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, PGA TOUR in Japan for ZOZO; DP World Tour in South Korea for Genesis; Boutier Defends in Malaysia.
Previewing the ZOZO Championship: A Clash of Golf Titans in Japan
As the golf world turns its sights to the east, players are finishing up their final preparations for one of the most compelling arenas in late-year golf—the ZOZO Championship in Japan. Held at the prestigious Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club, this tournament always promises top-tier golf competitions and a unique cultural experience for the stars of the PGA TOUR.
This year, many eyes will be on defending champion Collin Morikawa. His impressive performance last year, with a final-round 63 and a come-from-behind win, marked his first since his 2021 Open Championship title. Morikawa's journey back to defend his title is packed with the usual pressure and expectations. Names like Xander Schauffele, Hideki Matsuyama, Sahith Theegala, Sungjae Im, Max Homa, and Justin Thomas will all be gunning for the title this week in Japan. But Morikawa's comfort and familiarity with the course may give him a slight edge against this very stacked field.
One of the captivating aspects of this championship is its ability to draw a unique mix of international talent.
Xander Schauffele, a fan favorite with deep Japanese roots, is among those aiming to topple Morikawa from the pinnacle. Additionally, Hideki Matsuyama, the 7th-ranked player in the world, hailing from Japan, will be eager to showcase his prowess on home soil, adding an extra layer of excitement for local fans.
This tournament is significant as it contributes crucial points toward the FedExCup standings. Many this week will have a chance to secure positioning for next year's season while showcasing their skills against some of the globe's best golfers.
The ZOZO Championship isn't just about the players, though. The course itself is a masterpiece, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese landscapes with challenging golf terrain. Designed with strategic double greens, the Narashino Country Club demands precision, creativity, and careful strategic planning. Players will find their limits tested as they navigate the course's intricate layout.
Storylines abound, from veterans seeking a comeback victory after a tough season to young guns aiming to leave their mark. This week, the ZOZO will serve as a microcosm of golf's ever-evolving and unpredictable nature.
Anticipation Builds for the 2024 Genesis Championship
As the Genesis Championship draws close, a pivotal event in the DP World Tour season, anticipation is at its peak come the Wednesday of tournament week. This tournament is not just any tournament; it marks the conclusion of the regular season, where the stakes are high for many. Held at the illustrious Jack Nicklaus Golf Club, the 2024 Genesis Championship will see the merger of two previous events: the KPGA TOUR's Genesis Championship and the DP World Tour's previous Korea Championship. An impressive field of 90 DP World Tour players alongside 30 KPGA TOUR professionals will be the result of this collaboration.
This week will provide a thrilling wrap-up to what's been coined the "Back 9," a final stretch of the DP World Tour schedule leading up to the playoffs. With 114 slots available to secure full playing privileges for next year, the tension among the players hovering around the bubble is palpable. Presently, Freddy Schott is the man holding onto the crucial 114th spot, while players like Marco Penge are vying to break into this elite group and avoid returning to Qualifying School.
On another front, the battle for a place in the playoffs is equally intense.
Only the top 70 players will progress to the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. Sean Crocker, perched precariously at 69th, is under pressure to maintain his standing, but he is not at all alone in his pursuit this week.
This year's merging of two championships underscores a strategic alliance that expands opportunities for KPGA TOUR players. The presence of local stars like Tom Kim, who, by the way, is my favorite this week, and Byeong Hun An is sure to draw substantial local interest, doubling the excitement of the week. No doubt, the Genesis Championship promises to be an electrifying spectacle this week in South Korea.
Celine Boutier Defends This Week in Malaysia
Held at the picturesque Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club in Malaysia, the LPGA's Maybank Championship is once again set to provide an exciting week of golf for fans on the ground and those watching at home. What makes the Maybank Championship particularly interesting is the diverse field of talented players it attracts from all around the globe. Twenty-three nations are represented in the field this week, once again showcasing the wide reach women's professional golf has.
Last year, fans were treated to an epic nine-hole playoff between Celine Boutier and Jeeno Thitikul, one of the longest playoffs in Tour history. Boutier walked away the winner after that marathon finish, notching her sixth career win and her fourth of the 2023 season.
Celine Boutier is, without question, a player to keep an eye on this year.
Not only is she the defending champ, but she also comes into this week with a lot of momentum on her side, including a tie for ninth at the Buick LPGA Shanghai two weeks ago and a runner-up finish at the BMW Ladies Championship last week. Her adeptness at handling pressure is remarkable, making her a formidable competitor in the field.
As the kick-off to this year's Maybank Championship draws near, the blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars makes this a tournament rich with excitement and ample potential storylines. Will we be treated to another epic playoff finish like last year, or will someone win wire-to-wire like we saw at last week's BMW Ladies Championship? We will have to wait and see.
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.
