Lexi impresses; LIV looks for major avenues

Lexi Thompson takes center stage in this week’s edition as she aims to make history in Las Vegas. Meanwhile, the decision by the world rankings regarding LIV Golf’s points requests may not bring an end to the major championship conversation.

Made Cut

Lexi’s Legacy: In the world of golf media, Padraig Harrington stands out for his ability to turn the most ordinary question into a thought-provoking discussion. Last year, during an interview at the Irish Open, he was asked a simple question about the course. His response, which lasted over five minutes, ended with the statement, “And that’s why a woman will win on the PGA Tour in my lifetime.”

This week, Harrington’s roundabout way of thinking is relevant as Lexi Thompson becomes the seventh woman to compete in a Tour event. Although her opening round score of 2-over 73 puts her at T-93, her performance statistics tell an interesting story. Despite ranking towards the bottom in driving distance (113th out of 131 players at 301 yards), she makes up ground from the fairway (ranking 37th in strokes gained: approach the green with 0.706 strokes).

While this may not be the week when Harrington’s prediction comes true, Thompson’s performance suggests he may not be far off.

Fall Ball: This year’s fall schedule held some uncertainty as the Tour transitioned back to a calendar-year rotation and the post-Tour Championship events served as a seeding series for next season. However, after 2 ¼ events, some clarity is starting to emerge.

Last week, Luke List secured a victory at the Sanderson Farms Championship, showcasing the transformative potential of the fall season. List, who failed to qualify for the playoffs and finished 119th on the points list, jumped to 61st on the list and Cameron Champ, currently tied for second in Las Vegas, finds himself in a similar position after ending the season 143rd in points.

While the fall may not capture the attention of all fans, those who are paying attention will find plenty of compelling reasons to tune in.

Made Cut-Did Not Finish (MDF)

Rank(led) Math: It comes as no surprise that the Official World Golf Ranking has turned down LIV Golf’s request for ranking points this week. The OWGR has long had issues with LIV Golf’s format and lack of accessibility.

However, what is surprising is the response from players. One anonymous LIV player acknowledged that the strength of field has been weakened and suggested that as long as LIV Golf’s order of merit secures access to majors, the OWGR becomes irrelevant. While it may not be a perfect solution, it seems to be the best option in the imperfect world of professional golf.

Phil Mickelson took to Twitter to respond to the world ranking’s decision, suggesting that there’s a greater plan in motion. His cryptic tweet hints at more intriguing developments to come.

Missed Cut

Mixed Messages: The PGA Tour announced that Byeong Hun An has tested positive for a banned substance and will be suspended for three months. In a statement, Tour commissioner Jay Monahan explained that An tested positive for a substance prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency, which is found in an over-the-counter cough medicine in his native Korea. An fully cooperated with the Tour, and his suspension is retroactive to Aug. 31, meaning he won’t miss any significant events.

While the punishment may fit the crime in this case, it is worth noting the Tour’s more nuanced approach compared to previous anti-doping infractions. This ruling shows a subtler side to the policy.

What Could Have Been: Davis Love III, the former U.S. Ryder Cup captain, recently stated that if Tiger Woods wants it, the next American captaincy is his. Players largely supported Zach Johnson for a second turn following the U.S. loss at Marco Simone.

Both options have their merits. Tiger brings intensity and has proven himself at the 2019 Presidents Cup. While Johnson may face criticism for some decisions, he connects with the players.

However, what’s truly disappointing is that the 2025 Ryder Cup was supposed to feature Phil Mickelson against Sergio Garcia. Mickelson, with his history at Bethpage, would have been a passionate competitor and a relentless promoter. Garcia, who had a contentious relationship with New York crowds during the 2002 U.S. Open at Bethpage, would have been the perfect nemesis.

The decisions made by LIV Golf and the ensuing fallout have deprived us of this potentially fiery and captivating showdown. Among the troubles caused by the new league, this consequence hurts the most.