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Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy planning surprise LIV Golf move as TGL resumes

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Tiger Woods Rory McIlroy

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s new interactive golf league, TGL, is set to make significant changes, including extending an unexpected olive branch to players in LIV Golf.

Initially, TGL was perceived as a league exclusively for PGA Tour players, stopping short of being a direct competitor to the Saudi Arabia-backed league. The divide became starkly apparent when former Masters champion Jon Rahm pulled out of TGL just weeks before signing his $550M (£450M) deal with LIV.

The TGL officially kicked off a week ago in Florida and will resume on Tuesday night with Woods participating in his first game in the interactive sim league. McIlroy is set to play for the first time in a week, against Woods’ Jupiter Links GC.

JUST IN: Here’s Why Greg Norman’s LIV Golf Dream May Be on the Brink of Collapse

Despite only being a week old, it appears that TGL is poised for expansion sooner rather than later, with TMRW Sports co-founder Mike McCarley suggesting that the league will spread to new locations.

Currently, the games are held at the SoFi Center in Florida, but officials have already scouted new sites in anticipation of a potential future expansion. Locations in Las Vegas, Southern California, and Scottsdale have all been mentioned, according to Sport Business Journal, reports the Mirror.

In addition to this expansion, McCarley revealed plans to recruit players from LIV, potentially paving the way for Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton to return. The report suggests player involvement could be a factor in the ongoing merger talks between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, the backers of LIV.

McCarley highlighted the media buzz around potential changes but stressed the importance of the present responsibilities: “I know it’s interesting and I know everyone’s talking about it and I know it’s fun to kind of pontificate on what could or could not be, but we have a job to do. We’ve got to deliver a really compelling product,” he said.

He didn’t dispute the possibility of recruiting LIV players, saying, “Oh yeah. Yes, absolutely [LIV players could be signed],” Yet, he emphasized the current success: “But the reality is, we have a good business in what we have right now.”

Discussions continue between Public Investment Fund (PIF) representatives and PGA Tour executives regarding a potential collaboration, with various models under review. Meanwhile, ex-Masters winner Patrick Reed expressed his views to Mirror Sport on the necessity of diverse leagues for the growth of golf.

Reed conveyed his vision for the game: “Hopefully we can just start focusing on golf rather than PGA Tour vs LIV or DP World Tour vs LIV and more about the guys vs the guys. Obviously some guys didn’t like that some guys jumped and played on a different league, but at the same time I think it has really helped grow the game of golf and showed a different side of it, LIV is different, it is trying to show a different side of golf.”

He continued to clarify the contribution of the new league: “We don’t need another league that is exactly like the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, Asian Tour. We are trying to bring the younger generation into golf. How do you do that? Add music, a team aspect, have it be faster, have it not last as long with a shotgun start, have the concerts. It shows a new side of golf and a newer age.”

“I think golf needs both. Not one or the other golf needs both because the traditionalists will tend towards the PGA Tour, whereas the kids or younger generation who want a faster pace, there is a perfect spot to see that at LIV.”

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Here’s Why Greg Norman’s LIV Golf Dream May Be on the Brink of Collapse

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Greg Norman LIV Golf

LIV Golf’s reality has fallen short of its initial hype and promise, and it’s clear that the dream is not quite what it used to be.

Despite its ambitious goals and high-profile signings, the league has struggled with viewership, sponsorship, and legal issues, casting a shadow over its future prospects. It’s hard not to notice that the excitement around LIV Golf’s launch has given way to some serious concerns about its future. The truth is, it’s getting tougher to shake the feeling that LIV Golf’s best days might already be behind it. Greg Norman’s vision for a rival golf tour was certainly ambitious, but now it’s looking increasingly uncertain. So, what’s holding LIV Golf back?

So, what’s really going on with LIV Golf? Well, the first roadblock that might be hindering its quest for legitimacy is the lack of a clear pathway for growth and legacy. Eugenio Chacarra’s recent confession was a telling indictment of the tour’s priorities. Despite being a winner on the LIV Golf Tour, Chacarra felt unfulfilled and unrecognized, with no clear opportunities for advancement or major championships. We can’t blame the golfer here though as his words painted a picture of an organization that values money above all else which leaves its players feeling empty and uninspired.

Greg Norman believes more players will join LIV Golf after Rahm switch - SportsPro

READ: Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy rub salt into Greg Norman’s wounds with LIV Golf olive branch

While yes, Chacarra’s decision to leave LIV Golf and pursue his dreams on the PGA Tour may be considered controversial, fans do believe it was the right one. As he aptly put it, “I’m not a guy who wants more money. What will change my life is playing in Hawaii and qualifying for the majors, qualifying for the Masters, the Ryder Cup.” We mean, who wouldn’t want that? His story is a powerful reminder that for many golfers, the love of the game goes far beyond the lure of a fat paycheck.

LIV Golf is facing a bit of a conundrum, and it’s a pretty big one. The relegation system, which was supposed to inject some excitement and competition into the league, has essentially been rendered meaningless. Why you ask? Well, a case in point is Branden Grace, who finished a dismal 51st out of 57 players last season, yet is back with Stinger GC. Yeah, you read that right, a player who got relegated is just… back. No fuss, whatsoever. Unsurprisingly, this reversal has sparked a legitimacy crisis, with fans calling foul and questioning the league’s commitment to fairness and transparency. You see, it’s not just about Branden Grace, it’s about the entire system, which appears to be more focused on making exceptions for certain players rather than promoting genuine competition.

The news that took the golf world by storm, is still not official. Yes, we’re talking about the LIV Golf and Fox Sports deal. LIV Golf’s broadcast deal is still nowhere to be found – a broadcast deal for LIV Golf remains elusive. Despite all the hype, the parties involved haven’t made an official announcement yet. It’s got everyone in the golf world wondering what’s going on. To make matters worse, the merger that was supposed to be a game-changer has stalled. That’s a big problem for LIV Golf’s future. And if that wasn’t enough, coupled with the absence of OWGR points, major exemptions, and other benefits, is already taking its toll. Players like Eugenio Chacarra are already jumping ship, and well you can’t really blame them now can you?

As we all heard, Greg Norman’s time as LIV Golf’s CEO is coming to an end. Norman himself confirmed that his contract is hitting the wall in August 2025 and while he’ll be sticking around in some capacity it’s clear that his role is about to undergo a major change. Norman has been fully committed to LIV until now and has done pretty amazing work like getting golfers like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau to join the league. However, he’s likely to step back from the CEO position, which means he’ll have less influence over key decisions and important matters. This news isn’t entirely unexpected, given rumors that the PIF was seeking new leadership. As LIV Golf continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Norman’s legacy will move onwards.

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Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy add insult to injury for Greg Norman at TGL launch

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Tiger Woods Rory McIlroy

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy sent an invite to the man tipped to replace Greg Norman at LIV Golf to their brand-new indoor golf league.

When LIV first hit the fairways in 2022, Norman was at the helm, stirring up controversy and causing a rift in the world of professional golf. And while LIV and the PGA Tour agreed on a framework for a merger between the two promotions in June 2023, McIlroy and Woods have remained at a standoff with Aussie legend Norman.

At a ground-breaking event held on Tuesday (January 7), both McIlroy and Woods graced the inaugural match of the Tomorrow’s Golf League – an ambitious project of their joint company TMRW Sports. This innovative league marries virtual reality tech with the classic game in an indoor matchup setting, a bold step for the sport – and an invite to the event was even extended to a LIV Golf executive.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy TGL

READ: Inside the 10 most remarkable courses on Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s TGL

According to the Sports Business Journal, Scott O’Neil – who is rumoured to be stepping into Norman’s shoes as LIV’s main man – was seen attending the TGL’s big kick-off at the SoFi Center without Norman alongside him. Speculation suggests Norman, aged 69, will be pivoted to a new position by the bosses at Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, reports the Mirror US.

Back in 2022, Woods famously refused a jaw-dropping offer from LIV, speculated to be around $800m, opting to stick with the PGA Tour. That December, during the height of the tensions between the rival golf factions, Woods spoke out, doubting a merger while Norman was at the wheel.

He said: “Not right now, not with their leadership, not with Greg there and his animosity towards the tour itself. I don’t see that happening. As Rory said, I think Greg’s got to leave and then we can eventually, hopefully, have a stay between the two lawsuits and figure something out. But why would you change anything if you’ve got a lawsuit against you?

“They sued us first. I see that there’s an opportunity out there if both organisations put a stay on their litigation but that’s the problem, they’ve got to put a stay on it. I think it has to start with leadership on their side.” While Woods is actively involved in the PAC overseeing the potential PGA-LIV merger, McIlroy hasn’t shied away from engaging with PIF chiefs either.

After earlier suggesting that Norman should “exit stage left”, McIlroy believes removing Norman from the equation could pave the way for smoother negotiations. He explained last year: “I think I’ve said this before, I have spent time with [PIF chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan] and the people that have represented him in LIV I think have done him a disservice, so [Greg] Norman and those guys.

Greg Norman has been LIV Golf CEO since 2022

“I actually think there’s a really big disconnect between PIF and LIV. I think you got PIF over here and LIV are sort of over here doing their own thing. So the closer that we can get to Yasir, PIF and hopefully finalise that investment, I think that will be a really good thing.”

The TGL launch was delayed by a year prior to Tuesday’s event, which saw The Bay Golf Club clinch a 9-2 win over New York Golf Club. TGL is made up of six four-man teams, with each 15-hole match split into triples and singles play. It is set to be played on weekdays, and the next event takes place on January 15.

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Rory McIlroy’s PGA Tour request for ‘The Match’ proves exactly why players left for LIV Golf

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Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy has revealed it was not ‘smooth sailing’ to get the PGA Tour to agree to ‘The Showdown’ which will see McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler take on LIV Golf rivals Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka.

McIlroy, Scheffler, DeChambeau and Koepka will give fans a first taste of a PGA Tour vs LIV clash, with the two pairs facing off over 18 holes with three different formats in Las Vegas on December 17. Players from opposing sides of golf’s recent fallout have only been given the chance to compete alongside each other at the four majors, after the PGA Tour opted to ban players who competed on the LIV setup.

‘The Showdown’ however will give four of the best golfers on the planet the chance to do battle away from the major stage, with bragging right’s undoubtedly up for grabs

Rory McIlroy 'changes tune' over LIV Golf and players returning to PGA Tour | The Independent

JUST IN: Rory McIlroy admits doubt over PGA Tour and LIV Golf unity ahead of Las Vegas showdown.

It comes at a time where PGA Tour bosses are continuing to negotiate with LIV backers, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) over a peace deal. Whilst the Tour have entertained interest from PIF, their relationship with LIV still appears to be modest at best.

When it comes to the merger match in Vegas next week, LIV have seemingly been keen to push the event, their latest step to allow freedom to their playing membership. DeChambeau for example has been able to make a name for himself on YouTube since joining the LIV setup, with likes of Phil Mickelson and Jon Rahm also popping up elsewhere too. The same however can not be said for the PGA Tour though, who according to McIlroy, took some convincing to give next week’s match the go ahead.

“It took a few conversations to get them to the point where they saw this could be a good thing in the long run. It took a few conversations,” McIlroy said of the Tour’s attitude towards the match. It wasn’t all smooth sailing but we got there in the end… They’ve been very supportive.”

McIlroy had previously been one of LIV’s biggest critics, having declared he ‘hated’ the Saudi-backed league even after the PGA Tour announced a framework agreement with PIF last June. Since the turn of this year though, the Northern Irishman has softened his stance, and continued his calls for unity through the power of ‘The Showdown’.

He commented “I don’t know if it was to spur things with everything that went on, it was really about us taking this into our own hands a little bit and do something outside of either tour to not only give back to the fans, but to show them or at least let them know we’re trying.”

“We’re trying to bring these players together, and the most opportunities we can get to do that, the better,” McIlroy said. “Does it remind people we’re not playing together all the time? Yes. But at least we’re making the effort to try to bring the best together more often. If we can start by doing something like this, that’s only a good thing.”

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Rory McIlroy admits doubt over PGA Tour and LIV Golf unity ahead of Las Vegas showdown

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Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy is excited about the chance to bridge the gap between PGA Tour and LIV Golf players in ‘The Showdown’ event next week in Las Vegas.

McIlroy will join forces with PGA’s Scottie Scheffler to take on LIV stars Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau at Shadow Creek Golf Club in a unique matchplay challenge, featuring three formats over 18 holes

“We’re trying to bring these players together, and the more opportunities we can get to do that, the better,” he remarked. He acknowledges the divide, “Does it remind people we’re not playing together all the time? Yes. But at least we’re making the effort to try to bring the best together more often.”

Las Vegas' Shadow Creek raises greens fee to $1,250

READ: Scottie Scheffler is Catching up to an Incredible Tiger Woods Record

McIlroy suggests starting with events like ‘The Showdown’ is beneficial. Currently, encounters between PGA and LIV players are restricted to majors due to the ban on LIV golfers in PGA events. While he is looking forward to the competition, McIlroy remains uncertain about the frequency of future PGA versus LIV matchups.

Rory McIlroy has voiced his uncertainties about the golfing world’s future, saying, “With the way the whole golf landscape works, I’m still unsure of when we’ll get together a little more often,” alluding to recent divisions in the sport. He went on to emphasize the intent behind potential matches, remarking, “The idea is to bring the best of both tours together in a match that people could get behind and get excited about it.”

This statement arrives amid persistent negotiations between PGA Tour officials and LIV Golf Investments, which is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), concerning a possible detente.

While McIlroy doubts such an event—dubbed ‘The Showdown’—would dramatically alter talks, he suggests it signifies an athlete-led push for amalgamation. “I don’t know if it was to spur things,” McIlroy added, asserting a proactive stance from players.

“It was really about us saying we’re going take this into our own hands a little bit, and we’re going to do something outside either tour, not to give something back to the fans but to … let them know that we’re trying to provide entertainment, that the players want to play together more often.”

The celebrated golfer concluded with a call for unity, stressing, “We’d like to see everybody back together. There’s been so much talk about LIV versus the PGA Tour, all this talk about money.

“We want to get back to the competition. … It’s fun to get together to compete.”

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GOLF

Phil Mickleson furiously confronted golfer in locker room after remarks about his outfit

By
LIV Golf Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson once exploded at Vijay Singh in the locker room at The Masters during a row over the now-LIV Golf star’s spikes.

Back in 2005, tensions were rising between the sport’s best players, with Mickelson, Singh, Tiger Woods and Ernie Els sharing frosty relationships.

Singh had little issue getting under the skin of his rivals. Then the top-ranked player on the PGA Tour, the Fijian is claimed to have complained about Mickelson’s spikes on the 12th hole at Augusta National.

The story goes that Singh called over an official to protest that the spikes on Mickelson’s soles were leaving significant marks in the ground. The American, who had switched from 6mm to 8mm spikes a few days before, was informed that someone would file them down.

Masters Round 2 moments: Phil Mickelson-Vijay Singh Spike Gate remembered

JUST IN: LIV Golf star facing bleak LIV Golf future after previous comments about Tiger Woods

Stuart Appleby, Mickelson’s playing partner, is said to have quipped: “What are they going to send? A blacksmith?”

The chair of Augusta National’s competition committee later revealed that the spikes were never filed and said: “One of our officials talked to Phil to see if there was a burr on the side of one of his spikes. He very generously, as you know he would, said he would change them when he got in if there was a problem. There wasn’t.”

Mickelson felt that Singh could have handled the situation more sensitively, perhaps making officials aware at the end of the round.

He reflected afterwards: “I was extremely distracted and would have appreciated if it would have been handled differently or after the round. After sitting in the locker room for a while, I heard Vijay talking to other players about it, and I confronted him. He expressed his concerns. I expressed my disappointment with the way it was handled.’’

However, Mickelson’s version of events are reported to be extremely watered down. According to Golf WRX, he entered the locker room to hear Singh criticising him to other players. It is claimed that Mickelson yelled at his rival, called him a “motherf*****”, and offered to settle their differences outside.

That version of events was largely backed up by Tiger Woods’ caddie at the time, Steve Williams, on the Chasing Majors podcast.

I think it was just Phil and Vijay,” said Williams, who added that Mickelson’s spikes were “certainly legal”. He continued: “I understand there was a bit of a heated conversation in the locker room. There’s no love lost between those two, that’s for sure.”

Mickelson finished 10th that year with Woods going on to win. There was a third green jacket for the now-54-year-old 12 months later, though.

And when Singh was criticised in 2020 for taking a place in a Korn Ferry Tour event, Mickelson leapt to his defence, saying: “It’s no secret VJ and I aren’t close, but I’d like to say on his behalf that in addition to being a member of the HoF, he’s a big part of the PGA Tour’s success which financially subsidises, and always has, the KFT. He has earned the right to play when and where he wants.”

Sing, though, is yet to repay the compliment to Mickelson following his decision to join the LIV Golf tour in 2022.

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LIV Golf star facing bleak LIV Golf future after previous comments about Tiger Woods

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Tiger Woods Open Championships

A LIV Golf star, whose wife publicly slammed Tiger Woods after his high-speed car crash in 2021, is facing a tough battle to avoid being demoted from the tour next year.

Pat Perez has had a dismal year on the LIV circuit, narrowly avoiding relegation by the slimmest of margins. The Arizona-born golfer finished the 2024 LIV season in 48th place, just one spot and 1.56 points above the automatic drop zone.

If Kalle Samooja hadn’t shot a final-round 71 in the last LIV event of the year, Perez’s fate might have been sealed. However, assuming a team signs the former PGA Tour star during the free agency period, Perez will retain his LIV contract going into 2025.

Pat Perez has clashed with Tiger Woods in the past

READ: Tiger Woods to miss his own event again as major health questions asked about golf icon

But with his back already against the wall, defending his position could prove even more challenging next year if Perez’s form continues on a similar downward trend.

Perez is no stranger to controversy, having been embroiled in a war of words with Woods in the past. Woods, a vocal critic of the LIV project since its inception, has claimed that players who left the PGA Tour for the Saudi-backed league are only motivated by money.

Perez fired back at the golf legend, saying “that’s the stupidest —- I have ever heard of in my life” on an episode of the Son of a Butch podcast.

He remarked: “Now, next year you might; they finally got the perks. But last time I checked, he signed a $40 million deal right out of college, was flying on the Nike jet. He found incentive. He could have shut it down right then.”

Yet, Pat isn’t the sole Perez to take a swipe at Woods, as the LIV sensation’s spouse, Ashley, didn’t hold back either. Her dig came in the wake of Woods’ harrowing car accident in 2021, which many feared spelt the end of his career, with Ashley scathingly posting on Instagram: “Literally why driving under the influence is ILLEGAL. I don’t feel bad for him. Thank god he didn’t kill anyone. See ya.”

At the time, Woods was cleared of any allegations of driving under the influence, leading to a swift removal of the post by Perez’s wife.

Perez won three titles during his time on the PGA Tour: the Bob Hope Classic in 2009, the OHL Classic at Mayakoba in 2016 and the CIMB Classic in 2017. He finished in a tie for third at the Players Championship in 2006 and has one top-10 finish at the majors, which came in 2005 at the PGA Championship (finishing in a tie for sixth).

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Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy get wish as personal roadblock to LIV Golf merger removed

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Tiger Woods Rory McIlroy

Greg Norman will stay at LIV Golf – but is set to be replaced as CEO of the Saudi Arabia-funded series.

LIV Golf’s arrival as a rival to the PGA Tour sent shockwaves throughout the world of sports. LIV Golf immediately made its presence felt, signing some of the game’s biggest names in an attempt to fracture the PGA Tour’s grip on professional golf.

Norman has signed the likes of Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and Jon Rahm to LIV Golf. But in June 2023, reports emerged suggesting LIV Golf had agreed to merge with the PGA Tour to end golf’s divide.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are two of the leading voices on the PGA Tour

READ: ‘Uncle’ Tiger Woods’ Hearty Gesture Might Have Pushed Serena Williams’s Daughter Away From Tennis, Reveals Alexis Ohanian

The merger ensured the pending legal dispute between the tours was to be placed on the back burner to attempt to co-exist as a single entity, with a signed agreement seemingly set to combine the PGA Tour and LIV’s commercial operations and rights into a new company, along with the DP World Tour.

Tense negotiations have been ongoing for some time now, with both Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy insisting Noman needed to step down to end “animosity” between the two tours. McIlroy in particular declared he believed Norman “had to go” in order to push through a merger.

He said in November 2022: “There’s a few things that I would like to see on the LIV side that needs to happen. I think Greg needs to go. I think he just needs to exit stage left. He’s made his mark, but I think now is the right time to sort of say, ‘Look, you’ve got this thing off the ground, but no one is going to talk unless there’s an adult in the room that can actually try to mend fences.”

Woods echoed Mcilroy’s statements, with the 15-time major champion suggested the Australian was looking to “destroy” the PGA Tour. “Greg has to go,” Woods said back in 2022. Asked whether LIV and golf’s traditional tours can co-exist, Woods said: “Not right now, not with their leadership, not with Greg there and his animosity towards the tour itself. I don’t see that happening.

As Rory said, I think Greg’s got to leave and then we can eventually, hopefully, have a stay between the two lawsuits and figure something out. But why would you change anything if you’ve got a lawsuit against you? They sued us first. I see that there’s an opportunity out there if both organizations put a stay on their litigation but that’s the problem, they’ve got to put a stay on it.

“I think it has to start with leadership on their side. Understanding that what is happening right now is not the best fit or future for the whole game of golf. Now, what is the best way for our game to grow? It’s not this way. You need to have the two bodies come together. If one side has so much animosity, someone trying to destroy our tour, then how do you work with that?”

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which bankrolls LIV Golf, has been looking for a new CEO for the circuit to take over from Norman. Once the new hire is installed, Norman is expected to maintain a leadership role within LIV Golf.

At the recent Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan played alongside Yasir Al-Rumayyan and McIlroy throughout the week. DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings was also playing, leading fans to believe that a breakthrough in negotiations is imminent.

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Jon Rahm faces awkward encounter just weeks after refusing to pay LIV Golf fines

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Jon Rahm LIV Golf

Jon Rahm recently met with DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

This meeting took place just a few weeks after Rahm declared he wouldn’t be paying any fines to the Wentworth-based circuit for participating in LIV Golf events. Rahm is back on the DP World Tour this week, aiming to play four events to maintain his Tour membership and secure his eligibility for next year’s Ryder Cup.

His last-minute scramble to meet the quota comes after spending most of 2024 playing on the LIV circuit. After joining the breakaway league late last year on a record-breaking deal, Rahm has been crowned LIV’s individual champion for 2024, pocketing just under $35 million in prize money during that period.

Pretty special'... Jon Rahm amazed by one 'incredible' thing at LIV Golf Adelaide

READ: Tiger Woods to design second Texas golf course as PGA and LIV Golf merger talks progress

However, his move hasn’t been without consequences. Rahm has faced financial penalties and suspensions from the DP World Tour for each LIV event he participates in. To return to the European circuit this autumn, Rahm had to appeal the decision, which has allowed him to compete in the Spanish Open, Dunhill Links, and the Andalucia Masters later this month, reports the Mirror US.

While the appeal currently allows the former world No. 1 to compete freely, there will come a time when he’ll have to choose between the Wentworth-based circuit and the LIV competitor. The outcome remains uncertain, but Rahm has already stated he won’t pay a penny of what he owes.

“I’m not a big fan of the fines. I think I’ve been outspoken about that,” the Spanish star said of his DP World Tour punishments at LIV Chicago last month. “I don’t intend to pay the fines, and we keep trying to have a discussion with them about how we can make this happen.”

This could potentially cause a significant rift between the European Tour and one of their most valuable players, Rahm. Despite the off-course politics, Rahm and the circuit’s CEO, Kinnings, appeared to be on good terms as they walked the course together ahead of this week’s event in Scotland.

Away from the controversy, Rahm’s attention shifted to the tournament at hand on Thursday, where he made a strong start, scoring an impressive seven-under-par 65 in the opening round at Carnoustie. The Spaniard is renowned for his aggressive play from tee to green, but it was his performance with the putter that stood out on the first day.

“My putting was really good today. I hit it well. Felt comfortable out there,’ he stated on Thursday. “But the amount of putts I made from 15 to 20 feet, it’s more than the average for sure today rather than — that’s what it takes on a golf course like Carnoustie to post a score. Hopefully, I can keep playing like this for the next few days.”

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‘Bruh seriously?!’ Fans stunned by latest Tiger Woods update

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Tiger Woods Sun Day Red

Tiger Woods has this month dropped a new ‘Cashmere Collection’ over at his Sun Day Red apparel company, but a large number of golf fans have been instantly turned off after seeing the cost involved to purchase any of the items. 

Woods, 48, shocked the world of last year when he announced he was terminating his 27-year deal with sports giant Nike.

The former World No.1 then announced his new Sun Day Red brand, featuring golf clothing and golf shoes.

Woods officially launched Sun Day Red into the golf industry four months ago on 1 May.

Tiger Woods' Sun Day Red: If you wanted the polo, you are too late - SBNation.com

READ: LIV Golf Vs PGA Tour: Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler set to face Brooks Koepka And Bryson DeChambeau in huge grudge match

While very much a luxury golf brand, a number of Tiger Woods fans have been unable to get involved with their hero’s new gear simply because it costs too much.

Some Woods fans have already complained about the styles and overall quality of products, while others are still coming to terms with the company logo that resembles a Tiger made up of 15 lines paying homage to Woods’ 15 career major titles.

And don’t even start some people on the name of the brand, which of course reflects Woods always wearing red on Sundays during final rounds of tournaments.

When Woods first launched his new Sun Day Red logo to the world, his former long-time coach Butch Harmon joked during a live Sky Sports Golf broadcast that he thought it ‘looked more like Tiger’s spine.’

But back to the top of the story and Woods’ new ‘Cashmere Collection‘ that has just been loaded onto the Sun Day Red website.

The new line features 3D Tour Cashmere Vests, Crew Sweaters and Hoodies.

Prices range from $300 to $375.

The Sun Day Red website states:

‘Our cashmere sweaters and vests are crafted for those who demand the best, both on and off the course. Engineered to reduce pilling and last longer, these have quickly become Tiger’s favorite layering pieces to make a clean, quiet, understated statement.’

Golf fans have been reacting to the new drop of clothing after the update was posted on X / Twitter by the popular NUCLR Golf account.

A number of golf fans have been instantly turned off by the cost involved, even if cashmere is considered a luxury fiber.

Others are struggling to get their heads around how the Sun Day Red logo isn’t even visible on the items other than on the label inside the neck.

Here’s how a number of golf fans have reacted to the new Sun Day Red Cashmere Collection…

Love Tiger to death but nah…

Bruh seriously?! 350 for a hoodie is outrageous!

Far too expensive.

Sun Day Red just goes to show how out of touch Eldrick is…

These keep getting worse and worse…

Great way to grow the game… let’s stick a sweater up at $300.

Where even is the logo?! LOL

Logo is terrible.

Huge tiger fan and I ordered a bunch of the early items. The quality is pretty bad considering their price point and it’s such bland stuff. Minimal logos. etc. really not a fan. Kills me to say.

Love Tiger, dude cannot dress himself off the course.

Honest question apart from Tiger (obvs) has anyone seen another person on earth wearing this?

Might get involved if it comes down in price by 125 dollars!

Big Tiger fan but this look very ordinary.

It’s a hard pass from me.

Ridiculous. Why is anyone giving this guy money for overpriced apparel?

Such a boring line, no thank you. 

What’s the most popular item at Tiger Woods’ Sun Day Red?

One of Tiger Woods’ most popular products at Sun Day Red right now is his new Luare Chain Stitch Hoodie, available for $135.

Luare Chain Stitch Hoodie

Woods last played a competitive tournament when missing the cut at The 152nd Open at Royal Troon in July.

The 15-time major champion has now missed the cut in his last three majors and he finished dead last (60th) of those that made the cut at The Masters in April.

Many consider Woods is coming to the end of his PGA Tour career now, although there is hope he will decide to tee it up on the PGA Tour Champions in two years’ time – once he has reached the age of 50 – where he will be afforded the use of a golf cart.

Woods, now ranked 969th in the world, admits he will likely not tee it up again until his ‘next major’ alongside his son Charlie Woods at the annual PNC Championship just before Christmas.

That will fall at a similar time to when PGA Tour duo Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler battle it out against LIV Golf duo Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka.

That match was confirmed this week.

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