A view of downtown Augusta, Kentucky, population 1,101, according to the latest United States Census data. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
AUGUSTA, KY. — The town of Augusta is a riverside enclave along the Ohio River known for its scenic charm, deep bourbon ties, and Hollywood legacy.
The Benchmark Coffee is a newer downtown café. From there, Augusta Tourism Director Janet Hunt led a walking tour of the town’s historic core and waterfront, which once played a significant role in river trade and settlement in Bracken County. Augusta, with a population of just over 1,000, was founded in 1786 and incorporated in 1850.
“You might argue with your buddy one day, but by the next, you’re friends again. If anything happened in your family, the town came together,” Hunt said, describing Augusta’s welcoming spirit.
Mid-morning, the group headed to Augusta Distillery for the “River Proof Barrel Experience.” Founded in 2018, Augusta Distillery evolved from independent bottling into full-scale distilling, and today emphasizes small-batch bourbon and an immersive guest experience.Under the guidance of Tracie Inskeep, visitors sampled from three barrels, “popping the bung,” pouring with a thief, and hand-labeling a bottle to take home. The distillery touts its position on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and highlights the Ohio River’s influence in shaping Kentucky’s bourbon industry.
USS Nightmare (above) is a massive steamboat turned haunted attraction docked on the Ohio River. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
Over lunch at TableTop Traditions, guests fueled up before the afternoon visit to the Rosemary Clooney House. Clooney, the beloved singer and actress, as well as aunt to actor George Clooney, lived at 106 East Riverside Drive in Augusta for more than 20 years, making the home a treasured museum of her life and career. The museum’s collections include memorabilia from White Christmas and other performances and personal artifacts that reflect Clooney’s long ties to the region. After Clooney’s death in 2002, the home was purchased by Augusta native Heather French Henry and her husband, former Lt. Gov. Steve Henry, and was opened as a museum in 2005.
Augusta also offered a look toward its future. Nicole and Kenny Gahn, weekend residents of the town, purchased a vintage 1917 Ford dealership building with intentions to convert it into a classic car museum. Nicole Gahn explained the move came from a wish to deepen their roots in Augusta. “We’ve had a weekend place here for 14 years, and when this building became available, we thought, why not bring the cars here and open a little museum?” Gahn said.
A look inside the Augusta Motor Museum. Photo by Noah Washington/The Atlanta Voice
Later in the afternoon, the tour continued north to Newport. The evening ended across the river in Covington with dinner at Pompilio’s, a local Italian restaurant established in 1933 and best known as a filming location for Rain Man (1988). Afterward, attendees braved the USS Nightmare, a massive steamboat turned haunted attraction docked on the Ohio River, where winding corridors and ghostly theatrics lived up to its ominous name.
With three days complete, the Kentucky media tour had already traced a broad arc of the state’s identity: exotic animals and bourbon fireside tales in Lawrenceburg, haunted opera houses and small-batch whiskey in Cynthiana, and now Augusta’s blend of river heritage, Hollywood nostalgia, and ghostly thrills along the riverbed. From small towns to storied distilleries, Kentucky revealed itself as a place where its love of horror, history, and imagination meet.
Augusta is expected to heat up this weekend with temperatures hitting near 90 degrees with mostly sunny skies in time for the Arts in the Heart Festival, according to the weekend forecast.
The 2025 Arts in the Heart of Augusta festival will be on Reynolds Street and Augusta Common and along portions of the Savannah River, according to the Greater Augusta Arts Council. The annual three-day arts festival will showcase an array of art, artists, musicians, craftsmen, authors, and street performers.
The Sept. 19-21 festival typically takes up several blocks of Broad Street, but organizers this year considered the ongoing construction improvements along Broad too disruptive to accommodate the high foot traffic from thousands of visitors.
“We’re in this pretty persistent dry pattern,” said Chris Rohrbach, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Columbia, South Carolina. “We had a few isolated showers the past few days. But that pattern should continue with very limited rainfall overall on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. There could be an isolated, brief shower. But for the most part, everyone’s going to remain dry.”
This map shows the locations of stages, exhibits, food booths, etc., at the 2025 Arts in the Heart festival to be held Sept. 19-21 in downtown Augusta.
Rohrbach said in terms of temperature, it’ll be a little warm for the season with daily highs in the mid to upper 80s each day.
“Normal for this time of year is in the low to mid 80s,” he said. “So, a little warmer than normal. But it could be worse. We’re seeing this time of year, as we start getting into Fall, we typically go into a drier pattern where we don’t have these everyday summertime thunderstorms anymore. We’re in a lull before we start getting into the larger synoptic scale weather makers that we get in the wintertime.”
Friday:
High 90, Low 66
Saturday
High 89, Low 64
Sunday:
High 88, Low 65
Advanced general admission weekend passes for Arts in the Heart cost $15 and are available at artsintheheartofaugusta.com. Children 10 and younger are admitted free. Badges at the gate cost $20.
This reporting content is supported by a partnership with several funders and Journalism Funding Partners.
Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@gannett.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects thousands of individuals across the country. It can impact multiple parts of the body and cause severe internal damage. There isn’t a cure for this disease, and it imposes a significant emotional and financial toll on family members of people with Lupus. The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) Georgia Chapter supports everyone affected by this issue. The organization offers assistance to those in need through various channels. May is Lupus Awareness Month, and the organization has planned activities for the rest of the month to allow locals to show their support for the Lupus community.
“We should all care about this because anybody can get lupus. We should serve those who need to be served, and lupus is a very underserved population,” said Teri Emond, President and CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter.
May is Lupus Awareness Month background template. Holiday concept.
The Lupus Foundation of America Georgia Chapter has been serving the community since 1978. Through advocacy, fundraising, and research, the organization has provided support to those dealing with the disease and their family members. In observance of Lupus Awareness Month in May, the chapter organized several events. On Saturday, May 18, the chapter hosted a Lupus walk in Augusta, GA, where Morehouse School of Medicine presented the latest research on Lupus. Additionally, Georgia chapter members traveled to Washington, D.C., from May 19 to May 21 to advocate for more funding for Lupus research at the national advocacy summit.
The foundation’s main message is to assure those battling Lupus that they are not alone and to improve the quality of life for people living with the disease until a cure is found.
When you come to our support group, leave your troubles at the door. Lupus is not always manageable; for some, it’s chronic. It’s a cruel mystery, but we are dedicated to solving it,” said Emond.
Lupus is a severe disease because it causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue in various parts of the body. This results in inflammation, pain, and damage to any organ system. Despite the efforts of foundations and organizations to educate people about Lupus, it is still widely misunderstood. Unfortunately, the disease disproportionately affects women and minority groups the most.
“Lupus predominantly affects young people in their childbearing years. It is three to five times more likely in minority populations. Dr. Sam Lim, from Emory University, one of the top rheumatologists in the country, stated that Black people bear the burden of the disease. They experience more severe symptoms and are affected more frequently,” said Emond.
Lupus treatment can be expensive. According to the Lupus Foundation, the costs for a diagnosis can range from $13,000 to $68,000. Emond and the team at LFA Georgia are aware of these challenges and provide assistance by covering certain costs for individuals with lupus. This support ensures that no one has to choose between paying their bills and meeting their living expenses.
“We have an emergency financial assistance fund because we don’t want someone living with lupus to have to choose between paying the light bill and going to the doctor. It is a $500 grant available per grant period. We pay the vendors directly to cover utility bills or provide a hotel room if someone with lupus is homeless,” said Emond.
LFA Georgia is working to raise awareness for lupus by highlighting individuals affected by the condition. Their new campaign, “31 Faces of Hope,” shares the stories of people with lupus on the organization’s website and social media platforms. This initiative ensures that individuals like Monique Thornton are recognized.
Monique Thornton was a dedicated volunteer and advocate who spearheaded this campaign. Sadly, she passed away from Lupus just three days before our walk on April 24. Her husband attended the walk and spoke about the importance of the initiative. We are continuing the campaign in her memory,” said Emond.
Lupus is a life-altering illness that marks the beginning of a long-term health struggle. LFA Georgia ensures that individuals commencing this fight are not alone.
Scottie Scheffler was in the lead and seemingly in control of his game Saturday in the Masters until realizing there was no such thing at Augusta National.Video above: Scottie Scheffler dominates Players ChampionshipHe posed over another beautiful shot at the flag on the 10th hole and was stunned to see it take a hard hop over the green and roll down into the bushes. He made double bogey and suddenly was one shot behind.“Make another bogey at 11 and all of a sudden I’m probably going from in the lead to a few out of the lead and then,” Scheffler said, “you know, things happen pretty fast out there.”It was so fast and furious that it was hard to keep up.Six players had at least a share of the lead at one point. There was a five-way tie for the lead early on the back nine. No one was safe. It was like that to the very end.Scheffler made an 8-foot birdie putt on the final hole for a 1-under 71 that gave him a one-shot lead over Collin Morikawa, the two-time major champion who has largely disappeared from the elite in golf and now is one round away from the third leg of the Grand Slam.Bryson DeChambeau looked to be on the verge of a meltdown when he drove into the trees right of the 18th fairway, punched out to the short grass and then hit wedge from 77 yards that spun back into the cup for a birdie to sum up a wild Saturday.“Easier than putting,” DeChambeau, adding that he was joking although there was some truth to that. He three-putted three times on the back nine.Max Homa has gone 32 holes without a birdie and he was only two behind after a round of 17 pars and one bogey for a 73. Xander Schauffele has gone 25 holes without a bogey, and that goes a long way. He was five back after a 70.Augusta National didn’t need a ferocious wind to be wildly entertaining. The course was tough as ever, with a wind that would have felt scary if not for the day before. The greens made players feel as though they were putting on linoleum floors.Scheffler was at 7-under 209 as he goes for a second Masters green jacket and tries to extend a dominant stretch that includes two wins on tough courses (Bay Hill and TPC Sawgrass) and a runner-up finish in his last three tournaments.“It’s nice to have that experience, but going into tomorrow, that’s really all that it is,” he said.Morikawa made two tough pars to finish off a 69 — of those was a long birdie putt that hit the lip and spun 12 feet away. He is the only player to break par all three days at this Masters. Not bad for a someone who only found a swing key on Monday, switched putters after the first round and hasn’t had a top 10 since the first week of the year.“If you asked me at the beginning of the week I’d be one back heading into Sunday, I would have taken that any time,” Morikawa said. “You give yourself a chance with 18 holes left, that’s all you can really do.”Another shot back was Homa, whose last birdie was on the fourth hole of the second round. He has made 32 pars in his last 36 holes.Eight players were separated by five shots going into the final round, where the greens are likely to be even faster, crispier and more frightening.Tiger Woods was not among them. Neither was Rory McIlroy.Woods, having made his Masters-record 24th consecutive cut Friday, started the third round seven shots out of the lead and hopeful of at least making his massive following think there might be more magic left in that battered 48-year-old body.Instead, Woods posted his highest round in three decades playing the majors. He shot an 82, the third time he has failed to break 80 in a major, and the first since the 2015 U.S. Open.”Just hit the ball in all the places that I know I shouldn’t hit it,” Woods said.McIlroy came to the Masters thinking this might be the year he finally got the last leg of the career Grand Slam. All he could muster was a 71 that left him 10 shots behind with 20 players in front of him.There were no shortage of challengers.Ludvig Aberg, the rising Swedish star playing in his first major, was among those who had a brief share of the lead until missing a pair of short par putts on the back nine. He still managed a 70 and was only three shots behind.Another newcomer to the Masters, Nicolai Hojgaard of Denmark, had the lead to himself with three straight birdies around the turn. He celebrated that good fortunate by running off five straight bogeys, putting the ball in the water on both par 5s.And then there was DeChambeau, who started the third round tied with Scheffler and Homa.DeChambeau kept making enough birdies to hang around and was only one shot behind until he decided to go for the green from the trees on the par-5 15th. He went well right toward the 17th fairway — the second time in as many days he played a par 5 from two holes — only this one didn’t work out so well.He chunked his wedge and watched it tumble into the pond. He took a penalty drop, pitched on and two-putted for double bogey. And then he three-putted for bogey on the 16th. And right when it appeared to be falling apart, he made his surprise birdie to limit the damage to 75. He was four shots behind.Scheffler didn’t escape the craziness. He reached 8 under quickly by chipping in across the green on No. 1 and making a 30-foot birdie putt on No. 3. But all it took was two holes to make it feel like his head was spinning.What saved his day was a 7-foot par putt on No. 12 and then a 30-foot eagle putt on the par-5 13th that dropped on its final turn and elicited rare emotion from Scheffler.“C’mon, baby!” he yelled when the putt dropped.“Things got a little dicey in the middle,” Scheffler said. “On No. 10, I hit what I thought was a decent shot 8 feet from the hole and it wound up in the bushes. I did a good job of staying patient.”He’ll need another dose for Sunday, even with the experience of winning a Masters. Two years ago, he had a three-shot lead going into the final round and spent the morning in tears as his wife gave him soothing words of confidence.Now his wife is home in Dallas expecting their first child at the end of the month. Scheffler brought in his best friends from home to stay with him.“I didn’t want to be in the house all by myself this weekend. Didn’t really seem that exciting to me,” Scheffler said.There’s plenty of that inside the ropes.
AUGUSTA, Ga. —
Scottie Scheffler was in the lead and seemingly in control of his game Saturday in the Masters until realizing there was no such thing at Augusta National.
Video above: Scottie Scheffler dominates Players Championship
He posed over another beautiful shot at the flag on the 10th hole and was stunned to see it take a hard hop over the green and roll down into the bushes. He made double bogey and suddenly was one shot behind.
“Make another bogey at 11 and all of a sudden I’m probably going from in the lead to a few out of the lead and then,” Scheffler said, “you know, things happen pretty fast out there.”
It was so fast and furious that it was hard to keep up.
Six players had at least a share of the lead at one point. There was a five-way tie for the lead early on the back nine. No one was safe. It was like that to the very end.
Scheffler made an 8-foot birdie putt on the final hole for a 1-under 71 that gave him a one-shot lead over Collin Morikawa, the two-time major champion who has largely disappeared from the elite in golf and now is one round away from the third leg of the Grand Slam.
Bryson DeChambeau looked to be on the verge of a meltdown when he drove into the trees right of the 18th fairway, punched out to the short grass and then hit wedge from 77 yards that spun back into the cup for a birdie to sum up a wild Saturday.
“Easier than putting,” DeChambeau, adding that he was joking although there was some truth to that. He three-putted three times on the back nine.
Max Homa has gone 32 holes without a birdie and he was only two behind after a round of 17 pars and one bogey for a 73. Xander Schauffele has gone 25 holes without a bogey, and that goes a long way. He was five back after a 70.
Augusta National didn’t need a ferocious wind to be wildly entertaining. The course was tough as ever, with a wind that would have felt scary if not for the day before. The greens made players feel as though they were putting on linoleum floors.
Scheffler was at 7-under 209 as he goes for a second Masters green jacket and tries to extend a dominant stretch that includes two wins on tough courses (Bay Hill and TPC Sawgrass) and a runner-up finish in his last three tournaments.
“It’s nice to have that experience, but going into tomorrow, that’s really all that it is,” he said.
Morikawa made two tough pars to finish off a 69 — of those was a long birdie putt that hit the lip and spun 12 feet away. He is the only player to break par all three days at this Masters. Not bad for a someone who only found a swing key on Monday, switched putters after the first round and hasn’t had a top 10 since the first week of the year.
“If you asked me at the beginning of the week I’d be one back heading into Sunday, I would have taken that any time,” Morikawa said. “You give yourself a chance with 18 holes left, that’s all you can really do.”
Another shot back was Homa, whose last birdie was on the fourth hole of the second round. He has made 32 pars in his last 36 holes.
Eight players were separated by five shots going into the final round, where the greens are likely to be even faster, crispier and more frightening.
Tiger Woods was not among them. Neither was Rory McIlroy.
Woods, having made his Masters-record 24th consecutive cut Friday, started the third round seven shots out of the lead and hopeful of at least making his massive following think there might be more magic left in that battered 48-year-old body.
“Just hit the ball in all the places that I know I shouldn’t hit it,” Woods said.
McIlroy came to the Masters thinking this might be the year he finally got the last leg of the career Grand Slam. All he could muster was a 71 that left him 10 shots behind with 20 players in front of him.
There were no shortage of challengers.
Ludvig Aberg, the rising Swedish star playing in his first major, was among those who had a brief share of the lead until missing a pair of short par putts on the back nine. He still managed a 70 and was only three shots behind.
Another newcomer to the Masters, Nicolai Hojgaard of Denmark, had the lead to himself with three straight birdies around the turn. He celebrated that good fortunate by running off five straight bogeys, putting the ball in the water on both par 5s.
And then there was DeChambeau, who started the third round tied with Scheffler and Homa.
DeChambeau kept making enough birdies to hang around and was only one shot behind until he decided to go for the green from the trees on the par-5 15th. He went well right toward the 17th fairway — the second time in as many days he played a par 5 from two holes — only this one didn’t work out so well.
He chunked his wedge and watched it tumble into the pond. He took a penalty drop, pitched on and two-putted for double bogey. And then he three-putted for bogey on the 16th. And right when it appeared to be falling apart, he made his surprise birdie to limit the damage to 75. He was four shots behind.
Scheffler didn’t escape the craziness. He reached 8 under quickly by chipping in across the green on No. 1 and making a 30-foot birdie putt on No. 3. But all it took was two holes to make it feel like his head was spinning.
What saved his day was a 7-foot par putt on No. 12 and then a 30-foot eagle putt on the par-5 13th that dropped on its final turn and elicited rare emotion from Scheffler.
“C’mon, baby!” he yelled when the putt dropped.
“Things got a little dicey in the middle,” Scheffler said. “On No. 10, I hit what I thought was a decent shot 8 feet from the hole and it wound up in the bushes. I did a good job of staying patient.”
He’ll need another dose for Sunday, even with the experience of winning a Masters. Two years ago, he had a three-shot lead going into the final round and spent the morning in tears as his wife gave him soothing words of confidence.
Now his wife is home in Dallas expecting their first child at the end of the month. Scheffler brought in his best friends from home to stay with him.
“I didn’t want to be in the house all by myself this weekend. Didn’t really seem that exciting to me,” Scheffler said.
Editor’s Note: This story was originally published in April 2023.
CNN
—
Slumped on his club, head buried in his arm, Rory McIlroy looked on the verge of tears.
The then-21-year-old had just watched his ball sink into the waters of Rae’s Creek at Augusta National and with it, his dream of winning The Masters, a dream that had looked so tantalizingly close mere hours earlier.
As a four-time major winner and one of the most decorated names in the sport’s history, few players would turn down the chance to swap places with McIlroy heading into Augusta this week.
Yet on Sunday afternoon of April 10, 2011, not a golfer in the world would have wished to be in the Northern Irishman’s shoes.
A fresh-faced, mop-headed McIlroy had touched down in Georgia for the first major of the season with a reputation as the leading light of the next generation of stars.
An excellent 2010 had marked his best season since turning pro three years earlier, highlighted by a first PGA Tour win at the Quail Hollow Championship and a crucial contribution to Team Europe’s triumph at the Ryder Cup.
Yet despite a pair of impressive top-three finishes at the Open and PGA Championship respectively, a disappointing missed cut at The Masters – his first at a major – served as ominous foreshadowing.
McIlroy shot 74 and 77 to fall four strokes short of the cut line at seven-over par, a performance that concerned him enough to take a brief sabbatical from competition.
But one year on in 2011, any lingering Masters demons looked to have been exorcised as McIlroy flew round the Augusta fairways.
Having opened with a bogey-free seven-under 65 – the first time he had ever shot in the 60s at the major – McIlroy pulled ahead from Spanish first round co-leader Alvaro Quirós with a second round 69.
It sent him into the weekend holding a two-shot cushion over Australia’s Jason Day, with Tiger Woods a further stroke behind and back in the hunt for a 15th major after a surging second round 66.
And yet the 21-year-old leader looked perfectly at ease with having a target on his back. Even after a tentative start to the third round, McIlroy rallied with three birdies across the closing six holes to stretch his lead to four strokes heading into Sunday.
The youngster was out on his own ahead of a bunched chasing pack comprising Day, Ángel Cabrera, K.J. Choi and Charl Schwartzel. After 54 holes, McIlroy had shot just three bogeys.
“It’s a great position to be in … I’m finally feeling comfortable on this golf course,” McIlroy told reporters.
“I’m not getting ahead of myself, I know how leads can dwindle away very quickly. I have to go out there, not take anything for granted and go out and play as hard as I’ve played the last three days. If I can do that, hopefully things will go my way.
“We’ll see what happens tomorrow because four shots on this golf course isn’t that much.”
The truth can hurt, and McIlroy was about to prove his assessment of Augusta to be true in the most excruciating way imaginable.
His fourth bogey of the week arrived immediately. Having admitted to expecting some nerves at the first tee, McIlroy sparked a booming opening drive down the fairway, only to miss his putt from five feet.
Three consecutive pars steadied the ship, but Schwartzel had the wind in his sails. A blistering birdie, par, eagle start had seen him draw level at the summit after his third hole.
A subsequent bogey from the South African slowed his charge, as McIlroy clung onto a one-shot lead at the turn from Schwartzel, Cabrera, Choi, and a rampaging Woods, who shot five birdies and an eagle across the front nine to send Augusta into a frenzy.
Despite his dwindling advantage and the raucous Tiger-mania din ahead of him, McIlroy had responded well to another bogey at the 5th hole, draining a brilliant 20-foot putt at the 7th to restore his lead.
The fist pump that followed marked the high-water point of McIlroy’s round, as a sliding start accelerated into full-blown free-fall at the par-four 10th hole.
His tee shot went careening into a tree, ricocheting to settle between the white cabins that separate the main course from the adjacent par-three course. It offered viewers a glimpse at a part of Augusta rarely seen on broadcast, followed by pictures of McIlroy anxiously peering out from behind a tree to track his follow-up shot.
Though his initial escape was successful, yet another collision with a tree and a two-putt on the green saw a stunned McIlroy eventually tap in for a triple bogey. Having led the field one hole and seven shots earlier, he arrived at the 11th tee in seventh.
By the time his tee drive at the 13th plopped into the creek, all thoughts of who might be the recipient of the green jacket had long-since switched away from the anguished youngster. It had taken him seven putts to navigate the previous two greens, as a bogey and a double bogey dropped him to five-under – the score he had held after just 11 holes of the tournament.
Mercifully, the last five holes passed without major incident. A missed putt for birdie from five feet at the final hole summed up McIlroy’s day, though he was given a rousing reception as he left the green.
Mere minutes earlier, the same crowd had erupted as Schwartzel sunk his fourth consecutive birdie to seal his first major title. After starting the day four shots adrift of McIlroy, the South African finished 10 shots ahead of him, and two ahead of second-placed Australian duo Jason Day and Adam Scott.
McIlroy’s eight-over 80 marked the highest score of the round. Having headlined the leaderboard for most of the week, he finished tied-15th.
Tears would flow during a phone call with his parents the following morning, but at his press conference, McIlroy was upbeat.
“I’m very disappointed at the minute, and I’m sure I will be for the next few days, but I’ll get over it,” he said.
“I was leading this golf tournament with nine holes to go, and I just unraveled … It’s a Sunday at a major, what it can do.
“This is my first experience at it, and hopefully the next time I’m in this position I’ll be able to handle it a little better. I didn’t handle it particularly well today obviously, but it was a character-building day … I’ll come out stronger for it.”
Once again, McIlroy would be proven right.
Just eight weeks later in June, McIlroy rampaged to an eight-shot victory at the US Open. Records tumbled in his wake at Congressional, as he shot a tournament record 16-under 268 to become the youngest major winner since Tiger Woods at The Masters in 1997.
The historic victory kickstarted a golden era for McIlroy. After coasting to another eight-shot win at the PGA Championship in 2012, McIlroy became only the third golfer since 1934 to win three majors by the age of 25 with triumph at the 2014 Open Championship.
Before the year was out, he would add his fourth major title with another PGA Championship win.
And much of it was owed to that fateful afternoon at Augusta. In an interview with the BBC in 2015, McIlroy dubbed it “the most important day” of his career.
“If I had not had the whole unravelling, if I had just made a couple of bogeys coming down the stretch and lost by one, I would not have learned as much.
“Luckily, it did not take me long to get into a position like that again when I was leading a major and I was able to get over the line quite comfortably. It was a huge learning curve for me and I needed it, and thankfully I have been able to move on to bigger and better things.
“Looking back on what happened in 2011, it doesn’t seem as bad when you have four majors on your mantelpiece.”
McIlroy’s contentment came with a caveat: it would be “unthinkable” if he did not win The Masters in his career.
Yet as he prepares for his 15th appearance at Augusta National this week, a green jacket remains an elusive missing item from his wardrobe.
Despite seven top-10 finishes in his past 10 Masters outings, the trophy remains the only thing separating McIlroy from joining the ranks of golf immortals to have completed golf’s career grand slam of all four majors in the modern era: Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods.
A runner-up finish to Scottie Scheffler last year marked McIlroy’s best finish at Augusta, yet arguably 2011 remains the closest he has ever been to victory. A slow start in 2022 meant McIlroy had begun Sunday’s deciding round 10 shots adrift of the American, who teed off for his final hole with a five-shot lead despite McIlroy’s brilliant 64 finish.
At 33 years old, time is still on his side. Though 2022 extended his major drought to eight years, it featured arguably his best golf since that golden season in 2014.
And as McIlroy knows better than most, things can change quickly at Augusta National.
On the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta, Georgia, providing a blend of Southern charm and a history brimming with richness. From the iconic Augusta National Golf Club to the vibrant arts and culture scene, there’s always something exciting happening in this city. Explore the historic downtown area or enjoy the beautiful parks and outdoor spaces; Augusta has many urban amenities and natural beauty. So whether you’re searching for apartments in Augusta, homes for sale, or want to learn more about what Augusta is known for, this Redfin article will be your guide.
1. Augusta National Golf Club
Augusta is known for being the home of the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, which hosts the annual Masters Tournament. Golf enthusiasts acclaim this iconic course for its lush greenery, challenging holes, and significant role in golf history. The Masters Tournament attracts top golfers from around the globe and is a significant event in the professional golfing calendar.
2. James Brown
Augusta is also famous for being the birthplace of the legendary musician James Brown, known as the “Godfather of Soul.” His impact on the music industry and his influence on the development of funk music have left an indelible mark on the city. Visitors can explore the James Brown statue and learn about his life and legacy at the Augusta Museum of History.
3. Augusta Canal
The Augusta Canal, a historic waterway crucial to the region’s industrial development, stands as one of the city’s defining features. Today, the canal offers scenic boat tours, walking trails, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. It is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
4. Soul City
Also known as “Soul City,” Augusta resonates with a lively music scene and contributions to soul, funk, and R&B music. Visitors can explore the local music venues, attend live performances, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich musical heritage.
5. Arts and culture
With a vibrant arts scene, you’ll find galleries, theaters, and institutions like the Morris Museum of Art. The city hosts various art festivals, such as Arts in the Heart of Augusta, live performances at venues like the Miller Theater, and exhibitions showcasing the diverse talents of local and regional artists.
Nestled along the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta, GA beckons with a blend of Southern charm and modern conveniences. From its incredible food scene and diverse neighborhoods to its history and culture, there’s no denying that Augusta holds an alluring charm.
Whether you’re enticed by the city’s cultural events or its warm sense of community, everyone will find something to love about this city. However, like any city, it comes with its share of trade-offs. Whether you’re considering a move into an apartment in Augusta, GA, or a house in the city, in this Redfin article we interviewed several locals about the major pros and cons of living in Augusta to help you decide if Augusta is a good place for you to call home.
Pros of living in Augusta, GA
1. Affordable cost of living
Residents of Augusta benefit from a cost-conscious environment, where housing, utilities, and everyday expenses are notably reasonable. The city’s real estate market offers diverse options, ensuring that individuals and families can find housing solutions that align with their budgetary preferences. In fact, in October, the median sale price in Augusta was $187,400, nearly $230,000 below the national median. This affordability extends to other facets of daily life, contributing to a financial landscape where residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the burden of higher prices.
2. The incredible food scene
“Augusta is bursting with cultural cuisine,” shares Greater Augusta Arts Council, a resource for the arts community that connects art lovers to local events and programs. “Each September we host the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival, which has incredible food from cultural groups from around the world. Outside that, Hawaiian Style BBQ – which serves delicious Hawaiian delicacies great for lunch.”
“My favorite restaurants are Frog Hollow and Sole Augusta,” shares Jessica J. Wells, owner of Ms. Stugie’s Cookie Shoppe, a local bakery bringing custom-designed cookies and classic cookies to life. ”These restaurants are local in the Downtown Augusta area and they both have a unique vibe that is perfect for girls night or date night.”
“Top on my list has to be Pho Viet Augusta, Craft & Vine, Nacho Mama’s, and Humanitree,” says Candace Zeigler, owner of SoZiggie Photography, a local wedding and portrait photographer. “These spots hit so many of my cravings like no other. Pho Viet’s come through with the Banh Mi’s of different varieties and Pho broth is undefeated. Craft & Vine‘s rotation of unique culinary treats like duck confit pizza and poutine. Nacho Mama‘s Mahi mahi taco for the win and Humanitree vegan delights and juices are always refreshing.”
3. Outdoor activities
“Augusta is a great place to live with great places to eat and so many fun things to do,” shares Courtney Hatcher, director of admission and financial aid for Augusta Preparatory Day School. “The fantastic way of life with a manageable pace, welcoming people and affordable cost of living makes it the perfect place to live where nothing is too far away and traffic is very minimal. Near Augusta Prep, you can stop in for delicious fried chicken at Frog & The Hen, or scoot down Wheeler Road to meet family or a friend for an incredible coffee and brunch at Bodega at Surrey Center. Close by, the Augusta Canal Trail is a favorite for walking, running, and biking with incredible scenery, and parks like Evans Towne Center Park offer lots of fun and entertainment for everyone. “
Jenny Lynch, owner of Emma Gray Boutique, states that “Augusta might be known as the ‘Home Of The Masters’ but Augusta and its surrounding area have so much more to offer than just golf. When we aren’t hosting the most prestigious golf tournament on the planet, you can find just about anything that interests you to take part in. Most locals enjoy the proximity of the Savannah River and Lake Thurmond, and outdoor activities like boating and kayaking are very popular. We also have several performing arts theaters so there are always musicals, plays, and concerts going on throughout the year.”
4. City amenities
Augusta mirrors the cultural and recreational offerings found in larger urban hubs, presenting residents with a wealth of opportunities to engage in cultural activities. The city proudly hosts the Greenjackets, an impressive minor league baseball team, and hosts a myriad of outdoor festivals year-round. With striking architecture, scenic lakes, and a vibrant theater community, Augusta encapsulates the essence of larger U.S. cities, all within the charm of a smaller population setting.
Living in Augusta is the perfect balance of city life and country living. Augusta Locally Grown farmers markets are a hidden gem of Downtown Augusta. They have multiple outdoor farmers markets, but their indoor farmers market and cooking classes have become the go-to destination for grocery shopping and spending free time.
5. History and culture
“Augusta exudes Southern hospitality, enveloping residents and visitors alike in a warm and welcoming atmosphere characterized by genuine friendliness and a strong sense of community,” explains Jessica J. Wells of Ms. Stugie’s Cookie Shoppe. “Augusta’s reputation is further enriched by its role as the host of the globally renowned Masters Golf Tournament, a prestigious event that not only draws visitors from around the world but also contributes significantly to the city’s distinctive cultural identity.”
“While I’m not from Augusta, I’ve made it my home for the last 20 years,” says Candace Zeigler of SoZiggie Photography. “The journey and sense of community have proven to be precisely what my homesick self yearned for. Augusta caters to diverse interests, offering meetups and groups that make finding your tribe remarkably straightforward. Whether you’re an artist, a baker, or a disc golf enthusiast, discovering kindred spirits in this welcoming community is a delightfully uncomplicated endeavor.”
“Augusta, GA, is an ever-growing city and stands as a testament to the power of arts and culture in shaping a city’s identity,” states Liz Bond of Liz Bond Photography, a family photographer in Augusta. “The downtown murals and festivals held here provide residents and visitors with immersive experiences that celebrate Augusta’s past, present, and future. As you explore the streets of downtown Augusta, you’ll discover a city that values creativity, diversity, and the transformative power of the arts.”
“One of the most captivating ways to explore the city’s unique character is through its vibrant mural walk, which tells the story of Augusta’s rich past and present,” explains Liz Bond. “Augusta’s downtown mural walk is a visual feast that brings the city’s history and culture to life through vivid and dynamic artwork. The murals range from fun and encouraging to telling stories about the area and its past. The mural walk not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the city but also serves as an outdoor art gallery, making art accessible to everyone. It is a journey through time, culture, and the collective spirit of Augusta’s residents.”
6. Augusta neighborhoods
“The Whispering Pines neighborhood in Augusta is truly remarkable,” states Vanessa Withers of Withers Photography, a newborn, maternity, and 1st birthday photographer. “From the stunning houses to the warm and inclusive culture, to the delightful holiday events, it embodies a unique sense of community. Since my move to Augusta in 2019, the welcoming embrace of this neighborhood has made it stand out, and I’ve never felt more embraced by a community. It’s the first time I’ve genuinely sensed the presence of ‘the village’ they talk about.”
“Downtown Augusta is where the heart of the arts scene is,” shares Greater Augusta Arts Council. “It’s home to many restaurants, galleries, theatres, music venues and more. Olde Town, Summerville, Harrisburg and the Golden Blocks neighborhoods of Laney Walker and Bethlehem host many historic houses and sites and are close enough to Downtown Augusta to enjoy all the arts. Olde Town, my favorite, was rebuilt after a turn of the century fire. It has so much charm, with many craftsman style homes.”
“My favorite neighborhoods include North Augusta and Evans, both bustling with activities for everyone,” says SoZiggie Photography. “North Augusta, situated between two downtown shopping havens, offers a diverse array of local restaurants and bars. On the other hand, Evans stands out with its parks and year-round events that keep you entertained throughout the year.”
“Belair Estates, National Hills, and Summerville stand as Augusta’s renowned neighborhoods, where Southern charm intertwines with modern allure,” says Stugie’s Cookies. “Belair Estates exudes classic elegance, National Hills offers a vibrant blend of tradition and contemporary living, and Summerville beckons with historic charm and stylish sophistication. Each neighborhood uniquely captures the essence of Augusta’s rich heritage while embracing the conveniences of modern life.”
7. Festivals and events
“In September, you can check out the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival,” suggests Greater Augusta Arts Council. “The event features more than 120 Fine Arts and Craft Artists, five fully booked performance stages, cultural cuisines from around the globe, and more.”
Liz Bond delves into more detail about the event, saying “The three-day downtown celebration transforms Augusta into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, cultural exchange, and culinary delights. Attracting artists, performers, and visitors regionwide, it fosters a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. The main stage features diverse performances, while the global village celebrates cultural diversity through authentic world cuisines. The festival also hosts a marketplace where local artisans showcase and sell handmade crafts, from clothes to jewelry and paintings, providing guests with unique souvenirs. Beyond shows and delicious cuisine, this event encapsulates a rich tapestry of creativity, community, and global flavor, making it a must-attend experience for all.
Jenny Lynch goes on to share, “The Lady A Park is always hosting amazing events and has really become the ‘hub’ for all the things in our area. They have everything from local vendor markets every Saturday, outdoor movie nights, food truck Fridays, to hosting the most spectacular fireworks show you will ever lay eyes on. There is always something fun going on and you can be guaranteed it will be safe and suitable for families. Most locals here have a strong sense of morals and family values so with that in mind, most anything in this county will be conducted with those values held as the standard.”
Photo courtesy of Liz Bond Photography
8. Nice weather
In Augusta, the irresistible draw to spend ample time outdoors is fueled by the consistently pleasant and warm climate the city experiences for the majority of the year. In comparison to some coastal cities in Georgia, Augusta experiences milder temperatures, offering respite from extreme heat. The city also stands out with more temperate winters compared to its northern Georgia counterparts, Rome and Atlanta. Additionally, the city sees 218 sunny days annually, surpassing the country’s average of 205 days.
Cons of living in Augusta, GA
A lot of insects
Encountering a swift invasion of gnats, mosquitoes, and other biting insects upon opening your front door in Augusta is a common occurrence. The most intense presence is typically felt during the spring and summer seasons, making it essential to equip yourself with ample insect repellent or opt for protective clothing to ensure a more comfortable outdoor experience.
An average walkability ranking
While Augusta enjoys pleasant weather, its urban layout poses challenges for pedestrians. Despite the convenience of public transportation, the city falls short in terms of walkability, earning a WalkScore of 22, meaning almost all errands require a car. The limited facilities for cyclists further contribute to transportation drawbacks, making bike travel difficult and unsafe in certain areas. Investing in a car is recommended for getting around in the city’s less pedestrian-friendly areas.
Is Augusta, GA a good place to live? Final thoughts
Augusta offers numerous appealing aspects for those considering a move, including an affordable cost of living, pleasant weather, and an incredible food scene. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind the drawbacks, such as the low walkability score and, well, insects. Prospective residents should carefully assess these factors to make an informed decision about whether Augusta aligns with their lifestyle and priorities.
Luke Donald has been announced as Europe’s next Ryder Cup captain, while Team USA have yet to reveal who will lead their side; Europe claimed a 16.5-11.5 victory in the 2023 contest in Rome; Watch the 2025 Ryder Cup exclusively live on Sky Sports Golf
Last Updated: 29/11/23 12:58pm
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The best of the action from day three of the Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Italy.
The best of the action from day three of the Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Italy.
When is the next Ryder Cup? Which course is hosting? Who could feature for Team Europe? We look at the key questions ahead of the 2025 contest, live on Sky Sports…
When is the Ryder Cup?
The next edition will take place from September 26-28, 2025.
The biennial contest switched back to odd-numbered years from 2023, having been postponed in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and taking place the following year.
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Take a look at the best fancy dress from the Ryder Cup weekend with dinosaurs, astronauts, hot dogs and more!
Take a look at the best fancy dress from the Ryder Cup weekend with dinosaurs, astronauts, hot dogs and more!
Where is the Ryder Cup?
The 2025 edition will be held on the Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York. The venue has previously hosted the US Open twice and was also where the 2019 PGA Championship was held.
The public course has a warning sign at the first tee that reads: “The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course Which We Recommend Only For Highly Skilled Golfers.”
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Tommy Fleetwood secured a point for Team Europe in his singles match against Rickie Fowler at the Ryder Cup, with an incredible tee shot at the par-4 16th hole at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome.
Tommy Fleetwood secured a point for Team Europe in his singles match against Rickie Fowler at the Ryder Cup, with an incredible tee shot at the par-4 16th hole at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome.
The 2027 contest will be played at Adare Manor in Ireland and the 2029 edition will take place at Hazeltine National Golf Club, having previously hosted the 2016 event. The 2031 venue has yet to be confirmed.
Who are the current holders?
Europe will enter as defending champions after a brilliant 16.5-11.5 victory in Rome. Rory McIlroy top-scored for the hosts that week with four points from five matches, while Tyrrell Hatton and Jon Rahm both enjoyed unbeaten weeks.
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Team Europe took their celebrations onto the team bus after their thrilling Ryder Cup victory over the USA in Rome.
Team Europe took their celebrations onto the team bus after their thrilling Ryder Cup victory over the USA in Rome.
Team USA won their last home Ryder Cup by a record-breaking margin in 2021, giving them back-to-back home victories for the first time since the 1980s.
Who will captain Team Europe?
Former world No 1 Luke Donald will serve as Europe’s captain for a second time, having led Europe to victory in Rome. Donald won all four Ryder Cups he played in and served as a vice-captain for two editions.
It’s the first time someone has been captain for back-to-back Ryder Cups since Bernard Gallacher held the role for three consecutive editions in the 1990s.
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A closer look at the man who will captain Team Europe at the 2025 Ryder Cup
A closer look at the man who will captain Team Europe at the 2025 Ryder Cup
Who will captain Team USA?
The PGA of America have yet to reveal who will captain Team USA in 2025, with announcement expected over the coming months.
Tiger Woods is currently favourite for the role, having acted as a vice-captain during USA’s victory in 2016 and a playing-captain for the 2019 Presidents Cup win. Stewart Cink, a five-time Ryder Cup player and a vice-captain in 2023, is also a candidate.
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Two-time Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III has suggested that he aims to talk Tiger Woods in to becoming the next captain for 2025.
Two-time Ryder Cup captain Davis Love III has suggested that he aims to talk Tiger Woods in to becoming the next captain for 2025.
Zach Johnson was the captain in Rome and would be the first American player to captain in successive Ryder Cups since Ben Hogan in 1949, while former vice-captain and four-time Ryder Cup player Matt Kuchar is another possibility.
How much does home advantage count?
Europe have won the last seven home editions of the Ryder Cup, while Team USA have enjoyed dominant victories the last two occasions it has been played in America. The last five editions have also seen a winning margin of five points or more.
The last away victory from either team came in 2012, when Europe produced their historic final-day comeback to win the ‘Miracle at Medinah’, while McIlroy wants to another victory on American soil in 2025.
Can Europe follow their 2023 success with another in 2025?
McIlroy said: ‘I’ve said this for the last probably six or seven years to anyone that will listen: I think one of the biggest accomplishments in golf right now is winning an away Ryder Cup. And that’s what we’re going to do at Bethpage.”
How do players qualify and can LIV players feature?
The qualification process has yet to be announced, although both teams elected to have six automatic qualifiers and six captains picks for the 2023 edition.
Team Europe had three qualifiers from European Points List and three eligible players from the World Points List after a year-long qualification campaign, while the top six players on the USA Ryder Cup points list automatically qualified.
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Tommy Fleetwood’s brilliance saw him beat Rickie Fowler 3&1 as he earnt the winning point to ensure Europe regained the Ryder Cup in Rome.
Tommy Fleetwood’s brilliance saw him beat Rickie Fowler 3&1 as he earnt the winning point to ensure Europe regained the Ryder Cup in Rome.
Players must currently be DP World Tour members to be eligible to feature for Team Europe, which would rule out some of those who joined the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League.
Who could play for Europe?
McIlroy will be a shoo-in to make an eighth consecutive Ryder Cup appearance, with Rahm and Viktor Hovland likely to play big roles for Team Europe once again.
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Rory McIlroy headed into Sunday Singles fired up and puts on an impressive performance, winning 3&1 against Sam Burns.
Rory McIlroy headed into Sunday Singles fired up and puts on an impressive performance, winning 3&1 against Sam Burns.
It would be no surprise to see Ludvig Åberg in action, having impressed on debut in 2023, while the likes of Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood, Jon Rahm, Matt Fitzpatrick and Shane Lowry will be looking to feature once again.
What team golf is there before then?
Team USA will have the chance to extend their winning streak in the Presidents Cup next year, as Jim Furyk captains them against Mike Weir’s International Team at Royal Montreal Golf Club from September 26-29. The Americans have won 12 of the previous 14 editions of the biennial contest, losing just once.
Next year also sees the latest edition of the Solheim Cup, having switched back to even-numbered years to avoid clashing with the Ryder Cup. Suzann Pettersen will lead Team Europe against Stacy Lewis’ Team USA at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia from September 13-15.
Thriston Lawrence cards a three-under 67 to move into a three-shot lead on 15-under overall following the third round of the DP World Tour’s Joburg Open at the Houghton Golf Club
Last Updated: 25/11/23 4:06pm
Thriston Lawrence has moved into the lead following the third round of the Joburg Open on Saturday
South Africa’s Thriston Lawrence carded a three-under 67 to move into a three-shot lead following the third round of the Joburg Open at the Houghton Golf Club in Johannesburg on Saturday.
The 26-year-old started the week with a brilliant 62 and while he did not match that quality in round three, he carded the lowest score of anyone in an all-South African top six to lead the way.
Dean Burmester sits in second place while Nikhil Rama is tied for third place, after the overnight leader posted a disappointing two-over 72, which featured a double-bogey at the first hole.
Lawrence won this event two years ago and has since added three more DP World Tour titles, one of which he will be defending at next week’s South African Open.
He missed out on a PGA Tour card by one shot after finishing fifth in last week’s season finale in Dubai but has insisted this week that has only inspired him to have a successful 2024 campaign on the European-based circuit.
“I had a game plan and it was to try and play the exact same golf as I did the first two rounds and I executed it,” said Lawrence, who is 15-under overall. “I stayed nice and patient.
“I could have gone lower, not a lot of made putts, there was a couple at the end that I could have made but it’s job done and I’m happy with it.
“The game plan is exactly the same tomorrow, I’ll try and make a few more putts than today but I’m very happy with the game, I’m playing really well so same game plan.”
Lawrence carded four birdies and a bogey to get to 15 under, with LIV player Burmester his nearest challenger after a 68.
Nikhil Rama’s dream week continues at the at the Houghton Golf Club
World No 1,214 Nikhil Rama’s dream week continued with a 72 that left him four shots off the lead.
South Africa’s Darren Fichardt carded a 68 to sit at nine under, one shot clear of England’s Daniel Brown and two ahead of a group of eight players including defending champion Dan Bradbury.
Ludvig Åberg turned professional just six months ago and has already won the Ryder Cup as part of Team Europe; captain Luke Donald put faith in the youngster and now believes the ‘sky is the limit’ for the ‘generational’ talent
Last Updated: 19/11/23 10:10pm
Luke Donald believes the “sky is the limit” for Ludvig Aberg asfter his first win on the PGA Tour
A Ryder Cup captain always has to show the upmost faith in their players, but no one backed Ludvig Åberg more than Luke Donald and a first PGA Tour win is just more evidence as to why.
Heading to Rome, Åberg had only switched from the amateur ranks in June and had competed in just nine professional events, but received a wildcard selection after a breakthrough victory at the Omega European Masters.
He made the quickest transition from the amateur game to the Ryder Cup in the tournament’s history, breaking the previous record held by Sergio Garcia in 1999, although enjoyed a glittering career before turning professional.
“We obviously knew what he was doing in the college scene,” Donald said ahead of the Ryder Cup. “You look at what he did in those four years and the only comparables really were Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm. He is that good.
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Team Europe captain Luke Donald reveals why Ludvig Aberg was selected as one of his six picks to complete his Ryder Cup line up
Team Europe captain Luke Donald reveals why Ludvig Aberg was selected as one of his six picks to complete his Ryder Cup line up
“I played with him in Detroit and was blown away by his game. He continued to impress and I challenged him to come over to Europe and play a couple [of events].
“I really do have a lot of faith and belief in Ludvig. He is a generational player, he’s going to be around a long time and he’s going to do amazing things. If he wasn’t going to play this one he was going to play the next eight Ryder Cups, that’s how good I think he is.”
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Ludvig Aberg and Viktor Hovland set a Ryder Cup record as they thrashed Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka with a 9&7 win on day two
Ludvig Aberg and Viktor Hovland set a Ryder Cup record as they thrashed Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka with a 9&7 win on day two
While nerves for Team Europe supporters may have been present, it did not take long for Åberg to quell them as he partnered Viktor Hovland to victory in the opening foursomes session in Rome before the same pair also thrashed world No 1 Scottie Scheffler and five-time major winner Brooks Koepka 9&7 on day two, a record margin for an 18-hole Ryder Cup match.
Now, Åberg has proved once again why many are touting him to be one of the star golfers of the future with an impressive win at the RSM Classic, carding back-to-back rounds of 61 over the weekend at Sea Island to finish 29 under par, four shots clear of Canada’s Mackenzie Hughes.
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Ludvig Aberg almost holed his tee shot on the par-three fourth hole during the Saturday foursomes session at the Ryder Cup in Rome
Ludvig Aberg almost holed his tee shot on the par-three fourth hole during the Saturday foursomes session at the Ryder Cup in Rome
Donald was quick to congratulate his wildcard pick and believes we are only seeing the start of what is set to be an accolade-laden career.
“Anyone paying attention knew the unlimited potential of Ludvig, he showed that at Crans and now again dominating in Sea Island this week,” Donald said on social media.
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“Congratulations to you, Jack and your whole team, the sky is the limit.”
Åberg admitted the moment felt like a “dream” and he hopes to “love golf for a long time” as he continues on in the professional ranks.
“I’m super happy. It’s kind of beyond my dreams,” Åberg said.
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“It’s really cool. To first off play on the PGA Tour, I have a lot of people to thank for that. It’s been so much fun, six months that I’ll never forget.
“This is what you dream of as a kid. This is the sport that I love and the sport that I’m going to love for a very long time. Watching these events from a very young age is what I’ve done so to see myself win is really cool.”
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Dale Reid has died at the age of 64; she was a life member of the tour, won 21 LET titles, the Order of Merit twice and enjoyed a successful Solheim Cup career
Last Updated: 08/11/23 5:35pm
Dale Reid has died at the age of 64
Former Solheim Cup captain Dale Reid has died at the age of 64, the Ladies European Tour has announced.
Reid, who had been suffering from cancer, died on Wednesday morning in Townsville, Australia, the LET said.
A life member of the LET, Reid turned professional in 1979 and won 21 times on the circuit in her career, the last two of which came in 1991.
She won the Order of Merit in both 1984 and 1987 and holds the record for the most top-10 finishes with 135, recorded between 1979-2005.
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After representing Europe four times as a player in the Solheim Cup, Reid captained the side to victory over the United States at Loch Lomond in 2000.
It was only Europe’s second victory in the biennial contest and Reid was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.
Reid also led the side at Interlachen in 2002, but Europe lost by three points after a build-up dominated by a selection row revolving around Catriona Matthew, who went on to captain Europe to victories in 2019 and 2021.
Reid was described by the LET as a “larger-than-life character who was held in great affection by her fellow Tour players, caddies and staff. (She) will be missed dearly by all who knew her.”
One week after Alison Lee lost in a playoff on the LPGA, she ran laps around the field in Saudi Arabia after shooting a mind-boggling 61-61-65 at the Ladies European Tour’s Aramco Team Series event at Riyadh Golf Club
Last Updated: 29/10/23 4:53pm
Alison Lee rounded off her record-breaking week in style with a commanding victory in the Aramco Team Series in Saudi Arabia
American Alison Lee rounded off her record-breaking week in style with a commanding victory in the Aramco Team Series in Saudi Arabia.
Lee carded a final round of 65 at Riyadh Golf Club to finish 29 under par and eight shots clear of Spain’s Solheim Cup star Carlota Ciganda, with England’s Charley Hull another three strokes back in third.
Lee’s winning total set a new 54-hole scoring record on the Ladies European Tour and also equalled the best achieved over 72 holes.
“I’ve played some really good golf this week and putted even better,” the 28-year-old said.
“I hit almost every green, gave myself plenty of birdie opportunities, and made a lot of them count with aggressive, confident play. I had a lot of fun out there and I’m delighted with the win because any tournament is difficult to win.”
Alison’s first professional victory came at the 2021 Aramco event at Sotogrande.
A former No 1 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, the 28-year-old former UCLA student turned professional in 2014 after winning the final stage of LPGA Q-School.
Angel Yin defeated Lilia Vu on the opening playoff hole to win the LPGA Shanghai tournament on Sunday; the 25-year-old claimed victory at the par-four 18th after Vu had narrowly missed her 20-foot birdie putt
Last Updated: 15/10/23 11:06am
Angel Yin poses with the Shanghai Champion Trophy
American Solheim Cup player Angel Yin defeated top-ranked Lilia Vu on the first playoff hole to win the LPGA Shanghai tournament on Sunday for her first tour success.
The pair finished on 14-under at the Qizhong Garden Golf Club course, forcing a playoff, but the 25-year-old claimed victory at the opening hole after Vu had narrowly missed her 20-foot birdie putt.
It was Yin’s first victory in 159 starts and she shared a warm embrace with compatriot Vu on her breakthrough win.
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Yin was tied with Maja Stark for the overnight lead at 12 under and on Sunday shot a 70, with three birdies and a lone bogey on the sixth.
Vu shot a four-under 68, with six birdies and two bogeys, and was the clubhouse leader at 14-under, until Yin birdied the par-five 17th and then made par on the final hole to force a playoff.
Five players finished in a tie for third at 13 under: South Korea’s Choi Hye-jin who shot a 64, Thai pair Pavarisa Yoktuan (70) and Ariya Jutanugarn (69), Yu Liu (68) and Esther Henseleit (68).
After a promising start, Maja Stark had a frustrating day as she made an even-par round to finish in a tie for eighth on 12 under.
Meanwhile, two-time defending champion Danielle Kang of the United States shot 71 to finish five strokes back in a tie for 17th at nine under.
The event, the LPGA’s first return to China since 2019 because of the Covid-19 pandemic, is the start of a four-tournament Asia swing, with later stops in South Korea, Malaysia and Japan.
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Brooks Koepka moves into lead at LIV Jeddah standing at 12-under, ahead of Sergio Garcia of Spain and Charles Howell III; Garcia’s Fireballs and Koepka’s Smash are tied for second in team play
Last Updated: 14/10/23 6:03pm
Brooks Koepka takes a three-stroke lead heading into the final round of the LIV Golf Invitational Jeddah
Brooks Koepka shot a bogey-free 64 on Saturday to take a three-stroke lead heading into the final round of the LIV Golf Invitational Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.
The defending champion enjoyed four birdies in a row on holes three to six, part of his eight on the round in the $25m regular season-ending event at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club.
He stands at 12 under ahead of Sergio Garcia of Spain, who followed Friday’s 68 with a 63, and Charles Howell III (64).
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Scott Vincent of Zimbabwe fired a 62 behind seven birdies and an eagle to move into a tie for fourth with Bryson DeChambeau (63), four strokes back of Koepka at eight under.
First-round leader Marc Leishman of Australia, who recorded a 65 to take the lead on Friday, responded with a five-over-par 70 and fell into a tie for 21st at three under par.
Garcia said the weather and the course proved better on Saturday than on Friday.
“It was a really nice round, obviously,” he said. “The course conditions were a little bit more favourable than yesterday. Yesterday was much windier. It was a lot trickier. A couple of tougher pins yesterday, I guess.”
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Garcia said a key to the round was consecutive birdies on the final two holes, part of a strong finish.
“I finished with four birdies on my last five,” he said. “Obviously there’s moments here and there, but I also made a couple really good up-and-downs on 11 and 12 to keep my round going, and then thanks to that, I birdied 13 and 14.
“I think that I played nicely. I got a lot out of my round, and I’m very happy with that.”
In team play, Garcia’s Fireballs and Koepka’s Smash are tied for second at 19 under, three strokes behind DeChambeau’s Crushers.
Watch the Shriners Children’s Open at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas on Sky Sports Golf from 10pm on Saturday.
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You can see Europe take on the United States in the Ryder Cup from September 29, exclusively live on Sky Sports
You can see Europe take on the United States in the Ryder Cup from September 29, exclusively live on Sky Sports
We take a look at who features in Zach Johnson’s Team USA at the 2023 Ryder Cup, being held at Marco Simone Golf Club in Italy.
The six automatic qualifiers on the Ryder Cup points list are world No 1 Scottie Scheffler, US Open champion Wyndham Clark and Brian Harman, winner of The Open at Royal Liverpool – both rookies – along with Patrick Cantlay, Max Homa and Xander Schauffele.
Johnson’s six wildcard selections then included five-time major winner, LIV Golf’s Brooks Koepka, as well as Jordan Spieth, Collin Morikawa, Sam Burns, Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas to complete the USA’s line-up.
Scottie Scheffler
Age 27. Caps 1. Majors 1
Ryder Cup record: 2-0-1
Singles: 1-0-0. Foursomes: 0-0-0. Fourball: 1-0-1
Can Scottie Scheffler impress for Team USA this week?
The world No 1 is the standout member of a strong-looking US team, although it’s somewhat of a surprise the 27-year-old failed to add a second major to his tally this season.
Scheffler did win The Players in March, along with the Phoenix Open a month prior, while he carded a tied-second finish at the PGA Championship and third at The US Open, albeit he barely threatened the runaway leaders (Brooks Koepka and Wyndham Clark, respectively) on the final day of either event.
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Highlights from the final round of The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass
Highlights from the final round of The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass
Scheffler’s pedigree though is undoubted at this early stage of his career and more majors will certainly follow. As for Ryder Cups, it was an impressive start for him on debut two years ago, winning two of his matches and halving the other in Team USA’s convincing win at Whistling Straights.
Wyndham Clark
Age 29. Caps 0. Majors 1
Ryder Cup record: N/A
You would have been forgiven for not knowing the name Wydnham Clark at the start of the year, with the 29-year-old yet to win on the PGA Tour since turning professional in 2017 and a best major finish of tied-75th at the 2021 PGA Championship.
By June 18, however, you were left in no doubt as to who he was and his golfing credentials as Clark raised aloft the US Open trophy – having held off the final-day challenge of four-time major winner Rory McIlroy – to follow off the back of his first tour win at Wells Fargo the month prior.
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Highlights of the final round from the 123rd US Open as Wyndham Clark held off Rory McIlroy to claim his first major win
Highlights of the final round from the 123rd US Open as Wyndham Clark held off Rory McIlroy to claim his first major win
It does not look like a flash in the pan either, with Clark finishing third at the Tour Championship to close out the FedExCup Playoffs.
Brian Harman
Age 36. Caps 0. Majors 1
Ryder Cup record: N/A
Another Ryder Cup rookie, with Harman catapulting himself into contention much in the same way he blazed his way to the top of the leaderboard en route to winning The Open at Royal Liverpool this summer.
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Highlights from the final round of the 151st The Open championship from the Royal Liverpool Golf Club
Highlights from the final round of the 151st The Open championship from the Royal Liverpool Golf Club
Harman carded a six-under 65 on the second day and never looked back, ultimately running away with things to win by a massive six strokes.
Just to stir the competitive juices further among the English fans following the fortunes of Team Europe, Harman bears a striking resemblance to former Australian cricket captain, and great Ashes enemy, Ricky Ponting. Google it, trust us.
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Take a look back at Brian Harman’s final round of 70 that sealed him victory and the Claret Jug at Royal Liverpool
Take a look back at Brian Harman’s final round of 70 that sealed him victory and the Claret Jug at Royal Liverpool
Patrick Cantlay
Age 31. Caps 1. Majors 0
Ryder Cup record: 3-0-1
Singles: 1-0-0. Foursomes: 2-0-0. Fourball: 0-0-1
Slow play or not, Cantlay performed brilliantly on his Ryder Cup debut two years ago, winning three of four matches and halving the other, while he is fully deserving of his spot on this team again as one of the most consistent performers on tour if not always the quickest.
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Patrick Cantlay made quick work of the seventh with this hole-in-one at the RBC Heritage
Patrick Cantlay made quick work of the seventh with this hole-in-one at the RBC Heritage
The 31-year-old has eight PGA Tour wins to his name, including the 2021 season-ending Tour Championship, but he has failed to add to that tally in 2023 and major success still eludes him, with a tied-ninth finish at the PGA Championship his best of the year and only the fourth top 10 of his career.
Max Homa
Age 32. Caps 0. Majors 0
Ryder Cup record: N/A
With six PGA Tour wins in total and five since the start of 2021, Homa has been a popular tip as ‘the next first-time major winner’ on tour.
However, the 32-year-old Homa has not lived up to those lofty expectations quite yet, with his tied-10th finish at The Open this year the first time he has cracked that very top 10.
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A debut Ryder Cup cap now gives him a further chance to prove he can cut the mustard when the spotlight is at its brightest and pressure at its most intense.
Xander Schauffele
Age 29. Caps 1. Majors 0
Ryder Cup record: 3-1-0
Singles: 0-1-0. Foursomes: 2-0-0. Fourball: 1-0-0
Xander Schauffele is another to have impressed in his Ryder Cup debut two years ago, with a singles loss to Rory McIlroy to kick off Sunday his only blemish.
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His foursomes partnership with Patrick Cantlay proved particularly fruitful, with two wins in two, so could that be a pairing we see again this year?
The 29-year-old has had a solid, if unspectacular, 2023 season, carding top-10 finishes at The Masters and US Open though that first major success still eludes him.
Brooks Koepka
Age 33. Caps 3. Majors 5
Ryder Cup record: 6-5-1
Singles: 2-0-1. Foursomes: 2-2-0. Fourball: 2-3-0
The only LIV Golf representative among the 24-player field, but it’s easy to see why Koepka has been able to bridge the divide despite his absence on the PGA Tour over the last year and a bit.
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As Brooks Koepka aims to win his third US Open title this week, check out his five previous major victories
As Brooks Koepka aims to win his third US Open title this week, check out his five previous major victories
The 33-year-old won his fifth major in some style, claiming the PGA Championship at Oak Hill courtesy of rounds of 66, 66 and 67 over the final three days. That also followed off the back of a brilliant week at Augusta, albeit one which ended in agonising fashion as he let a two-stroke lead slip to Jon Rahm on the final day to see a maiden Masters win slip through his fingers.
Koepka also brings a decent wedge of Ryder Cup experience to this US team, having appeared in the past three, which has included two big wins for the US either side of losing handily themselves in France in 2018.
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Highlights from the final round of the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill which saw Brooks Koepka lift the trophy for a third time
Highlights from the final round of the 2023 PGA Championship at Oak Hill which saw Brooks Koepka lift the trophy for a third time
Jordan Spieth
Age 30. Caps 4. Majors 3
Ryder Cup record: 8-7-3
Singles: 0-3-1. Foursomes: 3-2-2. Fourball: 5-2-0
Spieth is a four-time Ryder Cup veteran, at the age of 30, but it has been a bit of a mixed bag at times for the three-time major winner.
Spieth, for example, has still yet to win a final-day singles matchup, coming closest when halving his tie with Tommy Fleetwood two years ago. In pairing with his US team-mates he has fared much better, particularly when paired with his great mate Justin Thomas – the pair have won four of six matches they have played together.
Spieth had five top-five finishes on tour this year, including coming second to Matt Fitzpatrick at the RBC Heritage and ending tied for fourth at Augusta in his best placing at a major in 2023.
Collin Morikawa
Age 26. Caps 1. Majors 2
Ryder Cup record: 3-0-1
Singles: 0-0-1. Foursomes: 2-0-0. Fourball: 1-0-0
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Two years ago, Morikawa was an absolute shoo-in for the US team, topping the points list – off the back of two major wins over the previous 12 months – to qualify outright.
This time, his path to Italy has not quite been so seamless, relying on a captain’s pick after finishing a still-decent 10th on the points list.
His selection was really a bit of a no-brainer, especially when you consider his success – three wins in four – last time out. That said, his budding partnership with Dustin Johnson, which secured a 100 per cent record in their three matchups, has been broken up. Who will he team up with this time round?
Sam Burns
Age 27. Caps 0. Majors 0
Ryder Cup record: N/A
It was no real surprise to see Burns claim one of Zach Johnson’s captain’s picks, having won five PGA Tour titles since 2021, including the World Matchplay earlier this year.
The 27-year-old is making his Ryder Cup debut, though he did get a little bit of a practice run when part of the US team at the Presidents Cup last year – albeit it did not go particularly well.
Burns went winless from his five ties (three losses, two halves), his partnership with great mate Scottie Scheffler proving far from fruitful as the high-profile pair lost two of their three matches. Will they dare to be paired together again this week?
Rickie Fowler
Age 34. Caps 4. Majors 0
Ryder Cup record: 3-7-5
Singles: 1-2-1. Foursomes: 1-3-2. Fourball: 1-2-2
Fowler has found the Ryder Cup a struggle, winning only three of his 15 career matchups and tasting victory on the US team only once in 2016 (where two of his wins came), having failed to make the team at Whistling Straights two years ago.
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Zane Scotland and Henni Koyack use the Audi Performance Zone to analyse Rickie Fowler’s technique
Zane Scotland and Henni Koyack use the Audi Performance Zone to analyse Rickie Fowler’s technique
While Fowler might therefore seem a strange captain’s pick this time round, 2023 has seen the 34-year-old return to somewhere near his best form. Starting the year still outside the world’s top 100, and without a PGA Tour victory since 2019, Fowler’s return to former coach Butch Harmon has reaped stunning results, most notably at this year’s US Open where he equalled the lowest score in men’s major championship history with a stunning eight-under opening round of 62.
Fowler ultimately faded to finished tied-fifth but he would end that PGA Tour title drought less than a month later with success at the Rocket Mortgage Classic.
Justin Thomas
Age 30. Caps 2. Majors 2
Ryder Cup record: 6-2-1. Singles: 2-0-0. Foursomes: 3-1-0. Fourball: 1-1-1
Thomas can consider himself somewhat fortunate to earn a captain’s pick after one of his poorest seasons by his high standards.
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Justin Thomas missed the FedExCup Playoffs in a painful way as his chip attempt stayed out after hitting the pin, meaning he finished outside the top 70 in the points standings
Justin Thomas missed the FedExCup Playoffs in a painful way as his chip attempt stayed out after hitting the pin, meaning he finished outside the top 70 in the points standings
The two-time major winner only just secured a spot in the FedExCup playoffs by the skin of his teeth after a dismal run which saw him miss the cut in five of seven PGA Tour starts. Those struggles stretched to the majors too, with his defence of the PGA Championship (finishing tied-65th) the only instance in which he made the weekend.
But, Thomas has earned captain Zach Johnson’s trust likely due to his Ryder Cup pedigree of years past. Thomas has won six of his nine career matches, including claiming four off five when last held on European soil in 2018.
Watch the Ryder Cup this month exclusively live Sky Sports. Live coverage of the opening day begins on Friday September 29 from 6am on Sky Sports Golf. Stream the PGA Tour, Ryder Cup and more with NOW.
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Highlights from the opening day of the Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin
Highlights from the opening day of the Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin
Team Europe battled back in the fourballs to keep their hopes of a Solheim Cup threepeat alive, but what can Suzann Pettersen’s side learn from an eventful opening day against Team USA?
Europe arrived as pre-tournament favourites and with a side that Pettersen felt was the strongest in their history, with the hosts looking to build on victories at Gleneagles in 2019 and Ohio in 2021.
Momentum quickly went in the way of Stacy Lewis’ USA side after a dominant foursomes session, where they enjoyed a clean sweep for the first time in their history, only for Europe to fight back superbly to claim three of the four points on offer in the fourballs.
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On day one of the 2023 tournament Emily Pederson followed Anna Nordqvist’s 2013 ace with just the second hole-in-one in the history of the Solheim Cup
On day one of the 2023 tournament Emily Pederson followed Anna Nordqvist’s 2013 ace with just the second hole-in-one in the history of the Solheim Cup
Europe now trail 5-3 heading into another double-session on Saturday, live from 6.30am on Sky Sports, although will be encouraged by their afternoon performance that their hopes of a historic threepeat remain on track.
Beware of Team USA’s talent
Team USA hadn’t led after an opening Solheim Cup session since 2009, when fourballs used to be played first, which makes the manner of their fast start to this year’s contest even more remarkable.
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A putt from Allisen Corpuz secured Team USA a clean-sweep in the morning foursome matches on day one at the Solheim Cup in Spain
A putt from Allisen Corpuz secured Team USA a clean-sweep in the morning foursome matches on day one at the Solheim Cup in Spain
It’s the first time since 1996 that the United States went undefeated in the opening round of a foursomes session and the first time in the biennial contest’s history that they swept a foursome round.
The fast start is just the sixth time in the Solheim Cup that a team has managed to win all four matches in a session and the first time since 2017, when Team USA won all four Friday fourball fixtures on their way to a 16.5-11.5 success.
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One hope for Team Europe is that there has been a previous occasion when a team has recovered from losing a session 4-0 to win the Solheim Cup, with Team USA achieving that in 2002 after bouncing back from being swept in the Saturday fourballs.
Mixed fortunes for line-up gambles
The decision to lead off with two rookies quickly felt like a mistake for Europe, with Maja Stark and Linn Grant losing each of their opening three holes to immediately see Team USA dominate the leaderboard.
Although the Swedish pair battled back into the contest and were level with four holes remaining, they never led and were eventually beaten 2&1 by Lexi Thompson and Megan Khang.
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Linn Grant and Maja Stark were defeated 2&1 by Lexi Thompson and Megan Khang in the Friday morning foursomes session after Grant missed a short putt on the 17th hole at Finca Cortesin.
Linn Grant and Maja Stark were defeated 2&1 by Lexi Thompson and Megan Khang in the Friday morning foursomes session after Grant missed a short putt on the 17th hole at Finca Cortesin.
Thompson hit the opening tee shot despite struggling for form this season, with the Solheim Cup veteran without a top-10 all year on the LPGA Tour, with that decision a last-minute call from captain Stacy Lewis.
“She wasn’t in my line-up that I’ve had for a couple weeks and just the way the last four days have gone, just the way she seemed mentally, I had a good feeling about it,” Lewis explained.
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Lewis also left out world No 2 Lilia Vu and rising star Rose Zhang from the opening session, although unlike Pettersen – who left out Caroline Hedwall all day – elected to use all 12 players in at least one match.
“You could not ask for much more,” Lewis added after the 4-0 session sweep. “We knew just seeing the pairings, those middle two matches were going to be tough. We saw a ton of fight in our girls and fortunately we were on the right side of it.”
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Team USA Solheim Cup captain Stacy Lewis claimed that Lexi Thompson wasn’t in her original plans for the Friday morning foursomes but her performance in practice convinced her to include her with Megan Khang
Team USA Solheim Cup captain Stacy Lewis claimed that Lexi Thompson wasn’t in her original plans for the Friday morning foursomes but her performance in practice convinced her to include her with Megan Khang
Europe’s character shines through
Having lost the foursomes 4-0, Europe went into the fourballs under extreme pressure.
Aside from the final pairing of Carlota Ciganda and Grant, who controlled their match from almost start to finish, the other six European players had to come through nail-biting finales knowing that coming up short would leave the team facing a mountain to climb over the weekend.
Rather than succumbing to the moment, the pressure produced the best play we saw from Europe all day.
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Leona Maguire chips in for birdie on the 18th to save the day for Team Europe at the Solheim Cup
Leona Maguire chips in for birdie on the 18th to save the day for Team Europe at the Solheim Cup
Emily Pedersen, who had been heavily beaten alongside Charley Hull in the morning before struggling on the front nine of the fourballs, holed out at the 12th and almost did so again at the 17th to help herself and Stark to half a point.
Leona Maguire, having already made several clutch putts on the back nine, produced a shot that might have even upstaged Pedersen’s ace by chipping in at the 18th to turn a probable loss into victory for herself and Georgia Hall.
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Gemma Dryburgh puts a tough front nine behind her with this sensational chip-in birdie on the 16th at the Solheim Cup
Gemma Dryburgh puts a tough front nine behind her with this sensational chip-in birdie on the 16th at the Solheim Cup
Meanwhile debutant Gemma Dryburgh, who looked terribly nervous as she struggled on the greens in the front nine, came to life on the way in to hole out brilliantly at the 16th, having already holed a couple of crucial putts
If there was any doubt that Pettersen’s team had the characters to come back from an unenviable 4-0 deficit, they proved it on Friday afternoon.
‘No concerns’ for Hull despite record loss?
Hull mentioned she was dealing with a neck strain in the build-up to her sixth consecutive appearance for Team Europe, with the Englishwoman left out of the Friday fourballs after suffering the heaviest defeat of her Solheim Cup career.
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Emily Pedersen and Charley Hull went six down through nine holes as Team Europe struggled in the bottom match during the foursomes on day one of the Solheim Cup in Spain
Emily Pedersen and Charley Hull went six down through nine holes as Team Europe struggled in the bottom match during the foursomes on day one of the Solheim Cup in Spain
Hull said midweek she was only swinging at 80 per cent and received physio ahead of partnering Pedersen, where they were an estimated eight over par for the front nine on their way to a 5&4 foursomes loss against Ally Ewing and Cheyenne Knight.
Hull was a late arrival at the first tee and was nowhere near her best during a convincing loss, although captain Pettersen played down any possible concerns over her fitness.
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September 23, 2023, 12:30pm
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“Charley is okay,” Pettersen told Sky Sports. “Probably didn’t feel the best in the front nine and the more she played she felt better, so she’ll be fine. She has some treatments but nothing to worry about – just Charley being Charley, so I have no concerns!”
Unbeaten partnerships end for Europe
Celine Boutier and Hall’s four match unbeaten partnership – across two Solheim Cups – came to an end when they suffered a final-hole loss against Danielle Kang and Andrea Lee, with the pair kept apart for the afternoon session as the Frenchwoman sat out.
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Georgia Hall misses the green twice on the ninth in her match-up with Lexi Thompson and Lilia Vu at the Solheim Cup
Georgia Hall misses the green twice on the ninth in her match-up with Lexi Thompson and Lilia Vu at the Solheim Cup
Europe’s top-scorer from their 2021 success in Ohio, Maguire was unable to build on her unbeaten debut two years ago as her and Anna Nordqvist – a playing vice-captain – were also beaten by the same margin.
It was that dominant of a display from Team USA that the European team only led for four holes across the entire morning session, Stark, Grant, Pedersen and Hull completing the group that were heavily beaten.
Who will win the 2023 Solheim Cup? Watch exclusively live this week on Sky Sports! Live coverage continues on Saturday from 6.30am.Stream the Solheim Cupand more with NOW.
Leona Maguire won 4.5 points on her Solheim Cup debut in 2021; can Team Europe claim a historic third consecutive victory over Team USA? Watch the opening ceremony live on Thursday from 5pm on Sky Sports Golf ahead of day one live on Friday from 6.30am.
By Ali Stafford at Finca Cortesin
Last Updated: 19/09/23 3:00pm
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Team Europe captain Suzann Pettersen looks ahead to the 2023 Solheim Cup and says the players are set on what will happen on Friday with regards to pairings
Team Europe captain Suzann Pettersen looks ahead to the 2023 Solheim Cup and says the players are set on what will happen on Friday with regards to pairings
Leona Maguire is refusing to put any additional pressure on herself as she looks to build on a stellar Solheim Cup debut and help create history for Team Europe this week in Spain.
Maguire top-scored for Catriona Matthew’s side in a 15-13 victory in 2021, winning 4.5 points in an unbeaten debut as Team Europe successfully defended their title on American soil.
The Irishwoman has won twice on the LPGA Tour in the two years since and contended in several majors during that time, cementing inside the world’s top 20, with Maguire likely to play a key role for Suzann Pettersen’s side at Finca Cortesin.
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As the Solheim Cup gets under way on September 22, we take a look back at some classic winning moments from down the years between Team USA and Team Europe
As the Solheim Cup gets under way on September 22, we take a look back at some classic winning moments from down the years between Team USA and Team Europe
Team Europe are chasing a third consecutive win over Team USA for the first time in the tournament’s history, although Maguire played down the prospect of her stellar achievements in her previous Solheim Cup appearance.
“Obviously last time went about as well as it possibly could have, but it’s a brand-new event this time,” Maguire said in her pre-tournament press conference. “It’s a brand-new venue and a brand-new team, both on the Europe and the US side.
“I think the US have a fantastic team this time. I think they have a young team that’s ready to go. Ultimately, I’ll try and win as many points as I can, but we’ll just prepare as well as we can and go in with very little expectations like the last time, the same way as I approach any other event.
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A look back at the best shots in Solheim Cup history
A look back at the best shots in Solheim Cup history
“Just because it’s worked well in the past doesn’t really make much difference for this time. It almost feels a little bit like a rookie again playing on home soil. This is all still a new experience for me, so will just try and enjoy the week as much as I can and feed off the energy of the crowd.”
Maguire won 2.5 points alongside Mel Reid in 2021 and one point alongside former AIG Women’s Open champion Georgia Hall, although was seen playing a practice round with Anna Nordqvist, Caroline Hedwall and Madelene Sagstrom on Tuesday.
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The 28-year-old held her pre-tournament press conference alongside reigning Evian Championship winner Celine Boutier, with the pair both hinting at the possibility of the pair playing together at some point during this year’s event.
“I think we have a fantastic team this week,” Maguire added. “I think there’s lots of options of who can play with who. It’s obviously a new team and you’ll see some familiar pairings and some new pairings.
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September 22, 2023, 6:30am
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“She [Pettersen] has done a lot of these, she’s done nine herself, so she knows what she’s doing. So I think both myself and Celine (Boutier) are pretty flexible. We’ll play with just about anybody, so we’re going to do whatever Suzann needs us to do this week.”
Pettersen: Europe know the plan for Friday!
Team Europe had 11 of their 12 players involved in practice rounds on Tuesday, with only Charley Hull sitting out as a precaution due to a slight neck issue, with speculation gathering on the potential partnerships that could be used by Pettersen on the opening day.
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Team Europe captain Suzann Pettersen looks ahead to the 2023 Solheim Cup and says the players are set on what will happen on Friday with regards to pairings
Team Europe captain Suzann Pettersen looks ahead to the 2023 Solheim Cup and says the players are set on what will happen on Friday with regards to pairings
“I’ve been very transparent with the players already and I’ve literally told them what we’re thinking for Friday morning,” Pettersen told Sky Sports. “I wanted the players to take ownership and the more they early know early then the easier it is to prepare.
“I think the players are pretty set on what’s going to be happening on Friday, which I think is great. As a player I always appreciated getting the information as early as possible. Who you see playing in the practice rounds could have a lot to do with who they potentially play with [on Friday], for sure.”
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Eight of the winning side from two years ago return this time around, with Caroline Hedwall also part of previous successes, with the strength of depth at her disposal leaving Pettersen plenty to consider.
“Women’s golf is about to explode,” Pettersen added. “It’s massive in Asia, it’s big in the United States and it’s obviously getting stronger and stronger here in Europe. I think the strength of the team shows the strength of the European talents coming through.
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Speaking on the Sky Sports Golf Podcast, Suzann Pettersen joked her biggest job during the Solheim Cup will be to keep Carlota Ciganda in check in front of a home crowd in Spain
Speaking on the Sky Sports Golf Podcast, Suzann Pettersen joked her biggest job during the Solheim Cup will be to keep Carlota Ciganda in check in front of a home crowd in Spain
“It’s going to be fun see all these players go out there and just embrace it. It’s great to have a strong team but gives me a lot of headaches. Everyone can’t play all matches so you have to bench certain good players, but it’s a good problem to have.
“With good performances also comes expectations, but the great part here is the players are so up for it. I don’t have to say anything to inspire them or motivate them – they’re just all so on it and ready to go.”
Who will win the 2023 Solheim Cup? Watch exclusively live this September on Sky Sports! Live coverage from the opening ceremony begins at 5pm on Thursday September 21, with the opening day’s play live on the Friday from 6.30am.Stream the Solheim Cupand more with NOW.
Who is playing in the BMW PGA Championship? When does coverage start? Ways to watch the DP World Tour’s flagship event at Wentworth live from Thursday September 14 on Sky Sports, ahead of the Ryder Cup later this month in Rome
Last Updated: 11/09/23 11:04am
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Europe’s Ryder Cup stars are all in action at the BMW PGA Championship, the flagship event of the DP World Tour calendar, with extended coverage live on Sky Sports Golf
Europe’s Ryder Cup stars are all in action at the BMW PGA Championship, the flagship event of the DP World Tour calendar, with extended coverage live on Sky Sports Golf
The stars of Europe’s next Ryder Cup team are all in action this week at the BMW PGA Championship, with extended coverage live on Sky Sports.
All 12 of Luke Donald’s side are scheduled to tee it up at Wentworth in the flagship event of the DP World Tour calendar, beginning on Thursday, ahead of trying to regain the Ryder Cup when the biennial contest takes place in Rome later this month.
Shane Lowry returns as defending champion after last year’s one-shot victory, with the Irishman looking to build on an impressive week at home soil at the Horizon Irish Open and become the first player since Donald to win back-to-back BMW PGA Championship titles.
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The best of the action from the final round of the 2022 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth
The best of the action from the final round of the 2022 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth
Rory McIlroy holds a commanding 2,350-point advantage over Jon Rahm at the top of the DP World Tour season-long standings as he targets Race to Dubai victory for a fifth time, with both players aiming to go one better than their joint runner-up finish in 2022.
McIlroy has already won two Rolex Series titles this season, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and Genesis Scottish Open, with this week’s event the fourth of five Rolex Series events on the DP World Tour schedule.
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Highlights from a dramatic final round as Rory McIlroy secured a dramatic victory over Robert MacIntyre at the Scottish Open
Highlights from a dramatic final round as Rory McIlroy secured a dramatic victory over Robert MacIntyre at the Scottish Open
2019 champion Tyrrell Hatton, FedExCup winner Viktor Hovland and new star Ludvig Åberg are all part of a strong line-up, with Matt Fitzpatrick, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose, Sepp Straka, Nicolai Hojgaard and Robert MacIntyre completing the Ryder Cup contingent in the field.
Sky Sports will have extended coverage from one of the highlights of the golfing calendar, with Featured Group action available from all four rounds and over 35 hours of live golf throughout the tournament.
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Featured Group coverage starts at 8.30am each day on Sky Sports Golf, ahead of the full coverage beginning from midday for all four rounds. Coverage runs until 6pm from Thursday to Saturday and 5.30pm on Sunday, with extended highlights also available each day.
TV Times (on Sky Sports Golf)
Thursday September 14
8.30am to 12pm – Featured Groups
Live DP World Tour Golf
September 14, 2023, 8:30am
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12pm to 6pm – Full live coverage
Friday September 15
8.30am to 12pm – Featured Groups
12pm to 6pm – Full live coverage
Rory McIlroy (right) and Jon Rahm (left) are the two highest-ranked players in the field at Wentworth
Saturday September 16
8.30am to 12pm – Featured Groups
12pm to 6pm – Full live coverage
Sunday September 17
8.30am to 12pm – Featured Groups
12pm to 5.30pm – Full live coverage
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Team Europe captain Luke Donald’s 12-man Ryder Cup team is complete – meet the golfers looking to win back the trophy
Team Europe captain Luke Donald’s 12-man Ryder Cup team is complete – meet the golfers looking to win back the trophy
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Watch the BMW PGA Championship throughout the week live on Sky Sports. Live coverage begins on Thursday with Featured Groups from 8.30am ahead of full coverage from midday on Sky Sports Golf.
Watch the Walker Cup live on Sky Sports from 6pm on Saturday and 5.30pm on Sunday, live on Sky Sports Golf
Last Updated: 01/09/23 6:59pm
The Walker Cup trophy takes place at St Andrews this weekend
Great Britain and Ireland captain Stuart Wilson has welcomed being given a selection headache for the 49th Walker Cup against the United States at the Old Course at St Andrews.
The visitors are odds-on favourites to secure a fourth consecutive victory in the biennial contest for the top male amateur golfers, with eight of Mike McCoy’s 10-man side ranked in the world’s top 10.
Only Stewart Hagestad (19th) is ranked lower than GB&I’s top-ranked player John Gough (14th), while the home side includes 16-year-old Scot Connor Graham, the youngest player to contest the Walker Cup for either side.
The last win for the hosts came in 2015 at Royal Lytham, where Jimmy Mullen compiled a perfect 4-0 record in a seven-point win over an American side which included this year’s captain McCoy and Bryson DeChambeau.
“The team has done a fantastic job this week of preparing,” said Wilson, who also captained the side to a narrow 14-12 defeat at Seminole in 2021.
“It’s been a long week. I don’t think there’s many weeks like this in the golfing calendar when there’s so much preparation.
“But we had our two practice rounds early in the week and then we had a little break over to Kingsbarns, which was a bit more of a social kind of relaxed day, and then rounding them up Thursday and Friday here for the official practice days.
“Preparations have gone well and the guys are all playing well, which is great to see.
“Playing well and practising creates a nice situation but a difficult situation, as well, giving us a little bit of a headache as to pairings, and obviously we’ve got to leave two players out of each of the first three sessions, so the guys have made my job difficult by deciding who to leave out.”
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England’s Barclay Brown and Ireland’s Mark Power are the only players from the 2021 side to have returned this year, Power having won three of his four matches at Seminole.
“I’m trying to help some of the younger guys out and even some of the guys who haven’t played here before,” Power said.
“I suppose it’s a different feeling than last time. Circumstances were a little bit different with Covid and everything.
“I feel like this week has been a lot longer, and I feel like our preparations have been great. I feel like everyone is confident we’ve done the right things.
“It’s just about getting into the matches now, and I suppose just locking into your own process, not trying to do anything too different. That’s a big thing I would say.
“Last time around there was a restricted crowd, so it wasn’t quite the full experience. It was still probably the best week of my golfing career so far. I’d imagine this week will top it.
“We’ll definitely be leaning on the home crowd to give us a little extra support, but we’re all really going to embrace it and it’s going to be amazing. At the Home of Golf it’s extra special, so really looking forward to it.”
The teams will contest four foursomes matches and eight singles on Saturday, followed by four more foursomes and 10 singles on Sunday.
Viktor Hovland mixed 10 birdies with a lone bogey in a stunning final-round 61, setting the course record and earning a two-shot win; Scottie Scheffler leads FedExCup standings after finishing tied-second with Matt Fitzpatrick
By Ali Stafford
Last Updated: 21/08/23 12:50am
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Highlights of the final round of the BMW Championship from the Olympia Fields Country Club in Illinois
Highlights of the final round of the BMW Championship from the Olympia Fields Country Club in Illinois
Viktor Hovland produced a sensational back-nine birdie barrage to stun world No 1 Scottie Scheffler and claim a dramatic victory at the BMW Championship.
Hovland overturned a three-stroke deficit during a gripping final round at Olympia Fields Country Club, where he fired seven birdies in a back-nine 28 to set the course record with an incredible nine-under 61.
The Norwegian ended the week on 17 under to register a second PGA Tour title of the season and fifth overall, with the latest success also seeing him close the gap on Scheffler at the top of the FedExCup standings heading into the Tour Championship.
Scottie Scheffler will start with a two-shot lead at the Tour Championship on Thursday
Scheffler held at least a share of the lead for the majority of the day but saw his hopes ended with a penultimate-hole bogey, with the American finishing tied-second on 15 under with Matt Fitzpatrick and Rory McIlroy a further three strokes back in fourth.
Special Sunday on the PGA Tour
Scheffler missed a six-foot chance at the par-five first but edged ahead when he converted from 10 feet at the next, with the world No 1 almost holing his approach into the third to set up a tap-in birdie.
Fitzpatrick poured in from 20 feet to match his playing partner’s birdie and added another from close range at the next to pull level, with both then firing tee shots to inside six feet and picking up shots at the par-three sixth to move to 14 under.
Matt Fitzpatrick ended the week on 15 under alongside Scheffler
Hovland – playing two groups ahead – had birdied three of his opening five holes to briefly get within one of the lead but then bogeyed the seventh, resulting in him turning in 33, while playing partner McIlroy was a further stroke back after finishing his front nine with a bogey.
Scheffler burned another birdie opportunity at the seventh and watched Fitzpatrick produce a remarkable up and down from the sand to save par at the eighth, only for the Englishman to bogey the ninth and fall one behind at the turn.
Scottie Scheffler was chasing a third victory of the season on the PGA Tour
Fitzpatrick converted from 12 feet to join Scheffler in birdieing the 10th and temporarily moved back tied for the lead when the American bogeyed the par-four next, while Hovland charged into contention by starting his back nine with three consecutive birdies.
Hovland responded to a missed birdie chance at the 13th by making a tap-in birdie at the next to temporarily make it a three-way tie, only for Scheffler to roll in from 15 feet and 25 feet over his next two holes to card back-to-back birdies and go two clear.
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Watch the best shots from Viktor Hovland’s brilliant final-round 61 as he triumphed at the BMW Championship
Watch the best shots from Viktor Hovland’s brilliant final-round 61 as he triumphed at the BMW Championship
Fitzpatrick recovered from bogeying the 14th by birdieing his next two holes to get back within one, as Hovland took advantage of the par-five 15th and added to his birdie tally at the par-four 17th to pull back alongside Scheffler on 16 under.
Scheffler had to settle for a par at the 15th and squandered a look from six feet after a brilliant tee shot at the 16th, which saw him fall behind for the first time when Hovland capped off an incredible back nine by slotting in an eight-foot birdie at the last to set the clubhouse target.
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Viktor Hovland was ecstatic after shooting 61 to win the BMW Championship by two shots
Viktor Hovland was ecstatic after shooting 61 to win the BMW Championship by two shots
Hovland’s lead doubled when Scheffler inexplicably carded a three-putt bogey at the 17th, with victory secure when neither Scheffler or Fitzpatrick could hole their second shots into the last and both settled for closing pars.
McIlroy birdied three of his last five holes to post a four-under 66 and take fourth, with Open champion Brian Harman and halfway leader Max Homa a further shot back in tied-fifth.
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Hovland: My best round ever!
Asked where that round ranked in his career, Hovland told Sky Sports: “It has to be number one. I remember playing a pretty special round of golf my first year on Tour, I shot seven under at Torrey Pines when it was hailing and windy and raining and that’s probably the best I’ve ever struck it throughout a round.
“But to shoot 61 and shoot 28 on the back nine at this golf course and under the circumstances, I have nothing that beats that.”
Viktor Hovland is now second in the FedExCup standings
Hovland, who started the day three off the lead, added: “I was thinking if I post a score like I did yesterday (65) I could at least have a chance, but it’s hard when you have so many guys in front of you that are really good and playing awesome. Catching heat on the back nine was what I had to do.”
What’s next?
The PGA Tour season reaches its climax on Thursday at the Tour Championship, where only the top 30 in the FedExCup standings get to feature and players are given a strokes-based advantage based on their position.
Scheffler will start with a two-shot lead over Hovland and McIlroy will begin on seven under in third spot, while Jon Rahm begins in fourth ahead of Lucas Glover.
