the stunning Black Desert Resort in Ivins, Utah. Nestled amidst the breathtaking red rock landscapes, this tournament promises a fresh challenge for the TOUR, with a backdrop that will captivate players and fans.
The Black Desert Resort course, designed by the renowned Tom Weiskopf, is anticipated to test the field this week with its unique and challenging layout. With expansive fairways and strategically placed bunkers, this Weiskof gem contrasts the rugged beauty of Utah's natural terrain with the meticulously designed greens, promising an intriguing test for the players.
Among those in the field you should pay close attention to this week is Beau Hossler, last week's runner-up. Coming in with significant momentum, Beau's recent performance highlighted his exceptional ability as a premium ball striker when he's on. Hossler's strategic prowess and ability to navigate a course could help him triumph over Black Desert's distinctive challenges, making him a player to watch.
Another contender of note this week is Keith Mitchell. His tactical prowess and ability to navigate any golf course will almost certainly make him a force to be reckoned with as the week progresses. Others to watch include Seamus Power, Nick Taylor, and Stephan Jaeger, who has had a win, 3 top 10's and 9 top 25's.
As we look forward to the unfolding drama this week, the Black Desert Championship is poised to become a great addition to the PGA TOUR and its FedExCup Fall series.
Matthieu Pavon of France plays his second shot on the ninth hole during day two of the BMW PGA Championship 2024 at Wentworth Club (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
Vive La Golf! DP Tour's FedEx Open de France Puts French Back on Golf's Center Stage
As we turn our attention to the DP World Tour, we once again set our sights on Le Golf National, host of this year's Olympic Golf competition, but this time for the FedEx Open de France. The rich tapestry of French golf, from its courses to its professional golfers, will be on full display in the scenic outskirts of Paris. This isn't just another tournament on the DP World Tour; it's Continental Europe's oldest national open, and it's brimming with stories.
Let's talk more about French golf. It has ascended as a force to be reckoned with in the world of golf. Matthieu Pavon, a name every insider knows, has carved a path into the top echelons of the global rankings, pocketing wins on both the DP World and PGA Tours. But he's not the sole flag-bearer for the proud country that France is. The French contingent is formidable, from Romain Langasque, who is climbing the Race to Dubai rankings, to upcoming stars like Ugo Coussaud and Jeong Weon Ke. And, for my money, there's a good chance a homegrown talent might clutch the trophy this Sunday, a moment that would surely make the nation proud.
A player to watch for sure this week is Francesco Molinari.
His 2018 Ryder Cup performance here at Le Golf National is the stuff of legend. He hasn't played this course since he made Ryder Cup history alongside Tommy Fleetwood, which, by the way, was a pairing and bromance for the ages. Yet, with his history of strong finishes at this venue, he might have another standout chapter up his sleeve.
Le Golf National itself is a storied arena, a word engrained deeply with history. Since its inauguration in 1990 and hosting its first Open de France the following year, it's seen amateur and professional titans unfold memorable moments on its celebrated course. The 2018 Ryder Cup is perhaps its crowning glory, a European triumph Euro fans won't soon forget.
As the Race to Dubai rankings become more crucial by the week, who will steal the show this week at Le Golf National? That's the million-dollar question as players battle it out for spots in the upcoming tour playoffs.
I have a few players to keep in mind, and, if you are the betting type, ones you could make a wager or two on. With his win at the BMW PGA Championship and a runner-up finish at The Open, his last two starts on the DP World Tour, watch for Billy Horschel to make some noise. Others to watch include Thorbjørn Olesen and the two French standouts Matthieu Pavon and Victor Perez.
LPGA in Shanghai
This week, the world of women's golf gears up for the Buick LPGA Shanghai, held at Qizhong Garden Golf Club. Set against the dynamic backdrop of Shanghai, this event continues to showcase the global reach of the LPGA and women's golf.
The Buick LPGA Shanghai has been an integral part of the tour since its inception in 2018 and stands as a testament to the LPGA's growth and international appeal. The tournament has nested itself into the picturesque Qizhong Garden Golf Club, and this course, with its challenging layout and lush scenery, provides both a strategic test and a visual feast for the best female players in the world.
Defending champ, Angel Yin is my player to watch this week.
Yin will surely be oozing with good vibes at Qizhong Garden Golf Club. Last year, Yin won her first event on the LPGA Tour here by way of a thrilling playoff victory over the then-ranked World No. 1 player Lilia Vu.
Others to watch this week include Jeeno Thitikul, Hannah Green, Patty Tavatanakit, and Jasmine Suwannapura, who is coming off her win at the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G.
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.
