Welcome to The Weekly Slice.
I hope you’re getting out on the golf course.
I won’t lie, I wish I was out playing golf with Rory in Dubai, because golf in the UK certainly isn’t much fun right now.
Luckily I’ve got the waterproof golf socks to keep my feet dry.
Anyway, let’s see what’s been happening in the world of golf.
Let’s talk golf.
Tour Roundup
PGA Tour
Nick Dunlap, a 20-year-old university student, made history by becoming the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event since 1991, winning at The American Express in La Quinta, California.
Despite his amateur status, he had complete control of the tournament throughout which included a 12 under par 60 in the third round.
He finished the tournament at 29 under par, which also set a new scoring record for the event.
Dunlap’s win was clinched with a nerve-wracking 6ft par putt on the final hole, edging out South African Christiaan Bezuidenhout by one shot and meant he couldn’t claim the $1.5 million prize because of his amateur status.
Bezuidenhout certainly wasn’t complaining though as it meant that the winner’s cheque went to him instead.
This victory not only showcases Dunlap’s immense talent but also his potential future in professional golf.
His decision about turning professional was uncertain, however, yesterday the 20-year-old announced he would be turning pro.
As the current US Amateur champion, Dunlap already had invites to play in The Masters, US Open and Open Championship.
However, with this victory, he gets full professional status on the PGA Tour for two years, an invite to both the Masters and PGA Championship, plus access to all the signature events on the PGA Tour for this season.
The win also jumps him up from 4102nd to 68th in the Official World Golf Rankings, the biggest jump be any player ever.
This week the PGA Tour is in San Diego for the Farmers Insurance Open. Max Homa will be looking to defend his title from last year and add a 7th PGA Tour victory to his name.
DP World Tour
Rory McIlroy clinched a record fourth victory at the Dubai Desert Classic last weekend.
This win, following a runner-up finish at the Dubai Invitational the week before, marks a strong start to his season and another great finish in a long list of Dubai successes.
McIlroy’s win was particularly notable as he overcame a 10-shot deficit at the halfway point, including a nine-under 63 in the third round and a 70 in the final round, securing him a one-shot victory over Adrian Meronk.
Despite the win and strong start to the season, McIlroy remains cautiously optimistic about his chances at the Masters, understanding the unique challenges of Augusta.
The DP World Tour remains in the Middle East this week for the Ras Al Khaimah Championship in UAE.
LPGA Tour
Lydia Ko once again proved her mettle by clinching her 20th career LPGA Tour win at the Hilton Grand Vacations Tournament of Champions in Orlando.
This victory marks a significant comeback for Ko, especially after a challenging 2023 season that saw her struggle to find her form.
Ko displayed her trademark resilience, finishing with a two-under-par 70 in the final round, securing the win at 14 under par.
Starting the final day with a two-shot lead, she maintained her composure throughout, despite the challenging conditions and the pressure from her competitors.
This win is more than just another title for Ko; it’s a reaffirmation of her status as one of the top players in women’s golf and a step closer to the LPGA Tour Hall of Fame.
Something Funny
What’s not to like about an island green?!
Something Extra
Also, here’s a few of our recent articles for you to get stuck into.
Founder, Editor
Ed is the founder and editor at EEE Golf. He’s been playing golf for over 20 years, competing in many top amateur events. He’s played courses all over the world and played with some of the best players in the game. His aim is to help educate people about the game of golf and give insights into the sport he loves most.