The Grant Thornton Invitational – the primary tournament co-sanctioned via the 2 excursions – will debut in December. Here is what we all know to this point
The PGA and LPGA Excursions goal to supply “a memorable and entertaining enjoy for all golfing lovers” with a brand new combined tournament beginning in 2023.
In conjunction with accounting company Grant Thornton LLP, the Grant Thornton Invitational will characteristic 16 combined two-player groups competing for a $4 million handbag.
The 3-day tournament will probably be held at Tiburon in December, which nearly without a doubt spells the tip for the Greg Norman-hosted QBE Shootout, which has been held on the Florida membership since 1989.
It’s going to be the primary annual co-sanctioned tournament between the 2 excursions for the reason that JC Penney Vintage in 1999, received that 12 months via Dame Laura Davies and John Daly.
“As we glance to capitalise at the rising passion within the recreation of golfing, the addition of a combined tournament to the calendar has been a concern,” PGA Excursion commissioner Jay Monahan defined. “[This] tournament will make our recreation extra interesting and alluring to all.”
LPGA counterpart Mollie Marcoux Samaan added: “By way of becoming a member of forces with the PGA Excursion to host a combined tournament the place the highest female and male golfers on the planet compete along each and every different, we’re going to ship a memorable and entertaining enjoy for all golfing lovers, showcasing our gamers’ fantastic talents in a brand new context to a brand new target market.”
Nelly Korda and Lexi Thompson have been a number of the LPGA stars who performed within the QBE Shootout, nevertheless it used to be by no means designated as a combined excursion tournament.
The more youthful Korda tweeted to announce that she is going to play with Tony Finau.
“The Grant Thornton Invitational in point of fact is set being inclusive and appearing those who golfing will also be obtainable for everybody, it doesn’t matter what approach you play,” Korda stated.
“That is going to be the very best alternative for me to do one thing necessary in serving to to develop the sport and encourage the following technology.”
Finau added: “PGA Excursion athletes taking part in along the most efficient athletes from the LPGA goes to be fantastic for our lovers. They’ve been short of one thing like this for a very long time. Our lovers deserve it, I feel could be very particular.”
Korda’s sister Jessica will spouse Rickie Fowler, whilst different pairs will probably be introduced later within the 12 months.
Tiburon will proceed to host the LPGA’s CME Team Excursion Championship in November which used to be received via Lydia Ko in 2022.
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