Righto, where do we sign?
Several star golfers including Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy dropped a ‘lit’ video on their socials, announcing what’s in store for the seventh edition of The Match.
And this one looks pretty appetising; Rory’s teaming up with Tiger Woods to take on fellow multi-Major champions Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas.
The elephant in the room is that the concept will be positioned by many fans as a response to LIV golf’s momentum this year. McIlroy has of course been very outspoken about the rebel league, as have we admittedly.
And while it’s undeniable that a spicy ‘under lights’ format will be seen as a direct response to LIV’s noisy song and dance, the fact is that The Match has happened six times previously. But a night time event does raise the bar higher. Woods will make his third appearance, while the other PGA heavyweights are on debut.
The 12-hole night time bonanza is a month away; December 10 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida.
PGA’s biggest blow came three months ago, when Aussie superstar and Open champion Cam Smith announced his defection.
The Match concept has already raised over $33 million US for various charities. This edition will collect funds for Hurricane Ian relief efforts.
All four golfers have spent time as the world number one previously, boasting a combined 24 major championships. McIlroy has returned to some scorching form this season, while Thomas won the PGA Championship in May.
Some fans have called for a PGA vs LIV, Ryder Cup-style event. But that’s never happening.
This, though, promises to be a whole lot of fun and a unique TV product. At the very least, it offers more appeal than a shotgun start in shorts.
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