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xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_crime-law"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Courts</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Property</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_property" aria-label="Show Property sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_property"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/residential" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Residential</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/commercial-property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Commercial Property</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/interiors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Interiors</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/food" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Food</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_food" aria-label="Show Food sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_food"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/drink" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Drink</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/recipes" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Recipes</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/restaurants" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Restaurants</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/health" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Health</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_health" aria-label="Show Health sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_health"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-family" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Family</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Fitness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-wellness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Wellness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness/get-running" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Get Running</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Life & Style</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_life-style" aria-label="Show Life & Style sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_life-style"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fashion" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fashion</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tags/beauty/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Beauty</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fine-art-antiques" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fine Art & Antiques</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/gardening" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gardening</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/people" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">People</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/travel" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Travel</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/culture" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Culture</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_culture" aria-label="Show Culture sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_culture"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/art" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Art</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/books" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Books</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/film" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Film</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/music" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Music</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/stage" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Stage</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/tv-radio" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">TV & Radio</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/environment" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Environment</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_environment" aria-label="Show Environment sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_environment"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/environment/climate-crisis" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Climate Crisis</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/technology" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Technology</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_technology" aria-label="Show Technology sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_technology"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/big-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Big Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/consumer-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Consumer Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/data-security" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Data & Security</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/gaming" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gaming</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/science" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Science</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_science" aria-label="Show Science sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_science"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/science/space" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Space</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/media" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Media</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/abroad" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Abroad</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/obituaries" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Obituaries</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/transport" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Transport</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/motors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Motors</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_motors" aria-label="Show Motors sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_motors"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/motors/car-reviews/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/listen/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Listen</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Podcasts</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_podcasts" aria-label="Show Podcasts sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div 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million)/$1.7 million (€1.55 million to the winner)","type":"text"},{"_id":"P27KFAOVPJDB5OFB3MWLS66GHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where: </b>San Antonio, Texas","type":"text"},{"_id":"VG7RKUPUEBEFVMX34SFYBR6UGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The course: </b>TPC San Antonio – the Oaks course, 7,438 yards, par 71 – was designed by Greg Norman in consultation with Sergio Garcia, while Pete Dye also had significant input, so there are a number of different characteristics incorporated in the long layout. Although created out of the rocky terrain, the course is a relatively flat, tree-lined layout with wide fairways. The signature hole is the par-3 16th which features a bunker in the centre of the green and has been playfully named as the Avocado.","type":"text"},{"_id":"53L7F3DALFARPM47LP44CK7XNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The field:</b> This is the last-chance saloon for many players seeking to get the one remaining invitation to next week’s Masters, which will go to the winner (if not already exempt). Ludvig Åberg, who missed the cut at The Players, is – at world number five – the best ranked player in the field, while Hideki Matsuyama, the world number six, is fine-tuning ahead of another tilt at the Masters. Akshay Bhatia is the defending champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6KR7NBMEJHAFGJLJYHBMIU5F4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish playing: </b>Séamus Power needs a win to gatecrash his way into the field for the Masters and likely also needs a win or a runner-up finish to make the following week’s Heritage, a signature event on the PGA Tour. Power is in a three-ball with Matt Fitzpatrick and Zach Johnson, a two-time winner of the event (off the 10th tee at 2.26pm Irish time); Pádraig Harrington, playing on a sponsor’s exemption, is grouped with Eric Cole and Mark Hubbard (off the 10th at 1.20pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FGXEHFTDRFZTDB6WSSHTQ6DLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote: </b>“I feel like it’s just another week. I have my mind really set on Augusta next week so it’s a great week on this golf course to kind of learn where my game’s at, what kind of shots I need to improve on for next week. It’s a great golf course for that, very narrow, very tricky. It’s obviously going to be windy here.” – defending champion Bhatia admitting his focus is perhaps more on the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDSZIO2PKBBFFLOXQ2JEDEEG6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting: </b>Åberg heads the betting at 12-1 but it is Corey Conners at 14-1 who is something of a course specialist (being a two-time winner) and also a player in form with three top-10s in his last three outings. Denny McCarthy, edged out by Bhatia a year ago, is an each-way look at 28s while further down the market Bud Cauley is on offer generally at 40-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7CD5I7NMFGWDDNV2S7PIND6UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV: </b>Sky Sports Golf (from 1.15pm)","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Akshay Bhatia is the defending champion in San Antonio while Ludvig Åberg is favourite"},"display_date":"2025-04-02T14:49:04.147Z","headlines":{"basic":"Valero Texas Open lowdown: Players look to sharpen game ahead of Masters ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ITNH3ZOYXDHTOQUDTOO2YQ3AGI","auth":{"1":"98e15cf0268da93001b42fbc94c3d2299126541bc4e29948f1afc6ffae65a7f8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ITNH3ZOYXDHTOQUDTOO2YQ3AGI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/02/valero-texas-open-lowdown-players-look-to-sharpen-game-ahead-of-masters/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"3NGVDYOSCZHGXA4LNUOMEGKZ6A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":405,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/75decbbb-c380-415f-9ccf-fd508735fcbc/versions/1743451093/media/c919851935ff67f023e25dc0f7f53227_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/01/its-like-getting-advice-from-yoda-min-woo-lee-full-of-admiration-for-irish-caddie-bo-martin/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J37CN2JHE5FEVBUT5J6VVZCX4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Veteran caddie Brian “Bo” Martin has the midas touch, but also the sort of wisdom that has resulted in Min Woo Lee’s dramatic rise since the player-bagman partnership took root earlier this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTX7PGHUXZGHZBHPGPHIEMM6QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Australian’s win in the Houston Open marked a breakthrough success on the PGA Tour but Martin’s influence was critical in talking his 26-year-old employer out of a potentially reckless play in the final round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XA34WLB4GRA2XHJ3VSA3B47GLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Lee drove into bushes on the Par 5 eighth hole he contemplated hitting out Seve-style by bending on to his knees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4WSQR5W4ZHG3PDJBZDRSKJWUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We can drop this, kid, get it around the green and have a putt for five; that’s a win,” advised Martin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72XEXVILBJGAJB2SOXM2VOYDS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lee listened, and that is exactly how the play transpired, with that par as valuable as any of the 26 birdies en route to winning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EZFLJGWPC5GB7FI24LUKTUF5PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Martin first hooked up with the talented Lee at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January and, before Sunday’s win, the relationship had brought four top-20 finishes in six tournaments. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NK5MEJXR6BD4PHKGG3MBQJ2X2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"From Ardglass in Co Down, Martin – a scratch player – had a long caddying career that included Gary Murphy, Peter Lawrie, Tyrrell Hatton and his nephew Cormac Sharvin, but his most famous partnership was with Shane Lowry and included winning The Open at Royal Portrush in 2019. Lowry and Bo parted ways in 2023 and, with a young family, Martin took his time getting back on the road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AP3S7JTTYFFNVDAPQUAJUWZR5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lee’s improvement since they teamed up has been massive, moving from 55th in the world rankings to 22nd following his win in Houston.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7OW2SYDFJERLOZPLN3EU35LVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"As Lee put it of his veteran bagman: “Bo doesn’t say much, but when he does, it’s like getting advice from Yoda.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"FQFEK2EPXNHXVC4B3IOGGHAFQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Evans tees up Golf Ireland","type":"header"},{"_id":"GOX6EGHPBRFETDSFJOWTIUBEKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Evans, a member of Athlone Golf Club, has succeeded Rosemary Tully as Golf Ireland president at the association’s annual general meeting held in Dublin at the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"57SNUAS6SELV6IWIIIIYJZBD5A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"POZYH7VFXJDZHCTOWA6FULLSZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since the Golfing Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies Golf Union merged into one in 2019, it has become customary – in reflecting gender balance and inclusion – to have a female president one year followed by a male the next. Fiona Delargy, of Cushendall, has been named as president-elect for 2026.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBJCAKX4TNE55BGSOOIHYFPS3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I want to acknowledge Athlone Golf Club and the Connacht regional executive for their unwavering support, along with my wife Anne, who has managed our family life while I have been immersed in championships and meetings over many years. Our volunteers are the lifeblood of Golf Ireland, and I thank them for their commitment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VWMVZ27KSFBHNOGXS2K6PBNMQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I also pay tribute to our outgoing president, Rosemary, whose tenure has been marked by tireless dedication and the successful introduction of the volunteer framework.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U2ACPK3EFBEKJFHEME4BZS6C54","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am excited about the events and opportunities on the horizon, including continued government support and our growing suite of championships and major events across the island. I look forward to championing our shared vision that golf remains open, inclusive, and enjoyable,” said Evans.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QKZD2ZZ4SJGDPF3I6JZH5FWAS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"By the Numbers: 3","type":"header"},{"_id":"YV65FGI4XNDJ3ID62EKFP5TGRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Min Woo Lee’s win in the Texas Children’s Houston Open on the PGA Tour meant he matched winning the feat of his sister Minjee Lee, who is a 10-time winner on the LPGA Tour. The Australians are the third set of brother-sister siblings to win on the US circuits, joining Cathy and Bill Kratzet and Jackie and Jim Gallagher jnr.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QD3JTI7Q2VBRTMHD5RUK37KM6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Word of Mouth","type":"header"},{"_id":"EVIY2NDMZBAOFEUEPRBYKHSD6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“From where I’m at health-wise, it’s hard for me to get ahead thinking-wise because I don’t have the stamina to do it. So a lot of breath work, a lot of things to slow everything down. I was in really good control of my thoughts and my emotions, which hasn’t been the case for me for a long time” – Gary Woodland – runner-up to Min Woo Lee in Houston – on his best finish since undergoing surgery to remove a lesion on his brain 18 months ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHZMNYVNDNDEJO6OG3YVORE36A","additional_properties":{},"content":"On this day: April 1st, 1979","type":"header"},{"_id":"WQOB7LGW5BAD3CCPIXA7YXW7OU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HV2F2KKIYFBAXEL47V5MWURKQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There were no April Fools day pranks involved in the conclusion of the Kemper Open at Mese Verde resort in California on the LPGA Tour, where history was made with the first ever five-player play-off on the circuit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"75HD4SB5BZHLNIQVHGUPZATMHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"JoAnne Carner – known on tour as “The Great Gundy”, a throwback to her maiden name of Gunderson when she dominated the amateur scene in the USA – ultimately claimed the title, the 24th of 43 career wins.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMXKF5BI4VE7XJ5GJODWGTOTJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Carner, a two-time US Open champion, shot rounds of 72-71-72-71 for a 72-holes aggregate of two-over 286 to finish alongside Hisako Higuchi, Nancy Lopez, Donna Caponi and Jan Stephenson which then required sudden-death. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4TDYY74TBEK3FACF7BDMFTDHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lopez, Caponi and Stephenson were eliminated at the first playoff hole, and then Carner’s par on the second hole of sudden-death was sufficient to get the job done and claim the $22,500 winner’s cheque.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WSKVTEEYHRB6LHOOXF5IMTEXTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Swing","type":"header"},{"_id":"7YULCR7UG5FYVKUYPBBOSZ6VMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Next stop…..Let’s gooooo</b> – Michael Kim posting the Masters logo after securing his place in the field for the Masters next week. Kim was 162nd in the world rankings when he started a hot run of form with a runner-up finish. He moved to 50th following Houston, after which the top-50 in the world earned exemptions to Augusta.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7IMOCFLEJFAVLWT7F3MSPUQSE","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"VI7TE3BLQBEPXBAD7BQUA7QZGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>This one hits different. Houston Open champions baby!!!</b> – Min Woo Lee on adding a PGA Tour win to his three DP World Tour wins.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IDWAW4Y33ZGEFOZOUBL6IZLRGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>T11 Not the Sunday I wanted but another steady week ⛳️ Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers for another great week at the Ford Championship. </b><a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/lpga_tour/\" rel=\"\"><b>@lpga_tour</b></a><b> 🔜Next stop Las Vegas for the </b><a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/lpgamatchplay/\" rel=\"\"><b>@lpgamatchplay</b></a> – Charley Hull after a disappointing final round saw her slip out of contention in the Ford Championship. The European Solheim Cup star moves on to this week’s T Mobile Matchplay in Las Vegas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTX6LBLHBVBFHBGW4D2JUBXBW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Know the Rules</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUEX3WDZWRDLZC6LUISCKS7AVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q </b>In a match, a player’s ball came to rest beside some steps attached to a boundary fence. The steps interfered with the player’s swing, so they took free relief before playing their next stroke. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEQZTZGHAFDYHGTDXCVU676J7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A </b>There is no penalty. Under the Definition of Boundary Object in the rules, any “gate, steps, bridge or similar construction used for getting over or through a boundary wall or fence are not part of the boundary object.” The player took the correct action in this instance in taking free relief.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUE5WW3SBVH7FIWSCEHI5F645Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>In the Bag</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"NG4B5VLWYZFRHPHV4YT5SLR5TE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Min Woo Lee – Texas Children’s Houston Open</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7V7A2F6NJBNDESYF6PNKKKA3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Driver – Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond (8.5 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGYSGXVRWBHKXH5G33JARMNA4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"3-wood – Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond (16.5 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RTHWMXAARFTPHUYMSXWMNMA2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Utility iron: Callaway X-Forged UT (18 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6G456X7VVHONABQYTQ5BA6FX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irons: Callaway X Forged (4, 5), Callaway Apex Prototype (6-10) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TIF2WCCLOJDNDPAFIYL7NUVXGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wedges: Callaway Opus (50 degrees),<i> </i>Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (56 degrees), Titleist Vokey Design WedgeWorks (60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"GZ5PSIBLBJBDBJJI2G2YKUVZAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Putter: Odyssey O-Works 1W","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3IPTOOGQZAJBFIHCMRDXZXEO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ball: Callaway Chrome Tour X","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RXDQG4DLJGW5I72QVZJ7AVQ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYCW7OPV2NGP7HZU6B4D4QOL24","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"The first five-player play-off, and Golf Ireland’s new president "},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘It’s like getting advice from Yoda’: Min Woo Lee full of admiration for Irish caddie ‘Bo’ Martin","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2VYI2DAMTZXSG6IF3JGGLOA2CA","auth":{"1":"bd58524caa67f6172bfc3f550d19a4681a2a6263e1d79f5cf875419ec7d1e3b3"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2VYI2DAMTZXSG6IF3JGGLOA2CA.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/01/its-like-getting-advice-from-yoda-min-woo-lee-full-of-admiration-for-irish-caddie-bo-martin/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"YFGPMRZFCNEMBL4JZONOKKDYKM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":251,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/4ef2de11-05ad-43de-be2b-0e534c935fd2/versions/1743434661/media/36a8a88a45a2562d6fdb16c3991599a4_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-to-get-treatment-on-elbow-before-masters-week/","content_elements":[{"_id":"7W3RQN6OZBCA7B73WUAUBZIJKQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981698},"content":"The last-chance saloon, in effect, comes for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\" target=\"_blank\">Séamus Power</a> and also <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/padraig-harrington/\" target=\"_blank\">Pádraig Harrington</a> in terms of getting a late, prized exemption into the Masters. As of now, 94 players have earned their places in next week’s field and the final spot will go to the winner of the Valero Texas Open in San Antonio, only if the winner is not already exempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OALF3FJHNEXZDS5BSRT5LKTTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981699},"content":"So, a case of win or bust.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVZMOE4M7VE6LFDSUUCRKCSHIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981700},"content":"Power’s missed cut in the Houston Open also impacted on his bid to get into the Aon Swing 5, a mini-order of merit that runs through to this week’s tour stop, where the leading five players will earn places in the Heritage Classic at Harbour Town, a Signature event on the PGA Tour, the week after the Masters. If Power doesn’t manage to gatecrash his way into that field, then Plan B – a trip to the Dominican Republic – will come into play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LBFVCKO6NALLDPOASQEKWKH2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981701},"content":"Harrington – who has not played in the Masters since 2022, having earned his place following a tied-fourth finish in the previous year’s US PGA Championship – is playing on a sponsor’s invitation in the Texas Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNM6SBK4FNAZLH2J2XDIMYLPUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981702},"content":"While Power and Harrington headed to San Antonio, Rory McIlroy departed Houston for home in Florida for a week’s work with coach Michael Bannon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LATSRAMEVEKTAD2RFECOYSP4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981703},"content":"McIlroy admitted to some issue with his right elbow without seeming unduly concerned that it affect his build-up to the Masters. “I’ll get some treatment on that and make sure that that’s okay going into Augusta,” said the world number two, who believed the time spent on the range with Bannon this week will get his game fully tuned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UR2BMLXA35EIND244D6TFONPTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981704},"content":"As he put it, “I still don’t think like my game is absolutely 100 per cent under the control I would want.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VMR5LS55WLAV5RF65LEESKERBU","additional_properties":{"_id":"ENC6RZPFANEQXOY243QVFMPV7E"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PW7RRJOHEZCVZBJL6C7QP7DRG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981705},"content":"McIlroy’s form this season has produced two wins (in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players), and the decision to add the Houston Open on to his scheduling – where he came from outside the cutline late in his second round on Friday with three birdies in his final four holes to survive into the weekend) ultimately proved a wise one as he moved up the leaderboard to finish tied-fifth behind winner Min Woo Lee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGB3DZSXONEFJIKQQMTRIFIRXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981706},"content":"What is interesting, though, is that McIlroy has continued to tweak equipment. On Saturday after his third round, he decided to do a “little tweak” to his driver to reduce spin so that tee shots would get through the wind better.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6GKEUN7IBGJTJXKRRLEKOJL34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981707},"content":"As for making the most of his time with coach Bannon in Florida before heading on to Augusta, McIlroy admitted much of it would be focused on the short game: “Obviously short game’s really, really important around Augusta as well. You know, work on those things over the next few days and hopefully I’m feeling good going in there ... I think my short game’s been very good [this year] and I’ve been able to scramble well when I’ve needed to.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DMSKIJFGRDB5FM4OPXBPBFIFU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981708},"content":"“And my ability to sort of hit little knockdown shots. I feel like it’s been quite a windy year, I feel like there’s been quite a lot of wind when we’ve played, so my ability to hit those little three-quarter shots is definitely better than it has been and that’s been a big factor to why I’ve performed pretty consistently.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"W55Q427I6ZDLFNWRWVZT2E2HDE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981709},"content":"While McIlroy and Shane Lowry do the prep work this week ahead of Augusta, one Irish player will get to the famed course ahead of them: Beth Coulter is one of 72 players competing in this week’s Augusta National Women’s Amateur Championship, which features two rounds of strokeplay at Champions Retreat with the top-30 players and ties advancing to Saturday’s final round at Augusta National. All 72 players get to play a practice round on the Masters course on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHQTSURTMZCGLIVW4PI4D77H4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981710},"content":"Leona Maguire, meanwhile, is the only Irish player in the field at the T Mobile Match Play championship in Las Vegas. The Cavan golfer finished runner-up to world number one Nelly Korda in last year’s event.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7STW244ZCVF45OZR7MSZ5X3RNU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981711},"content":"So far this season, Maguire has not missed a cut – in six tournaments – but has managed only one top-10, in the season-opening Tournament of Champions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GOE5SDKQUVFBLPFNOGXWFNTC4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981712},"content":"On the Ladies European Tour, there are three Irish players – Lauren Walsh, Annabel Wilson and Sara Byrne – competing in the JoBurg Open in South Africa.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Last chance saloon for Séamus Power to qualify for the Masters in San Antonio"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T15:19:16.215Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy to get treatment on elbow before Masters week","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SS5HKSBDOVRNQINHFQMABI54MM","auth":{"1":"9999cbf0ef1b096e3a9e4189f80767d50e18a64749e550edf02637865b730c72"},"focal_point":{"x":3230,"y":551},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SS5HKSBDOVRNQINHFQMABI54MM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-to-get-treatment-on-elbow-before-masters-week/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"5E6AZXAN3JFT7DKDZINXYFY7HI","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-heads-for-masters-after-top-five-finish-in-texas/","content_elements":[{"_id":"PZSF6PEX5NGUJMICW6QOKP5VY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy didn’t win – that honour fell to Aussie Min Woo Lee, with Northern Ireland caddie Brian “Bo” Martin playing an influential role in the Texas Children’s Houston Open – but the world number two’s last outing ahead of the Masters provided further momentum as he bids to complete the career Grand Slam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5KJ74DINANGT3NJSLSRU3XCZWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In closing with a 64 for a 15-under-par total of 265, McIlroy finished five shots behind Lee who claimed a breakthrough win on the PGA Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5DOO2RTAJB2TAYFDBH6MX2NWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"More importantly though for McIlroy, having only made the cut by firing three birdies in his final four holes of the second round, brought further proof of his wellbeing that has seen him finish 1st-17th-15th-1st-5th in his five appearances on the US circuit this season as he targets completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters in just over a week’s time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7TICDATANGJ3O533KCLKNSGBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy had, it seemed, “tweaked” his driver in the run-up to the Houston Open by taking some loft off but admitted there were some aspects that needed further work ahead of the season’s first Major at Augusta National. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4W4TZHJFZDOZMIWH5FB5RXYHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I still feel like I’ve got some stuff to work on,” he said. “Still don’t think like my game is absolutely 100 per cent under the control I would want, but it’s nice to have a week to work on some things. I’ve got my coach, Michael Bannon, coming in tomorrow, so we’ll be working at home and making sure game feels good going into the Masters.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4O5NY3J65ZBRRNYKPCTFKQ6754","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy has a week off ahead of returning to the Masters, opting not to play in this week’s Valero Texas Open in San Antonio.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2O6WHDQ3PBDILEM7VKP7M5HPSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lee carried a comfortable lead into the final round but ultimately only managed to get over the line with one stroke to spare, a final round 67 for 20-under-par 260 giving the Australian a one stroke winning margin over world number one Scottie Scheffler and Gary Woodland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEIRS2TRF5CQ5OGIRAWGGZ47VU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler, who is defending his Masters title, confirmed his recovery to form following surgery in the off-season for a hand injury: “I feel like I can still clean up a few things in my swing. You know, my ball-striking wasn’t as sharp as I would have liked for it to have been this week, but overall I mean, yesterday and today I felt like we’re improving in the ball-striking.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RH7EDQHOA5C2HPPYX3EREU475E","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Lee, a three-time winner on the DP World Tour, his breakthrough win on the PGA Tour earned him a payday of €1.7 million and a move inside the top-20 on the official world rankings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCOCLBJLLZHE5K4CJYB2UGWKD4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Min Woo Lee makes breakthrough on PGA Tour with Scottie Scheffler second"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T07:50:09.93Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy heads for Masters after top five finish in Texas","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OQHUS3D2F4P7VQMTXXOV7ECS7A","auth":{"1":"5789aa68a677a407605c79190c264477f964afed4a788b4f5ce791ef67477ce6"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OQHUS3D2F4P7VQMTXXOV7ECS7A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-heads-for-masters-after-top-five-finish-in-texas/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"THIFOZ27MVEO3FOKUCEEPPNVJQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":97,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d6108d5d-57fc-47ec-a6e6-7e869a5c2761/versions/1743336451/media/de381cca53c955b7e6ba06fde8dccbdc_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/30/rory-mcilroy-rises-up-leaderboard-at-houston-open-as-min-woo-lee-grabs-four-stroke-lead/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HBUSWBC4MJCGHHMUGDXGMW4LVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260992},"content":"Rory McIlroy shot a five-under-par 65 to move into a tie for 14th, eight shots off the pace at the Houston Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLXZLSTRWNEYVMX6JJDXITAXTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The world number two was not satisfied with his driving, hitting only five of 13 fairways, but chipped in from just off the green on the par 5 eighth hole for eagle to reach nine-under-par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAZJBJI3QVDAHIIO4KYHZ2OJYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260993},"content":"“It’s one of those golf courses where you give yourself loads of chances from 20, 25 feet,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGMSBHOL65E5VF7YRSY5HECI7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260994},"content":"“And when you’re not converting any, it feels frustrating.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOAWPPJIRFCSNDHC75FNJBJPUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Min Woo Lee shot a third-round 63 to open a four-shot lead heading into the final round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RT2UI3KNYRBZBEDVU3R77DMBLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260986},"content":"The Australian, who had to finish his weather-hit second round at the start of the day, had seven birdies to move to 17-under-par, four clear of Argentina’s Alejandro Tosti.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R77CF7RROVCQNHZYPJMZATVWGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260987},"content":"Lee admitted he needed to “get back into bed” after his long day, which at one point saw him six strokes ahead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2GZOWWM7ARHXXFMHD6EEJ2FSNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260988},"content":"World number one Scottie Scheffler, who held the halfway lead, carded a 69 to sit in a group a stroke further back alongside New Zealand’s Ryan Fox and fellow American Ryan Gerard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYHHS4VXMVG2PFZS36YKAOPPSQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260989},"content":"Scheffler, who tied the course record with a 62 in the second round, birdied the three par fives at Memorial Park, but added two bogeys. He admitted he felt as if he “couldn’t get the ball to go in the hole” on the greens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JSPLQ7SSRC5VLINPMVKCDBLUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260990},"content":"“I feel like I hit it better today than I did yesterday,” Scheffler said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKTFXBLAQZGK7I3LF4EXGMO73E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260991},"content":"“It’s a funny game sometimes.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Scottie Scheffler slips back on day three as Lee shoots 63 in Texas"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T12:02:22.752Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy rises up leaderboard at Houston Open as Min Woo Lee grabs four-stroke lead ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"TKV3G3ITEO7KQQW2KAGYDGY5LQ","auth":{"1":"66b3a373c4644415994a26e64158a30ac85640591cf90fc84351f6485b0d88a7"},"focal_point":{"x":1697,"y":324},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/TKV3G3ITEO7KQQW2KAGYDGY5LQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/30/rory-mcilroy-rises-up-leaderboard-at-houston-open-as-min-woo-lee-grabs-four-stroke-lead/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"4VJ4VOBPNZG2VLLAHBPTJAL3LM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":181,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/d0a6ad30-f49f-49bf-95db-4b8b1a446afd/versions/1743258612/media/29f7c8adb1d8121b9a333c9de93f5a23_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-makes-the-cut-in-houston-with-run-of-late-birdies/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> is cast in the role of pursuer of world number one <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scottie-scheffler/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scottie-scheffler/\">Scottie Scheffler</a> headed into the weekend of the weather-disrupted Texas Children’s Houston Open after salvaging his second round by birdieing three of his final four holes for a 66 (for four-under-par 136), seven adrift of Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBGST6ADMNGWHOVWJOZH3WTBIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think I just have to play my own tournament and stay in my own little world, try to get the best out of myself. Whether that’s good enough or not, that’s not really up to me at this point, that’s up to the guys that are in front of me on the leader board.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVAJPP56BRHGBACEXZB7LNZHGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But if I can go out there and shoot a couple of good scores over the weekend, I’ll be happy with my week’s work,” said McIlroy, who took advantage of softer scoring conditions on resuming his second round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AVJMCHT3GJFFDO4NIAW5RFDJHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"With the second round due to be completed Saturday, Séamus Power faced an anxious wait to see if he would survive into the final two rounds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"24KCYFSKMNB23AN4INJTXTU7L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Power added another 69 to his opening 69 for two-under-par 138 and was well inside the cut mark when he finished, only for player after player to leapfrog him, leaving the Waterford man to play the waiting game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYXU5PRQ4VCDZFT5AWFSA5VZZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Over 50 players were scheduled to complete their second rounds on Saturday with the third round being played off two tees in three balls in a bid to catch up following over two hours of disruption on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FP4MFHG2FFYNPHCLUWYTPBD64","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pádraig Harrington, however, missed the cut. The 53-year-old, playing on a sponsor’s exemption as he juggles tour life between the main circuit and the Champions Tour, improved with a 71 for five-over-par 145 which left him outside the cut mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3HJV2TVZPQRJVHZJ7C4EKIZYUY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"VE7QWE6O65DNJAAUW4D7ER3LTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler was back to doing Scheffler things, like a well-oiled machine with every part clicking into gear and working smoothly: a second round 62, equalling the course record at the Memorial Park course in downtown Houston, saw the world number one – without a win so far this season – move ominously towards the head of affairs, two weeks out from his defence of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72UTD3TOKVHULKCGOKLAONJ7MQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler had eight birdies in another bogey-free round, posting a 62 for a midway total of 11-under-par 129 to assume the clubhouse lead, a shot clear of Canadian Taylor Pendrith and Colombia’s Nico Echavarria.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BAGIBEGENVAU3EBZNYFWT2IOCI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-56527","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WIPWIOIHKFH4XAHDEIBLAQFOTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Scheffler, who had a delayed start to the season after suffering a hand injury over the Christmas period which required surgery, it was a case of returning to his dominant self with a masterclass in which he hit 17 of 18 greens in regulation and required just 23 putts in a second round where he was in total control tee to green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHU2EIWQTNDKXNNH6N5EIUUKFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler started his round birdie-birdie and just kept on rolling, only regretting not actually holing more birdies. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VK5CDSGMUZELVJBVUUNN5Q53VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“[It] was a day where I felt like my ball-striking could have been a bit better and I was able to hole some putts. I hit a lot of greens but I felt like my irons were just barely off, and I felt like I could have been hitting them a little bit closer to the hole, but overall kept it on the green, kept giving myself looks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EYEVWSJS5EGLMZFXT2TZCTJH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The way I was putting, I didn’t feel I had to force ‘em there by many pins if I wasn’t totally comfortable with the shot,” said Scheffler.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Scottie Scheffler equals course record at Memorial Park"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T14:25:01.886Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy makes the cut in Houston with run of late birdies","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IJKVBGKOSW3C7KBD2VLMV2DEQQ","auth":{"1":"013da45fc471abc899270442a88294d902d08b4091a0a355b93be721e10b1fdc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IJKVBGKOSW3C7KBD2VLMV2DEQQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-makes-the-cut-in-houston-with-run-of-late-birdies/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"GHHW6G4MVJBBXN6EQWLP4O2RKI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":937,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/093371a5-558f-4d22-9003-dc467a95bf72/versions/1743171809/media/c907cf3c4b6dab5c9a01ab68ea5bbc4a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-at-augusta-a-saga-in-18-parts/","content_elements":[{"_id":"SLGROLRMKJG6PO3A4O4BUCTX7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764543},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>1</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZPS4UUUIVABPN235AE77GEM3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764544},"content":"Eyes down for a full house everyone. It’s time for the 17th Masters tournament in the career of Rory Daniel McIlroy. Pay attention, now – there won’t be 17 more. So he says anyway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MZ5F6SE5WBGZXCPDKYLSWSUXXA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764545},"content":"“<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2025/03/12/no-way-ill-still-be-playing-at-50-rory-mcilroy-saddened-by-tiger-woods-injury/\" target=\"_self\">Something has gone terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50</a>,” he said on his way to winning the Players Championship a couple of weeks back. Given that he’s 36 next month it’s fair to ask how many more times we’re going to do this. Fifteen? Ten? Fewer than 10? Whatever the number time’s a-ticking.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZR536ZMTFGDXCDC6IHNNT2VLM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764546},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>2</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IOQHZTMVVAGHPSWKQQYNNVI3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764547},"content":"It’s long forgotten now but McIlroy almost got thrown out of his first Masters. We were in the old press room at Augusta late at night on Friday April 10th, 2009, when word went around that he was being hauled in front of the green jackets to explain himself. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/mcilroy-learns-when-to-dance-1.744104\" target=\"_self\">Had he smoothed out the sand with his feet in between the two shots he needed to get out of a bunker on 18?</a> If he was found to have improved his lie he was toast.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AIRMWB6VBRH7NKI6GED6CBAKOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764548},"content":"Now 2009 was one dull-ass Masters. The joint leaders that Friday were Kenny Perry and Chad Campbell. All the big names were a mile back. Sports Illustrated had McIlroy on the cover that week – the idea that the game’s next big thing might get defenestrated for a rules violation sent a buzz through the whole place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NRSHCUPA4ZDDLIC5JYMQUV3PK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764549},"content":"Especially when it became clear that he had left the course and was apparently in no hurry to come back. For fully four hours nobody knew whether he was in or out. Because of him the round three pairings weren’t out until 9.30 at night, long after everyone back home had gone to bed. And frankly long after we were supposed to be at the bar.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQQKZIJH6RCZ5DMP7WZNJV2424","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764550},"content":"Two rounds into his Masters career he was the absolute talk of the place despite being nowhere near the lead. Foreshadowing, much?","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYC6KAQ7VZD7ZMHYRGDK4H4ZOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764551},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>3</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"73WSBVQ45FAH3HAHYFZBO7XWGM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764552},"content":"The next morning I chanced my arm and went over to him by the putting green. And even though it was pre-round (you’re not really supposed to go asking for interviews of players before their tee time) and even though he was about to play alongside defending champion Trevor Immelman, he was happy to give five minutes on what had gone down the night before.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LU5J3EPBH5FMFG37YZQFYSOFRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764553},"content":"Yes, he’d watched the tape back along with the Masters people, although he’d declined to come back to the course the first time they asked him because he felt he had no case to answer. No, he didn’t think at any stage that he was going to be disqualified.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7SHOZE2SFC2HBCXRWVO7BJYXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764554},"content":"“I was never worried that anything was going to happen,” he said. “It was more that there seemed to be a bit of a panic in the press room about it. I wasn’t bothered.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFH3Z6NXDBESLI7DAVHJLBP7IU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764555},"content":"As it turned out the delay was mostly due to the fact that the phone number he’d given the Augusta folk hadn’t been working. Which sounded like just about the most teenagery excuse imaginable. Hard not to like a lad like that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PTDB2IUG3NA5ZLSZVWCOSIAVHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764556},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HTB2CDNRJBHOZMEOLVOCXV2RSY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764557},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>4</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"5WVV4NTLTZHH3OIEQR3YSJ2Z2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764558},"content":"Look at him now. Sixteen years later and still trying to find a way to solve the Augusta sudoku.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGOSMPVO6RAQXEZ3OA2QAW7KGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764559},"content":"The boy standing by the putting green that Saturday morning had one pro title to his name, Krusty The Clown hair tumbling from his hat and the chubby chin of a kid who was yet to see the inside of a gym. The man who is second favourite for the 2025 Masters is a dad and a husband, a 43-time winner approaching middle age carrying a welterweight’s punch on a featherweight’s frame.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QFGXLBD3EBC2FDXSW4FF7P6H3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764560},"content":"He has done everything there is to do in the game. Except win the Masters. And yet every year we get to late March and the low drumbeat of Roryising starts to pick up rhythm and tempo. Can he do it this year? Will this finally be it?","type":"text"},{"_id":"46TLAYU6CVGNDKJSUECAFSRCIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764561},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>5</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"THK4P43JAFEYVIEXW3BXKFXC4A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764562},"content":"Let’s allow from the outset that it doesn’t need to be. This isn’t now-or-never.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZ7HEAVS5VF5TAFWJGZUBJCSDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764563},"content":"Nick Faldo won his first Masters at his 10th attempt. Phil Mickelson needed 12 goes to finally get there. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/new-found-maturity-helps-sergio-garcia-clinch-major-triumph-1.3044192\" target=\"_self\">Sergio Garcia holds the record – he took until his 19th Masters to win a green jacket. </a>So while 17 is at the upper end it’s by no means out of the question.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZC2265V7CVB6ZDI6ZLJHXBLH34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764564},"content":"At the far end of the spectrum Gene Littler played the Masters 26 times without ever winning it. Whatever else McIlroy mines out of his career, that’s not a quiz question you want to be the answer to.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYUXJ4F5SVHRHHUP2MOPAFX6SY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764565},"content":"Mark O’Meara was 41 when he won the Masters at his 15th attempt. He is the oldest first-time winner. In all senses McIlroy has a bit to go yet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMSXPF63GRDLXO45WRU5B44RLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764566},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WQK2GRSL5RDFPBGQCTSAPFGAG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764567},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>6</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7IDFHZCLZCWJH2JCC4DACHFJU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764568},"content":"Let’s step back. If you never watched a round of golf in your life and only looked at the numbers you would be forgiven for wondering why anyone cares. So what if Rory Effing McIlroy never wins the Masters? Augusta has so many stories to tell why the obsession with a golfer who has seriously threatened just one Masters victory in 16 attempts?","type":"text"},{"_id":"WXZDQTWJ6JCDRCELS6QIM3G26Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764569},"content":"We all know the old adage – the Masters only starts on the back nine on Sunday. Take out three missed cuts and McIlroy has made it to that unofficial start-line on 13 occasions. Here’s where he stood teeing off on the 10th each time: T40, 1, T32, T38, T15, T5, T9, T10, T3, T25, T4, T3, T21.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNUMKAKDHFEEDLFW7O2EEYGDXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764570},"content":"With the exception of 2011 he was mostly no closer to winning the thing turning for home than in the years he missed the cut. In 2015 he was eight shots behind Jordan Spieth turning for home. In 2018 he was four behind Patrick Reed; same in 2020 with Dustin Johnson. In 2022 it was tied for third but lay seven shots back of Scottie Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZW4723BJGVFMFMCXBPL7U5N7RY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764571},"content":"McIlroy has seven top 10s at Augusta. Only one close call though.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYVKJ4NFQBFLVLNGS53LEYIYDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764572},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>7</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"5J2QT5HDNJDIRBXZBURSGQATPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764573},"content":"Since McIlroy first set foot on the property in 2009 there have been 64 rounds played at the Masters. He has led after three of them, all in the same tournament. On the night of Saturday, April 9th, 2011, he walked off the 18th green with a four-shot lead over Angel Cabrera, KJ Choi, Jason Day and Charl Schwartzel. We know what happened next. He held the lead until the Masters began.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KP2RH22YVD4PPMKYYLZCQDTBY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764574},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XFF6N3DUR5EHFEPIRUPMUEKOEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764575},"content":"But then disaster. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/mcilroy-melts-in-augusta-heat-1.569039\" target=\"_self\">Duck-hook off the 10th tee, four-putt on the 12th green, came home in 43.</a> Signed for an 80. Schwartzel took the green jacket but McIlroy was the only golfer everyone wanted to talk about. Again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTDIGPEKRBD3JHIUOXE6HNGGMI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764576},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>8</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCE2QC5PHBCCDFN3VLQZ2QFIF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764577},"content":"And it never goes away. Just a fortnight ago <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2025/03/14/rory-mcilroy-answers-the-call-after-a-spot-of-mobile-phone-interference/\" target=\"_self\">McIlroy caused a brief internet stir when he walked up to a heckler </a>on a practice day at Sawgrass, took his phone and got him kicked off the course. The heckler was a college golfer called Luke Potter. By all accounts a pretty good college golfer at that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BMNRVSPDJRATNLVTDKPDKOE7LE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764578},"content":"Now it was hardly the heckle of the century. The best Potter could come up with in response to a skewed drive was: “Just like 2011 at Augusta!” If the golf doesn’t work out for young Luke it feels unlikely that SNL will be giving him a call.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVDCL7LUTFGOHDVCHDAEJOK4RM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764579},"content":"But McIlroy let it get to him. Even now, 14 years, four Majors, hundreds of millions of dollars later and one of the all-time great golf careers already in the books, he can still be needled by it. Why?","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JEWMEVQHRE6ZIPU6BNGMRLE7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764580},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>9</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"C2TGS2IRCJB7HC6XHANYXLIRNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764581},"content":"Maybe it’s because 2011 is still as good as it ever got for him around Augusta.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OU7PMVTTMVFETGD7LTQUZ5OAVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764582},"content":"In the 52 Masters rounds that have taken place since 2011, 41 different golfers have had at least a share of the lead at the end of a round. Jordan Spieth has done it nine times, including a record seven in a row between 2015 and 2016. Scottie Scheffler has been the end-of-round leader six times, Brooks Koepka five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M52YZ44PUBFBLEKGMKXUTF5ACQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764583},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NFTLMOLR5JAOPC4BZPOSYZ2W44","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764585},"content":"But in all that time McIlroy has never managed it. Not so much as once, not even a share. The closest he’s been is one shot back, at the end of round two in 2012 (Fred Couples and Jason Dufner) and again in 2016 (Spieth).","type":"text"},{"_id":"CA76S4OF4BFGDLPDHD3GTPIAL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764586},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>10</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BIUI3NWHJJDVJF5QMZWD57MNWA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764587},"content":"“<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/determined-mcilroy-throws-down-gauntlet-to-spieth-1.2604121\" target=\"_self\">I sort of feel that Augusta owes me something and I have come with that attitude. </a>I have come here to get something that I should have had a long time ago.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHMYOQU5MFENHMZJRFQ4ZSVIVM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764588},"content":"This was McIlroy on the Friday night in 2016, ahead of being paired with Spieth for round three. He went out and shot 77 on the Saturday. It was the first time in 80 rounds in Majors that he didn’t have a single birdie.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3GPVP5HYMVBZ5NK6THBCO2SOY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764589},"content":"Augusta owes nothing to nobody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4KKVQGATVRAA7FBJKYHFUXAUEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764590},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>11</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"UL6FVNYX45GYXFCKELZMGUCUTI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764591},"content":"Least of all to McIlroy. Go back to that figure of 52 rounds since his 2011 meltdown. Not only has he not led after any of them, he has been within three shots of the lead after just five of them. There’s a convincing case to be made that the Masters just ain’t his thing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHF3DXAMEFB33HHPXR6GZ7Z4G4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764592},"content":"Certainly the other Majors have been much more fertile ground. In the past three years alone he has led each of them at one stage or another. He’s been inside the top seven at the end of every US Open round since the Saturday in 2021. That’s 14 rounds in a row at the toughest of all the Majors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBPIJBGUEFDN5BG6FOEFJD7DXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764593},"content":"He should have won at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2022/07/17/rory-mcilroy-the-open-st-andrews-hovland/\" target=\"_self\">St Andrews in 2022</a>. Or at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2023/06/19/rory-mcilroys-long-wait-for-another-major-title-continues-at-us-open/\" target=\"_self\">LACC in 2023</a>. Or at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2024/06/16/bryson-dechambeau-beats-rory-mcilroy-to-us-open-title/\" target=\"_self\">Pinehurst last year</a>. He had a chance at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/rory-mcilroy-us-open-seventh-a-big-step-in-right-direction-1.4599061\" target=\"_self\">Torrey Pines in 2021</a>. He was level with eventual winner Justin Thomas standing on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/mcilroy-raises-a-few-roars-around-southern-hills-before-us-pga-challenge-peters-out-1.4885487\" target=\"_self\">12th tee at Southern Hills in 2022</a>. Somewhere along the way he definitely ought to have ended his Major drought.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHEK362HKBGY5PCSN5L337REOY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764594},"type":"image"},{"_id":"64R54GCKBVDORFODQWAPPY37RY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764595},"content":"But when you dig into it the hard luck stories over the past 11 years have mostly happened away from Augusta. It’s probably a bit mad that we fixate on it so much.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ELP6BUY2VFVRLBYIUKQRY3M3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764596},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>12</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"XAPBOEOZRVCE5E3UX3OW5URO4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764597},"content":"Except here’s a list. Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Tiger Woods. The only winners of the career Grand Slam. The gods.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAJWGWKPHVH4TBUYU5WWFWD7PU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764598},"content":"McIlroy has been a Masters victory away from joining them since July 20th, 2014. Why wouldn’t we fixate on it?","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHOP5OM5XVBZ7NXDTWUKJXYYOU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764599},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>13</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEJW7VRQ4VHMRIIMO4KMRREH5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764600},"content":"McIlroy does an official pre-Masters press conference every year. An interesting exercise would be to chart the timing of the first mention of the career Grand Slam year by year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7MMZESEMFBSPEV3LARNYTTUAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764601},"content":"<b>2015: </b>1st question; <b>2016: </b>1st question; <b>2017: </b>1st question; <b>2018: </b>9th question; <b>2019: </b>13th question; <b>2020: </b>Zero questions; <b>2021: </b>17th question; <b>2022: </b>3rd question; <b>2023: </b>5th question; <b>2024: </b>Zero questions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZN5ALEM3KRGI5IXIAVDXVQNXII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764602},"content":"So it ebbs and it flows. It was the first thought on everyone’s mind – McIlroy’s included – for the first few years. Vaguely unmentionable then for a while after that. In recent years, as he rose to the top of the sport again, back to the fore. You think it might come up for the next fortnight?","type":"text"},{"_id":"57BVAJNMLZHIJKTBW2VTN3UT7Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764603},"type":"image"},{"_id":"J3XWR3TE2FF67JYWAMD47WX3OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764604},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>14</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"W6VP5ZSVNNCB3ET23HUDEF2YBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764605},"content":"Ultimately, though, the career Grand Slam is a niche concern, strictly of interest to the golf fetishists. Out in the world it has no currency. Normal sports followers have a vague notion the Masters is on soon and that Rory McIlroy will be trying to win it. Maybe the best measure of his pull is that people will tune in on the basis of no more information than that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"COEHJLAPYBGZDAOMP74LADIW2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764606},"content":"We forget sometimes what we have in our lives here. A properly global star, someone who operates at the elite end of a world sport year after year, season after season. He has been ranked in the top 10 in the world for the vast majority of the past 16 years – the lowest he has fallen since late 2009 was 16th for a week in August 2021. He hasn’t been ranked lower than third since June 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4AAZ3J4ABVHENM2PXVMOB46NN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764607},"content":"McIlroy has won five tournaments since last year’s Masters. That’s a career for some players. But he gets graded on a different curve to everyone else.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BCOQ2NY2AVBZBDRWZKEPK6FJME","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764608},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>15</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEO7Q25RJZBC3GF4CA5OCBAGQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764609},"content":"That’s by choice, it should be stressed. For each of the past two years his name has been brought up in the judging room for the RTÉ Sports Person of the Year awards. Not as a potential winner, granted. But as someone who is at least worthy of making the shortlist for the best performers in Irish sport over a 12-month period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72VJPQDWUZGPPMFFJHXGPLQUFY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764610},"content":"In 2023 he had two tournament victories, three top-10s in Majors and was the first ever Irish player to be solo leading scorer on a winning Ryder Cup team. Some of us argued that a shortlist that ignored someone with those credentials could look a little silly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6RHOMXX6SVFDVBLO5UU4TG2MY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764611},"type":"image"},{"_id":"K7KTHVJ6OBCFHJOREILNUG4SMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764612},"content":"By way of reply it was explained that word had come from McIlroy himself to only judge him on Majors. He had made it known through his people that there is no point including him on any shortlist until he turns four Majors into five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XORUBI75QVHX3BUVZVEX7AKLQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764613},"content":"If it happens any year take it he’ll be on the list. If it happens in the next fortnight everyone else will need something supernova to beat him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTWP6UPEO5FY7NRRY7XQAA3WP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764614},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>16</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CBTBEDDVHFAD3KNWL7W47YIENM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764615},"content":"And, look, it probably won’t. That’s the only outcome that makes sense, right? Augusta is the one Major where you can track the chances of each player each year with some measure of reliability. McIlroy is well able to play Augusta and his base level of performance is generally good enough to crack the top 10 in a given year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AI6JUYAJJF6TM6ZERC2MCC32Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764616},"content":"His length off the tee means he is 97-under-par on the Augusta par fives across his Masters career. His best four holes are the 15th (-29 in 58 tournament rounds), 13th (-24), 8th (-23) and 2nd (-19). His worst four are the 11th (+21), 10th (+15), 1st (+14) and 7th (+13). He’s 54 over par on the par fours and 10 over on the par threes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNYVQKRSS5B57IUA62HVGYR4HE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764617},"content":"When it comes right down to it there’s far too big a gap there between the holes he can dominate and the ones that can dominate him. He has missed the cut in two of the past four Masters. He has posted just one sub-70 round in the tournament since 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLOU64Q44BCKNBEGQA7XYR3JJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764618},"content":"When someone tells you who they are, believe them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LANPPTBM7BBINBUFXDFTJ67U4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764619},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LQTY5RRMRRDFPFVEAPQA46XA34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764620},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>17</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AACDIWGVUBHGJGTYSUWPEL4GAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764621},"content":"Yet we go again. With hope, somehow, that this time it will be different. McIlroy has won three of his last six tournaments. He’s won twice in America before the Masters, something he never achieved before. He leads the PGA Tour in the Total Strokes Gained and Scoring Average stats categories. He’s third in tee-to-green, fifth in putting, 10th in driving. He’s been the best player on tour since the turn of the year. You’d imagine that might all count for something.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXXRMMY4RFBFJM4D7LZSMCPTH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764622},"content":"Scheffler is still the best player in the world but he hasn’t won since September. Xander Schauffele gathered in two Majors last year but hasn’t won since July. Jon Rahm and Joaquin Niemann are the best players on LIV but we won’t know what that means until we know what that means. At the very least McIlroy ought to be in there pitching.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7A7FPPQ3JCZVPDE2YBHP4HVB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764623},"content":"But look. All of this has been said before. and all of it will be said again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SEBMKOUBBZDHNMLPVK5EISNQRI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764624},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>18</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LR5ALOFFVVGOHB7GNGUFATTGVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764625},"content":"Nothing lasts forever. McIlroy has been so good for so long that it can be hard to imagine what it will be like when he finishes up. But the only certainty is that there will come a time when we don’t have this, when the arc of the greatest tournament in golf doesn’t happen to cross with the peak years of the best golfer ever to come from here. Where, finally, he won’t be the talk of the place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TTIKCR42SJDY5EMR4VXTKRFENE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764626},"content":"This is the best of times, right now. Whether McIlroy wins the Masters this year or whether he bombs out – or most likely something in between – this is a living chapter in one of the great Irish sporting sagas. A carnival ride that swoops and dips and rattles and rolls, all for our viewing pleasure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3I4GDZ4IMFBBLIASHE2JNCJJYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764627},"content":"It won’t always be like this. It’s amazing that it ever was.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"From his first Masters appearance in 2009, McIlroy has always been the talk of the place, whether in contention or bombing out"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy at The Masters: Brace for the next chapter in one of Ireland’s greatest sporting sagas","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7T74JOA5YFFV3BMLRQ3FLIL4ZY","auth":{"1":"72979bdc639b84555697a277c2955fb90135c02a70822b4dff0cb12b0d0f0e36"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7T74JOA5YFFV3BMLRQ3FLIL4ZY.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-at-augusta-a-saga-in-18-parts/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"RTFZ7J2D2JGLNIOJVPXFXVEIFI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":156,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/05cafbe7-cd22-4707-b25f-948e3617c990/versions/1743192318/media/18c375abdcb6032378e95a71a456244d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/28/scottie-scheffler-storms-into-the-lead-at-houston-open-after-course-record-62/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312486},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scottie-scheffler/\" target=\"_blank\">Scottie Scheffler</a> was back to doing Scottie Scheffler things, like a well-oiled machine with every part clicking into gear and working smoothly: a second round 62, equalling the course record at the Memorial Park course in downtown Houston, saw the world number one – without a win so far this season – move ominously towards the business part of the midway leaderboard in the Texas Children’s Houston Open, two weeks out from his defence of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4S45GWH6ZAPBDQ7MLB5KABIB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312487},"content":"Scheffler had eight birdies in another bogey-free round, posting a 62 for a midway total of 11-under-par 129 to assume the clubhouse lead, a shot clear of Canadian Taylor Pendrith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NT3L2A7U7NCXJJSPAILWVBAZPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312488},"content":"Séamus Power backed up an opening round 69 with another 69 to reach the 36-hole mark on two-under-par 138 and safely headed into the weekend in his bid to climb the leaderboard and add further FedEx Cup points to his Aon Swing 5 mini-order of merit (with five places off that list available into the Heritage, a signature event the week after the Masters).","type":"text"},{"_id":"DUWEIIPWAVCPDM3QYT652X6M4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312489},"content":"Pádraig Harrington, however, missed the cut. The 53-year-old Dubliner, playing on a sponsor’s exemption as he juggles tour life between the main circuit and the Champions Tour, improved with a 71 for five-over-par 145 which left him outside the cut mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZHISV47LVDXTDSTEMRGXJGTUY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312490},"content":"For Scheffler, who had a delayed start to the season after suffering a hand injury over the Christmas period which required corrective surgery, it was a case of returning to his dominant self with a masterclass in which he hit 17 of 18 greens in regulation and required just 23 putts in a second round where he was in total control tee to green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"36GVD5BQLJFHHG5T5DQPTIN4LQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"LHCPBGWDTNHZ3KC7PFDBTTZYEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312491},"content":"Scheffler started his round birdie-birdie and just kept on rolling, only regretting not actually holing more birdies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4BGZS5F3UBFLTFS3FP5ZZT7P4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312492},"content":"“[It] was a day where I felt like my ball-striking could have been a bit better and I was able to hole some putts. I hit a lot of greens but I felt like my irons were just barely off, and I felt like I could have been hitting them a little bit closer to the hole, but overall kept it on the green, kept giving myself looks. The way I was putting, I didn’t feel I had to force ‘em there by many pins if I wasn’t totally comfortable with the shot,” explained Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCO77WAN4NC57AA7TK2T2Y5CHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312493},"content":"Denmark’s Rasmus Hojgaard, the reigning Irish Open champion who is on his rookie season stateside, carded a 67 for 133, four adrift of Scheffler, to get into the mix. Of seeing Scheffler’s name atop the leaderboard, he remarked: “There’s no hiding from that. You have got to play well to have a chance to beat him ... I’m just trying to play as good of golf as possible and see where that takes me.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Two rounds of 69 will see Séamus Power make the weekend in Texas"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T20:00:10.054Z","headlines":{"basic":"Scottie Scheffler storms into the lead at Houston Open after course record 62","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"L7EBYBUTIAGXMZIY5ZY7FRCDTY","auth":{"1":"7fde45fda5797c0beba3086127d0abcba6470deef6461a6045a7d4143c58f40c"},"focal_point":{"x":1447,"y":646},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/L7EBYBUTIAGXMZIY5ZY7FRCDTY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/28/scottie-scheffler-storms-into-the-lead-at-houston-open-after-course-record-62/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"HBQYTM5DE5FODNUJS4JRFJQUGE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":179,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/1f4ccf1a-8280-477d-924b-cf578ae701a3/versions/1743108215/media/90db98bb4ed59c0b1c391689674fb7c1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/27/rory-mcilroys-pedestrian-opening-round-in-the-houston-rain-leaves-him-with-work-to-do/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UX7OO5OJONALHERO245E5TGFK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352094},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_blank\">Rory McIlroy</a> may perhaps have second-guessed his decision to belatedly add the Texas Children’s Houston Open on to his playing itinerary for a large stretch of the opening round, where heavy rain conspired to make for challenging conditions at the Memorial Park municipal course in downtown Houston.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EWO4RPXIM5GOLF63SWZYMYWUQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352097},"content":"Indeed, the world number two – looking for a third win of the season on the PGA Tour and aiming to follow-up his win in The Players a fortnight ago with a further momentum driver towards the Masters in two weeks – struggled for large tracts, ultimately managing to sign for a level-par 70 that left him with work to do if he’s to play his way back towards contention in the $9.5 million purse event.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSJVSVLPXFHLHJA6WFTQZJQBNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352098},"content":"“A little pedestrian, I guess,” came McIlroy’s post-round observations of a day’s work that started in heavy rainfall and where his game only improved when he could dispense with the rain gear as his first round score left him trailing early clubhouse leaders Alejandro Tosti of Argentina and American Ryan Gerard, who carded 65s, by five shots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXM4TENETVC7LEWDURFYLVSYII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352099},"content":"McIlroy’s round – two birdies, two bogeys – failed to find any real spark: he bogeyed the 14th, having started on the 10th, after driving into the right rough and, then, after finally managing a birdie on the Par 5 third (his 12th) of the round, he immediately gave it back with a bogey on the fourth where he found the left rough off the tee. He managed to get back to parity with a birdie on the par 5 eighth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WPJ2EANRZBHTDQRHCDQJL7PY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352100},"content":"“We had to deal with those conditions early on, rainy and not too pleasant to play in. I made a few par saves early on that I need to and then had quite a few chances on the second nine there that I didn’t convert. So yeah, sort of tale of two halves. I felt like I was scrambling for the most part on the first nine and then I feel like I left a couple out there on the last nine,” said McIlroy who, in fact, found only eight of 13 fairways and hit 12 of 18 greens in regulation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFMBFISVTFCFTK4CBTREXKR5SE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352101},"content":"He added: “I drove it better once I got my rain gear off. I couldn’t really find the middle of the club face for the first few holes. Once it brightened up and as the conditions got a little better, I felt like I drove it pretty well.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TASMGQP46BDTDFJPEPVBGY3334","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352102},"content":"McIlroy, a winner of the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players so far this season, hadn’t played in the Houston Open in 11 years but added it to his scheduling as a final competitive outing ahead of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7DZQHVJCREV3JIA5BHD5OXW2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352103},"content":"“I think a little bit of experience around this course isn’t a bad thing and I’m sort of just trying to learn as I go along,” admitted McIlroy of trying to quickly learn a new course.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TPQOBFDJZCYTLVDAXHJRXPSM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352105},"content":"In the Ford Championship on the LPGA Tour, Europe Solheim Cup star Charley Hull shot a sensational bogey-free opening round of nine-under-par 63 (a career low first round for the English player) to assume the clubhouse lead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FE3VV3XEABDNPI2N6D3X2J25YM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352106},"content":"Leona Maguire had a poor start, two over through her opening six holes, but fought back to sign for a two-under-par 70 which included a hat-trick of birdies from the 11th.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"World number two struggled to light up as he sits five shots behind the clubhouse leaders"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T20:38:28.708Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy’s ‘pedestrian’ opening round in Houston rain leaves him with work to do","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"G42VX6QUQTR5H5SAF5XLSMYMTQ","auth":{"1":"29dcdacf1e0b0e24ddd16cf57e9c4e341f2844fe49b5ac22c485077b3f52b140"},"focal_point":{"x":1044,"y":182},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/G42VX6QUQTR5H5SAF5XLSMYMTQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/27/rory-mcilroys-pedestrian-opening-round-in-the-houston-rain-leaves-him-with-work-to-do/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"G5I3VUCPRZBK7HMS4TPAWD3DKA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":333,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9a144dd6-8952-497e-a169-cc97085d4bd1/versions/1742926748/media/22683e540b6a0af378d9be58a586effa_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/27/john-feinsteins-dealings-with-johan-cruyff-revealed-a-young-sportswriter-who-never-pulled-his-punches/","content_elements":[{"_id":"Q4YB3GVY5RAO3BGGJ3DUJCCF2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following his death earlier this month, the obituaries for John Feinstein paid fitting tribute to his enduring contribution to the sporting wing of the great American library. Each trawl through his career touched upon 40-plus non-fiction books written across four decades, classics such as A Good Walk Spoiled, A Season on the Brink, Hard Courts, and The Majors showcasing his unique knack for lifting the veil on everything from professional golf to college basketball, tennis to the NFL. Soccer never featured in his sprawling bibliography, yet one of his most prized personal possessions was a jersey belonging to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/johan-cruyff\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/johan-cruyff\">Johan Cruyff</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGOXU5HOYBE2VA6PAX3NT7KY5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not some supposedly game-worn piece of memorabilia purchased at one of those online auctions where authenticity can be a fluid concept either. Here was the genuine article delivered right from the player himself. Shortly before the Dutchman departed the Washington Diplomats following his late-stage, not entirely successful flirtation with the North American Soccer League in 1981, he invited Feinstein for a farewell lunch and interview at the Four Seasons in DC. After the food had been cleared away, Cruyff said, “I have something for you.” Suddenly, he was fumbling under the table where he had earlier placed a box that he now handed over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E32EJWJD45GSRNRRP5YMWTOKSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Inside it was one of his jerseys,” Feinstein told Pablo Maurer in The Athletic in 2016. “So obviously, the tradition in soccer is that you give your jersey to your opponent at the end of the game, out of respect. And he said, ‘You deserve this. You were a worthy adversary.’ I never thought of myself as an adversary. I still have the jersey, which I cherish.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZWWOTZNVJDPRBKNZM7QWIJ6ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fresh out of Duke University, Feinstein started at The Washington Post, where the rookie cut his teeth on the police and court beats before fetching up at the sports desk. There, he was eventually tasked with covering the Washington Diplomats of the troubled North American Soccer League. A rather humdrum assignment typically given to those down the food chain, it morphed into something much more glamorous and exciting after the club signed Cruyff, newly bankrupt because of a dodgy financial adviser, in 1980. The cub reporter and the most cerebral footballer of this and perhaps any generation forged a strange, mutually beneficial relationship. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ANQ5NY22CFHQ5L3ZIZCER2SZ6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It became almost a ritual, if they lost,” said Feinstein in that interview with Maurer. “I’d say, ‘So Johan, what happened out there?’ He’d say, ‘What happened? The coach is an idiot. The players don’t know what they’re doing and they don’t f**king listen to me. This is impossible.’ That was what he’d always say: ‘This is impossible.’” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RY7E4PU6NNASFESQSJECYY66NE","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"FASUL3BXSFEGVEPAXXXXRDZKBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The savvy Cruyff knew enough about America to appreciate that venting about questionable tactics and unco-operative teammates carried more heft in the sports pages of the Post than anywhere else. It was then a great newspaper, still basking in the afterglow of Woodward and Bernstein’s Watergate exposé, rather than the emasculated private Jeff Bezos plaything of today. Smart and ambitious, Feinstein recognised too that he’d been afforded privileged access to an outspoken character whose name guaranteed column inches, the prized currency any young writer on the up craves.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABXI7GWAKRAAJHYHGEH3OE7A7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Johan would come up to me and say, ‘Why did you put this in the paper?’,” said Feinstein, about the routine that played out every time one of Cruyff’s printed harangues subsequently caused controversy at the club. “And I’d say, ‘For crying out loud, I had my notebook out!’ And then when practice was over, especially on the road, he’d just come up and say, ‘So where are we going to dinner?’ All was forgotten.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGXHLAJDHNHEJHXRGXTC2F2ZPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"John Feinstein, biographer of David Feherty: ‘I don’t think it shocked him but that doesn’t mean it didn’t hurt’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"GBBW2I67RFBJTMKVZJOVQEB2G4","additional_properties":{},"content":"After exiting the playoffs in the opening round in his first season, Cruyff was back playing with Levante in Spain in 1981 when Feinstein mentioned to Washington’s coach Ken Furphy that the struggling team needed its superstar. Five weeks later, he returned to the capital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6WKMDNCNFNESLMBIJLBDAMQVPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The greatness of so many of Feinstein’s later publications was that, just like in his dealings with Cruyff, he inveigled his way into inner sanctums, gaining the trust of normally private, reticent subjects, producing works that genuinely took readers behind the curtain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N2HY3YEJKBB4LOSZC7APHKCVOI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"5RGJEHC2ZBEVNGTVXJECRCKIKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"His prolific stretch in that regard began when he persuaded the legendary coach Bobby Knight to allow him to spend six months with the Indiana University Hoosiers’ basketball team in 1985. His sports editor signed off on the leave of absence because he wanted the peace that came when the rather demanding Feinstein was out of the office, and that sojourn spawned the timeless A Season on the Brink.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CLOHPJX4NZG47MAXDWHNAE6FWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Still billed as the best-selling sportsbook of all time, Knight went berserk at the completely accurate portrayal of him as a foul-mouthed bully. Cruyff was a little more stoic. Despite the fact somebody else at the Post once wrote that the European import “has been the biggest disappointment since Lyndon B Johnson’s Great Society”, his relationship with Feinstein appeared unaffected. Something which is all the more impressive since clippings from the era show the young journalist never pulled his punches. In one article alone, he reveals the star player was earning $9,000 a game, criticises the hypocrisy of his complicated relationship with the coach, and baldly states he had come to America simply because it was less pressure than remaining in Europe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCHR5AMNIZBRHAEGFFPRAHM6PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He insists that he does not think of himself as the Saviour,” wrote Feinstein. “But he did not object when somebody stitched “JC” on the front of his uniform.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"POC33TV3MVCZBO5WPN3B57LQRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Clever intro. Odd couple.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Dave Hannigan"}},"name":"Dave Hannigan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Late journalist’s career showcased his unique knack for lifting the veil on golf, college basketball, tennis and the NFL"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"John Feinstein’s dealings with Johan Cruyff revealed a young sportswriter who never pulled his punches","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BLFTLENLIJCGTGQTEPOBT5LIOQ","auth":{"1":"eda0cece1628cebe72c90321232e2c705643fc781353626ddfe006ca267937cc"},"focal_point":{"x":1826,"y":1195},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BLFTLENLIJCGTGQTEPOBT5LIOQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/27/john-feinsteins-dealings-with-johan-cruyff-revealed-a-young-sportswriter-who-never-pulled-his-punches/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"DCJ62PHU5FEVZN4QO4R7QHL2PY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":905,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/4c716928-6214-482c-b2d9-497e44fa590b/versions/1743018135/media/fbe2f556491599f6f4ee2cc0a435a455_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/26/kellie-harrington-remains-on-40000-podium-funding-as-some-sport-ireland-investment-figures-yet-to-be-realised/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5F7BW7I2GND73IFPYIYFSUBZZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325176},"content":"An increase to €27 million in high performance funding in the first year of the new Olympic cycle is the headline amount highlighted by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sport-ireland/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sport-ireland/\">Sport Ireland</a>, although there is still some moving and shaking to be done before final figures are realised.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4REBI4OFHVBENEC3MEIJQWBSXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325177},"content":"Up €2 million on the last of the Paris cycle amount, in all 16 National Governing Bodies (NGB’s) will benefit from high-performance programme funding worth €12.7m this year as they turn their attention towards Los Angeles in 2028, with another €4.85m announced in direct athlete support, including €3.8m under the international carding scheme.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NYDSS6KRTZGIPINRW2AN5IILIA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325178},"content":"The 16 NGB’s are down three on the 19 who benefited in the Paris four-year cycle, and the international carding amount is also reduced slightly, with 129 athletes plus 11 relays/pool funding named across 15 sports, with 29 athletes receiving the maximum podium amount of €40,000/€30,000, compared to 33 last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZQ4MCDCQGRFQ5DORAHHZM3SJNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325179},"content":"These still include boxer <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kellie-harrington/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kellie-harrington/\">Kellie Harrington</a>, who defended her Olympic title in Paris and declared that her last competitive bout, but has yet to formally announce her retirement to Sport Ireland. Thus, Harrington remains on €40,000, Sport Ireland acknowledging that formal announcement is pending, after which she will still be entitled to 50 per cent of the allocation under the athlete career transition programme (ACT).","type":"text"},{"_id":"IN3TGNRJZBFU3FDCH3WCX3L2OQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325180},"content":"Several other athletes are set to move up a grade, given these amounts were signed off weeks several weeks ago: boxer Aoife O’Rourke is also on podium funding of €40,000, having also qualified for Paris, her sister Lisa not yet listed even though she also won a silver medal at the World Boxing Championships earlier this month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7WDPNWB2VEJDFFW4Y77DXHUFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325181},"content":"In athletics, five athletes are now on podium amounts, including Sharlene Mawdsley and Sophie Becker, both rewarded on the back of their contribution to the relay medal successes last summer, while Kate O’Connor and Sarah Healy are on world-class amounts of €25,000. Given O’Connor’s medal double this month, bronze at the European Indoors and then silver at the World Indoors, she’ll also move to the podium class, and the expectation is Healy will too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZBQ5MMQONBLVGQAZ5F7STJYXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325182},"content":"Rowing Ireland again tops the overall high-performance investment with €1.1m for 2025, and is joined at the top by Swim Ireland, also on €1.1m. However Rowing Ireland’s full four-year cycle amount is not yet agreed as they still have to appoint a new high performance director, and a four-year plan has also to be agreed with the Irish Athletic Boxing Association, who are on €1.05m.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5YRQ5URN65EQBMOE73VSCDYIEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325183},"content":"Athletics Ireland has also increased its amount from €841,666 to €1.05m, with Paralympics Ireland getting €1m, again for one-year only, as para swimming and athletes are currently transitioning to Swim Ireland and Athletics Ireland respectively.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7GN6INJZJCTDES4GA7K4D7CWU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325184},"content":"Last year, Rowing Ireland had 16 athletes on top-tier podium funding, that reduced to nine this year, including Ross Corrigan and Nathan Timoney and Aoife Casey and Margaret Cremen, who each received a special “one-off” podium amount of €30,000, agreed between Rowing Ireland and Sport Ireland, in recognition of them making their Olympic final in Paris.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6LCENF6HNACDAGCT5BDROHCDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325185},"content":"Speaking at the announcement in Trinity College, Sport Ireland high performance committee chair Olive Loughnane said it wasn’t all about the money: “It’s not just the funding,” said Loughnane, the 2009 World Champion in the 20km walk. “It’s also the practical stuff. Such as access to the Institute of Sport, and all the support and back up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B226E6ZPLBEEDHC4WM23XHWWZU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325186},"content":"“Back when I was university in Galway, I didn’t even have anywhere to train. There was a track there, but I used to climb over the gate to get in. I’ve gone past the statute of limitations, but I was basically trespassing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQBO4CDHTRAJZGDOCWOVUIHTSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325187},"content":"“So I’ve been involved in Irish sport firstly as a recipient [of funding] from 2000 to 2012, and after retiring I took a role as a member of the high performance committee initially, and latterly as the chairperson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWBNLW4XCJBFHDJJGPTGHO7VLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325188},"content":"“I have seen first hand the different money makes, but if you want that sustained success, you also need that strong leadership and systematic approach. I’ve seen that system evolve, and it is driven very much by investment in people, and also in processes.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4BEUOYRIJH6JH7PTDTVOTVKA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325189},"content":"High Performance coaching support will increase also from €1.2m to €1.5m in 2025, with additional high performance operational funding going to the Olympic Federation of Ireland (€600,000) and Paralympics Ireland (€450,000).","type":"text"},{"_id":"QWVI46RDVJBHZHKM4GD2NC5WPY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325190},"content":"Six more NGB’s also received funding via the Performance Development Programme: Irish Judo Association (€200,000), Pentathlon Ireland (€150,000), Taekwondo Ireland (€75,000), Basketball Ireland (€200,000), Weightlifting Ireland (€50,000), Squash Ireland (€50,000) and Winter Sports (via OFI €50,000).","type":"text"},{"_id":"THVG2DWEC5HFDDTUULTY2AZJIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>High Performance Programme Funding – 2024/2025/2025-2028</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"H2ACAO6KPJEXDC3D6YIIZW4CNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431990},"content":"<b>Rowing Ireland</b> €1,093,333/€1,100,000/One year only","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXS4QPACYNEC3E2KYVJ4X2S2SM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431991},"content":"<b>Swim Ireland</b> €756,666/€1,100,000/€4,400,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z3U2E7CED5GVFG2RN5AAELS64E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431992},"content":"<b>Athletics Ireland</b> €841,666/€1,050,000/€4,200,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"IS3KNGHUA5CALLDUVZPH6IB4N4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431993},"content":"<b>Irish Athletic Boxing Association</b> €965,000/€1,050,000/One year only","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUH7JVTHVVHDJNUXG3OVMDA6HI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431994},"content":"<b>Paralympics Ireland</b> €1,000,000/€1,000,000/One year only","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBKA4A3UGBEQLHCBETWKOCZIWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431995},"content":"<b>Irish Sailing Association </b>€800,000/€1,000,000/€4,000,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"35AFATQ7ARCWBMWPBPO77QDWZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431996},"content":"<b>Hockey Ireland</b> €856,666/€950,000/€3,800,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHVQS7EIGREK7C4FHNTMXZHI2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431997},"content":"<b>Horse Sport Ireland</b> €803,333/€900,000/€3,600,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4OLECIJBVH5LF63VBRY2SXXYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431998},"content":"<b>Cycling Ireland</b> €520,000/€725,000/€2,900,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHQM4XWN3ZEAPEV4TSL6OJ3HO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431999},"content":"<b>Gymnastics Ireland</b> €506,666/€725,000/€2,900,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"EV7SMMOEIRDG5BWENIGYQCQT3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432000},"content":"<b>Golf Ireland</b> €516,666/€650,000/€2,600,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3VGDVEDGBABXDVDXMBPTBZHTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432001},"content":"<b>IRFU </b>€416,666/€600,000/€2,400,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RL6UFHDANCRRCV7C25DFIVV6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432002},"content":"<b>Cricket Ireland</b> €333,333/€600,000/€2,400,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"XB42SI3FEBDEBLJNRKXDJPQZBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432003},"content":"<b>Badminton Ireland</b> €346,666/€500,000/€2,000,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"52Y64P7HLNDSRBYHTPNAZDIEKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432004},"content":"<b>Canoeing Ireland</b> €216,666/€475,000/€1,900,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDYRD7RZYZDZZNUDIJ3QBOG6YQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432005},"content":"<b>Triathlon Ireland</b> €250,000/€280,000/€1,120,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"H37URECCYNGE3PPY6THGNN6SUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432006},"content":"<b>Total</b> €10,223,327<b>/</b>€12,705,000/€38,220,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7W6HPJK7DJF5VM5SPMBHX2NNHQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432007},"content":"<u><b>International Carding Scheme 2025</b></u>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LNGW2GMSFJBFDBK2KHGWE3T7CM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432008},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Athletics Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"52QKLGKAH5FE5MNWC5PLG673W4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432009},"content":"Ciara Mageean Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAE6YRSNQVGGDLCJOH3PZ7BJH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432010},"content":"Rhasidat Adeleke Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEOM35JDIZDWVNZNSRDCOY4MAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432011},"content":"Sharlene Mawdsley Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JXJBQFVVIBGFBHHDECDNIBWVZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432012},"content":"Sophie Becker Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"43CGRMSJSVDMVCGXCISDYJDRGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432013},"content":"Christopher O’Donnell Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QKXOU3KEIZENLECOMNGUYDZUXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432014},"content":"Sarah Lavin World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5GP7ECGHBDWVHWSZHBG72SJ6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432015},"content":"Sarah Healy World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"6S37XYQSVNAR7BTALYYUCEQFSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432016},"content":"Katherine O’Connor World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"T35TV3UIF5EFDACF76PVIOGZKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432017},"content":"Mark English World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DRBOEUYRRHMXHY77FSYYFPKHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432018},"content":"Andrew Coscoran International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"O5Y4GY5VE5CHNMT3NKYL7KSWYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432019},"content":"Brian Fay International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEBIT4C5DZBTDKPM3ZN4NAVKBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432020},"content":"Efrem Gidey International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RDPEWL2PNZD3RHBT5FRKLPVAM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432021},"content":"Eric Favors International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VPD4H6DBVZFRDJQYZZAXL6IA4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432022},"content":"Luke McCann International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"X64OK2IKMFE7VJZHRXYTVX67GY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432023},"content":"Sophie O’Sullivan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WWUPCOXR5FEGLNQVF34ZOVDP7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432024},"content":"Nicola Tuthill International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"6AVL42NDJRATVBHSO7Z3JG7HMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432025},"content":"Cathal Doyle International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRKAWXEII5CB5B4YO4LSTCAB5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432026},"content":"Nicholas Griggs International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HFJZ57IJJERRPOVT4OZOJ65IE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432027},"content":"Fionnuala McCormack International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"D57F7I5FLZAWRIL4NSP3PWECME","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432028},"content":"Hiko Haso International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"KEVKF3TGMBGIZBXZDZWNPYQS5M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432029},"content":"Darragh McElhinney International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SCEH4G3DEFENVNFMYYQMJBZGDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432030},"content":"Israel Olatunde International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAHJGNVFW5FZ3DO4H5U6WTPHYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432031},"content":"Mixed 4x400m Relay Relay/Pool €60,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z54VWHOSAFA6DD4GNUA3SIOSEU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432032},"content":"Women’s 4x400m Relay Relay/Pool €60,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTZAANCONNEDXPG7NK64OVU6XY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432033},"content":"<b>Total €645,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMGGT56CDRFRZFBQXMZ7ZZQ6VI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432034},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Badminton Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZHU53SGQVD33KICPDUOTQISVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432035},"content":"Nhat Nguyen World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WL3OBVBR4RG47JXXWGNKP3GU6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432036},"content":"Rachael Darragh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"FC26X26YCRHFDDV2BYB3SFD63A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432037},"content":"Joshua Magee International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"XOOFQD6AEVB7HFU6ETXV2VLCTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432038},"content":"Paul Reynolds International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFETS4HDY5FHZAWY643BOBQTMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432039},"content":"Moya Ryan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7I2UG2TIW5EX3LNWLXVZBQGPR4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432040},"content":"<b>Total €97,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CORMTZDZ6FBJNILNJ3SSTHJ6NY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432041},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Canoeing Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNMXZWR7IJDLHBOF7N67MJ4V6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432042},"content":"Liam Jegou World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2JAMQLPZ5H4DBSXUHZELMTMQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432043},"content":"Ronan Foley International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JI4MMLLWVRDNLMQLNPWXRLHUZU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432044},"content":"Alistair McCreery International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQCGNDFKC5G23G274HHS6SOJ54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432045},"content":"Jake Cochrane International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7MKFN2WJRGQ7MIQE6MJHGDEQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432046},"content":"Noel Hendrick International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5XJZYKEDVCTVOLEDOX7URQK4U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432047},"content":"Madison Corcoran International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"F6UKJPZEHVCI7HHPZFIYDEYP6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432048},"content":"<b>Total €97,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"HDXZ6CBROVD5XKJWYEFYABTESI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432049},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Cycling Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DF4STFI5SBEBTLFMQYOUAS7M6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432050},"content":"Lara Gillespie Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"T2HC3OMHFBGEJK2UKOBW4G6BHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432051},"content":"Mia Griffin World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXUU3RRAFNGO3LTSAOWJCA7TLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432052},"content":"Erin Grace Creighton World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKIUT6IUR5GNTJG46HMR3WA6EM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432053},"content":"Cycling Ireland (Para) Josephine Healion Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFJU2J4QFJFAXOBGSLXR3DIYPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432054},"content":"Linda Kelly (Pilot) Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXBTB7LESJECRHDVDJU3U24UEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432055},"content":"Katie-George Dunlevy Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XHC5INHYNFC5JQAU64NKRUB24","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432056},"content":"Richael Timothy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2PHBFP6M5GEZA5UZFQLR22HQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432057},"content":"Christopher Burns International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"6AG4MI57XJAWHF5MX3I5N4KJH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432058},"content":"Mitchell McLaughlin (Pilot) International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QO7H4NAUOBEELF7XKU4R7CEJ5A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432059},"content":"Damien Vereker International €18,000 Pilot & Pool Funding €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5OP6DNDMNVAKJH6XQKLNQMOEGI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432060},"content":"<b>Total €322,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT5ASKRZ7RE7RJ7UIOIFWPT52A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432062},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Gymnastics Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"5KJKI3LVXFCIVDJQSMFYN4AEM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432063},"content":"Rhys McClenaghan Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4TMVGKKLRGTNLUT2Z7MQLJGAA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432064},"content":"Adam Steele International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWELR5MOO5GKJBEDNUR3OTLVLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432065},"content":"Dominick Cunningham International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCI4MXM5K5D5JCCHZJQVZDMM3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432066},"content":"Emma Slevin International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YV2PKDGCSZGWVDOVDEWKXURHGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432067},"content":"Halle Hilton International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"HY7DVZIW4RCFXFUKIQ4UKQYH74","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432068},"content":"Eamon Montgomery International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RTMQGBULURC4RG2NU5OBVSG4K4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432069},"content":"Pool Funding €80,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"V5GHHSORAJCWVGYHDCXWB6LW5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432070},"content":"<b>Total €210,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PTBYXCERZNFAZOLBG47PL47QV4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432072},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Athletic Boxing Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZB7J5LMYREOTM5KXA2IP6KRUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432073},"content":"Kellie Harrington Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHVQR6PUWZGALMUHZZ276UYYWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432074},"content":"Aoife O’Rourke Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJI54SDNSNBB5AFB3XFKGS6ZRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432075},"content":"Shannon Sweeney Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YKKG6F2ACREZZEPM35G3X4QF2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432076},"content":"Jack Marley World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"2ZTU54NINVEZFPEYAFJDXD4IRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432077},"content":"Niamh Fay World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SBDKTOHIIRCQPKCSEY7ZK2IQ6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432078},"content":"Adam Hession International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUKLZ5MUABBUFBIHANGSQJTFY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432079},"content":"Kelyn Cassidy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4UAGOSBHVC6HPCSDHBZWIFS3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432080},"content":"Martin McDonagh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y5DU3J57BZFQVMOATCAPIVRXYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432081},"content":"Dean Clancy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7SYMSA2BXRHDVI472HJ3F7YCJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432082},"content":"Daina Moorehouse International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"426KXT7GBVBCLAPGTCLOFTC23U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432083},"content":"Jennifer Lehane International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKCLKAYDCBFWRGKVL4LHHUSYYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432084},"content":"Gráinne Walsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCF5IX4HCNBJBCKGAZVFWFP6BM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432085},"content":"Aidan Walsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTARJASVERH57GQIXEIJRBEGZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432086},"content":"Jude Gallagher International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGEBRGDWEZHDBI7XDUDMLD6UOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432087},"content":"Michaela Walsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHQC524ITZDAZP6UUQCNUF6E5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432088},"content":"Pool Funding €80,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEHRUG7DANFUTCPCFA7ES36TDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432089},"content":"<b>Total €430,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RI3YNKOYUBHKPLKMX6ABUITNBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432091},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Clay Target Shooting Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"K2R743SJQZEA3LP3XIS2Y34MIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432092},"content":"Ian O’Sullivan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"N4TNJPQATBEH7OBQ5ZJR4AQVPY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432093},"content":"<b>Total €18,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OLQ6VBXM4JAETD5BYJKTXY67CQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432095},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Judo Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TIUSXBV6NRDXVPW5RA24WUNF5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432096},"content":"Joshua Green International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"KVOOH3LIYVBGHMO3HAIKG3JNBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432097},"content":"Rachael Hawkes International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SR2KLDY2FG7VE7Y3B55KFGIOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432098},"content":"Bearach Gleeson International €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPUTMO5C75H6FBUSIEXO2FFNM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432099},"content":"<b>Total €51,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOZMQCFBQJFXNIVKW7N2ILRY7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432101},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Sailing Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2N4IWBOTVGPVD4NBZXFYGLLG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432102},"content":"Finn Lynch Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"FJB4BTP3DZHT3BHRIHALML4P2Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432103},"content":"Robert Dickson Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GUTOQ5IDQRBTLN2BTVNZOPTABU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432104},"content":"Sean Waddilove Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ATMXG63LNFCMFJQ4QGALIYKERA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432105},"content":"Eve McMahon International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YIYMXA44EJEGNKBN7YX6O7U44A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432106},"content":"<b>Total €145,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"GQ6ACJCDHZAJ7EXJ4SEVF6TPWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432108},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Paralympics Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7JTLIHBJBHL5D5QBZ7ESA7HCU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432109},"content":"Pool Funding €80,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JUFWEU5CBDNZFUXZUJIUZUOMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432110},"content":"(Para Athletics) Orla Comerford Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIPXDGHCXRCGNGFY6JEJHD25OY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432111},"content":"Greta Streimikyte World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RUVP465XCJE5BIN6PF5CK5NL6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432112},"content":"Shauna Bocquet International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLP7L6BBPZBSHBQTR6IFQJOOSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432113},"content":"Mary Fitzgerald International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSQP4PPNMJGURPBRNEHD5DAXKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432114},"content":"Jordan Lee International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DRAO5AIGFDNRC6BPXT3FERFMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432115},"content":"(Para Swimming) Roisin Ni Riain Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZKOHDIIWZZGBJPJHBC3EOU6IAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432116},"content":"Barry McClements World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4OIF2ENOFDWVFG74VYRYXUXSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432117},"content":"Dearbhaile Brady World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VAU4S6VDWJCL7GIJV7KE3DUE4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432118},"content":"Deaten Registe International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"IV5HYIBISZDH7PVPGDDVNELLUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432119},"content":"<b>Total €307,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHHPZXXZKFGRRIKU5I6AOVLHMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432121},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Rowing Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZPE5CNLT2JBELMOZZB23NCQX64","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432122},"content":"Paul O’Donovan Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZK2IAPWBCNHZTPW4Q2YFPHERGE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432123},"content":"Fintan McCarthy Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"AER7HJQCS5FJVMUP25PPROUQ4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432124},"content":"Philip Doyle Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2RDW4XAZVECFPQJG6SM3MPNYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432125},"content":"Daire Lynch Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVPEBQ2J6ZBTLNADDO4JGI4XSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432126},"content":"Fiona Murtagh Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SNDCBF34YFDJNAQAM64DHQVMN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432127},"content":"Ross Corrigan Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"4UPNG4QR5BAQ7OMHZLUVJ4A76Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432128},"content":"Nathan Timoney Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWKOKLXXPVHBTC4X6UJVEXXUIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432129},"content":"Aoife Casey Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKSDJVRROFHEDDTFVZXKF3Z54Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432130},"content":"Margaret Cremen Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"L4LXZQOYTBCF5ODQQQI4KBAMEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432131},"content":"Zoe Hyde World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"37P2VAOODVA7HBSHDWILJCZHNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432132},"content":"Alison Bergin World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"77DCEGBDLJAPBF4XWUX4HYH5LM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432133},"content":"Eimear Lambe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"R5EZJBP2YNGXVEUNOWL7KD36MU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432134},"content":"Emily Hegarty World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"TG6G5BH46VGUNHEP6O4OMUSK4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432135},"content":"Imogen Magner World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RABUNHA3TFENBO6SVY33ZLVX2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432136},"content":"Natalie Long World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7344CGUFHZCD7NLWRXC3XKMRMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432137},"content":"Brian Colsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GYGSZFZMC5CIFAHOAK7YP4JFWY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432138},"content":"Adam Murphy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LXUWGAE4GRGJLFNCPS6AGPUWEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432139},"content":"Konan Pazzaia International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEFN7KUE4NGYPMTISKPSX7LLFU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432140},"content":"Ciaran Purdy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WZHK2HNGVCXDKCVB72JFUPZMY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432141},"content":"Donnacha Keeley International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHNRQVMWVJBALFSR4FAQOLJDRQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432142},"content":"Siobhán McCrohan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWW2ZQKDTVHHFEO3HJLLM5OOMY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432143},"content":"(Para) Katie O’Brien International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"J34VSEGUGNCPHNSGKXAHOSGHXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432144},"content":"Tiarnan O’Donnell International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"64DNWRJV7NFNTBG7YGYHF427WM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432145},"content":"Steven McGowan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFV7VURCINGXPBOPYJX32Y2JKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432146},"content":"<i>* One off podium funding of €30,000 in recognition of making Olympic final</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYMCAX2EEFCBHILIT256HUSADY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432147},"content":"<b>Total €632,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"NA3MOCRAFZDQZNKRFVMNXT3EF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432149},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Swim Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CTFAEH4SNDOBP3BUGNRX562CM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432150},"content":"Daniel Wiffen Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JWFQWRGMTNBT7PZ3UYXG5DLSZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432151},"content":"Mona McSharry Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VTC3TSUYUJH6JAKWZU4ZJT2QHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432152},"content":"Ellen Walshe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SUG4EPUE5VEDTGWG2M3Y2JG7CQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432153},"content":"Danielle Hill World Class €20,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ISL6J3NWVJGJVLRIDCDMR2F7NI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432154},"content":"Tom Fannon International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JXCRPLM65ZG3TPYAGE25CO7LXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432155},"content":"Shane Ryan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JNKWSKBU7JDE7JJEVHHKWBD2H4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432156},"content":"Eoin Corby International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"OVRMTX42BJBCZGFLLFL4X4E3CU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432157},"content":"Charlotte Cullen International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AMFI4PLVVE2TNEH3DKNXBCOJQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432158},"content":"Ellie McCartney International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GAKBGYHBBRENPIXC4XWRBTFLPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432159},"content":"John Shortt International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZATFQMMIAVFQNEAFX2YCOK6UZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432160},"content":"Darragh Greene International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYEHBIVTKBGUHFKG3QSZTVFAUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432161},"content":"Nathan Wiffen International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CPROV5YJ2RC27NZ2LWR73LKVLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432162},"content":"Jake Passmore International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"37UINUT4MBC5LLR2B4F6YTTCYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432163},"content":"Conor Ferguson International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CDHTIHAMBNF3BBIB6TP2GFHOJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432164},"content":"Women’s 4x100m Medley Relay €100,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"2ZESD3C7NRHIJCXQSXN3LENCLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432165},"content":"Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay","type":"text"},{"_id":"5V575G7TCNBT5PDRBEVAWGAGRY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432166},"content":"Women’s 4x100m Freestyle Relay","type":"text"},{"_id":"PFZEUX4LBBDWVI2NDFNZXH37NQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432167},"content":"Men’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay Mixed 4x100m Medley Relay","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFQNM6V75ZGDRPWD2ZFSWRKA3Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432168},"content":"<b>Total €423,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZRKT6DCWIFAG5BL5KVH33KZWHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432170},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Table Tennis Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SW4SRG474NBM5H6LGYDDRT6ML4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432171},"content":"(Para) Colin Judge World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"IDCECC3P5BFIBNFMG3LDAOUMME","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432172},"content":"<b>Total €25,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OL3HF7MPGBBSFBA5BRW2JH7CWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432174},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Taekwondo Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XZH7YVXEBEWBLMKUZ4JMYUVM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432175},"content":"Jack Woolley World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVTH7FQX4NEGFJFX6GWFFMD7IE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432176},"content":"Programme Costs €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"S562DFGJJBCSPELJTN5VZU2EHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432177},"content":"<b>Total €40,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OEXCVAOWKNGYPDLOYWF2JVZPEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432179},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Triathlon Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AL3PKWPKCNCUXLHFOCL6SBNW3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432180},"content":"James Edgar International €18,000 Triathlon Ireland (Para)","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPBMOFOEK5DAPIVY2K7VHFMIEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432181},"content":"Chloe MacCombe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"NRDMV2ZAPVEQHBFQ5CYB47YBDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432182},"content":"Catherine Sands (Pilot) World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"PK4WM3NOSRH2DHSKHCRK7YEQRU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432183},"content":"Judith MacCombe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4JAWBWDYZAK7JJTDQ6LV7EXXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432184},"content":"(Para) Eimear Nicholls (Pilot) World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCGNRDOMURDAZM37PN3MJPTK7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432185},"content":"Tom Williamson World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CBOARVSPBJEVFJMSBWYV5OHUTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432186},"content":"Donnacha McCarthy International €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLBSYWU6FJFD3GU3EJRE2XHT6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432187},"content":"Sean Husband (Pilot) International €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGRISBOYPNE43G6ONOVEHTGGYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432188},"content":"<b>Total €173,000</b>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Funding increased to €27 million for the first year of the new cycle after successful Paris Olympics"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:37:09.791Z","headlines":{"basic":"Kellie Harrington remains on €40,000 podium funding as some Sport Ireland investment figures yet to be 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href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_blank\">Rory McIlroy</a> has one eye on the here and now – as in, contending and trying to back up his win in The Players a fortnight ago with another in the Texas Children’s Houston Open at Memorial Park – but, naturally enough, also with another eye on what lies ahead in two weeks time, at the Masters in Augusta National.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOHENNXBNRBWBH3ZLBLX7IAYJY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714324},"content":"Since lifting the 28th win of his career on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a> at Sawgrass, McIlroy – who has added the Houston Open on to his schedule for the first time in 11 years as part of preparatory work in the quest to add a green jacket to his wardrobe – revisited Augusta National to “refamiliarise” himself with the course, especially in light of some remedial work that was carried out after last year’s storm including around the 16th green where a number of trees were felled.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7S466ID5PJBBTFYEVRM35AG3DQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714325},"content":"“The loss of a few trees is definitely noticeable ... they’ve had to redo that green but it’s exactly the same as what it was. Apart from maybe a few less shadows on the green late in the day because of a couple of trees that were lost, it’s pretty much the same,” said McIlroy, adding of the reasoning for his latest reconnaissance visit:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4YF2CAHYPJBT5H6XN5B77W4SLA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714326},"content":"“There’s four greens that are new this year that they’ve redone. You just sort of, you have a look at those and see if there’s any 2 new hole positions they give you, stuff like that. Apart from that, honestly for me, it’s nice to play a practice round without people around and it sort of takes the pressure off the start of the week for me. There’s a lot of obligations, there’s big commitments whether it be from media or the par-3 tournament on Wednesday. I just like to get up there and feel like I’m not rushed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday the week of the tournament and that’s usually the reason I go there.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FZIDZVF7LQCDBHE343SF4C474","additional_properties":{"_id":"GKSDVXPDLBFV5CWU4C3XHFXFLA"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6TOP5YSNLBB4BDRCA7FRFLBHH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714327},"content":"McIlroy has not played the Houston Open since 2014 but the rejuggling of its position in the tour schedule and the need for another event between the Players and the Masters saw him add it to his itinerary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6TZSXMCLBB4LGREFNKTEOLMVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714328},"content":"“I’ve watched this tournament the last couple years, especially since it moved to this date instead of (Autumn), and felt like it was a golf course that would be right up my alley and would suit my game and suit my style of play,” said McIlroy, who has started the season really well with two wins, in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and the Players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N3ANK3JRDFCSDIE57LWFQIN4VA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714329},"content":"Although it would be natural to look slightly into the future and that perennial bid to complete the career Grand Slam at the Masters, McIlroy insisted: “I just want to get a card in my hand and shoot scores and hopefully get myself in contention and try to win another golf tournament. It’s not as if I’m playing here this week and thinking about two weeks’ time. I’m here, I’m in the present, I’m trying to do my best this week and trying to win this golf tournament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4I4ZNCCVGJGP7GOY6I5J4CVHCE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714330},"content":"McIlroy is the only player to have won multiple tournaments on the PGA Tour this season and, effectively, ventures into world number one Scottie Scheffler’s den this week. Texan Scheffler finished tied-second last year (the only event in a five tournament stretch he didn’t win) but, this time, is looking for a first win of the season after a spell recuperating from a hand injury in the winter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43GKHDCO2ZHKBAYAG73EVNQYPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714331},"content":"“I feel like where I’m at in my game right now. I’m kind of, I would say, dialling things in, is how I’d describe it. I’m getting a little bit sharper and I feel like I’m improving a little bit. I feel like I’m fully in the swing of things, yeah. I don’t really think about missing any part of the season any more, everything feels normal. I feel like I’m definitely in the swing of a normal year now,” said Scheffler, who will defend his Masters title in two weeks time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNA6MDWS6RHRTLLL4ABZIONWZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714332},"content":"McIlroy is one of three Irish players in the field at Houston, but the only one with a ticket to the Masters. Séamus Power must win to earn a late exemption, same for Pádraig Harrington. Power’s first top-10 of the season last week in the Valspar also provided some movement in the Aon Swing 5 (a run which takes in the Puerto Rico Open, Valspar Championship, Texas Children’s Houston Open and Valero Texas Open) with five places on offer off a mini-order of merit in the Heritage, a signature event the week after the Masters. Power is playing both Texas events in his bid to claim one of those five spots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CXXCXW7KY5DPBN4RSSTFBBWD34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761847},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Texas Children’s Houston Open</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XUNCZ2HNB5HKBL7II4KHQFHTNU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761848},"content":"<b>Purse</b>: €8.8 million/$9.5 million (€1.57m/$1.7m to the winner)","type":"text"},{"_id":"BIC3ZYZ3BVA7XB6ILFYFQXEXYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761849},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Houston, Texas, USA","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKTFD5PWNBCAPMFDW35R2OXMTM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761850},"content":"<b>The course</b>: Memorial Park Golf Course – 7,475 yards par 70 – was originally designed by John Bredemus but in recent years the public facility has undergone significant upgrading (at a cost of $35m) under noted architect Tom Doak with player input from Brooks Koepka. It is a public course located in downtown Houston and has proven to be a popular stop on the PGA Tour ... the layout includes a very strong finishing stretch, with the 16th (a par 5 of 616 yards) and 17th holes located on either side of a lake with peninsula greens, while the par 4 18th measures 503 yards and features three greenside bunkers. Scottie Scheffler and Tony Finau share the course record with 62s.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWKR377NEBEYVI76N66HQCC65E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761851},"content":"<b>The field</b>: The addition of Rory McIlroy – winner of The Players on his lasts outing – to join Scheffler in the event means that the top two players in the world feature in this tour stop, two weeks ahead of the Masters. Germany’s Stefan Jaeger is the defending champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5H5N26QGZD2BJVWCQ6ADEIQPI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761852},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote</b>: “As a golfer, a lot of us are very visual players and there’s certain golf courses that just look good to our eyes compared to others. I would say this is one that for me to me looks pretty good ... and, then, having won somewhere, I think that gives you the extra confidence” – Tony Finau, winner in 2022 and tied-second last year, on his liking of Memorial Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOXE2LTBMBBRBLCEAP77NQBONE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761853},"content":"<b>Irish in the field</b>: Rory McIlroy was in an either-or situation in whether to add the Texas Children’s Houston Open or next week’s Valero Texas Open to his schedule following the Players and chose this one. The Northern Irishman is in a group with Wyndham Clark and Maverick McNealy (off the 10th at 12.53pm Irish time); Pádraig Harrington is playing on a sponsor’s exemption and switches from the Champions Tour to the main circuit in a group alongside in-form JJ Spaun and Keith Mitchell (off the first at 5.41pm Irish time); Waterford’s Séamus Power secured his first top-10 finish of the season in last week’s Valspar Championship and needs a win to force his way into the Masters, playing in a group with Aaron Rai and Adam Svensson (6.36pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNMAVUXQHFGHJPFLR6EX3IXJB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761854},"content":"<b>Betting</b>: World number one Scottie Scheffler missed a five-footer on the last a year ago to force a play-off with Jaeger, at a time when he was in the form of his life. This season has been a slow-burner, not helped by his off-season hand injury, but a return to a favoured course should see Scheffler – the market leader at 4-1 – contend strongly for a first win of the season, while McIlroy brings momentum in on the back of his Players title win and looks decent at 11-2. In terms of each-value, Jacob Bridgeman – with two top-3 finishes in his last four outings – is available at 40-1 while Ryo Hisatsune is worth a look at 100-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FXISIFL4JJFCJCJQQJ6OKKCAWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761855},"content":"<b>On TV</b>: Live on Sky Sports Golf (8pm, with featured group coverage from 1pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKENCVTDT5GODDMBKKDK3CCYJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761857},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XOI7WJWZXJG2RI4ESXX23HAOYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761858},"content":"<b>Purse</b>: €2.1 million/$2.25m (€310,000/$335,000 to the winner)","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZLPXQ23B5NC6JA3E5GLK2OHTNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761859},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Chandler, Arizona, USA","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZ6XUCDDUVGWZD2GA2O5EY7KBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761860},"content":"<b>The course</b>: Whirlwind Golf Club – 6,661 yards par 71 – was designed by Gary Panks and played host to the inaugural tournament last year, won by Nelly Korda. Located south of Phoenix, the resort is located in the foothills of the Sierra Estrella mountains in a desert setting. The par 5 17th is this week’s Aon risk-reward hole.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYAQ23LAARDTJKGZQDDZGX26KE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761861},"content":"<b>The field</b>: A stellar field with 19 of the world’s top 20 – headed by defending champion Nelly Korda – playing. All five Major winners of 2024 are competing. Gabby Barker, who has received a sponsor’s exemption, is the first Native American professional golfer: “It’s an honour to compete against the best in the world while also representing something much bigger than myself. As a Native American woman, it’s so special to see Indian Country pushing for women’s golf and creating a space where this is happening.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXK6HWERL5F2PE4NKVTBY252RE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761862},"content":"<b>Irish in the field</b>: Leona Maguire is again the lone Irish player in the field as the Cavan golfer looks to hit form ahead of next week’s T-Mobile Match Play. Maguire – who opened the season with a top-10 in the Tournament of Champions – is back to the US after playing on the tour’s Asian Swing (t33-t21-t33) and is in a group with Jin Hee Im and Pajaree Anannarukarn (off the 1st at 3.17pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEGSJNVBL5GS7LPKXG4CK4U2NM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761863},"content":"<b>Betting</b>: No surprise that Nelly Korda, defending champion and world number one, heads the market on 7/1 ahead of the in-form Jeeno Thitikul who is rated an 8/1 shot. In terms of each-way value, A Lim Kim (33/1) and Sarah Schmeizel (80/1) are worth looks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7ECF4HABRGEDO4STPABVGY2OE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761864},"content":"<b>On TV</b>: Sky Sports Golf (from 11pm).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"The world number two is joined by Séamus Power and Pádraig Harrington in this week’s PGA Tour event in Texas"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T18:23:34.005Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy fits in Augusta visit to ‘refamiliarise’ himself with course before Houston Open","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SP5S7J7H2IP4JDTF7X5ZXMWHP4","auth":{"1":"d58675d9bfc317694e41300ef04d507afc628146f182fd441735787e0cf0841f"},"focal_point":{"x":1696,"y":321},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SP5S7J7H2IP4JDTF7X5ZXMWHP4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/26/rory-mcilroy-fits-in-augusta-visit-to-refamiliarise-himself-with-course-before-houston-open/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"KX76MO366NAGJO72LSIJ5CW3YI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":362,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/eecddeec-c497-4791-a3d7-5628aacf8c2d/versions/1742834055/media/160eadb3788a5c6ef2e6c3c7afeed738_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/25/sergio-garcia-knocked-back-again-but-still-has-opportunity-to-reach-open/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UEVIGE7C7ZDZDLA4SOM6XGQK2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1652361113636},"content":"Sergio Garcia knocked on the door – again! – in his bid to earn a place in the field at the 153rd <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/british-open/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/british-open/\">Open</a> at Royal Portrush . . . without success, missing a three-foot birdie putt on the final hole of the International Series in Macao, where three places to the championship on the Causeway Coast were available.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NK2R2GPQGBFDNLXURGG6GNH26M","additional_properties":{},"content":"As it happened, three other <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\">LIV</a> players – Carlos Ortiz, Patrick Reed and Jason Kokrak (Garcia’s birdie putt, if made, would have tied him with Kokrak and given him the exemption due to a superior world ranking above the American) – earned the precious tickets, with Garcia, who had competed in 22 straight Opens up to 2022, left to mull on what might have been and to redirect to other pathways.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ACVWBL2CUZCYLGPMLS5FB4PBCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of those is through the LIV Golf order of merit which offers one place to the player in the top-five through LIV Dallas in June not already exempt (he is currently third in the standings, behind exempted Jon Rahm and Joaquin Niemann) or, failing that route, the Spaniard can play in final qualifying.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XE4UCQ4BZJHNVEQWD2HKKF6NCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/graeme-mcdowell/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/graeme-mcdowell/\">Graeme McDowell</a>, another without an exemption, also competed in Macao but finished in tied-40th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4ABJIZL4BEHDEERDQHU2P2ZY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The next event in The Open Qualifying Series is the Kolon Korea Open being played at La Vie Est Belle, Chuncheon from May 22nd-25th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVAHGQAHXRAENIMNBDW2E5QA2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Tiger Woods confirms romance </mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"4L7FF7MPFZDP3FKC7UGJTJSLLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\">Tiger Woods</a> hasn’t played a competitive round of golf since missing the cut at the 152nd Open at Royal Troon last July . . . but the 15-time big champion continues to hog the global golf headlines, following on from news of his ruptured Achilles tendon with confirmation that he is in a relationship with Vanessa Trump, the ex-wife of Donald Trump jnr.","type":"text"},{"_id":"36E3X6N6LVGH5BBFDIOBBR5JIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods underwent surgery on his Achilles tendon injury and is doing rehabilitation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5TZT2SQPXVAR3KCDFM5JCGMLO4","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"2NSGX6CDMBEA5GA4PHBLUJLSN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"That tendon injury ruled out any chance of Woods making it to the Masters at Augusta National, just three weeks away, but he took to his social media platforms to announce his new relationship: “Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side,” posted Woods along with photographs of the couple.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQLRNPBDS5A47AQW3ZZF456X4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods’s son Charlie (from his first marriage to Elin Nordegren, which ended in divorce in 2010) and Vanessa Trump’s daughter Kai (the eldest of five children from her marriage to Trump jnr, which ended in divorce in 2018) are both talented junior golfers in Florida and attend the same school.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWIA7JDF3VFIXBHWACPZXJ5HD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kai, indeed, has already committed to playing college golf at the University of Miami.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZVMQHJIXNGHTKJXB2HFULTUF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Word of Mouth</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"WVTI4NL5XCXPHHMMXMT4OJUOAI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IZVMQHJIXNGHTKJXB2HFULTUF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"QA6SKIQQMVAFZLP5RV5E57EY3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It sucks not winning when you’re that close and have a great chance, but I just hopefully put myself in the same position at Augusta and finish it off better” – <b>Justin Thomas after letting a three-stroke lead slip away when bitten by the notorious Snake Pit run of closing holes in the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook on the PGA Tour.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"356AUIIMBFD7BENT3MTNV4SWCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">By the Numbers: 6/13</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"MCXXIQCUANAZBI4T7SG5W6QXHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"European golfers have won six of 13 tournaments so far this season on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a>: Sepp Straka (AmEx Championship), Rory McIlroy (AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players), Thomas Detry (Phoenix Open), Ludvig Aberg (Genesis Invitational) and Viktor Hovland (Valspar Championship). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3K537GMC6JAD5IMNYDD62BAUZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUOFCLRTR5HWJO776DFNS6WAOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">On this day: March 25th, 2007</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"LHZVPZSSJNFVFPOY6QAGO46OYA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZUOFCLRTR5HWJO776DFNS6WAOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"QNDKN3GIMZBEZF34FNMCSSWT2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tiger Woods’s ownership of the WGC-CA Championship – in its various sponsorship guises – earned him millions of greenbacks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBX5UA2ZBFAORBK6357EMVSLMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In winning the championship at Doral in Florida, Woods claimed the title for a sixth time ... and on a sixth different course, to boot (having previously won at Valderrama in 1999, Mount Juliet in 2002, Capital City in 2003, Harding Park in 2005 and The Grove in 2006).","type":"text"},{"_id":"USYP5KUWPZCXJNWXBHNUDRI2SY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods struggled to a 71 in the first round to trail co-leaders Henrik Stenson and Robert Allenby by four shots but a second round 66 propelled him to the 36-holes lead and he never looked back, closing with a 73 in testing, windy conditions for a 10-under-par total of 278, two shots clear of runner-up Brett Wetterich.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CLGKSN5LZZHXBNMQZL2OFBZCOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Showing common sense rather than any macho inclination to use a driver on the last, Woods laid up off the tee with a 3-iron to avoid the water, hit an 8-iron for his second shot and wedged on to the green followed by a two-putt bogey. That safety-first policy earned Woods another $1.35 million from the event he won seven times in his career, also returning to Doral in 2013 for another triumph.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XH4ML64X5BDLGK4O63U3F2QJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Social Swing</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"Q6LOETK3YRGITHV5OO4PNGMV2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Closed my defense of @HoagClassic with a 67 to finish t12th. Lots of good stuff just not my week @ChampionsTour – <b>Pádraig Harrington taking the glass-half-full approach form his performance in the Hoag Classic, won by Miguel Angel Jimenez.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNOURXXPUFCT7KQZBTTW3X2HIU","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"NLTNEORFQVHPDIHTX3LUQLHGVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"European squad is peaking a little too early …..I think ... – <b>Michael Kim has noted the hot form of potential Ryder Cup opponents.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZG2EMGFB2BH2NANGQ4PKRWI3MY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finally – <b>Short and very sweet from Richard Mansell after the Englishman’s breakthrough win on the DP World Tour at the Porsche Singapore Classic. The win came in Mansell’s 103rd start on the European Tour.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JX7EZ2VTC5CDPPBYF24AKGJOFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">In the Bag</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"WOY3ONIVSVCW5LUL3IW4RDUDJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Viktor Hovland – Valspar Championship </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5T4RQFOEHDK4CAWPEBID22IHU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WOY3ONIVSVCW5LUL3IW4RDUDJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Driver: Ping G425 LST (9 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSWGUA2GMRBDZKQ2FGKWOGP33Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"3-wood: TaylorMade Sim Ti (15 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJAQRXG23NEWFC6ZGGGYGW2IF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irons: Titleist U505 (3), Ping i210 (4-PW)","type":"text"},{"_id":"BKEHUHWKORAP5DNSE6GDNNCQDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wedges: Ping s159 (50, 56 degrees), Ping Glide 2.0 (60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUTKZA7JEZBL5NUJBLAGLBYR5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Putter: Ping PLD DS 72 Prototype","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3SHARYF6FFRLPMX3QASXSWQAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ball: Titleist Pro V1","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABUOEMLWPFHTJD7Z77KHXGKVDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Know the Rules","type":"header"},{"_id":"CP7XD3VQQFBMRJJCWEONQMSG7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q </b>In match play, a player observes a breach of the rules by his opponent but decides not to act on it. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"4T64GTJ4QFH7RAH36SVLVDYJEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A </b>If a player knows that the opponent has breached a rule that has a penalty, the player may choose whether or not to act on the breach. This is covered under Rule 3.2d(4) – Protecting Own Rights and Interests: If the player knows or believes that the opponent has breached a rule that has a penalty, the player may choose whether or not to act on the breach. (But if the player and opponent agree not to apply the rules or a penalty they know applies, and either of those players has started the round, they are both disqualified under Rule 1.3b). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BRRU5FC67FEBPHZSVIXJJQVZ4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXPR44TUOREXZGQONNQELVJ3WI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJIVTDO3WRBYPCWKYNKEAFSS7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Love is in the air for Tiger Woods"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sergio Garcia knocked back again but still has opportunity to reach Open","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LEUDI227AAYNSV3UAU7EXJ6EAA","auth":{"1":"b2130f233538a892ab1fc4d094c968ed91986402eac23c7d629d469b0e2cab7c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LEUDI227AAYNSV3UAU7EXJ6EAA.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/25/sergio-garcia-knocked-back-again-but-still-has-opportunity-to-reach-open/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"3SB4DKOFH5EAVK6GEHPZPQ3S4U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":267,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c406c380-3c50-4f74-9939-c00e12892ce6/versions/1742849409/media/e91f9e544b2306b5c22931b985aa4133_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/rory-mcilroy-adds-houston-open-to-slimmed-down-pre-masters-schedule/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> may be in fine form, but the world number two has rejigged his schedule to include this week’s tour stop on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a>, the Texas Children’s Open in Houston, to retain the competitive juices ahead of the upcoming Masters tournament. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RY63OXQ2FNC3ZBG7USP255DRZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A two-time winner already this season, in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players, McIlroy had originally mapped out a three-week prep and break period between Sawgrass and Augusta National only to change his mind and has now opted for the Houston Open rather than the following week’s Valero Texas Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNEFJ5ZOPFCGVFRHLQULDF44DE","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s form – two wins in four tournaments stateside this year, all part of the reduced playing itinerary aimed at finally requiring a fitting for a green jacket – has seen him leapfrog Xander Schauffele to move from third to second in the world rankings, but still far behind world number one Scottie Scheffler, who is also playing in Houston ahead of his Masters defence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R555FJ5S35AXLAY4E3YQLZJN2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> is also Masters bound in fine form but, after four productive weeks of the Florida Swing (11th-7th-20th-8th), the Offaly man – who has risen to a career best 12th on the official world rankings on the back of that rich vein of form – has sufficient competition sharpness and is not playing in Texas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QE6BGWXSY5DAHDFGAXGGWUVZ4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is one of three Irish players in the field at the Memorial Park Golf Course, where Séamus Power, who secured his first top-10 finish on the PGA Tour since August when finishing tied-eighth alongside Lowry in the Valspar, will be aiming to find an exemption (through winning) to the Masters. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6S524GYB3JEBPJHHQWDMDN4NZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pádraig Harrington’s hopping from one tour to another continues – having played on the Champions Tour last week the Dubliner has been given a sponsor’s exemption into Houston on the main circuit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJMC4OSISM7VDXNHAUTY4FHOIY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6S524GYB3JEBPJHHQWDMDN4NZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Power, that top-10 finish in Palm Harbor brought some welcome upward movement in the world rankings, jumping from 125th to 110th. Incidentally, Tom McKibbin’s third-place finish in the Porsche Singapore Classic on the DP World Tour saw the Northern Irishman regain some lost ground (since his move to LIV Golf) by moving from 117th to 107th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IAKHSVIY7NFZBCMGT3DMKDAEXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Given his improved form, bouncing back from successive missed cuts at the Cognizant Classic and The Players, Power can have heightened expectations in the two Texas tournaments in that quest to, as he put it, “play my way into Augusta.” If that doesn’t happen, Plan B will see him adding the Corales Puntacana Championship in the Dominican Republic the week after the Masters to his schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGIA45Q2PJHFFERGBYRUR5JL2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of his first top-10 since the FedEx St Jude Classic last August, Power – who has battled injury issues over the winter – remarked: “All in all a lot of good stuff and a step in the right direction.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BCBBMFWXYNE3LANWKZNFBDDSJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Viktor Hovland had missed three straight cuts ahead of his win in the Valspar Championship, which jumped him from 19th to eighth in the updated world rankings, while also seeing him move up 86 places to 19th in the Europe Ryder Cup standings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ESGDFB5RDZATBHT2IMGODQCXUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hovland has been fighting swing changes and, even in victory, admitted: “It’s still not great. I’m still hitting the same shots that I have been the whole year, really. But it’s just I was able to time it extremely well this week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXFLQH23FNHYRHFNCPBVLGJAXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It felt like every single good shot that I hit I just saved it really well, because the club is just not in a great place for me coming down. It’s just not what it used to be. So I can’t really rely on my old feels any more because the club is in a different spot and I have to change my release pattern to make that work. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DNAOD52PBHNDPILPPRIUS3W54","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Now, incredibly, I did make it work and was able to win and I think that is something that I’m extremely proud of that I can show up at a PGA Tour event at one of the hardest golf courses we play all year and still win with not my best stuff. I think that’s really cool, that’s something that I’m extremely proud of, but at the same time it makes this game a lot more stressful than I think it should be.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F56MD2JLANBDNOOYRR2N7LPQAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"With the Masters on the horizon, Hovland admitted: “I probably shouldn’t doubt myself to that extent. I still need to be honest so I can attack the problems that I have and we can improve, but at the same time I got to give myself some credit and even no matter how bad it feels or how many poor shots I’m hitting, I’m still capable of shooting good scores with it, so I kind of have to keep that in the back of my head.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKONJ7VPSZFO7HIEFNXFORLIZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the LPGA Tour, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leona-maguire/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leona-maguire/\">Leona Maguire</a> – who has made a steady start to the season, including one top-10 in her five outings – resumes competition following her Asian endeavours, playing in the Ford Championship in Arizona.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RXOQIBZQ65BBJD2D4HJJ5DGNT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Séamus Power and Pádraig Harrington will also be among the field in Houston"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T20:45:03.267Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy adds Houston Open to slimmed-down pre-Masters schedule","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HB6AZ6QGIMWNX6OUXERPY2UDBI","auth":{"1":"ab40f8b878e1d24892225284f02967700adfeb016e7a28b8e1a8a0c4ab1b9b86"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HB6AZ6QGIMWNX6OUXERPY2UDBI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/rory-mcilroy-adds-houston-open-to-slimmed-down-pre-masters-schedule/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"76X4LR4GX5HOXPQFHBPBK5DGTI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":132,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/db2699db-f511-4d90-a621-03f95dc6999b/versions/1742810120/media/d9dedc4df5a7f78794085e766a464021_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/tiger-woods-confirms-relationship-with-donald-trumps-former-daughter-in-law/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> has confirmed he is in a relationship with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a>’s former daughter-in-law, Vanessa Trump.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NRR3XVAPW5HR3M6QWJHVZRRQSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods announced the news on Sunday. “Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side! We look forward to our journey through life together,” Woods wrote on X to his 6.4 millions followers … At this time we would appreciate privacy for all those close to our hearts.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CWBZE424MBELRHA76KKKQIPBNQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"3RPPWEABKBDVVLDMEVJDPGGK3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Vanessa was married to Donald Trump Jr from 2005 to 2018. They have five children together, including 17-year-old Kai, who is set to play golf at the University of Miami in 2026. Kai also attends the same school as Woods’s children, Sam and Charlie. Kai and Charlie competed at the same invitational tournament earlier this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNUJXTYRQNEDZEEKXBGATZTDWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods and Vanessa Trump had been featured in gossip outlets for the last several weeks. Woods announced this month that he ruptured his achilles tendon, knocking him out of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NBQAK73LRBEHPQQXWPPZ5M6IA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was not clear what prompted Woods, who keeps his personal life fiercely private, to publish photos confirming the relationship. The post was reminiscent of 2013, when he and Lindsey Vonn announced on social media that they were dating.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7KMGGVEIBHMREAUCJ2NA45XYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods said at the time he and Vonn “wanted to limit the ‘stalkarazzi’ and all those sleazy websites that are out there following us,” saying it could lead to dangerous situations involving his children. He also said their photos would devalue anything the paparazzi had.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKHO46UTNJBWTPJ2BQJKZYCKUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam and Charlie are from Woods’s marriage to Elin Nordegren, who divorced him in 2010 after he had been exposed for multiple extramarital affairs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVXG4MLHLBG4TG7U5LUUDGRZ6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"His only other public relationship was with Erica Herman, which lasted about seven years until October 2022. It was a messy split, and Herman eventually dismissed lawsuits against Woods and the trust that owns his south Florida estate, where she had been living.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2Y4A6XPWCVF2TKHTIKJDZ3GNFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods has played golf with Donald Trump on several occasions. Trump awarded Woods the presidential medal of freedom in 2019. In February, Woods attended a meeting with Trump at the White House to discuss the fractured status of golf amid the rise of the Saudi-backed LIV tour.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Golfer announces relationship on social media with Vanessa Trump, who was married to Donald Trump Jr"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T09:50:11.533Z","headlines":{"basic":"Tiger Woods confirms relationship with Vanessa Trump","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SZFG53S3AFGIJBXFJ7AKVV7VU4","auth":{"1":"fc132dc4ce73ab4bcad3bb266dfb1c609455e3f753626031c5310c43a4a72c59"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SZFG53S3AFGIJBXFJ7AKVV7VU4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/tiger-woods-confirms-relationship-with-donald-trumps-former-daughter-in-law/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"25MGLRBBAVEYVI43G63XF3JEQY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":209,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/379b56bf-9cbe-490e-8c94-191a8d6df614/versions/1742767934/media/f2c9ed509197526a78ee2a5619abe5b2_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/23/seamus-power-finds-his-mojo-and-gathers-momentum-for-masters-tilt/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finally, Séamus Power found his mojo. The Waterford man claimed his first top-10 finish on the PGA Tour since last August with a superb final round 66 in the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, which saw him leapfrog up the leaderboard and provide some momentum to his season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJ6NFIYCBZACJHL72UJPKKD5A4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Norway’s Viktor Hovland claimed his seventh PGA Tour win, and first since the Tour Championship in 2023, with a brilliantly crafted closing round of 67 for 11-under-par 273, to fend off Justin Thomas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DKM5LL3FVDTDJUPF3MD3CJFUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hovland became the fifth European player to win on the US circuit so far this season (joining two-time winner Rory McIlroy, Ludvig Aberg, Sepp Straka and Thomas Detry).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPX6H6W6MJDATH2FCYILLHKPNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thomas had a three-stroke lead on the homeward journey only to bogey two of his final three holes and that late stumble enabled Hovland, who charmed the Snake Pit with birdies on the 16th and 17th, to edge him to the title. Even a closing bogey didn’t derail the Norwegian.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UWEZWKGR7RGUBKFMY6CKBECNIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hovland, who had missed three straight cuts before returning to the winner’s enclosure, claimed it was “unbelievable” to win. “There is a lot of insecurities, a lot of doubts ... it has been a rough year and a half but i have become stronger because of it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7Z2MOOCZZCYJEH6FJSEV5ETGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Power – who will play the next two tournaments in Texas, the Houston Open and the Valero Texas Open, in his bid to gatecrash his way into the field for next month’s Masters tournament – finished with a 66 for a total of six-under-par 278, where he was joined by Shane Lowry on that same mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5SPUKDIPUBH4DCECJEYPT2FYBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry entered the final round just two shots off the lead but had a cold putter in his hands, and the Offaly man signed for a closing 70 for 278. A birdie-birdie start offered a false dawn as Lowry failed to add another birdie to his scorecard and his frustration was only compounded with a bogey on 16th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHXSIR5TT5YP5AKMRXP6OXFVIQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TKGDUB4V3VDDZHC46FDKI45NJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Power, though, a round which featured seven birdies and a lone bogey provided hope that a corner had been turned after a period battling injuries. His last top-10 on the tour came in the FedEx St Jude last August.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E7G7WOL3H5BR3AXLGYVPHGXYAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“[This year] was slow coming out of the blocks with a little injury in the off-season, but I had some good little runs. Florida Swing has always been tougher for me, so to get some decent points here is going to be nice and a step in the right direction heading to Houston next week,” said Power, adding that this might provide the spark he had been seeking. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6QRRHVMONBHCJGHGISSWG6JOSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Golf’s funny like that. You get a lot of points in only a handful of your weeks, so maybe this is a start of a good run for me. Even if it isn’t, it’s nice to see the work you’re putting in show up on the golf course, and that’s also encouraging, and can remove some of that frustration quickly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U74TBL5RLRHCFLJ5BNZAMECNHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Right now I’m going to play the next two [in Texas] and from there obviously I don’t know. Hopefully I can play my way into Augusta, but right now I would play the Dominican the week after Augusta and then go from there. We’ll see. Things can change fast in golf, so that’s going to be the plan.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4PGFNEDJLRGRRIF3ANJO3M2664","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry jumped into a share of the lead with those two opening birdies but, thereafter, the putter went cold, although he still managed a third top-10 finish of the season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GGL277F67VEMBKPSLRYEMN5B3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, winner of the Players Championship last week, has added on this week’s Houston Open to his schedule ahead of next month’s Masters, where he will again seek to complete the final piece of the jig saw in his quest for a career Grand Slam.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Victor Hovland claimed win at Valspar Championship after late mistakes by Justin Thomas"},"display_date":"2025-03-23T22:06:59.601Z","headlines":{"basic":"Seamus Power finds his mojo and gathers momentum for Masters tilt","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ED7YPSHA35FIXJ47H2FVYZUZ2Y","auth":{"1":"a36e63b943b487c996b430af74fa1b5a2aa6f8ea90eb4ff6168341f469c72959"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ED7YPSHA35FIXJ47H2FVYZUZ2Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/23/seamus-power-finds-his-mojo-and-gathers-momentum-for-masters-tilt/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"7HWHLQINPNH3XCQOBIQJQWJ6AY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":187,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/41b45391-743b-4ba3-90cb-a49dc9f5307d/versions/1742585252/media/690921a0786318dce17fd59ab83db5e2_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/21/stunning-outward-nine-puts-shane-lowry-in-contention-at-the-valspar-championship/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258463},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Shane Lowry</a> is a dangerous man when comfortable in his own skin. This was one of those days, where Lowry ventured from the car park in the cold at the Innisbrook resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, wondering what lay ahead ... only to find not only a hot putter, but every part of his game working in sync.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T32GMXR3FFHFDFAAJ3JBOKXBBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258467},"content":"If his walk from the car to the locker room and onwards to the range started with a sense of uncertainty, there was much to admire about his navigating of the Copperhead course and, especially, the notorious snake pit – that stretch of three holes from the 16th to the 18th – where Lowry was more akin to a snake-charmer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NLCY4JMXKRAEZGHCIKJOH36D5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258468},"content":"A superbly crafted second round 67 for a midway total of four-under-par 138 saw Lowry move into contention in the Valspar Championship trailing clubhouse leaders Viktor Hovland, his Ryder Cup team-mate, and Japan’s Ryo Hisatune by a stroke.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGVM4G3NF5AIDPKBS3EBZHQAHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258469},"content":"Lowry’s consistency so far this season has been admirable, including a runner-up finish behind Rory McIlroy in the AT&T Pebble Beach along with contending in the recent Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TCPKII4EUFEEHPBNCUFSDO2BUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258470},"content":"Playing for a fourth straight week on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a>, and now very comfortable with his new Srixon driver, Lowry produced a stunning outward nine of 29 strokes – six birdies and three pars – to leapfrog his way into the lead before a homeward run that brought speed bumps with two bogeys.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMSXBCLFFJEOHKJUJYEBTY6CSQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"RTR7ZGHUQFAUBHAS2UYZFRG53A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258471},"content":"Lowry’s round started on the 10th with a birdie, from eight feet, and he just kept on going. Indeed, his round – in difficult cool conditions with a gusting wind – began with three straight birdies, getting up and down from a greenside bunker on the Par 5 11th, and holing from six feet on the 12th and claiming another from nine feet on the 14th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DP73D4V6HVEKPJBZAUVMUCYAGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258472},"content":"It was his play of the notorious snake pit, though, that earned most ground on the field. On the Par 4 16th, he holed out from just off the green, from 35 feet, and then hit his tee shot on the Par 3 17th to 14 feet and rolled that birdie putt in too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5IBIBJGQPZBDLEZGG7F2GZAJ2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258473},"content":"“I just got it going. I got some nice numbers and then hit some good shots, and when I hit good shots I converted the putts. I played that nine holes pretty flawlessly, didn’t really miss many shots. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as good on the other nine, but I think 4-under on a day like today, if you had given me that in the locker room this morning I would have taken it,” said Lowry, who had 25 putts in his round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LI33XTYE7REKVHKW7G23SEFSUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258474},"content":"He added: “I know it’s a course that had been quite wet the last few days, but with this wind it’s kind of whipping up especially with the cold this morning those get firmer. And it’s just tricky, it’s just, it’s hard to hit a load of fairways, it’s hard to hit loads of greens, and you just need to be on your game. I think it’s one of the underrated golf courses that we play all year, I think it’s a great track.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2RNTOM4MNBLJFCASDJEWNCANM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258475},"content":"While Lowry moved his way into contention headed into the weekend, Séamus Power – the only other Irish player in the field – ensured his presence for the final two rounds in adding a 72 to his opening 70 for a 36-holes total of level par 142 to be comfortably inside the cut line.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Séamus Power – the only other Irish player in the field – ensured his presence for the final two rounds in adding a 72 to his opening 70"},"display_date":"2025-03-21T19:22:25.72Z","headlines":{"basic":"Stunning outward nine puts Shane Lowry in contention at the Valspar Championship","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HTWMMNFRWNRTIAYGQH4BQ7OZOY","auth":{"1":"70eda9d682dc3c4190724442ae48d6e72193a375f3d477080b7a439d1dbd2183"},"focal_point":{"x":2756,"y":370},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HTWMMNFRWNRTIAYGQH4BQ7OZOY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/21/stunning-outward-nine-puts-shane-lowry-in-contention-at-the-valspar-championship/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"KP3O3AHMDZF6VHPHCC5XLM3TNU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":341,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2727b611-3b69-43a7-9282-235b38bec0c4/versions/1742502938/media/4b8dbd06d2db4634541493ebc90754e5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/21/los-angeles-2028-is-where-inclusivity-implicit-in-the-olympic-charter-is-set-to-collide-with-reactionary-trump-agenda/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6Z75RGIFQ5HOTJMKTLA2CMJMKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The most recent version of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\">Olympic Charter</a>, in force from January 30th, 2025, is not for the faint hearted. The first sentence of the first paragraph under the subheading Fundamentals of Olympism sets out the charter’s otherworldly vibe. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCRFE6N5M5GYZPSXFGV3R6RGGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Olympism is a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind,” it says. Continuing, it speaks of “the educational value of good example, social responsibility and respect for internationally recognised human rights and universal fundamental ethical principles”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AVO4EREWRJF4LD5GW6R45SFHDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Olympic Charter is a bubble bath of goodness, possibly one of the most aspirational documents ever written.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MWUQYIYHJEZXLKTJWHUFODQLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of humankind,” it says. It is wokeness in gold leaf. You get the picture. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGYTFJQNH5HM7C2X6V5EJKOCSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of course, it also talks of race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political and other opinion, national and social origins and birth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UUB5QPJCRAHTM2WNUC7GZ42PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It ends by saying that belonging to the Olympic movement requires compliance with its doctrine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RVSJRJAXFDOPCRRGSD6AXEFB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\">International Olympic Committee </a>(IOC) takes the charter extremely seriously. It is their sporting bible, their sacred scripture.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKH4Q7L2GND47K4V5UGIEEPZCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That leads to the question – whither the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games in Maga (Make America Great Again) land? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EB33TSAWXJEBZMAK6HHY2ZKGGI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-36221","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YVG2YPEJHFES7AZIIRNMB42DUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Three years away and already the Trump administration has trashed any pretence that it respects or cares about the Olympic Charter. The alarm bells have been ringing with Maga’s accelerated and carefree way of banging all things right out of shape. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LC572IJYPBCS3GHUQDVEJTIOTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The increasingly belligerent rhetoric and behaviour of the administration, and the recent rounding up of unidentified men in the US and their deportation to a jail in El Salvador without due process, is likely to send a shiver down the spine of new IOC president Kirsty Coventry, the first woman and African to hold the office in 130 years. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7TLEA4MLDFHCVNMD5VGG533YEM","content":"<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Kirsty Coventry delivers her acceptance speech after being elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee, and the first female President in IOC history. <a href=\"https://t.co/3BXf9kK0dI\">pic.twitter.com/3BXf9kK0dI</a></p>— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) <a href=\"https://twitter.com/iocmedia/status/1902747047989526646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src=\"https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>","type":"raw_html"},{"_id":"T53GSLHTCZCJNJBJI43IHO34YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will especially resonate with the “s**thole” countries US president Donald Trump spoke about in 2018, referring to Haiti and African nations. Coventry might reflect on whether her country, Zimbabwe, was in his thoughts at the time. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6FNQL75LRGBBLDX2HUG6BTHIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another red flag went up last week when the New York Times reported on a draft list of countries the state department was proposing to ban from travelling to the United States. The list was, noted the newspaper, in circulation and in three sections: red, orange and yellow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HPVC6GIYF5DLJLCPXRWKLIRBMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The “red” list included 11 countries whose citizens would be forbidden entirely from entering the US: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EUAOWNZTL5AG3OAEBJEDXCK3TE","additional_properties":{},"content":"If ratified, that would deny entry into the country of two IOC members, Afghan Samira Asghari and Cuban Maria de la Caridad Colon Ruenes as well as honorary IOC member Samih Moudallal from Syria.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVTVZ5HKVFCRVJROWAZLUXOY5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"This week French newspaper Le Monde ran the headline, “Trump’s shadow looms over world sport.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TBEROMOBHVHGBM2MFR5U4RRJDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last month in the Los Angeles Times a letter to the editor was printed beneath the headline, “Will the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles become the ‘dictator games’?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4TOT6FISRCMFM4OHQ2G3TFYOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In it, the author, from Boston, noted the extent of alienation and threat the administration has directed at US allies Canada, Denmark, Mexico, Ukraine and Panama and suggested that a boycott would be a reasonable response.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OQCR2QFLDUXOQZRNA27BHBTMHU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PW4GRMRZDVFP7LC3YCCP6SKAYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"History has shown that the Olympic movement has a strong stomach for unsavoury characters. It ran the games in Hitler’s 1936 Berlin despite the threat of a boycott. Then IOC president Avery Brundage (American) was a Nazi sympathiser and stated publicly that Jewish athletes were being treated fairly and that the games should proceed as planned. In the end, 49 teams from around the world competed, more than in any previous Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RESB4GAXRNHZZNNNUPLI7BL4DM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In that, there is a lesson about the durability of the Olympic movement as much as the stance of athletes and nations. Also, that the old Olympics carapace has not changed much across 90 years. The message has not changed either. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CYELJA46FERHLOVFUXYH2OS24","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Tuesday, outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach spoke to CNN and advocated for the Olympics as a unifying force. Deploying his diplomatic skills, he praised Trump as “an outspoken supporter and promoter” of Los Angeles. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJ4GHMTEGFDYDKQMCZCFHNNNBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Too astute for controversy over the proposed visa changes or that Trump had wrongly asserted that Paris gold medal-winning boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting had “transitioned”, Bach knew those issues were at the mercy of a fractured American political landscape and a White House that prides itself on being a disruptive force.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6OCI4H5Y5CTHJJUXR7D4D53T4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Five ring circus: Trump jnr squeezes in fake news with criticism of opening ceremony","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ELKKJORPQRB3LO3ZSEEKP4PND4","additional_properties":{},"content":"This is an administration where nothing is too small and cruelty is sometimes the point. On Thursday French officials expressed dismay after one of their space research scientists was denied entry to the country. Immigration officers had found text messages containing a “personal opinion” about the Trump administration and its policies on scientific research. It begs the question of what chance a Palestinian athlete might have.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RE5U6ZTJLJF2DJNZBRJM7DPNAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there was one thing that may have dampened the spirits of Coventry as she walked from the luxury Greek resort of Cota Navarino on Thursday afternoon, it was the certainty that the next Olympic Games and its athletes will not be immune from the clash of cultures. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6PF2JVXHVFDCXNQG44KJTXSMUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Los Angeles 2028 is where Project 2025, the hard-right playbook for American government and society, meets the Olympic Charter’s mission statement of inclusivity and hope. It is a car crash in the making.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"‘This is an administration where nothing is too small and cruelty is sometimes the point’"},"display_date":"2025-03-21T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Olympic charter and USA’s hard-right playbook are on a collision course for Los Angeles 2028","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5WWEXPJTUJPTOVXZSGW4FKVSLM","auth":{"1":"b390b68f09179fd81fea63cc65855994fe79c8d8bd3c489d2bb3c859605003bd"},"focal_point":{"x":2130,"y":1018},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5WWEXPJTUJPTOVXZSGW4FKVSLM.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Tennis"},{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Hockey"},{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Cycling"},{"name":"Boxing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/21/los-angeles-2028-is-where-inclusivity-implicit-in-the-olympic-charter-is-set-to-collide-with-reactionary-trump-agenda/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"UMAPDS6DGBBCFBYQ76ULKADCYM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":374,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e3885a18-4dfd-4c39-ac30-0188c9ac34a7/versions/1742328452/media/21ba313e326a1862216959a43e5fd6e6_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/19/lord-of-the-rings-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-race-to-become-the-next-ioc-president/","content_elements":[{"_id":"3JXIIDNVRZBQ7KDBCLT23GHTAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Sebastian Coe added his name to the race to become the next president of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-olympic-committee/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-olympic-committee/\">International Olympic Committee</a> (IOC) last September, he was not thinking about finishing anywhere other than first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2JK3CZYJUBBVTDFSQN7KEUPRIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Often dubbed the Lord of the Rings, the IOC presidency is considered the most powerful position in global sport. The race to succeed Thomas Bach, who has been in power since 2013, will reach the finish line on Thursday afternoon at the suitably luxurious Romanos Resort in Costa Navarino, Greece.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BEO6ZACWI5FINIMQNBZSJWVTE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The IOC don’t like to reveal much about the running of their business, and while Coe is seen as the favourite among the seven candidates, the opaque election process and notoriously nebulous IOC politics leave plenty of scope for a surprise.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHZIQVKDEJC65L5G3Z6DMFZGBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Coe, the president of World Athletics, the stakes are high as he looks to become the first British man to hold the position and thus complete his rise through the ranks of sporting governance and power. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHQU5N3ET5DNRAPUVKC4AZUGFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I see this as another extension of the journey,” Coe said when launching his presidential manifesto last September. “It’s the dance I just couldn’t sit out.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YC3L2HLOA5HINHUPH5W66JZXDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 144th IOC session gets under way on Wednesday, before Thursday’s vote among the 109 <a href=\"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_members_of_the_International_Olympic_Committee\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_members_of_the_International_Olympic_Committee\">active IOC members</a>, made up of royalty, former athletes, sports administrators and politicians.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7WZLAOHQABBSFI7EYLUPLS3UZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Why is Thomas Bach stepping down?","type":"header"},{"_id":"E2KPA4OOSVHTHJLQBU5H7IKJ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Only the ninth president in the 131-year history of the IOC, Bach secured his first eight-year term in 2013, and another four-year term in 2021. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCRUY452GRCAVFXE2XID4T7IKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Change or be changed,” the 71-year-old Bach said when confirming his decision to resign from the IOC in August. “New times are calling for new leaders.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CEURWCPM45EYXK4WUOANUFFNIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The IOC confirmed the seven candidates in September, all of whom are IOC members and had to fulfil certain election criteria. Bach will officially step down on June 23rd, the new president assuming power the following day for an initial term until 2033.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5GWZODPDX5ECJNBCY5ORBX36QM","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, the IOC has set an age limit of 70 for presidents, with the possibility of extending this by a maximum of four years. If Coe wins, his term would probably be shorter, as he would be 74 in 2030.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZVHQ34CCBGYHBQ7MLZVVU42PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There have only ever been nine IOC presidents in 131 years?","type":"header"},{"_id":"N5OZP6A7GNCJZE6NOQJJMX7X4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yes, that’s it, all nine from the western world, including <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/former-olympic-committee-president-dies-at-84-1.177799\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/former-olympic-committee-president-dies-at-84-1.177799\">our own Lord Killanin</a>, three of them being former Olympic athletes, and no women.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZ2BIVLSNNH77GGB5DGOPZIZX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"They are Dimitrios Vikelas (Greece, 1894-1896), Pierre de Coubertin (France, 1896-1925), Henri de Baillet-Latour (Belgium, 1925-1942), Johannes Sigfrid Edstrom (Sweden, 1946-1952), Avery Brundage (USA, 1952-1972), Lord Killanin (Ireland, 1972-1980), Juan Antonio Samaranch (Spain, 1980-2001), Jacques Rogge (Belgium, 2001-2013), Thomas Bach (Germany, 2013-2025).","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTCWHDUL7VHETHLATVIFDXPXDI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4LIJGF37AZAMPCFWL77VJG63DQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4MEKQTTOTZGEXAPV44MX37LVYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Who are the seven candidates?","type":"header"},{"_id":"RI23CJXBSRHYLDZ6B4RHDJ5NCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Sebastian Coe</b> (Great Britain, age 68). Seen as the front-runner, Coe’s record as an athlete and administrator sets him apart. As head of World Athletics since 2015 he’s helped revive the fortunes of that sport. His decision to award prize money at the Paris Olympics was not supported by Bach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4PPQ3XNG7BBZDKSDMFQKFT3EXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Kirsty Coventry</b> (Zimbabwe, age 41). The most successful African woman in Olympic history, Coventry won seven medals in swimming and is looking to become the first woman and African to head the IOC. She’s been minister of sport in Zimbabwe since 2019. Her inexperience on the global administration stage may count against her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5CZ2TQTG5GO7MXWBCSVHCRFBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Juan Antonio Samaranch jnr</b><b> </b>(Spain, age 65). Son of the man who was IOC president from 1980-2001, transforming the Olympics into a commercial powerhouse. Samaranch jnr is in his second stint as an IOC vice-president, and has been on co-ordinating committees for three Winter Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2KVTFTFK5F6HLHICOUROOZVCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>David Lappartient</b> (France, age 51). Despite only being an IOC member for three years, Lappartient has served seven successful years as president of the International Cycling Union and helped secure the 2030 Winter Olympics for France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNOSYJZA6NA33GVBSWIRGEAFYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Morinari Watanabe</b> (Japan, age 66). Currently president of the International Gymnastics Federation, Watanabe was on the executive board of the Tokyo Games organising committee, and part of the co-ordination commission for LA 2028. Seen as a traditionalist, he also opposed prize money at the Games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"63IEOG5RXJHVDKOKOO4YK6R4MU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Prince Faisal al-Hussein </b>(Jordan, age 61). The younger brother of King Abdullah II, Prince Faisal has been an IOC member since 2010. Looking to become the first Asian president, he was part of the IOC executive board that approved controversial rules for the women’s Olympic boxing tournament in Paris.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V36V2IYJTNGSVASU4ROSNIADFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Johan Eliasch</b> (Sweden/Great Britain, age 63). The Swedish-born multi-billionaire businessman and environmentalist was elected as the International Ski Federation president in 2021, and only became an IOC member last July. He is seen as the outsider.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RX475J25RVBXHIDCCEU3WVPMSE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EDR7ILOBIFBQHNQONT27LRJ2SY","additional_properties":{},"content":"How exactly will Thursday’s voting work?","type":"header"},{"_id":"X7DDO54LBRG2NM2OMFSBOMOZN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Good question, given the IOC’s secret ballot and conclave voting structure dates back more than 100 years and is not too unlike the election process for a new pope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QIEHLMGOTNG77ALPXLBYFA7QSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since 1925, candidates have gone through a series of rounds until one receives an absolute majority (more than half of the total votes) of the IOC members. In each round, the candidate with the least support is eliminated (in the event of a tie, an intermediate vote will split them).","type":"text"},{"_id":"3N3T7XP2R5BARFNE4L6275D3DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The voting excludes IOC members from the same country as a candidate, unless already eliminated. There will be no disclosure on the nature of the voting in between rounds before the new president is declared by Bach himself.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sebastian Coe is the favourite in a seven-strong field"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Lord of the Rings: All you need to know about the race to become the next IOC president","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WQJZDPHN7FHR7B2QQYTUZKAJIM","auth":{"1":"406ffa355f583e333bdfe417a39e7b3d01d34a973feab4c07769dab60ddaa8a0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WQJZDPHN7FHR7B2QQYTUZKAJIM.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Tennis"},{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Hockey"},{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Cycling"},{"name":"Boxing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/19/lord-of-the-rings-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-race-to-become-the-next-ioc-president/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"U5P5CJPQGJH3VMW5RJUXH4SVXI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":351,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/7af1c751-b601-4dc6-a33d-7f37a34fe029/versions/1742224765/media/ab67bc0347e8936224b88fd29f46b618_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/18/rory-mcilroy-takes-home-the-big-bucks-while-shane-lowry-stays-consistent/","content_elements":[{"_id":"XZLQUOIXRBAXPPOEPIX5W7IZCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1652361113636},"content":"“Sometimes just making the cut means a lot to us out here,” remarked <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> on surviving into the weekend on the mark at The Players, where he made the most of his final two rounds in leapfrogging his way up from tied-65th to ultimately secure another top-20 finish in a season that is providing consistently good results.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ULBPMPBCRC4VBLUELOMSVHCIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry has finished tied-11th in the Cognizant Classic, tied-seventh in the Arnold Palmer Invitational and tied-20th at The Players in successive weeks and makes it a fourth tournament on the trot at this week’s Valspar Championship at the Innisbrook resort in Palm Harbor in Florida.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NBLWVLQARDKDOAPWBYR5KC5KY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\">Séamus Power</a>, who missed the cut at Sawgrass, is also in the field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NVEHHY4DVZE3ZPP2C6NNQ7TBZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another Irish player showing good consistency is Lauren Walsh, who is into her second season on the Ladies European Tour. The Kildare woman finished 16th in the Australian Women’s Classic on the LET and finishes her stint Down Under at this week’s Ford New South Wales Open in Wollongong where tour rookies Anna Foster and Anabel Wilson are also playing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UF65S7A7NFFHRPKWAVZNAET7BU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tom McKibbin, meanwhile, plays in his first event on the DP World Tour since moving his main focus to LIV when the Northern Irishman competes in the Porsche Singapore Classic where Dubliner Conor Purcell, in his rookie season on the main circuit, returns to action for the first time since missing the cut at last month’s Kenya Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXZ2HCXDYJCF5AJMV4SUCUTWPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Future focus</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"TS2T7IM5PFFALJXCBYWOHNPABY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nick Faldo will be the headline speaker at the inaugural Golf Business Technology Conference scheduled for Belfast from May 13th-16th, a B2B (business-to-business) event aimed at helping golf course owners and operators stay at the forefront of innovation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MJZPFJ2S4ZD7HHKM7P7QYX73BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The six-times Major champion – who has forged a fine reputation as a golf course designer, including Lough Erne among his portfolio – intends to share his insights on the evolution of the game and the impact of technology at the conference which takes place in the Merchant Hotel in the heart of the city. Registration is available at www.golfbusinesstechnologyconference.com ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NXHVYF4CXFH6XKWFDND52NZQLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Technology is having such a big influence over the game and how it is played and consumed. It is good to be a part of a conference that is bringing key players from within this part of the industry together, paving the way for the future of the game,” said Faldo.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43VMI3O3ZBCSTFFLFX4HRFBMKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Word of Mouth","type":"header"},{"_id":"H33TRJCO4FEZ4EGBPI7PLTZR7A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GXZ64MYNDVHTHPJJUWZ5PVYQEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It was a perfect club. I hit it, I guess, just too good. Kind of went right through the wind. I almost was telling it in my head to get up because it looked like it was kind of floating. I didn’t know where it was. I thought it was maybe in the front bunker, it was in the water. I hit a great shot. I did what I needed to do. It just didn’t work out in my favour” – <b>JJ Spaun </b>on airmailing the 17th green with his 8-iron tee-shot on the second play-off hole of his duel with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> in The Players at TPC Sawgrass.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4Y3FQIEJVFG75J533WGSOU4QPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"By the Numbers: 4,500,000","type":"header"},{"_id":"YXRK45LMTJDVVBTJ7JPGVOOCZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s the amount, in US dollars, which Rory McIlroy took home for his win in The Players. McIlroy’s second win of the season, adding the PGA Tour’s flagship tournament to the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am, also moved him to number one on the FedEx Cup standings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34ET4V7A2VBPFLKQQF467AM7NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On this day: March 18th, 1990 ","type":"header"},{"_id":"5WF6HLAHQRD43M2WOF33UTFVMI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"Y4AV7P2I4JGH5OTWRWIV5IUV64","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was a familiar theme to the newspaper headlines following The Players after Jodie Mudd triumphed by a shot over Mark Calcavecchia: “His name is Mudd!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PMMGFQ4A6REIPA4JN6PTP4HLDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 29-year-old American compiled rounds of 67-72-70-69 for a 10-under-par aggregate of 278 to fend off Calcavecchia, who also closed with a 69, in what proved to be a two-man battle on the final day. Steve Jones and Tom Purtzer finished six shots behind Mudd in tied-third.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LUOSK2SONCEZFF37O6NHU3DSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mudd had his brother Tommy working as his caddie and, ahead of the final round, told him: “Today is the day we take it up one more level.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2QCKU3SBNBFDEMEMFPAJUFYFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The win in the flagship, Mudd’s third of his PGA Tour career, came with a defining birdie on the island 17th green. “It’s something I’ll always cherish,” said Mudd of his victory, which earned him a pay-day of $250,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JU542ZYLZVDXDDA7TII4OZT24M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Swing","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZDDX3JVEDRACDOEQXEA6MIWV5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"So sad to hear Brian Waites has left us. We were partners in the ’83 Ryder Cup matches, you will go down in history as the last club pro to play, oh and to never miss a fairway. Sorry for missing that chip. Thank you for being a supportive friend and the special memories – <b>Ken Brown </b>pays tribute to his golfing partner and friend Brian Waites.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X5LN7WL7ZRFVNK2RWG6YI2EAZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Here’s a hot take. Does Scottie win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup? I don’t think so – <b>Phil Mickelson </b>not holding back on his thoughts about world number one Scottie Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPUUHIFTXZEL3HYKY6J6YQQJHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solid 2 weeks on the road finished off @THEPLAYERS to be walking away from both weeks happy enough with the performance but knowing there is still loads of room for improvement is satisfying. Dreamed of playing these events as a kid, now getting to live the dream #keepdreaming – <b>Bob MacIntyre </b>after his top-10 finish at TPC Sawgrass. The Scot goes time-zone hopping to Singapore for this week’s DP World Tour stop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFHVFDKZRNH2ZNF7SF6NGY2EMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Bag: Rory McIlroy (The Players)","type":"header"},{"_id":"M2DIVEVEDNPMX5WFYB3UCMMEMM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6AHQP6DXYFD2VAGMYSVNPPXXZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Driver – TaylorMade Qi10 (9 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"TTAV3JF2YRGCVJIGYYPBKHROFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fairway woods – TaylorMade Qi10 (15 degrees), TaylorMade Qi10 (18 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLJCJ62C6FFBBCHKIPIKJBIDFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irons – TaylorMadeP760 (4), TaylorMade RORS Proto (5-9)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTMS3BXIUZCLRKX5Z5ZUUZJ5EA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wedges – TaylorMade MG4 (46, 50, 54 and 60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUMV3UZ2BFAX7EGTDATHNAXLDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Putter – TaylorMade Spider Tour X","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSBMXAVCVBDFNDGYQDELPDKFQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ball – TaylorMade TP5","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYHRBQU6Y5GVLGFVCT5UD3C5Z4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Know the Rules","type":"header"},{"_id":"CHSUNX44MVCTBA2X6SM6BRCMOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q </b>In a match, player A requests player B to lift B’s ball that is on A’s line of play. Player B refuses to do so. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"B42BWNE2JZFMVNS7QRZ5YHFLQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A </b>If player B refuses to lift their ball or move their ball-marker when required to do so by another player, and a stroke is then made by the other player, player B gets the general penalty (Rule 15.3).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Win at The Players Championship earns McIlroy a $4.5 million pay-day"},"display_date":"2025-03-18T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy takes home the big bucks while Shane Lowry stays consistent","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BSNPHKJKGR7ARH5UDWJ4WD33MQ","auth":{"1":"bbe8933c74eceab6ec0ffb8a3fcae3a55a0284a30c03f629447ad4dcb2d34314"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BSNPHKJKGR7ARH5UDWJ4WD33MQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/18/rory-mcilroy-takes-home-the-big-bucks-while-shane-lowry-stays-consistent/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"HNDBB7BGBJAK5C3WZQM24YNEIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":295,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/112dca36-afcf-4bc2-982f-b5b29375e830/versions/1742225674/media/d84c0bb748398f64b93cadebbb9001aa_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-beats-jj-spaun-in-play-off-to-win-second-players-championship/","content_elements":[{"_id":"RFN4WDSRQFG6PNVDMXJ4LAC2Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lucky 13 on St Patrick’s Day for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a>: the world number two put together a sequence of birdie-bogey-bogey, 13 shots in the aggregate three-hole play-off, to defeat JJ Spaun in The Players at TPC Sawgrass and claim a 28th <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a> career win. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXU2RVB55FGZ3CF5SE6JK5WLS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will be another confidence booster ahead of next month’s return to Augusta National in his quest to complete his career Grand Slam at the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJ7SJ4EQ7VCSJBSTNJFYJJ5U4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"In cool, windy conditions, McIlroy took jig-time on his return to the course to complete unfinished business from Sunday’s final round which left the two men tied atop the leader board. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BLHDZW6RJBTNJ55Z2VICRQFKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Before the play-off, McIlroy and caddie Harry Diamond had spent time on the range practising what shot he would hit to the Par 3 17th, the famed island green. He’d identified that short hole across water into a cool, stiff wind as being the critical play and he was proved correct, as Spaun’s tee-shot airmailed the green and found a watery grave as the American ultimately ran up a triple-bogey six to McIlroy’s bogey.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGYYGUCFRFB5PHG2I2JARZIZ3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was warming up with the TrackMan this morning and tried to hit a few shots with the same wind direction on the range. I knew it was the same distance (as Sunday), and I just sort of had that little three-quarter 9-iron dialled in. Once we got up there, I knew what to do, and made a good swing,” recounted McIlroy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BW3R46ONRJGTXJ2HHT22AULWOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun had taken a glance into McIlroy’s bag on the 17th tee to see what club was absent. When it was his turn to play, his 8-iron proved too long.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33P5ZDOXSASQDJY4UNMWY7PVOU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"CSQGYOST5JGSHBNBDB7ICBCYII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having started the play-off with a birdie four on the Par 5 16th to Spaun’s par, it meant McIlroy had a three-shot cushion playing the 18th where he took water out of play by hitting his driver down the right, behind trees, chipping out to the fairway and then hitting another three-quarter punched shot, this time with 8-iron, and two-putting for a bogey that meant Spaun didn’t even need to finish the hole. The title was McIlroy’s, adding further to his golfing legacy and a second Players title having previously won in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYBB42ZGFZE7JLUFNIKYA3TKWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think the only multiple Major champions and multiple Players champions are Jack (Nicklaus), Tiger (Woods), Scottie (Scheffler) and myself, so it’s a pretty nice group to be a part of,” said McIlroy, who will head to the Masters with multiple wins on the PGA Tour already in the bag for the first time in his career.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZ2DH6REEJCGTBPEYRFGVIZLOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s rich vein of form continuing from last year into this season has come on the back of a lot of work on his game over the winter, including using a simulator, and his decision to switch golf balls back to the TaylorMade TP5: “I’ve worked really hard. I feel like I’m a way more complete player than I was a few years ago. Even in conditions like this, that little 9-iron into 17, the little 8-iron into the last there. I said to Harry there, ‘that little shot will take us a long way’ ... I feel like I’ve got everything pretty much under control, which is a really nice feeling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQ6BVJQFHJE5ZPI2WGIO4Q2HLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m a better putter. I’m better around the greens. I can flight my ball better in the wind. My ability to shape shots both ways. Yeah, I’d say those are the things ... by no means did I have my best stuff this week, but I was still able to win one of the biggest tournaments in the world. That’s a huge thing!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3GUEO2T6UVFWM4SW5ZOTH3VGNQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"JPN4Y5BA3RBKHD4CHY5SUOZUZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rather than stick to his original plan to take a three-week break ahead of the Masters, McIlroy will add one more event on to this itinerary – either the Houston Open (March 27th-30th) or the following week’s Valero Texas Open (April 3rd-6th). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOPLCWH24ZDBHGWICR2NNGQCFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"For those three weeks before returning to Augusta in the bid to slot the missing piece of the Grand Slam jigsaw into place, McIlroy said it was important to “double down” on what he has been doing in playing consistently well. His last 10 starts worldwide have seen him go 2-2-25-3-1-4-1-17-15-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6IAHWXVXZC4NCNUB2VJ7RSUNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think just double down on what I’m doing. Double down on the work that I’ve been doing at home. Double down on the conversations I’ve been having with Bob Rotella, all that sort of stuff. It’s just continuing to do the same things.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DFBTUYW6JF6NGBMWHHNUBM5IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m feeling really comfortable, as I said, with how I’m flighting my ball in the wind. I feel like I’m always trying to refine what I have. I’m certainly a proponent of if it’s not broken don’t try to fix it. Everything feels like it’s in good working order at the minute. Just keep practising and doing the right things and practising the right habits, and day after day, week after week, they all add up to days like today.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Victory at TPC Sawgrass marks McIlroy’s 28th PGA Tour career win"},"display_date":"2025-03-17T15:29:28.412Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy beats JJ Spaun in play-off to win second Players Championship","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7PH73HALCCSWJDTO66RMV23N6I","auth":{"1":"57bea39eadba3224b96d466494678298419f6058ee084a5de2e20ca668323ad4"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7PH73HALCCSWJDTO66RMV23N6I.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-beats-jj-spaun-in-play-off-to-win-second-players-championship/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"JHGNFV5L7BBHVLWQ2UXBBOBGGA","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/the-players-championship-play-off-live-rory-mcilroy-and-jj-spaun-face-off-over-three-holes/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EKLUMXXQOVDYBIHU73X6P2HIHQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742212800000},"id":"timestamp-41048","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5QIQBCOK7VF3PC7WFLN32LOD64","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy’s</a> bid to become a two-time The Players champion requires extra time with a three hole aggregate playoff against JJ Spaun this afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EAZI5E6QIND4BM5EGLAZSQJBOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The players are expected to tee-off at 1pm Irish time where they will play the 16th, 17th and 18th to decide the winner at TPC Sawgrass. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EI3QXY544JDGDMTKUJSVAN5FEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’ll be following proceedings at Ponte Vedra Beach live, keeping you updated on all the action as it happens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PAGJEAPPBA6HNZ6NZTJH65GTQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742213400000},"id":"timestamp-25347","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5SWDZ4Y2MZDHBHOLQVB2UBE6TA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Let’s start with a quick run over how this will play out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IW6R7Z7CFBDJHFMER2JQ4ODZSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy and JJ Spaun will tee off at 1pm Irish time, playing three holes – the 16th, 17th and 18th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFMY6LTAQVHDFKDIANZUVQ5JMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Their respective scores across the three holes will be totted up, lowest scorer takes the title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6SELLF4ENGNPBSF6UISTOOCAM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"H6QRTEBSFFAS3CBS4XRP6VU6VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"If the pair are tied after the three holes then we go to sudden death on the 17th hole, proceeding to the 18th if needed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BGLIQ7NQBC77KXRM3JJENN5PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"If they’re STILL tied at that point (give me strength) then it’s back to the 16th hole we go, moving on to the 17th and 18th if needed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I4OFCKJXBRGYPNGJXAEFV6BUYA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742214240000},"id":"timestamp-54396","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2PWC2I6T5BCXNLQFLBKBZG5P3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy has fond memories at Sawgrass having won here in 2019, seeing off American Jim Furyk.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PAKKTNX3ZA3TC2X3QETE7VA5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"This time around McIlroy survived a Saturday wobble to pull it back for a fourth-round 68, finishing on 12-under.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EP26CITIA2DJVRIANCOFJNCHO4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ETYC5QO2LJA5XIVLRXXZDRUS3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun had a less impressive Sunday with a round of 72, but was already in a strong position after a 66 and 68 in the opening rounds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSGEJDNKFNG3DCNTP5H5QBL7LI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of the shocks of the weekend saw last year’s champ Scottie Scheffler, who also won in 2023, finding himself back in tied-20th after the four rounds, with Shane Lowry for company.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJDKKZF2SRFE5ICLKWWMBAVWXU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742214607437},"id":"timestamp-80118","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HGT7P4LN2NHKZF3WTCCWHTWSCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"How did we get here? Here’s <b>Philip Reid</b>’s report from yesterday’s final round:","type":"text"},{"_id":"7HHMB4MNCNG77GOSXDOLPFVB7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy got an extra night in Orlando, for good reason: the Northern Irishman’s bid to claim The Players for a second time in his career was only thwarted by a weather delay, so that the world number two’s quest for a second The Players title required extra time, a three hole aggregate play-off against JJ Spaun.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QY7LSTIYMRH3DA4G6BXTP7K6SU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy started the final round four shots adrift of Spaun but a 68 to the American’s 72 left the pair locked together on 12-under-par 276, two shots in advance of Tom Hoge, Akshay Bhatia and Lucas Glover. Shane Lowry closed with a 67 for 284 to finish in tied-20th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GZVBITNRGFFPHKFOUE5JAKWPQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On a weather interrupted final round, with a four-hour suspension due to the front that included lightning, McIlroy and Spaun, the world number 57, finished tied through 72 holes and required to return to the TPC Sawgrass course for a play-off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LH5DDVZCUFGLFHLNX23RXM2HJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Have a full read of Philip’s report below:","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDJ4EXV5TZDQDK6FOV3A33PEUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Players Championship: Rory McIlroy and Spaun head for play-off with $4.5m on the line","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"IEJXETGJ35CPNOIE3QVDSIBAQM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742214932456},"id":"timestamp-84927","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"65TPF5YNZJF7PJ2TBKTBUI2LF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scores across four rounds:","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHGWU54VLFH2XDEHEWMGC6QBBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlrory – 67 (-5), 68 (-4), 73 (+1), 68 (-4)","type":"text"},{"_id":"BX24GPM25BFBNCPW35XEL3YRI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"JJ Spaun – 66 (-6), 68 (-4), 70 (-2), 72 (E)","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSWBNXRTRRCB7OUB7E6GMQIUH4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742215440000},"id":"timestamp-67390","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NSJ24NYLKZERZAPHBBB32CD454","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy and Spaun will play the 16th, 17th and 18th in the play-off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEJ5OOB3SNEJ5EMF2HNIH74L2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"16th = 5 par","type":"text"},{"_id":"HOI5XGM7HFANTLEE4DURLVYOZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"17th = 3 par","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VKTSIZW5BG4FBDX5MAQFZCJKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"18th = 4 par","type":"text"},{"_id":"54LWMNL3D5H3TFAAHPIPTX2JPQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742215842064},"id":"timestamp-56747","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FK77UWBQFJFURFRZHJ3XI2Z23A","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’re now 10 minutes out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4NHBBOYOVA4JMOOHEXIDDGDJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Did I mention there’s $4.5 million on the line?","type":"text"},{"_id":"R37IFYWYKNCYNOU2IUWPC73T7E","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"AYZGRRHB2VF3LJW47ZW77V76Q4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742216110218},"id":"timestamp-64456","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FLOAFUS6DVENPDFO2IT2FKPVTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Here’s how the two players have managed the three holes involved in the play-off over the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZMJYAWJVQFFJPNO3OG5LAYRNK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rory McIlroy</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"27HYE7ZP7FBG7FFD2OQJEDXS6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"16th (par 5): R1 5; R2 4; R3 5; R4 5","type":"text"},{"_id":"7SPY4EVFGZE33NFHGNNZ22TE7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"17th (par 3): R1 3; R2 3; R3 4; R4 3","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QFWG6N5X5FSRALR3VO3IFEM3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"18th (par 4): R1 3; R2 3; R3 3; R4 4","type":"text"},{"_id":"FF24OV367ZHQBPYAAYMBXEXBNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>JJ Spaun</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MRA37MSF6FGRTFXX6Q5MEWU7KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"16th (par 5): R1 4; R2 5; R3 4; R4 4","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6N6J2CPAVA47EA7ULFEO32H2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"17th (par 3): R1 3; R2 2; R3 4; R4 3","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5S7RGBOQBBGLMBRINU6TKUFM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"18th (par 4): R1 4; R2 5; R3 4; R4 4","type":"text"},{"_id":"OFAUBIBQWBGEPNOQ4SVBQWYEVU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742216520000},"id":"timestamp-62528","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"Q6CAF43G3ZBTHP5EDXPTB7YVTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy and JJ Spaun are at the 16th tee. PGA Tour rules official Gary Young is chatting them through the day’s proceedings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52MJT555QJEFNH7YY6YSCAQ474","additional_properties":{},"content":"Quick shake hands. McIlroy is up first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RJZHLQ6CVOKBKJG2PGKEV5TCYM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"F2J43NJ7YJDYTK6KMLIEIIGSCU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742216580000},"id":"timestamp-49226","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I335CKPKOBENTI7Y5MHTYQ4BQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy gets a nice strike to set himself up for a possible 9 iron shot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TG6EP53LSRGKPIUH4K7LW6J7TA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not case for Spaun. He finds himself that bit further back just right of the fairway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLFIL4HATJHTPMPT3DH42FZ2YU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217120000},"id":"timestamp-91873","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TQOCDXAUQVEXVFC5CUNRRAMNXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun is readying his shot. He has to negotiate the water to the right. He gets over the water to find the bunker.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EV6BQQSLS5FBVFG3HBPV46LFTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy goes with the 9 iron and finds the green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ICM4I5HHFBSTH6LVJEZMD7JCM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217300000},"id":"timestamp-74240","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4LLEVC3RGJAWRNOBXHZQCQOJKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun finds his way out of the bunker well to get himself on to the green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPMD2QQ2ANA47PQ2ICPULOW43E","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is eyeing up his putt. He sends it just left, a few yards beyond the pin. Not ideal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SU4U4XFWZFBS5OY3FAOM7XGXEI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217420000},"id":"timestamp-19825","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NMYX2ODVEVDE3O7NDLDQIJIRXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solid effort from Spaun but his first putt attempt is a yard short.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFS3MW75NRD53GDS3ZPGLANT44","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217480000},"id":"timestamp-3625","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MLECQPE7ZJCJHIYW7P7KUFZ4YU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy takes a birdie on the 16th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPZN54PDQVCQHIGTQM5VLQ3AHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"JJ Spaun stays level par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7RZ4OX75VEK3OONHSFXMSNFKI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217720000},"id":"timestamp-50911","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I72LEYPPV5DQNBQN3ZJ6YBDSPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy steps up to the 17th tee. Over the water to find the green. Lovely stuff.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNI645Q6WRE33L2MID2XVENY3A","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217780000},"id":"timestamp-59483","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IPM7R5CBARHBNA6XUW7TH7XFNY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun overcooks it and finds the water.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HACGNCS5P5FYLBYHAYNWACFGJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He heads over to the drop zone to have another crack at making the green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OAHGHFEJXZA4RMXNJW6KKQ4NNA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218020000},"id":"timestamp-61793","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"G2Y6X4SVBNDBLIRCOAYBQKRSNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"JJ Spaun gets to the green but his ball goes with the slope. It finds its stop at the collar of the green making for a very difficult two-putt attempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWYRBF2Q2FAZ5BQKFWHY2CBIDA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218200000},"id":"timestamp-99319","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BCBGRWXCKNBWLO5EAIAZEKTQ6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sapun opts to chip instead to see his shot over the slope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZFKLSHKHBDX3C53W6AQA47DIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy up now with his first attempt. The putt goes beyond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4UZ7CDYYKRDILF6C6NQRPLBW7A","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218380000},"id":"timestamp-98818","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3FVUU5GAHZHTXHE7KOHVZTLTC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun ends his nightmare 17th on three over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOK7UPRXKRE2JJII4KGTLBMYGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy fails to take the putt on his second attempt. He knocks it in for a bogey.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZT6NBBFWW6O6L6ULQ6VQ7OX76M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LHI6NVK3XVBVHL6ICICHAHTSAA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218500000},"id":"timestamp-55654","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YQ24T3NGWFCVPCIR3PVKFJ5GXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"On to the 18th we go. Last of the three-hole play-off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMO5NWCZ6VCRBEFQ7FNIRBWV3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s on level par, Spaun’s on three over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTYQSM3VFFCNJCNPSTIBQXU3DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Again, Rory’s first up to the tee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L43UDS5PEJGJRCEWB6FTZRCZA4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218733020},"id":"timestamp-38604","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JLAIEEQVIBBWJDQEBJQDAUXI5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s shot from the tee goes into the trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQAGFSQETBAQDHPWSYUJHVEMII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun’s goes a similar direction thanks to the wind.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGS2BFCCZZHJDPBY3WOBJDP54M","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218920000},"id":"timestamp-52649","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NH57RFHT5JCFBEKBWVKMKUAT7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both golfers have to find their way through the trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGSNKNPM2FFMZGAMVS7UYYMWYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two easy chips brings them both back on to the fairway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C7WLGKTCGNBQRHKN3TPDGZXPOM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219040000},"id":"timestamp-21191","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CWD37OYLCFESDFBVHOVGGFUQSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun hits to the green. Shorter than he would have liked.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZ2MUVB4T5BOXFW44YOMVXFJNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Three shots ahead, Rory looks nice and calm. And he hits a lovely shot to give himself an easy final putt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXWMH2IUBFCSTGW262RQ7DIRRQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219220000},"id":"timestamp-88678","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"AGV5LOJDUVES7O76MYUU73SXUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun moves closer to the pin with his first putt, but it’s all eyes on Rory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXXGBBVJKRBRDGD23KIOSXIQHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He lines up his putt. It’s just to the left. He’ll need another go.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZCJGDJ6M5EZJJQXVPOVHHTDUM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219400000},"id":"timestamp-97227","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"XKBXK4MUF5BLHKGS6DQCZXKZKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy makes the putt at the second time of asking to take the win!","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCPFKM2CJJDLDJWUBXL3CUZCEI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219580000},"id":"timestamp-96425","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"AUMDGGGPNRBKVENQWHZKPIVSJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s Rory McIlroy’s second win at The Players Championship and his 28th victory of the PGA Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JST6ZGITO5EZFMN7JNBFL42W7Q","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742220216052},"id":"timestamp-81642","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KXQ7HEHRVBEQDJSRKRET2WHZUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy’s been speaking after his win. Here’s what he had to say:","type":"text"},{"_id":"OC5DNSZ53NGLLD33DNXOWCRJVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Wind coming out of a completely different direction. I’m just glad we didn’t have to play 18 in that, three was enough.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFYVPU6WVBFQHBCMOHGCSGAYFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel bad for JJ. He hit a really good shot on 17 and it just went straight through the wind. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPTUIBPNGVG3HELVYSO7NCVMXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was lucky to do enough to get it done but unbelievably proud and happy to win my second Players Championship. And I think this is a third time I’ve won on St Patrick’s Day so it’s been a good-luck charm for me.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y65NIENRQBBNLAQJG4U7WOZHBA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UY4NDMVXMRCBFMZNOE2GECKJ3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"On his 28th win on the PGA Tour and becoming the eighth player to win multiple Players Championships, McIlroy added: “I’ve worked really hard. I feel like I’m a way more complete player than I was a few years ago, even in conditions like this.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2KUYIGX625DKFJRCHEEZGYONDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I can play in all conditions and anything that comes my way. Really happy I was able to get it done today.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDQJ436NMNGRVF47N5ZURO3XB4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742220815623},"id":"timestamp-47208","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NQG6KQEMXNE4JAB7QNHUH7GVF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"And the world number two had some kind words for the world number one, Scottie Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZING35SBKVDEZPI7WCAXW5SLXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Picking up the trophy, McIlroy said of the 2023 and 2024 Players Championship winner: “Seeing what Scottie did last year going back-to-back – Scottie’s been on an unbelievable run and I think it’s inspired all of us to try to be better.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3B72DPA435AL3AWZAYYSIQJDRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I know I need to be better to compete with him. I’ve knuckled down, I’ve worked hard, and it’s nice to tie him with this, and with Tiger [Woods] and the five others who’ve won this multiple times.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy wins three-hole play-off to claim second Players Championship"},"display_date":"2025-03-17T14:19:45.721Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Players Championship: Rory McIlroy beats JJ Spaun at Sawgrass – As it happened","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BCKUTKFD7JF6JNHHPYOTHWDCTE","auth":{"1":"6756946bbe2dd504d81d89cbb3ee9313102a3e8d3124aaff8812d801e4f454d9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BCKUTKFD7JF6JNHHPYOTHWDCTE.jpg"}},"subtype":"live-story","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/the-players-championship-play-off-live-rory-mcilroy-and-jj-spaun-face-off-over-three-holes/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"GY52B4RHEBBJHACM43DQQHNUAU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":157,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/b69a9dfa-a821-4154-b3ab-9cf00fca9bb6/versions/1742192392/media/0f5a31230fe7098e8bac42641bf84d41_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-sets-up-st-patricks-day-duel-with-spaun/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NBLEU4K2NRD5XARUZ4YEJTQPH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> got an extra night in Orlando, for good reason: the Northern Irishman’s bid to claim The Players for a second time in his career was only thwarted by a weather delay, so that the world number two’s quest for a second The Players title required extra time, a three hole aggregate playoff against JJ Spaun.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SOOKQYSCL5FGDPFTZPZOAGUSS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy started the final round four shots adrift of Spaun but a 68 to the American’s 72 left the pair locked together on 12-under-par 276, two shots ahead of Tom Hoge, Akshay Bhatia and Lucas Glover. Shane Lowry closed with a 67 for 284 to finish in tied-20th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6VSMYRFSRDT7AV7VCHGRQATIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On a weather interrupted final round, with a four hour suspension due to the front that included lightning, McIlroy and Spaun, the world number 57, finished tied through 72 holes and required to return to the TPC Sawgrass course for a playoff.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4DLP2ZUA5BYFDRMVWRA4RNRGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy, winner of The Players in 2019 and chasing a 28th win on the PGA Tour, having already won the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am this year started the final round as a pursuer but a birdie-eagle start moved him into contention.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2YDGUTP3ZGCRO4XBH2HKOJ3DE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of sleeping on a playoff prosect involving three holes, (the 16th, 17th and 18th), McIlroy remarked: ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTPGZYBR7NFCHJCRF7QHLDDSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve never experienced it before. I don’t quite know. But yeah, it’s going to be cool to be a part of.I guess it’s very much just a three-hole match play scenario. That’s all it is. Just try to prepare as best I can tomorrow morning. Get a good night’s sleep. It’s been a very long day for all of us. Yeah, and just try to be as prepared as possible.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CJD5LYUK5NHORMLZP5A3FHCUTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m happy to be in the position that I am, but also I feel like I had chances there on the back nine to close the door, and I didn’t quite do that. But I’m excited for the opportunity (to win).”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2Y5INVBFRBHM5OJSCE6S2UKOY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun, who has only won once before on the PGA Tour and who considered retiring last year before a late-season flourish, started with a four shot lead over McIlroy before trailing by three at one point and then getting back on level terms remarked;","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCGN2IU7LBA5HLNG536DXRDUGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I showed myself that I don’t have to shy away from the moment. I think in the past I’ve done that, just kind of been afraid of being in that spotlight, being in that pressure, be worried about failure. But it’s hard to win, and you have to fail multiple times in order to win. That’s kind of what I’ve learned throughout my career, and it paid off today.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CQMJNW5IDFEH3BCYCSKRS4XHMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy and Spaun are headed into a St Patrick’s Day duel, with a $4.5 million payday to the winner. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy started the final round four shots adrift of Spaun "},"display_date":"2025-03-17T00:09:04.351Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Players Championship: Rory McIlroy and Spaun head for play-off with $4.5m on the line","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5FCMRVDGQY5B3UK6OBYAJWPQII","auth":{"1":"f15c1e043be72c9cfc35e58779b23c02ab5264acc031a27a96f9993557e64439"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5FCMRVDGQY5B3UK6OBYAJWPQII.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-sets-up-st-patricks-day-duel-with-spaun/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"T3YBVS7ED5DXLJBZ3NDTKI3BVI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":166,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/1eff3311-582a-48aa-980a-68bb9eb08601/versions/1742128513/media/73f2756478baec18db464863835dd7f1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/16/rory-mcilroy-four-off-lead-at-players-with-early-finish-on-cards-due-to-weather/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JGFT2E2A5RG7BF7L7GXYFTH5FM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> remains in contention at the Players Championship despite a disappointing one-over 73 in his third round that left him four shots behind playing partner JJ Spaun as he led the American charge at TPC Sawgrass after a third-round 70 put him one stroke ahead of compatriot Bud Cauley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"24GZIHKWM5DA5CGU744WX4IDDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"World number 57 Spaun, joint-leader after shooting a six-under 66 in Thursday’s opening round, followed up Friday’s 68 with five birdies and three bogeys on Saturday to hold a slender advantage heading into the final day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EEGA4SBMURHSHNDFWIWSC67V5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 34-year-old Californian saved par on the final hole to stay ahead, sinking a 24-foot putt after a wayward second shot had left him in trouble to reach 12 under.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2EHVCRJIJFS3KAEGOS34WTNLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cauley’s six-under-par 66, which included an eagle at the par-five ninth, seven birdies and three bogeys, catapulted him up 14 places into second at 11 under, two shots ahead of fellow Americans Lucas Glover and Alex Smalley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YG2FDQLGVBFM3EA7LWWNGXWNLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glover, who finished one under for the day, is tied in third place with Smalley, while another American, Akshay Bhatia, appeared on course to join them on nine under before he bogeyed the last to slip two places.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IL2CTEJ4XVEBJJQ6MV4RTQIS6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is tied with Bhatia in fifth place at eight under. The world number two, who shot a 67 and 68 in the first two rounds, was one under for the day after 11 holes but bogeyed three of the last seven holes before birdieing the last.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7AD6NTE7FAMHLH4W43EAECYSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I played better than I scored,” said McIlroy. “All the bogeys I made were really soft. I just need to chip and putt better tomorrow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2UE43JR2OBDR3DJ3TDAVDPF2WQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Not out of it by any means. The wind is supposed to still be blowing tomorrow, so it was nice to make a birdie on 18 just to get one closer to JJ.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C2D5AX4FLJDDXCQM4PHSVUVPRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I just made a few too many mistakes around the greens and on the greens. If I can tidy that up tomorrow, I feel like I’ll have a really good chance.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MISORDF4FBFE5BNRN63UHWXM2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Defending champion Scottie Scheffler is seven shots off the lead, tied in 16th place at five under par after carding a 72, alongside five other players, including Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre, who also finished level-par for the round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTL2PXY5ONDLXFA4C455CTABWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shane Lowry made a double-bogey six on the 18th to card a two-over 74 that leaves him on one over for the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QY56S5N7UJHXVIMIALSSRHKAZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The final round has been moved to an earlier start, with groups of three starting from the first and 10th tees, because of bad weather which is forecast to bring storms and heavy winds later in the day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FC52VHM45E4FO4TA46VQBQACA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It means McIlroy will play in the second last group off the first at 1.50pm Irish time alongside Smalley and Corey Connors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NIGKPTE55GTBLE4BT6ZCUVWYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The leading group of Spaun, Cauley and Glover go off at 2.01pm Irish time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MI22IG2FYZDJNEL2QSXTETZVAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"American JJ Spaun leads the way on 12 under at TPC Sawgrass "},"display_date":"2025-03-16T12:33:14.81Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy four off lead at Players with early finish on cards due to weather ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3YW6I25T2X4JGOXLFO7ZMO2PLE","auth":{"1":"c237f8139fd91f093d20108cdbd60ad6a420b90481dc2a06444efc305d525df9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3YW6I25T2X4JGOXLFO7ZMO2PLE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/16/rory-mcilroy-four-off-lead-at-players-with-early-finish-on-cards-due-to-weather/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"OSWMLLFGTJFCDOKMHQBSWFSUR4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":197,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/207f4fed-546f-439b-bf98-2b1063cc231e/versions/1741972106/media/2a9b86fc03ca6ac4de9776940c928cd8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/15/cairn-homes-offers-clontarf-golf-club-land-swap-as-several-thousand-new-homes-envisaged/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FDGYGXIXABGMBKBZCT767NMAGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QF4JNBH4D5DMBFJF6AJDBQLVWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741966797178},"content":"Irish housebuilder <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cairn-homes/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cairn-homes/\">Cairn Homes </a>has approached <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/clontarf-golf-club-given-offer-to-relocate-to-haughey-estate-under-housing-plan-1.4740113\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/clontarf-golf-club-given-offer-to-relocate-to-haughey-estate-under-housing-plan-1.4740113\">Clontarf Golf & Bowling Club </a>with a land swap proposal that it believes could deliver “several thousand new homes” on the prime 72-acre site, just north of Dublin’s city centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GXNXKXQW4RCJ3KH4EZFUNWBZT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280355},"content":"Cairn, which built 2,593 new homes here last year, has partnered with Green Land Capital on a land swap proposal that would involve the Clontarf club relocating to 185 acres in Kinsealy that were previously part of the Abbeville estate owned by late taoiseach Charlie Haughey. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NFDZLVDXFABNIAPXTUSEWVQZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 18-hole championship course would be designed by Irish golfer and former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley. Green Land, which is led by businessman Ray Cotter and his sister Barbara Cotter, has an option to buy the Kinsealy land from its owner, the Nishida family, who own the Toyoko Inn hotel chain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNW6XZG5GZBQJDBNZREFAF2EBI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-44209","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PUCDGJDAUZCCPLYK7D6KLXOPL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280356},"content":"Green Land approached the golf club with a similar proposal in 2021, which was turned down by members. Cairn is now leading the plan, adding some weight to the prospect of a deal being realised.","type":"text"},{"_id":"643DS3D5E5FM7HGGDOJIS2KV5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280357},"content":"In a statement to The Irish Times, the housebuilder said: “Cairn Homes has commenced engagement with the officers at Clontarf Golf Club to explore the possibility of engaging in a land swap to potentially construct, subject to zoning and planning, several thousand new homes on the land. This is at a preliminary stage and requires consideration from the club’s members.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCMLY56RBZDVHI3QXRA2I4FIYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is understood that Cairn chief executive Michael Stanley wrote a letter recently to the management committee of the golf club, outlining his proposal. Mr Cotter has also written to the club. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JO4XUATURETZEEQZEWUH6UECE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier this week, Gerry Donnelly, chairman of the management committee, wrote to golf club members to inform them that he had received a letter from Mr Cotter seeking to “reintroduce” the proposal to relocate the club to Kinsealy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"65TV3FKPMJHTXK3TBT233DP3B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That proposal was considered by members at the club’s annual general meeting held on 25th February 2022 and was rejected,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PPI2JPKTTBCLJP65MOE23HF2AE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The latest correspondence makes no new offer to the club and the proposal referenced by Mr Cotter remains identical to that which was received in 2021. The only difference is the involvement of Cairn Homes plc as promoter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGKSUFE7FZCQPCFOOVDOQN7D4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The correspondence, which includes a letter of introduction from Cairn Homes, has been acknowledged. Members will be kept informed of any further developments as they occur.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEFGGYUV7NFXXKGSP6RGIWDYO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Clontarf club has about 1,400 members and they would have to vote by special majority for any deal to proceed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LX72RB3KSFGA7NBRSFBQ6PC3IA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280358},"content":"Some 62 acres of the club’s land is leased from Dublin City Council, which would have to consent to any development and rezone the site for housing. The other 10 acres are owned by the members.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWD7PSQ56RAK5DD6EWEE2QWD3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280359},"content":"Mr Donnelly and Clontarf Golf Club were contacted for comment. Green Land was also contacted for comment. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GTQDKMJZ45BQHISH7P6DV5W3TQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In 2007, members of the Clontarf club accepted a €125 million deal from Capel Developments that would have resulted in a payout of €100,000 to each full member, with lower amounts for other membership groups.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DWV6GPIPAJD3XMOLYS4D3IADJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The club was to relocate to the Portmarnock Links course where a new clubhouse would have been constructed. However, the deal fell apart in 2008 when Capel pulled out as the property crash loomed.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ciarán Hancock"}},"name":"Ciarán Hancock"}]},"description":{"basic":"Facility would relocate to Kinsealy with Paul McGinely designing new course"},"display_date":"2025-03-15T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cairn Homes offers Clontarf golf club land swap as ‘several thousand new homes’ envisaged ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ROB5QPLNLNJFHEU4RP2VNLE3EY","auth":{"1":"4169f91c20c4e622bf8197d580b94dc714d20987e1222505dfda44168716a5be"},"focal_point":{"x":1448,"y":941},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ROB5QPLNLNJFHEU4RP2VNLE3EY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Property"},{"name":"Residential"},{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/15/cairn-homes-offers-clontarf-golf-club-land-swap-as-several-thousand-new-homes-envisaged/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"QFQKMS675ZDS3KBN7ND4D5TTUQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":194,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6a1ebb01-85e1-4006-9919-257ed8c1c659/versions/1741979856/media/c022f4a0976955b78bcd659e3035c627_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/well-placed-rory-mcilroy-undeterred-by-bogeys-and-bad-forecast-in-players-championship/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> shrugged off a disappointing finish to his second round of the Players Championship and insisted he would relish the forecasted tough weekend conditions at Sawgrass. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TMBN2H4ZBNAUHCLP4URGLY3MLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mcllroy bogeyed two of his last four holes to add a 68 to his opening 67 and lie two shots behind clubhouse leaders Min Woo Lee and Akshay Bhatia, who both shot 66 to reach 11 under par. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H4JVL5WMD5DVFN3E7V2Q4EOSNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Starting from the 10th, McIlroy chipped in for birdie on his opening hole and picked up further shots on the 12th, 14th, 16th and 18th to cover the back nine in 31. The world number two also birdied the par-five second but dropped a shot on the sixth after twice finding sand on the difficult par four, which has provoked a mixed reaction from the players after an overhanging tree – replacing the original that had to be removed 11 years ago – was planted in front of the tee. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SY5WQXIGSZCHPNIXNJ4RRQKSTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy also bogeyed the par-five ninth after his second shot clattered into the trees short of the green but he was happier with his long game than he had been on Thursday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZANMJDAOXVFITOS7TOWVG7SAMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Much better,” McIlroy said when asked to assess his swing. “Hit it much better off the tee. I think I hit more fairways in six holes today than I did in 18 yesterday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQKLPZJEYRHUTKCVQJ7K5ES2FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yeah, got it in play much better and then from there was able to give myself some opportunities and obviously make some birdies early. Couldn’t quite continue that on to the back nine, but it was much better off the tee.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3VRNEMJ6JEQ5M6VAV47LFLF2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wind gusting up to 48km/h is forecast for Saturday and Sunday, but McIlroy believes he is well equipped to deal with the challenge as he seeks a second Players Championship title. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CTAWYPB2ZZCZJKSFM4O5KUF65A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m looking forward to it,” the 2019 winner said. “I think it’s going to be really important to try to flight your ball and keep it under the tree line. I think once it gets above the tree line here it can start to really get hit by it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKKXSWWYXFANHO3GUQNDIHKU2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It does swirl a little bit, but I think when the wind is so strong it will be a little more consistent. This course is challenging enough, but with a wind like that, yeah, I’m excited for that challenge. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5OBIOGVZNFBTDVEIEGNQMKEEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Just trying to control my ball flight, trying to hit different shots, trying to play with some creativity is something that I think I’ve gotten a lot better at over the last few years.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPHEPUYHCNAORJNRXHMCGZQI5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two-time major winner Collin Morikawa was alongside McIlroy on nine under par following a superb 65, with Tommy Fleetwood on seven under after a 66 and world number one Scottie Scheffler two strokes farther back following a 70. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVDL6TYAJFBRNI74UQEWSXCWGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playing alongside McIlroy and Scheffler, US PGA and Open champion Xander Schauffele birdied the ninth – his final hole of the day – to finish one under par and potentially extend his streak of made cuts to 59, the longest since Tiger Woods’s run of 142 from 1998-2005. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IA6S6FSSQJCTJGSHDU6LMW7XLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was thinking about the cut line for sure,” Schauffele said. “Knew I needed to make birdie. I think two-putting is probably the easiest way to birdie nine and I was able to do that.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Min Woo Lee and Akshay Bhatia share lead after second round"},"display_date":"2025-03-14T19:12:31.719Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy unfazed by bogeys and bad forecast in Players Championship","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"TTCGVVTPBJM6MVPCP3ZKF6VSDE","auth":{"1":"78a9e9ad8d51cacc77ce556073fee4eb18edf15dd14437e5a0b0d7701a9d788d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/TTCGVVTPBJM6MVPCP3ZKF6VSDE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/well-placed-rory-mcilroy-undeterred-by-bogeys-and-bad-forecast-in-players-championship/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"FHY4KETQ45GUPNC3TVZN75SR3U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":266,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/8bb56be4-532d-45eb-b7e1-58946fce756c/versions/1741953293/media/fa8379d929f713f55b6b05c931ac587a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/rory-mcilroy-answers-the-call-after-a-spot-of-mobile-phone-interference/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HFVPKJIIGBEL3EIZ636QNC2UM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> opted to let his golf clubs do the talking. A wondrous approach to the 18th, setting up a birdie for an opening round of 67, emphasised the Northern Irishman’s ability to create his own storyline.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBTW7FH5ZFAYZOENACU2A6E4WQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social media descended into typical frenzy in the build-up to this Players Championship after McIlroy was heckled by an aspiring golfer during a practice round at Sawgrass. Video footage showed McIlroy removing the intemperate spectator’s mobile phone beside the 17th tee before the individual in question was ejected by security.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TWGLML4UOJHJDL2TUXW2RNU6DU","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"N4ZBIJS7VRD3HPWG7G34Z27PK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No, you can’t,” was the McIlroy response when asked whether he could be probed about the incident. Why not? “Because I don’t want you to,” the reply. The 2019 champion was laughing but his stance was clear. He was far more open about the tournament scenario, which shows McIlroy just one shot off the lead. At the last, he found pine straw from the tee before punching a terrific iron from 161 yards to within 8ft of the cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSUSAFVVGZGVZJJ2D6QWHYQ33A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I certainly didn’t drive it the way I wanted to,” McIlroy said. “I didn’t hit it in as many fairways as I would have liked. I think with the greens being so receptive, you can get away with it a little bit. I’m not going to be able to get away with it for the rest of the week. I sort of rode my luck out there a little bit.” Indeed, McIlroy headed straight to the range when he had completed his media duties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2NI2GK2LJCK3KXQXO73O5DGSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It had emerged that the individual who sledged McIlroy is a college golfer and ranked 60th in the world’s amateur standings. Luke Potter represents the University of Texas, the alma mater of Jordan Spieth and Scottie Scheffler. Potter has written to McIlroy and the PGA Tour to express remorse for his actions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDUII6P6EJEJ7NKGBJPYPZD7AQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Look, I just made a mistake and I take ownership for it,” Potter told golfchannel.com. “I apologise for it. That’s about all that needs to be said. It’s just a good learning experience. Yeah, I apologise.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RECF3MZKMNEEHHFXADB5KWGG7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The renowned Texas golf coach John Fields even got involved. “He’s got a hole in his heart,” said Fields of Potter. “He had no idea that what was coming out of his mouth was going to result in this fashion.” What an episode; a hilarious storm in a tea cup. We can only hope Potter faces off with McIlroy in a future version of the Ryder Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2LCGQPWU7NB5RGE5BWM4ATXBSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lucas Glover, JJ Spaun and Camilo Villegas head the pack at six under. Billy Horschel and Min Woo Lee are alongside McIlroy at minus five. Scheffler made a 69 as he pursues a third Players title in succession. “I didn’t think at all about last year,” Schefffler insisted. “Last year doesn’t truly matter when it comes to this tournament. This is a new four rounds and 72 holes and today I got off to a good start.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFWKNS22KNFZTPOOUEESM7QVPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That Justin Thomas declined to answer questions after round one was amusing. The two-time major champion wrote an impassioned letter to fellow PGA Tour professionals earlier this year, urging them to engage more with the media. “We’re incredibly lucky to have many passionate people tuning in to watch us every week,” Thomas said. “But let’s be honest − this game can feel a little distant at times.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIL4AKXJLBG5HOIPOH7G45WMMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet here was Thomas, being guided away by a member of his management team rather than offer insight into a bruising 78. Do as I say, not as I do. Others to struggle included Matt Fitzpatrick, who finished triple bogey, double bogey to match Thomas’s score. Viktor Hovland slumped to an 80.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LDJETMNNNJCVPGHOGHV6VZIFLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Aaron Rai, now a resident just a five-minute drive from Sawgrass, opened with an impressive 68. Robert MacIntyre continued his strong performances on golf’s biggest stages by signing for a three-under-par 69. MacIntyre seems to relish the toughest of tests.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYLZQ7OAPFBBJFNFWNWSWSJ5IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry’</a>s level par 72 was perfectly passable in scoring context. Ludvig Åberg lurks ominously at one under. The Swede will fancy his chances of opening his major winning account at next month’s Masters. Players glory would only intensify existing hype around Åberg. Jason Day withdrew before the start of the first round, with a stomach bug cited as cause for the Australian’s non-participation. — Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"name":"Ewan Murray at Sawgrass"}]},"description":{"basic":"World number two sitting one shot off the lead in Players Championship at Sawgrass after clash with spectator"},"display_date":"2025-03-14T11:16:18.514Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy answers the call after a spot of mobile phone interference","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VTP37LEODFPB43XEUBA2SM5UBA","auth":{"1":"2c784dcef939bdd51859a75216665f1b91d8de0551dd6bf20a5acf2785c91d96"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VTP37LEODFPB43XEUBA2SM5UBA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/rory-mcilroy-answers-the-call-after-a-spot-of-mobile-phone-interference/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"VR7TKMVD3JAS5CD77SUQT6A2SQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":220,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0d4e0dfa-d515-4874-bdcf-ebc9f3039ef0/versions/1741907444/media/fb37b32f4f16eeccf6eb60c6ab098a7d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/13/rory-mcilroys-magic-touch-on-the-18th-leaves-him-one-shot-off-lead-at-players/","content_elements":[{"_id":"VLYEIMASMVFYLIUG743YME26PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A stunning approach from the pine straw on the 18th hole helped Rory McIlroy card a five-under 67 to sit one shot off the clubhouse lead at the Players Championship in Florida.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCMSBUUEEZCJZK5TCBO7R7H7AA","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy drove into the trees on the right of the par-4 18th but manufactured a wonderful second shot from 160 yards with a 5-iron to inside eight feet before sinking the birdie.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRPKPU7CEJB3TKIPZEJOBI5MZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It meant world number two McIlroy comfortably won the bragging rights in the prize three-ball alongside world number one Scottie Scheffler (69) and number three Xander Schauffele (72). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RXBUDECG2BBHTFFRECQX3N76ZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy opened his round with back-to-back birdies but dropped shots at the third and seventh dropped him back to level par. But four birdies in a row from the ninth got him to four under before his hot streak came to an end. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFSRZOW7SBHB5GMKBBREROE6QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former US Open champion Lucas Glover produced a blistering finish to set the early clubhouse target on day one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDJ4WOPWIJBOXKNMZENMWALQBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glover birdied the last four holes at TPC Sawgrass to card a six-under-par 66, a mark he was joined on by fellow American JJ Spaun. Australia’s Min Woo Lee was joined by McIlroy on five under. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M572AFWFI5H4BBFYG52HL7WOAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glover, whose closing salvo included a birdie from 18 feet on the famous par-three 17th, said: “On 15 I had a great number [to the pin], so that was a green light.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VZU2KSWH2ZDDNJWLYDETYSZNH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Sixteen, if you hit it in the fairway you feel like you should make a four and I drew a good lie in the rough left of the green. On 17 I happened to know a putt from years past hitting it there and over-reading it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4WX2YMFWKVARBARH6UFXCH3J74","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Then 18, wind switched, I had help all of a sudden. It was an eight-iron number and ended up hitting nine. Then gravity kind of took over for me and pulled it down there to the left, which it does to that hole location if you just get the right number.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PISSEAULLFHFBFTZTZVSEVIYCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s the thing about this place is there’s always some really good scores and always some really bad scores. The margins are razor thin here, akin to say Augusta or Bay Hill. You get off just a little, you can make big numbers in a hurry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K5EGZVHKQNEKPDCD446NWYQACM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So I happened to have a bunch of good numbers today and a bunch of good yardages and was able to be aggressive and I putted great. But any time you get off to a good start it gives you confidence.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"72FQKBIZ6ZB63ON7ZW26HIF2BI","additional_properties":{},"content":"England’s Aaron Rai was among a group of players two off the leaders after he carded a four-under 68.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNZBKYFHQ5BDPGGTWVNQU5YR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rai is based at Sawgrass and made the most of his local knowledge in Florida with a round containing six birdies and two bogeys, the last of those caused by three-putting the 17th from 50 feet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WNA5KUCGO5HKPNFQWMFZUF2FAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Justin Lower somehow managed to play the 17th in one shot fewer than Rai despite hitting his tee shot over the island green into the water, the American then taking a penalty drop before holing out from the drop zone for an unorthodox par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BQASVKOOFVCHPKUAFAD7ZNGUMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre was three shots off the pace following an opening 69, with three-time Major winner Jordan Spieth another stroke back following an eventful 70 which included two chip-in eagles, two birdies, a double bogey and two bogeys.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6CPLQ7DONJD43BJBRW42CUJS3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shane Lowry carded three birdies and three bogeys in an even-par 72, while Séamus Power carded two double-bogeys in a four-over 76.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQZICJKL2RBXRG6FBS52TGIASU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former champion Jason Day withdrew from the event before the start of play due to illness.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XDHU37YNJDUJEEDSW4YPVVPW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Day, who was scheduled to go out in the morning wave with Spieth and Wyndham Clark, was replaced in the field by Danny Walker, who returned a 73.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEGKHUIP3VAGRBBXA7VT6LTPNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Justin Thomas was two under par after seven holes of his round before finding water on the 17th and 18th to drop five shots, the two-time Major winner slumping to eight over par before making birdies on his last two holes to card a 78.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"World No 2 cards 67 in the first round with brilliant approach to the last hole the highlight "},"display_date":"2025-03-13T22:47:06.26Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy’s magic touch on the 18th leaves him one shot off lead at Players ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"36JKLPKBBTBFREIRDCI45LJONE","auth":{"1":"c326654d544314de090b9dd0f259488489ea73a8c050f81d82cb0fea5d39fb5f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/36JKLPKBBTBFREIRDCI45LJONE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/13/rory-mcilroys-magic-touch-on-the-18th-leaves-him-one-shot-off-lead-at-players/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"OBNMFA22YRCJRKJHCYNJR6XTUY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":398,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f9703efd-938f-4707-af70-2e2ba3bd1372/versions/1741789288/media/273a3ddd7bc33a85f25ba8168d5e27c7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/12/no-way-ill-still-be-playing-at-50-rory-mcilroy-saddened-by-tiger-woods-injury/","content_elements":[{"_id":"36DPWK6TNJG3ZO56RM3A4DZVGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"As <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> begins his recovery from yet another injury, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> has firmly dismissed any notion of his own career stretching into his 50s.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HC4CFRI7LNB5XOISD2PL4NDEGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 49-year-old Woods ruptured an Achilles while training at home on Tuesday morning and McIlroy believes he will not feature in any of the 2025 Majors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HRD4XIFPTZAARBZE4KWKOCOX24","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It sucks,” McIlroy said. “He doesn’t have much luck when it comes to injuries and his body. Obviously he was trying to ramp up to get ready for Augusta and Achilles surgeries aren’t fun.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPJK6TO5T5CC3KNJQOTH26LR3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am hoping he’s in good spirits and hoping he’s doing okay. We obviously won’t see him play golf this year and hopefully we see him maybe play in 2026.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEG5SI7QJVGXHCEXMBTEOHEET4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods’s ongoing desire to participate in golf events contrasts starkly with the outlook of McIlroy. The Northern Irishman, who will turn 36 in May, has a clear idea of his professional longevity. “I’m very happy to move aside for the younger generation to come through,” McIlroy said. “I look at other sports. I turned pro in 2007. I’m 18 years into a career. Not a lot of athletes can say they’ve had an 18-year career and I’m only 35.","type":"text"},{"_id":"532RXRL3AVF7HKLS4JG6IVB36Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I can acknowledge how lucky golfers are to be able to do what they do for so long compared to other athletes, so whenever I feel like the time is right, I’ll have no problem moving aside and letting the next generation do their thing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYI5PCMBYVDD7MVLSEBNUPAF4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pressed on precisely when that may be, McIlroy added: “I think when I’ve achieved everything I want to achieve in the game and I get to the point where I don’t think I can maybe do that any more. I’d also like to walk away with a little bit left in the tank. I don’t want to be out there embarrassing myself. I’d like to walk away maybe a little before I should. Put it that way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TDE47D3APBB2NLBGO2Z7BROHDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I will not play Champions Tour golf. I’ve said a lot of absolutes in my time that I’ve walked back but I do not envision playing Champions Tour golf. Something has gone terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZMPDX6EVCZFBNPOAOUBUMWWMFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy re-emphasised his desire for a more global approach to elite golf, as talks rumble on between traditional tours and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund aimed at some form of unification.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5URD25ZTSFCOPA2MGW4PTMOXFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In Singapore on Wednesday, Brooks Koepka did not exactly play down the sense he may seek a return to the PGA Tour from the Saudi-backed LIV circuit. The former Masters champion Fred Couples turned heads last week by asserting Koepka has eyes set on a PGA Tour comeback. A widespread assumption is that Koepka, a five-time Major winner, feels undercooked by LIV’s light playing schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KIYCKQHJOBG7DDAGF7YD653U4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve got a contract obligation out here to fulfil and then we’ll see what happens,” said Koepka. “I don’t know where I’m going, so I don’t know how everybody else does. Right now I’m just focused on how do I play better, how do I play better in the Majors, how does this team win, and then we’ll figure out next year and how to play better again. It’s the same thing. It’s just a revolving cycle. I’ve got nothing. Everybody else seems to know more than I do.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AD4TZCBPHL5MBTSAEYX7ZADFGQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WELYGFJRTJCEDFK4WMBKA363FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHJSW3H6YJGOHDIK5Y5VF72FGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7VLUELBLHFEBTMJXI4SUUVNQSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_green\">Philip Reid’s tournament lowdown</mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVZ3UVA2N5ERPFYRPQII4R334Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse: </b>$25 million (€22.9 million) ($4.5 million/€4.15 million to the winner).","type":"text"},{"_id":"2OCO2WYMM5HCLDW7D7TGJGD564","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where: </b>Ponte Vedra, Florida.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6IMJCGTNZAZREBSLNGLGHK2KM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The course: </b>TPC Sawgrass – 7,352 yards, par 72 – is a so-called “stadium course” which features a large amount of purpose-built mounding around the layout to facilitate spectator viewing. It has been beefed up since Scottie Scheffler’s successful defence a year ago, with 23 yards added to the par-5 second hole and added length to sixth, 11th, and 16th as well. In addition, new trees – palms and oaks – have been planted down the right of the 14th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DX5WEZY2CJFSHK43VXGER5BV4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Designed by Pete Dye, with input from his wife Alice in the creation of the famed 17th hole island green, the design philosophy includes deep bunkering and small greens, while Dye’s clever tracking around the former swamp encourages players to work the ball both ways off the tee. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZWKPNF4PTFC4PBB66POLEGYWSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It has traditionally made for a stern examination and past winners include both long-hitters and also those more inclined to strategically navigate a way around the course. The signature hole is the par-3 17th but it is part of a very strong closing stretch that also includes the risk-reward par-5 16th which has water down the right and in play around the green, while the par-4 18th has a crescent fairway that works its way along a lake which has water in play all the way up the left-hand side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ELR33HXL2JCSZOPSOBVKB4TES4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The field: </b>The PGA Tour’s flagship event has a stellar field featuring all of the world’s top 10 and also the leading 10 players off this season’s FedEx Cup (with Rory McIlroy seventh and Shane Lowry 10th in those standings). Scottie Scheffler made history last year when successfully defending his title and will attempt to create more history this time by making it three in a row. There are 13 first-timers in the 144 player field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSM7X6XTVJCNHOMQACGRQPIMXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Playoff holes (if required): </b>Three hole aggregate: (16-17-18), then sudden death 17-18-16.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERACQBXZNRBCJN3YMSSXTWHMCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote: </b>“TPC Sawgrass is one of my favourite golf courses because it’s so straightforward and it’s so in front of you. But you’ve still got to hit the shots. You have to execute. If you don’t, you’re going to get punished real hard. But also, if you do execute the shots, you’re going to get a lot of opportunities” – Ludvig Åberg, who has moved into the Ponte Vedre area since last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YIS5WDO7OBE4JFFXDPE4QLX4UE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish in the field: </b>Rory McIlroy is in the standout group with Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele (off the first tee at 5.29pm Irish time); Shane Lowry is grouped with Viktor Hovland and Russell Henley (off the 10th at 12.35pm Irish time); Séamus Power is grouped with JT Poston and Mackenzie Hughes (off the 10th at 1.08pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWVUOWUFZJDCBCOT7UZUQS6GKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting: </b>Scheffler’s recent form on the Dye masterpiece has him installed as 5-1 favourite, although he has yet to hit the vein of form he showcased last season. McIlroy – a winner in 2019 – and Collin Morikawa, who had the Arnold Palmer snatched from his grasp last week, are each rated 11-1 shots with Åberg a 14-1 chance ... but better value can be found further down the market with in-form Lowry a decent each-way prospect at 33s while Jason Day is worth a look at 50-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKIX7TDZVZBNPDRMZQYJG6M36Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV: </b>Live on Sky Sports Golf from 11.30am.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKCAYFCP2FD3XPSCMW5SM7GAMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray at Sawgrass"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy: ‘I’ll have no problem moving aside and letting the next generation do their thing'"},"display_date":"2025-03-12T14:16:21.618Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘No way I’ll still be playing at 50’: Rory McIlroy saddened by Tiger Woods injury ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Y47ULIJGO25WJHBH327YZ4LGHA","auth":{"1":"b3bff80ef33e09a5423cdd40f98e3436b44640fd93380e580582d459356f8a4c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Y47ULIJGO25WJHBH327YZ4LGHA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/12/no-way-ill-still-be-playing-at-50-rory-mcilroy-saddened-by-tiger-woods-injury/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"E47L3JU5LBGPFFO6O75YJRDA6A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":76,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6a785e37-ec85-456d-ac1c-e9d512a639b5/versions/1741806959/media/9c92eedecac103f0a6011f6f7ac46bd3_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/tiger-woods-undergoes-surgery-on-ruptured-achilles-tendon/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FCVGWADD7ZBXRAM4CVKUKR2W4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> had surgery on Tuesday to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon, after the 15-times Major winner said he suffered the injury while training at home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CO5536YZ6NHB3A6SJMGKAMN7UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The injury marks the latest setback for Woods, who has kept a limited competitive schedule for years due to several injuries. He was targeting a comeback this year after undergoing surgery for nerve impingement on his lower back in September. Woods has not played on the PGA Tour since July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C6RSWVFY3RD2DBNZHK4HOY3PZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“As I began to ramp up my own training and practice at home, I felt a sharp pain in my left Achilles, which was deemed to be ruptured,” Woods wrote on social media.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N2OCGMYN6ZBW3MHZVIRPHF2V7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This morning, Dr Charlton Stucken of Hospital for Special Surgery in West Palm Beach, Florida performed a minimally-invasive Achilles tendon repair for a ruptured tendon.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPYHPMWMMZG3XB6FU5CJ2GGGGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods gave no timeline for his return, with little over four weeks to go before the opening round of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LKOGZR2CMFGD3PQW6FHW7T76NM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Strucken said in a statement that he expected Woods to make a full recovery.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BT4LEURWZH3DNIDLING2244MM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods pulled out of last month’s Genesis Invitational days after his mother’s death and later sat out a TGL match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFD6WLK4D5B7RFHRJUFCWVSPFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am back home now and plan to focus on my recovery and rehab, thank you for all the support,” said Woods.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"15-times Major champion said he suffered the injury while practicing at home"},"display_date":"2025-03-11T20:35:44.214Z","headlines":{"basic":"Tiger Woods undergoes surgery on ruptured Achilles tendon","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DT4IC4YXVY4DPKUMBZCUTFZG34","auth":{"1":"a84cf749b87b773d5c4b68ecf4f24ee976ecffe908ea86851d3fba6d3785e085"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DT4IC4YXVY4DPKUMBZCUTFZG34.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/tiger-woods-undergoes-surgery-on-ruptured-achilles-tendon/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}}],"count":9341,"_id":"2bacb335f29a9901b422b9cb599e4224e12cb415cd350a8ef663af2a1f7696b7"},"expires":1743658364130,"lastModified":1743658063845},"{\"excludeSections\":\"\",\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":50,\"includeSections\":\"/sport/golf\"}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"M47BRWVDTFHG5BGOBXRUXANDTI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":158,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/5fd694e7-cfd7-4035-8f62-06ec81f93523/versions/1743605650/media/67440ca1912dd972660be35efabc3d4c_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/02/valero-texas-open-lowdown-players-look-to-sharpen-game-ahead-of-masters/","content_elements":[{"_id":"O2GIKNIWE5CWHAH4RXN3YG52RE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse: </b>$9.5 million<b> </b>(€8.8 million)/$1.7 million (€1.55 million to the winner)","type":"text"},{"_id":"P27KFAOVPJDB5OFB3MWLS66GHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where: </b>San Antonio, Texas","type":"text"},{"_id":"VG7RKUPUEBEFVMX34SFYBR6UGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The course: </b>TPC San Antonio – the Oaks course, 7,438 yards, par 71 – was designed by Greg Norman in consultation with Sergio Garcia, while Pete Dye also had significant input, so there are a number of different characteristics incorporated in the long layout. Although created out of the rocky terrain, the course is a relatively flat, tree-lined layout with wide fairways. The signature hole is the par-3 16th which features a bunker in the centre of the green and has been playfully named as the Avocado.","type":"text"},{"_id":"53L7F3DALFARPM47LP44CK7XNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The field:</b> This is the last-chance saloon for many players seeking to get the one remaining invitation to next week’s Masters, which will go to the winner (if not already exempt). Ludvig Åberg, who missed the cut at The Players, is – at world number five – the best ranked player in the field, while Hideki Matsuyama, the world number six, is fine-tuning ahead of another tilt at the Masters. Akshay Bhatia is the defending champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6KR7NBMEJHAFGJLJYHBMIU5F4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish playing: </b>Séamus Power needs a win to gatecrash his way into the field for the Masters and likely also needs a win or a runner-up finish to make the following week’s Heritage, a signature event on the PGA Tour. Power is in a three-ball with Matt Fitzpatrick and Zach Johnson, a two-time winner of the event (off the 10th tee at 2.26pm Irish time); Pádraig Harrington, playing on a sponsor’s exemption, is grouped with Eric Cole and Mark Hubbard (off the 10th at 1.20pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FGXEHFTDRFZTDB6WSSHTQ6DLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote: </b>“I feel like it’s just another week. I have my mind really set on Augusta next week so it’s a great week on this golf course to kind of learn where my game’s at, what kind of shots I need to improve on for next week. It’s a great golf course for that, very narrow, very tricky. It’s obviously going to be windy here.” – defending champion Bhatia admitting his focus is perhaps more on the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDSZIO2PKBBFFLOXQ2JEDEEG6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting: </b>Åberg heads the betting at 12-1 but it is Corey Conners at 14-1 who is something of a course specialist (being a two-time winner) and also a player in form with three top-10s in his last three outings. Denny McCarthy, edged out by Bhatia a year ago, is an each-way look at 28s while further down the market Bud Cauley is on offer generally at 40-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7CD5I7NMFGWDDNV2S7PIND6UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV: </b>Sky Sports Golf (from 1.15pm)","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Akshay Bhatia is the defending champion in San Antonio while Ludvig Åberg is favourite"},"display_date":"2025-04-02T14:49:04.147Z","headlines":{"basic":"Valero Texas Open lowdown: Players look to sharpen game ahead of Masters ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ITNH3ZOYXDHTOQUDTOO2YQ3AGI","auth":{"1":"98e15cf0268da93001b42fbc94c3d2299126541bc4e29948f1afc6ffae65a7f8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ITNH3ZOYXDHTOQUDTOO2YQ3AGI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/02/valero-texas-open-lowdown-players-look-to-sharpen-game-ahead-of-masters/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"3NGVDYOSCZHGXA4LNUOMEGKZ6A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":405,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/75decbbb-c380-415f-9ccf-fd508735fcbc/versions/1743451093/media/c919851935ff67f023e25dc0f7f53227_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/01/its-like-getting-advice-from-yoda-min-woo-lee-full-of-admiration-for-irish-caddie-bo-martin/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J37CN2JHE5FEVBUT5J6VVZCX4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Veteran caddie Brian “Bo” Martin has the midas touch, but also the sort of wisdom that has resulted in Min Woo Lee’s dramatic rise since the player-bagman partnership took root earlier this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTX7PGHUXZGHZBHPGPHIEMM6QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Australian’s win in the Houston Open marked a breakthrough success on the PGA Tour but Martin’s influence was critical in talking his 26-year-old employer out of a potentially reckless play in the final round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XA34WLB4GRA2XHJ3VSA3B47GLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Lee drove into bushes on the Par 5 eighth hole he contemplated hitting out Seve-style by bending on to his knees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4WSQR5W4ZHG3PDJBZDRSKJWUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We can drop this, kid, get it around the green and have a putt for five; that’s a win,” advised Martin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72XEXVILBJGAJB2SOXM2VOYDS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lee listened, and that is exactly how the play transpired, with that par as valuable as any of the 26 birdies en route to winning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EZFLJGWPC5GB7FI24LUKTUF5PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Martin first hooked up with the talented Lee at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January and, before Sunday’s win, the relationship had brought four top-20 finishes in six tournaments. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NK5MEJXR6BD4PHKGG3MBQJ2X2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"From Ardglass in Co Down, Martin – a scratch player – had a long caddying career that included Gary Murphy, Peter Lawrie, Tyrrell Hatton and his nephew Cormac Sharvin, but his most famous partnership was with Shane Lowry and included winning The Open at Royal Portrush in 2019. Lowry and Bo parted ways in 2023 and, with a young family, Martin took his time getting back on the road.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AP3S7JTTYFFNVDAPQUAJUWZR5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lee’s improvement since they teamed up has been massive, moving from 55th in the world rankings to 22nd following his win in Houston.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7OW2SYDFJERLOZPLN3EU35LVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"As Lee put it of his veteran bagman: “Bo doesn’t say much, but when he does, it’s like getting advice from Yoda.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"FQFEK2EPXNHXVC4B3IOGGHAFQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Evans tees up Golf Ireland","type":"header"},{"_id":"GOX6EGHPBRFETDSFJOWTIUBEKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Evans, a member of Athlone Golf Club, has succeeded Rosemary Tully as Golf Ireland president at the association’s annual general meeting held in Dublin at the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"57SNUAS6SELV6IWIIIIYJZBD5A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"POZYH7VFXJDZHCTOWA6FULLSZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since the Golfing Union of Ireland and the Irish Ladies Golf Union merged into one in 2019, it has become customary – in reflecting gender balance and inclusion – to have a female president one year followed by a male the next. Fiona Delargy, of Cushendall, has been named as president-elect for 2026.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBJCAKX4TNE55BGSOOIHYFPS3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I want to acknowledge Athlone Golf Club and the Connacht regional executive for their unwavering support, along with my wife Anne, who has managed our family life while I have been immersed in championships and meetings over many years. Our volunteers are the lifeblood of Golf Ireland, and I thank them for their commitment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VWMVZ27KSFBHNOGXS2K6PBNMQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I also pay tribute to our outgoing president, Rosemary, whose tenure has been marked by tireless dedication and the successful introduction of the volunteer framework.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U2ACPK3EFBEKJFHEME4BZS6C54","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am excited about the events and opportunities on the horizon, including continued government support and our growing suite of championships and major events across the island. I look forward to championing our shared vision that golf remains open, inclusive, and enjoyable,” said Evans.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QKZD2ZZ4SJGDPF3I6JZH5FWAS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"By the Numbers: 3","type":"header"},{"_id":"YV65FGI4XNDJ3ID62EKFP5TGRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Min Woo Lee’s win in the Texas Children’s Houston Open on the PGA Tour meant he matched winning the feat of his sister Minjee Lee, who is a 10-time winner on the LPGA Tour. The Australians are the third set of brother-sister siblings to win on the US circuits, joining Cathy and Bill Kratzet and Jackie and Jim Gallagher jnr.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QD3JTI7Q2VBRTMHD5RUK37KM6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Word of Mouth","type":"header"},{"_id":"EVIY2NDMZBAOFEUEPRBYKHSD6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“From where I’m at health-wise, it’s hard for me to get ahead thinking-wise because I don’t have the stamina to do it. So a lot of breath work, a lot of things to slow everything down. I was in really good control of my thoughts and my emotions, which hasn’t been the case for me for a long time” – Gary Woodland – runner-up to Min Woo Lee in Houston – on his best finish since undergoing surgery to remove a lesion on his brain 18 months ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHZMNYVNDNDEJO6OG3YVORE36A","additional_properties":{},"content":"On this day: April 1st, 1979","type":"header"},{"_id":"WQOB7LGW5BAD3CCPIXA7YXW7OU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HV2F2KKIYFBAXEL47V5MWURKQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There were no April Fools day pranks involved in the conclusion of the Kemper Open at Mese Verde resort in California on the LPGA Tour, where history was made with the first ever five-player play-off on the circuit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"75HD4SB5BZHLNIQVHGUPZATMHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"JoAnne Carner – known on tour as “The Great Gundy”, a throwback to her maiden name of Gunderson when she dominated the amateur scene in the USA – ultimately claimed the title, the 24th of 43 career wins.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMXKF5BI4VE7XJ5GJODWGTOTJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Carner, a two-time US Open champion, shot rounds of 72-71-72-71 for a 72-holes aggregate of two-over 286 to finish alongside Hisako Higuchi, Nancy Lopez, Donna Caponi and Jan Stephenson which then required sudden-death. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4TDYY74TBEK3FACF7BDMFTDHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lopez, Caponi and Stephenson were eliminated at the first playoff hole, and then Carner’s par on the second hole of sudden-death was sufficient to get the job done and claim the $22,500 winner’s cheque.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WSKVTEEYHRB6LHOOXF5IMTEXTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Swing","type":"header"},{"_id":"7YULCR7UG5FYVKUYPBBOSZ6VMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Next stop…..Let’s gooooo</b> – Michael Kim posting the Masters logo after securing his place in the field for the Masters next week. Kim was 162nd in the world rankings when he started a hot run of form with a runner-up finish. He moved to 50th following Houston, after which the top-50 in the world earned exemptions to Augusta.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7IMOCFLEJFAVLWT7F3MSPUQSE","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"VI7TE3BLQBEPXBAD7BQUA7QZGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>This one hits different. Houston Open champions baby!!!</b> – Min Woo Lee on adding a PGA Tour win to his three DP World Tour wins.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IDWAW4Y33ZGEFOZOUBL6IZLRGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>T11 Not the Sunday I wanted but another steady week ⛳️ Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers for another great week at the Ford Championship. </b><a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/lpga_tour/\" rel=\"\"><b>@lpga_tour</b></a><b> 🔜Next stop Las Vegas for the </b><a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/lpgamatchplay/\" rel=\"\"><b>@lpgamatchplay</b></a> – Charley Hull after a disappointing final round saw her slip out of contention in the Ford Championship. The European Solheim Cup star moves on to this week’s T Mobile Matchplay in Las Vegas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTX6LBLHBVBFHBGW4D2JUBXBW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Know the Rules</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUEX3WDZWRDLZC6LUISCKS7AVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q </b>In a match, a player’s ball came to rest beside some steps attached to a boundary fence. The steps interfered with the player’s swing, so they took free relief before playing their next stroke. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEQZTZGHAFDYHGTDXCVU676J7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A </b>There is no penalty. Under the Definition of Boundary Object in the rules, any “gate, steps, bridge or similar construction used for getting over or through a boundary wall or fence are not part of the boundary object.” The player took the correct action in this instance in taking free relief.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUE5WW3SBVH7FIWSCEHI5F645Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>In the Bag</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"NG4B5VLWYZFRHPHV4YT5SLR5TE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Min Woo Lee – Texas Children’s Houston Open</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7V7A2F6NJBNDESYF6PNKKKA3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Driver – Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond (8.5 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGYSGXVRWBHKXH5G33JARMNA4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"3-wood – Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond (16.5 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RTHWMXAARFTPHUYMSXWMNMA2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Utility iron: Callaway X-Forged UT (18 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6G456X7VVHONABQYTQ5BA6FX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irons: Callaway X Forged (4, 5), Callaway Apex Prototype (6-10) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TIF2WCCLOJDNDPAFIYL7NUVXGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wedges: Callaway Opus (50 degrees),<i> </i>Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (56 degrees), Titleist Vokey Design WedgeWorks (60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"GZ5PSIBLBJBDBJJI2G2YKUVZAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Putter: Odyssey O-Works 1W","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3IPTOOGQZAJBFIHCMRDXZXEO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ball: Callaway Chrome Tour X","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RXDQG4DLJGW5I72QVZJ7AVQ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYCW7OPV2NGP7HZU6B4D4QOL24","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"The first five-player play-off, and Golf Ireland’s new president "},"display_date":"2025-04-01T05:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘It’s like getting advice from Yoda’: Min Woo Lee full of admiration for Irish caddie ‘Bo’ Martin","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2VYI2DAMTZXSG6IF3JGGLOA2CA","auth":{"1":"bd58524caa67f6172bfc3f550d19a4681a2a6263e1d79f5cf875419ec7d1e3b3"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2VYI2DAMTZXSG6IF3JGGLOA2CA.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/04/01/its-like-getting-advice-from-yoda-min-woo-lee-full-of-admiration-for-irish-caddie-bo-martin/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"YFGPMRZFCNEMBL4JZONOKKDYKM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":251,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/4ef2de11-05ad-43de-be2b-0e534c935fd2/versions/1743434661/media/36a8a88a45a2562d6fdb16c3991599a4_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-to-get-treatment-on-elbow-before-masters-week/","content_elements":[{"_id":"7W3RQN6OZBCA7B73WUAUBZIJKQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981698},"content":"The last-chance saloon, in effect, comes for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\" target=\"_blank\">Séamus Power</a> and also <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/padraig-harrington/\" target=\"_blank\">Pádraig Harrington</a> in terms of getting a late, prized exemption into the Masters. As of now, 94 players have earned their places in next week’s field and the final spot will go to the winner of the Valero Texas Open in San Antonio, only if the winner is not already exempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7OALF3FJHNEXZDS5BSRT5LKTTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981699},"content":"So, a case of win or bust.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVZMOE4M7VE6LFDSUUCRKCSHIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981700},"content":"Power’s missed cut in the Houston Open also impacted on his bid to get into the Aon Swing 5, a mini-order of merit that runs through to this week’s tour stop, where the leading five players will earn places in the Heritage Classic at Harbour Town, a Signature event on the PGA Tour, the week after the Masters. If Power doesn’t manage to gatecrash his way into that field, then Plan B – a trip to the Dominican Republic – will come into play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LBFVCKO6NALLDPOASQEKWKH2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981701},"content":"Harrington – who has not played in the Masters since 2022, having earned his place following a tied-fourth finish in the previous year’s US PGA Championship – is playing on a sponsor’s invitation in the Texas Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNM6SBK4FNAZLH2J2XDIMYLPUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981702},"content":"While Power and Harrington headed to San Antonio, Rory McIlroy departed Houston for home in Florida for a week’s work with coach Michael Bannon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LATSRAMEVEKTAD2RFECOYSP4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981703},"content":"McIlroy admitted to some issue with his right elbow without seeming unduly concerned that it affect his build-up to the Masters. “I’ll get some treatment on that and make sure that that’s okay going into Augusta,” said the world number two, who believed the time spent on the range with Bannon this week will get his game fully tuned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UR2BMLXA35EIND244D6TFONPTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981704},"content":"As he put it, “I still don’t think like my game is absolutely 100 per cent under the control I would want.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VMR5LS55WLAV5RF65LEESKERBU","additional_properties":{"_id":"ENC6RZPFANEQXOY243QVFMPV7E"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PW7RRJOHEZCVZBJL6C7QP7DRG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981705},"content":"McIlroy’s form this season has produced two wins (in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players), and the decision to add the Houston Open on to his scheduling – where he came from outside the cutline late in his second round on Friday with three birdies in his final four holes to survive into the weekend) ultimately proved a wise one as he moved up the leaderboard to finish tied-fifth behind winner Min Woo Lee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGB3DZSXONEFJIKQQMTRIFIRXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981706},"content":"What is interesting, though, is that McIlroy has continued to tweak equipment. On Saturday after his third round, he decided to do a “little tweak” to his driver to reduce spin so that tee shots would get through the wind better.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6GKEUN7IBGJTJXKRRLEKOJL34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981707},"content":"As for making the most of his time with coach Bannon in Florida before heading on to Augusta, McIlroy admitted much of it would be focused on the short game: “Obviously short game’s really, really important around Augusta as well. You know, work on those things over the next few days and hopefully I’m feeling good going in there ... I think my short game’s been very good [this year] and I’ve been able to scramble well when I’ve needed to.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DMSKIJFGRDB5FM4OPXBPBFIFU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981708},"content":"“And my ability to sort of hit little knockdown shots. I feel like it’s been quite a windy year, I feel like there’s been quite a lot of wind when we’ve played, so my ability to hit those little three-quarter shots is definitely better than it has been and that’s been a big factor to why I’ve performed pretty consistently.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"W55Q427I6ZDLFNWRWVZT2E2HDE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981709},"content":"While McIlroy and Shane Lowry do the prep work this week ahead of Augusta, one Irish player will get to the famed course ahead of them: Beth Coulter is one of 72 players competing in this week’s Augusta National Women’s Amateur Championship, which features two rounds of strokeplay at Champions Retreat with the top-30 players and ties advancing to Saturday’s final round at Augusta National. All 72 players get to play a practice round on the Masters course on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHQTSURTMZCGLIVW4PI4D77H4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981710},"content":"Leona Maguire, meanwhile, is the only Irish player in the field at the T Mobile Match Play championship in Las Vegas. The Cavan golfer finished runner-up to world number one Nelly Korda in last year’s event.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7STW244ZCVF45OZR7MSZ5X3RNU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981711},"content":"So far this season, Maguire has not missed a cut – in six tournaments – but has managed only one top-10, in the season-opening Tournament of Champions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GOE5SDKQUVFBLPFNOGXWFNTC4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743431981712},"content":"On the Ladies European Tour, there are three Irish players – Lauren Walsh, Annabel Wilson and Sara Byrne – competing in the JoBurg Open in South Africa.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Last chance saloon for Séamus Power to qualify for the Masters in San Antonio"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T15:19:16.215Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy to get treatment on elbow before Masters week","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SS5HKSBDOVRNQINHFQMABI54MM","auth":{"1":"9999cbf0ef1b096e3a9e4189f80767d50e18a64749e550edf02637865b730c72"},"focal_point":{"x":3230,"y":551},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SS5HKSBDOVRNQINHFQMABI54MM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-to-get-treatment-on-elbow-before-masters-week/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"5E6AZXAN3JFT7DKDZINXYFY7HI","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-heads-for-masters-after-top-five-finish-in-texas/","content_elements":[{"_id":"PZSF6PEX5NGUJMICW6QOKP5VY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy didn’t win – that honour fell to Aussie Min Woo Lee, with Northern Ireland caddie Brian “Bo” Martin playing an influential role in the Texas Children’s Houston Open – but the world number two’s last outing ahead of the Masters provided further momentum as he bids to complete the career Grand Slam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5KJ74DINANGT3NJSLSRU3XCZWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In closing with a 64 for a 15-under-par total of 265, McIlroy finished five shots behind Lee who claimed a breakthrough win on the PGA Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5DOO2RTAJB2TAYFDBH6MX2NWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"More importantly though for McIlroy, having only made the cut by firing three birdies in his final four holes of the second round, brought further proof of his wellbeing that has seen him finish 1st-17th-15th-1st-5th in his five appearances on the US circuit this season as he targets completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters in just over a week’s time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7TICDATANGJ3O533KCLKNSGBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy had, it seemed, “tweaked” his driver in the run-up to the Houston Open by taking some loft off but admitted there were some aspects that needed further work ahead of the season’s first Major at Augusta National. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4W4TZHJFZDOZMIWH5FB5RXYHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I still feel like I’ve got some stuff to work on,” he said. “Still don’t think like my game is absolutely 100 per cent under the control I would want, but it’s nice to have a week to work on some things. I’ve got my coach, Michael Bannon, coming in tomorrow, so we’ll be working at home and making sure game feels good going into the Masters.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4O5NY3J65ZBRRNYKPCTFKQ6754","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy has a week off ahead of returning to the Masters, opting not to play in this week’s Valero Texas Open in San Antonio.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2O6WHDQ3PBDILEM7VKP7M5HPSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lee carried a comfortable lead into the final round but ultimately only managed to get over the line with one stroke to spare, a final round 67 for 20-under-par 260 giving the Australian a one stroke winning margin over world number one Scottie Scheffler and Gary Woodland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEIRS2TRF5CQ5OGIRAWGGZ47VU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler, who is defending his Masters title, confirmed his recovery to form following surgery in the off-season for a hand injury: “I feel like I can still clean up a few things in my swing. You know, my ball-striking wasn’t as sharp as I would have liked for it to have been this week, but overall I mean, yesterday and today I felt like we’re improving in the ball-striking.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RH7EDQHOA5C2HPPYX3EREU475E","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Lee, a three-time winner on the DP World Tour, his breakthrough win on the PGA Tour earned him a payday of €1.7 million and a move inside the top-20 on the official world rankings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCOCLBJLLZHE5K4CJYB2UGWKD4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Min Woo Lee makes breakthrough on PGA Tour with Scottie Scheffler second"},"display_date":"2025-03-31T07:50:09.93Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy heads for Masters after top five finish in Texas","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OQHUS3D2F4P7VQMTXXOV7ECS7A","auth":{"1":"5789aa68a677a407605c79190c264477f964afed4a788b4f5ce791ef67477ce6"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OQHUS3D2F4P7VQMTXXOV7ECS7A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/31/rory-mcilroy-heads-for-masters-after-top-five-finish-in-texas/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"THIFOZ27MVEO3FOKUCEEPPNVJQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":97,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d6108d5d-57fc-47ec-a6e6-7e869a5c2761/versions/1743336451/media/de381cca53c955b7e6ba06fde8dccbdc_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/30/rory-mcilroy-rises-up-leaderboard-at-houston-open-as-min-woo-lee-grabs-four-stroke-lead/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HBUSWBC4MJCGHHMUGDXGMW4LVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260992},"content":"Rory McIlroy shot a five-under-par 65 to move into a tie for 14th, eight shots off the pace at the Houston Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLXZLSTRWNEYVMX6JJDXITAXTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The world number two was not satisfied with his driving, hitting only five of 13 fairways, but chipped in from just off the green on the par 5 eighth hole for eagle to reach nine-under-par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAZJBJI3QVDAHIIO4KYHZ2OJYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260993},"content":"“It’s one of those golf courses where you give yourself loads of chances from 20, 25 feet,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGMSBHOL65E5VF7YRSY5HECI7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260994},"content":"“And when you’re not converting any, it feels frustrating.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOAWPPJIRFCSNDHC75FNJBJPUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Min Woo Lee shot a third-round 63 to open a four-shot lead heading into the final round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RT2UI3KNYRBZBEDVU3R77DMBLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260986},"content":"The Australian, who had to finish his weather-hit second round at the start of the day, had seven birdies to move to 17-under-par, four clear of Argentina’s Alejandro Tosti.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R77CF7RROVCQNHZYPJMZATVWGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260987},"content":"Lee admitted he needed to “get back into bed” after his long day, which at one point saw him six strokes ahead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2GZOWWM7ARHXXFMHD6EEJ2FSNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260988},"content":"World number one Scottie Scheffler, who held the halfway lead, carded a 69 to sit in a group a stroke further back alongside New Zealand’s Ryan Fox and fellow American Ryan Gerard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYHHS4VXMVG2PFZS36YKAOPPSQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260989},"content":"Scheffler, who tied the course record with a 62 in the second round, birdied the three par fives at Memorial Park, but added two bogeys. He admitted he felt as if he “couldn’t get the ball to go in the hole” on the greens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JSPLQ7SSRC5VLINPMVKCDBLUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260990},"content":"“I feel like I hit it better today than I did yesterday,” Scheffler said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKTFXBLAQZGK7I3LF4EXGMO73E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743335260991},"content":"“It’s a funny game sometimes.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Scottie Scheffler slips back on day three as Lee shoots 63 in Texas"},"display_date":"2025-03-30T12:02:22.752Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy rises up leaderboard at Houston Open as Min Woo Lee grabs four-stroke lead ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"TKV3G3ITEO7KQQW2KAGYDGY5LQ","auth":{"1":"66b3a373c4644415994a26e64158a30ac85640591cf90fc84351f6485b0d88a7"},"focal_point":{"x":1697,"y":324},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/TKV3G3ITEO7KQQW2KAGYDGY5LQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/30/rory-mcilroy-rises-up-leaderboard-at-houston-open-as-min-woo-lee-grabs-four-stroke-lead/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"4VJ4VOBPNZG2VLLAHBPTJAL3LM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":181,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/d0a6ad30-f49f-49bf-95db-4b8b1a446afd/versions/1743258612/media/29f7c8adb1d8121b9a333c9de93f5a23_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-makes-the-cut-in-houston-with-run-of-late-birdies/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> is cast in the role of pursuer of world number one <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scottie-scheffler/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scottie-scheffler/\">Scottie Scheffler</a> headed into the weekend of the weather-disrupted Texas Children’s Houston Open after salvaging his second round by birdieing three of his final four holes for a 66 (for four-under-par 136), seven adrift of Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBGST6ADMNGWHOVWJOZH3WTBIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think I just have to play my own tournament and stay in my own little world, try to get the best out of myself. Whether that’s good enough or not, that’s not really up to me at this point, that’s up to the guys that are in front of me on the leader board.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVAJPP56BRHGBACEXZB7LNZHGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But if I can go out there and shoot a couple of good scores over the weekend, I’ll be happy with my week’s work,” said McIlroy, who took advantage of softer scoring conditions on resuming his second round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AVJMCHT3GJFFDO4NIAW5RFDJHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"With the second round due to be completed Saturday, Séamus Power faced an anxious wait to see if he would survive into the final two rounds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"24KCYFSKMNB23AN4INJTXTU7L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Power added another 69 to his opening 69 for two-under-par 138 and was well inside the cut mark when he finished, only for player after player to leapfrog him, leaving the Waterford man to play the waiting game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYXU5PRQ4VCDZFT5AWFSA5VZZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Over 50 players were scheduled to complete their second rounds on Saturday with the third round being played off two tees in three balls in a bid to catch up following over two hours of disruption on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FP4MFHG2FFYNPHCLUWYTPBD64","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pádraig Harrington, however, missed the cut. The 53-year-old, playing on a sponsor’s exemption as he juggles tour life between the main circuit and the Champions Tour, improved with a 71 for five-over-par 145 which left him outside the cut mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3HJV2TVZPQRJVHZJ7C4EKIZYUY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"VE7QWE6O65DNJAAUW4D7ER3LTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler was back to doing Scheffler things, like a well-oiled machine with every part clicking into gear and working smoothly: a second round 62, equalling the course record at the Memorial Park course in downtown Houston, saw the world number one – without a win so far this season – move ominously towards the head of affairs, two weeks out from his defence of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72UTD3TOKVHULKCGOKLAONJ7MQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler had eight birdies in another bogey-free round, posting a 62 for a midway total of 11-under-par 129 to assume the clubhouse lead, a shot clear of Canadian Taylor Pendrith and Colombia’s Nico Echavarria.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BAGIBEGENVAU3EBZNYFWT2IOCI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-56527","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WIPWIOIHKFH4XAHDEIBLAQFOTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Scheffler, who had a delayed start to the season after suffering a hand injury over the Christmas period which required surgery, it was a case of returning to his dominant self with a masterclass in which he hit 17 of 18 greens in regulation and required just 23 putts in a second round where he was in total control tee to green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHU2EIWQTNDKXNNH6N5EIUUKFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scheffler started his round birdie-birdie and just kept on rolling, only regretting not actually holing more birdies. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VK5CDSGMUZELVJBVUUNN5Q53VM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“[It] was a day where I felt like my ball-striking could have been a bit better and I was able to hole some putts. I hit a lot of greens but I felt like my irons were just barely off, and I felt like I could have been hitting them a little bit closer to the hole, but overall kept it on the green, kept giving myself looks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EYEVWSJS5EGLMZFXT2TZCTJH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The way I was putting, I didn’t feel I had to force ‘em there by many pins if I wasn’t totally comfortable with the shot,” said Scheffler.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Scottie Scheffler equals course record at Memorial Park"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T14:25:01.886Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy makes the cut in Houston with run of late birdies","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IJKVBGKOSW3C7KBD2VLMV2DEQQ","auth":{"1":"013da45fc471abc899270442a88294d902d08b4091a0a355b93be721e10b1fdc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IJKVBGKOSW3C7KBD2VLMV2DEQQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-makes-the-cut-in-houston-with-run-of-late-birdies/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"GHHW6G4MVJBBXN6EQWLP4O2RKI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":937,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/093371a5-558f-4d22-9003-dc467a95bf72/versions/1743171809/media/c907cf3c4b6dab5c9a01ab68ea5bbc4a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-at-augusta-a-saga-in-18-parts/","content_elements":[{"_id":"SLGROLRMKJG6PO3A4O4BUCTX7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764543},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>1</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZPS4UUUIVABPN235AE77GEM3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764544},"content":"Eyes down for a full house everyone. It’s time for the 17th Masters tournament in the career of Rory Daniel McIlroy. Pay attention, now – there won’t be 17 more. So he says anyway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MZ5F6SE5WBGZXCPDKYLSWSUXXA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764545},"content":"“<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2025/03/12/no-way-ill-still-be-playing-at-50-rory-mcilroy-saddened-by-tiger-woods-injury/\" target=\"_self\">Something has gone terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50</a>,” he said on his way to winning the Players Championship a couple of weeks back. Given that he’s 36 next month it’s fair to ask how many more times we’re going to do this. Fifteen? Ten? Fewer than 10? Whatever the number time’s a-ticking.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZR536ZMTFGDXCDC6IHNNT2VLM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764546},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>2</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IOQHZTMVVAGHPSWKQQYNNVI3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764547},"content":"It’s long forgotten now but McIlroy almost got thrown out of his first Masters. We were in the old press room at Augusta late at night on Friday April 10th, 2009, when word went around that he was being hauled in front of the green jackets to explain himself. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/mcilroy-learns-when-to-dance-1.744104\" target=\"_self\">Had he smoothed out the sand with his feet in between the two shots he needed to get out of a bunker on 18?</a> If he was found to have improved his lie he was toast.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AIRMWB6VBRH7NKI6GED6CBAKOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764548},"content":"Now 2009 was one dull-ass Masters. The joint leaders that Friday were Kenny Perry and Chad Campbell. All the big names were a mile back. Sports Illustrated had McIlroy on the cover that week – the idea that the game’s next big thing might get defenestrated for a rules violation sent a buzz through the whole place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NRSHCUPA4ZDDLIC5JYMQUV3PK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764549},"content":"Especially when it became clear that he had left the course and was apparently in no hurry to come back. For fully four hours nobody knew whether he was in or out. Because of him the round three pairings weren’t out until 9.30 at night, long after everyone back home had gone to bed. And frankly long after we were supposed to be at the bar.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQQKZIJH6RCZ5DMP7WZNJV2424","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764550},"content":"Two rounds into his Masters career he was the absolute talk of the place despite being nowhere near the lead. Foreshadowing, much?","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYC6KAQ7VZD7ZMHYRGDK4H4ZOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764551},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>3</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"73WSBVQ45FAH3HAHYFZBO7XWGM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764552},"content":"The next morning I chanced my arm and went over to him by the putting green. And even though it was pre-round (you’re not really supposed to go asking for interviews of players before their tee time) and even though he was about to play alongside defending champion Trevor Immelman, he was happy to give five minutes on what had gone down the night before.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LU5J3EPBH5FMFG37YZQFYSOFRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764553},"content":"Yes, he’d watched the tape back along with the Masters people, although he’d declined to come back to the course the first time they asked him because he felt he had no case to answer. No, he didn’t think at any stage that he was going to be disqualified.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7SHOZE2SFC2HBCXRWVO7BJYXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764554},"content":"“I was never worried that anything was going to happen,” he said. “It was more that there seemed to be a bit of a panic in the press room about it. I wasn’t bothered.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFH3Z6NXDBESLI7DAVHJLBP7IU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764555},"content":"As it turned out the delay was mostly due to the fact that the phone number he’d given the Augusta folk hadn’t been working. Which sounded like just about the most teenagery excuse imaginable. Hard not to like a lad like that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PTDB2IUG3NA5ZLSZVWCOSIAVHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764556},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HTB2CDNRJBHOZMEOLVOCXV2RSY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764557},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>4</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"5WVV4NTLTZHH3OIEQR3YSJ2Z2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764558},"content":"Look at him now. Sixteen years later and still trying to find a way to solve the Augusta sudoku.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGOSMPVO6RAQXEZ3OA2QAW7KGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764559},"content":"The boy standing by the putting green that Saturday morning had one pro title to his name, Krusty The Clown hair tumbling from his hat and the chubby chin of a kid who was yet to see the inside of a gym. The man who is second favourite for the 2025 Masters is a dad and a husband, a 43-time winner approaching middle age carrying a welterweight’s punch on a featherweight’s frame.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QFGXLBD3EBC2FDXSW4FF7P6H3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764560},"content":"He has done everything there is to do in the game. Except win the Masters. And yet every year we get to late March and the low drumbeat of Roryising starts to pick up rhythm and tempo. Can he do it this year? Will this finally be it?","type":"text"},{"_id":"46TLAYU6CVGNDKJSUECAFSRCIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764561},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>5</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"THK4P43JAFEYVIEXW3BXKFXC4A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764562},"content":"Let’s allow from the outset that it doesn’t need to be. This isn’t now-or-never.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZ7HEAVS5VF5TAFWJGZUBJCSDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764563},"content":"Nick Faldo won his first Masters at his 10th attempt. Phil Mickelson needed 12 goes to finally get there. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/new-found-maturity-helps-sergio-garcia-clinch-major-triumph-1.3044192\" target=\"_self\">Sergio Garcia holds the record – he took until his 19th Masters to win a green jacket. </a>So while 17 is at the upper end it’s by no means out of the question.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZC2265V7CVB6ZDI6ZLJHXBLH34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764564},"content":"At the far end of the spectrum Gene Littler played the Masters 26 times without ever winning it. Whatever else McIlroy mines out of his career, that’s not a quiz question you want to be the answer to.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYUXJ4F5SVHRHHUP2MOPAFX6SY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764565},"content":"Mark O’Meara was 41 when he won the Masters at his 15th attempt. He is the oldest first-time winner. In all senses McIlroy has a bit to go yet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMSXPF63GRDLXO45WRU5B44RLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764566},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WQK2GRSL5RDFPBGQCTSAPFGAG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764567},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>6</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7IDFHZCLZCWJH2JCC4DACHFJU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764568},"content":"Let’s step back. If you never watched a round of golf in your life and only looked at the numbers you would be forgiven for wondering why anyone cares. So what if Rory Effing McIlroy never wins the Masters? Augusta has so many stories to tell why the obsession with a golfer who has seriously threatened just one Masters victory in 16 attempts?","type":"text"},{"_id":"WXZDQTWJ6JCDRCELS6QIM3G26Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764569},"content":"We all know the old adage – the Masters only starts on the back nine on Sunday. Take out three missed cuts and McIlroy has made it to that unofficial start-line on 13 occasions. Here’s where he stood teeing off on the 10th each time: T40, 1, T32, T38, T15, T5, T9, T10, T3, T25, T4, T3, T21.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNUMKAKDHFEEDLFW7O2EEYGDXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764570},"content":"With the exception of 2011 he was mostly no closer to winning the thing turning for home than in the years he missed the cut. In 2015 he was eight shots behind Jordan Spieth turning for home. In 2018 he was four behind Patrick Reed; same in 2020 with Dustin Johnson. In 2022 it was tied for third but lay seven shots back of Scottie Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZW4723BJGVFMFMCXBPL7U5N7RY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764571},"content":"McIlroy has seven top 10s at Augusta. Only one close call though.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYVKJ4NFQBFLVLNGS53LEYIYDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764572},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>7</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"5J2QT5HDNJDIRBXZBURSGQATPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764573},"content":"Since McIlroy first set foot on the property in 2009 there have been 64 rounds played at the Masters. He has led after three of them, all in the same tournament. On the night of Saturday, April 9th, 2011, he walked off the 18th green with a four-shot lead over Angel Cabrera, KJ Choi, Jason Day and Charl Schwartzel. We know what happened next. He held the lead until the Masters began.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KP2RH22YVD4PPMKYYLZCQDTBY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764574},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XFF6N3DUR5EHFEPIRUPMUEKOEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764575},"content":"But then disaster. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/mcilroy-melts-in-augusta-heat-1.569039\" target=\"_self\">Duck-hook off the 10th tee, four-putt on the 12th green, came home in 43.</a> Signed for an 80. Schwartzel took the green jacket but McIlroy was the only golfer everyone wanted to talk about. Again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTDIGPEKRBD3JHIUOXE6HNGGMI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764576},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>8</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCE2QC5PHBCCDFN3VLQZ2QFIF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764577},"content":"And it never goes away. Just a fortnight ago <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2025/03/14/rory-mcilroy-answers-the-call-after-a-spot-of-mobile-phone-interference/\" target=\"_self\">McIlroy caused a brief internet stir when he walked up to a heckler </a>on a practice day at Sawgrass, took his phone and got him kicked off the course. The heckler was a college golfer called Luke Potter. By all accounts a pretty good college golfer at that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BMNRVSPDJRATNLVTDKPDKOE7LE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764578},"content":"Now it was hardly the heckle of the century. The best Potter could come up with in response to a skewed drive was: “Just like 2011 at Augusta!” If the golf doesn’t work out for young Luke it feels unlikely that SNL will be giving him a call.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVDCL7LUTFGOHDVCHDAEJOK4RM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764579},"content":"But McIlroy let it get to him. Even now, 14 years, four Majors, hundreds of millions of dollars later and one of the all-time great golf careers already in the books, he can still be needled by it. Why?","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JEWMEVQHRE6ZIPU6BNGMRLE7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764580},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>9</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"C2TGS2IRCJB7HC6XHANYXLIRNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764581},"content":"Maybe it’s because 2011 is still as good as it ever got for him around Augusta.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OU7PMVTTMVFETGD7LTQUZ5OAVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764582},"content":"In the 52 Masters rounds that have taken place since 2011, 41 different golfers have had at least a share of the lead at the end of a round. Jordan Spieth has done it nine times, including a record seven in a row between 2015 and 2016. Scottie Scheffler has been the end-of-round leader six times, Brooks Koepka five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M52YZ44PUBFBLEKGMKXUTF5ACQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764583},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NFTLMOLR5JAOPC4BZPOSYZ2W44","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764585},"content":"But in all that time McIlroy has never managed it. Not so much as once, not even a share. The closest he’s been is one shot back, at the end of round two in 2012 (Fred Couples and Jason Dufner) and again in 2016 (Spieth).","type":"text"},{"_id":"CA76S4OF4BFGDLPDHD3GTPIAL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764586},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>10</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BIUI3NWHJJDVJF5QMZWD57MNWA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764587},"content":"“<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/determined-mcilroy-throws-down-gauntlet-to-spieth-1.2604121\" target=\"_self\">I sort of feel that Augusta owes me something and I have come with that attitude. </a>I have come here to get something that I should have had a long time ago.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHMYOQU5MFENHMZJRFQ4ZSVIVM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764588},"content":"This was McIlroy on the Friday night in 2016, ahead of being paired with Spieth for round three. He went out and shot 77 on the Saturday. It was the first time in 80 rounds in Majors that he didn’t have a single birdie.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3GPVP5HYMVBZ5NK6THBCO2SOY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764589},"content":"Augusta owes nothing to nobody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4KKVQGATVRAA7FBJKYHFUXAUEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764590},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>11</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"UL6FVNYX45GYXFCKELZMGUCUTI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764591},"content":"Least of all to McIlroy. Go back to that figure of 52 rounds since his 2011 meltdown. Not only has he not led after any of them, he has been within three shots of the lead after just five of them. There’s a convincing case to be made that the Masters just ain’t his thing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHF3DXAMEFB33HHPXR6GZ7Z4G4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764592},"content":"Certainly the other Majors have been much more fertile ground. In the past three years alone he has led each of them at one stage or another. He’s been inside the top seven at the end of every US Open round since the Saturday in 2021. That’s 14 rounds in a row at the toughest of all the Majors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBPIJBGUEFDN5BG6FOEFJD7DXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764593},"content":"He should have won at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2022/07/17/rory-mcilroy-the-open-st-andrews-hovland/\" target=\"_self\">St Andrews in 2022</a>. Or at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2023/06/19/rory-mcilroys-long-wait-for-another-major-title-continues-at-us-open/\" target=\"_self\">LACC in 2023</a>. Or at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/2024/06/16/bryson-dechambeau-beats-rory-mcilroy-to-us-open-title/\" target=\"_self\">Pinehurst last year</a>. He had a chance at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/rory-mcilroy-us-open-seventh-a-big-step-in-right-direction-1.4599061\" target=\"_self\">Torrey Pines in 2021</a>. He was level with eventual winner Justin Thomas standing on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/golf/mcilroy-raises-a-few-roars-around-southern-hills-before-us-pga-challenge-peters-out-1.4885487\" target=\"_self\">12th tee at Southern Hills in 2022</a>. Somewhere along the way he definitely ought to have ended his Major drought.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHEK362HKBGY5PCSN5L337REOY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764594},"type":"image"},{"_id":"64R54GCKBVDORFODQWAPPY37RY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764595},"content":"But when you dig into it the hard luck stories over the past 11 years have mostly happened away from Augusta. It’s probably a bit mad that we fixate on it so much.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ELP6BUY2VFVRLBYIUKQRY3M3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764596},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>12</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"XAPBOEOZRVCE5E3UX3OW5URO4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764597},"content":"Except here’s a list. Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Tiger Woods. The only winners of the career Grand Slam. The gods.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAJWGWKPHVH4TBUYU5WWFWD7PU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764598},"content":"McIlroy has been a Masters victory away from joining them since July 20th, 2014. Why wouldn’t we fixate on it?","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHOP5OM5XVBZ7NXDTWUKJXYYOU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764599},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>13</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEJW7VRQ4VHMRIIMO4KMRREH5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764600},"content":"McIlroy does an official pre-Masters press conference every year. An interesting exercise would be to chart the timing of the first mention of the career Grand Slam year by year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7MMZESEMFBSPEV3LARNYTTUAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764601},"content":"<b>2015: </b>1st question; <b>2016: </b>1st question; <b>2017: </b>1st question; <b>2018: </b>9th question; <b>2019: </b>13th question; <b>2020: </b>Zero questions; <b>2021: </b>17th question; <b>2022: </b>3rd question; <b>2023: </b>5th question; <b>2024: </b>Zero questions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZN5ALEM3KRGI5IXIAVDXVQNXII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764602},"content":"So it ebbs and it flows. It was the first thought on everyone’s mind – McIlroy’s included – for the first few years. Vaguely unmentionable then for a while after that. In recent years, as he rose to the top of the sport again, back to the fore. You think it might come up for the next fortnight?","type":"text"},{"_id":"57BVAJNMLZHIJKTBW2VTN3UT7Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764603},"type":"image"},{"_id":"J3XWR3TE2FF67JYWAMD47WX3OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764604},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>14</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"W6VP5ZSVNNCB3ET23HUDEF2YBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764605},"content":"Ultimately, though, the career Grand Slam is a niche concern, strictly of interest to the golf fetishists. Out in the world it has no currency. Normal sports followers have a vague notion the Masters is on soon and that Rory McIlroy will be trying to win it. Maybe the best measure of his pull is that people will tune in on the basis of no more information than that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"COEHJLAPYBGZDAOMP74LADIW2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764606},"content":"We forget sometimes what we have in our lives here. A properly global star, someone who operates at the elite end of a world sport year after year, season after season. He has been ranked in the top 10 in the world for the vast majority of the past 16 years – the lowest he has fallen since late 2009 was 16th for a week in August 2021. He hasn’t been ranked lower than third since June 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4AAZ3J4ABVHENM2PXVMOB46NN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764607},"content":"McIlroy has won five tournaments since last year’s Masters. That’s a career for some players. But he gets graded on a different curve to everyone else.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BCOQ2NY2AVBZBDRWZKEPK6FJME","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764608},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>15</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEO7Q25RJZBC3GF4CA5OCBAGQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764609},"content":"That’s by choice, it should be stressed. For each of the past two years his name has been brought up in the judging room for the RTÉ Sports Person of the Year awards. Not as a potential winner, granted. But as someone who is at least worthy of making the shortlist for the best performers in Irish sport over a 12-month period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72VJPQDWUZGPPMFFJHXGPLQUFY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764610},"content":"In 2023 he had two tournament victories, three top-10s in Majors and was the first ever Irish player to be solo leading scorer on a winning Ryder Cup team. Some of us argued that a shortlist that ignored someone with those credentials could look a little silly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6RHOMXX6SVFDVBLO5UU4TG2MY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764611},"type":"image"},{"_id":"K7KTHVJ6OBCFHJOREILNUG4SMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764612},"content":"By way of reply it was explained that word had come from McIlroy himself to only judge him on Majors. He had made it known through his people that there is no point including him on any shortlist until he turns four Majors into five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XORUBI75QVHX3BUVZVEX7AKLQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764613},"content":"If it happens any year take it he’ll be on the list. If it happens in the next fortnight everyone else will need something supernova to beat him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTWP6UPEO5FY7NRRY7XQAA3WP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764614},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>16</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CBTBEDDVHFAD3KNWL7W47YIENM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764615},"content":"And, look, it probably won’t. That’s the only outcome that makes sense, right? Augusta is the one Major where you can track the chances of each player each year with some measure of reliability. McIlroy is well able to play Augusta and his base level of performance is generally good enough to crack the top 10 in a given year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AI6JUYAJJF6TM6ZERC2MCC32Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764616},"content":"His length off the tee means he is 97-under-par on the Augusta par fives across his Masters career. His best four holes are the 15th (-29 in 58 tournament rounds), 13th (-24), 8th (-23) and 2nd (-19). His worst four are the 11th (+21), 10th (+15), 1st (+14) and 7th (+13). He’s 54 over par on the par fours and 10 over on the par threes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNYVQKRSS5B57IUA62HVGYR4HE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764617},"content":"When it comes right down to it there’s far too big a gap there between the holes he can dominate and the ones that can dominate him. He has missed the cut in two of the past four Masters. He has posted just one sub-70 round in the tournament since 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLOU64Q44BCKNBEGQA7XYR3JJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764618},"content":"When someone tells you who they are, believe them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LANPPTBM7BBINBUFXDFTJ67U4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764619},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LQTY5RRMRRDFPFVEAPQA46XA34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764620},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>17</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AACDIWGVUBHGJGTYSUWPEL4GAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764621},"content":"Yet we go again. With hope, somehow, that this time it will be different. McIlroy has won three of his last six tournaments. He’s won twice in America before the Masters, something he never achieved before. He leads the PGA Tour in the Total Strokes Gained and Scoring Average stats categories. He’s third in tee-to-green, fifth in putting, 10th in driving. He’s been the best player on tour since the turn of the year. You’d imagine that might all count for something.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXXRMMY4RFBFJM4D7LZSMCPTH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764622},"content":"Scheffler is still the best player in the world but he hasn’t won since September. Xander Schauffele gathered in two Majors last year but hasn’t won since July. Jon Rahm and Joaquin Niemann are the best players on LIV but we won’t know what that means until we know what that means. At the very least McIlroy ought to be in there pitching.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7A7FPPQ3JCZVPDE2YBHP4HVB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764623},"content":"But look. All of this has been said before. and all of it will be said again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SEBMKOUBBZDHNMLPVK5EISNQRI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764624},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>18</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LR5ALOFFVVGOHB7GNGUFATTGVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764625},"content":"Nothing lasts forever. McIlroy has been so good for so long that it can be hard to imagine what it will be like when he finishes up. But the only certainty is that there will come a time when we don’t have this, when the arc of the greatest tournament in golf doesn’t happen to cross with the peak years of the best golfer ever to come from here. Where, finally, he won’t be the talk of the place.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TTIKCR42SJDY5EMR4VXTKRFENE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764626},"content":"This is the best of times, right now. Whether McIlroy wins the Masters this year or whether he bombs out – or most likely something in between – this is a living chapter in one of the great Irish sporting sagas. A carnival ride that swoops and dips and rattles and rolls, all for our viewing pleasure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3I4GDZ4IMFBBLIASHE2JNCJJYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743173764627},"content":"It won’t always be like this. It’s amazing that it ever was.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"From his first Masters appearance in 2009, McIlroy has always been the talk of the place, whether in contention or bombing out"},"display_date":"2025-03-29T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy at The Masters: Brace for the next chapter in one of Ireland’s greatest sporting sagas","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7T74JOA5YFFV3BMLRQ3FLIL4ZY","auth":{"1":"72979bdc639b84555697a277c2955fb90135c02a70822b4dff0cb12b0d0f0e36"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7T74JOA5YFFV3BMLRQ3FLIL4ZY.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/29/rory-mcilroy-at-augusta-a-saga-in-18-parts/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"RTFZ7J2D2JGLNIOJVPXFXVEIFI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":156,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/05cafbe7-cd22-4707-b25f-948e3617c990/versions/1743192318/media/18c375abdcb6032378e95a71a456244d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/28/scottie-scheffler-storms-into-the-lead-at-houston-open-after-course-record-62/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312486},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scottie-scheffler/\" target=\"_blank\">Scottie Scheffler</a> was back to doing Scottie Scheffler things, like a well-oiled machine with every part clicking into gear and working smoothly: a second round 62, equalling the course record at the Memorial Park course in downtown Houston, saw the world number one – without a win so far this season – move ominously towards the business part of the midway leaderboard in the Texas Children’s Houston Open, two weeks out from his defence of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4S45GWH6ZAPBDQ7MLB5KABIB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312487},"content":"Scheffler had eight birdies in another bogey-free round, posting a 62 for a midway total of 11-under-par 129 to assume the clubhouse lead, a shot clear of Canadian Taylor Pendrith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NT3L2A7U7NCXJJSPAILWVBAZPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312488},"content":"Séamus Power backed up an opening round 69 with another 69 to reach the 36-hole mark on two-under-par 138 and safely headed into the weekend in his bid to climb the leaderboard and add further FedEx Cup points to his Aon Swing 5 mini-order of merit (with five places off that list available into the Heritage, a signature event the week after the Masters).","type":"text"},{"_id":"DUWEIIPWAVCPDM3QYT652X6M4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312489},"content":"Pádraig Harrington, however, missed the cut. The 53-year-old Dubliner, playing on a sponsor’s exemption as he juggles tour life between the main circuit and the Champions Tour, improved with a 71 for five-over-par 145 which left him outside the cut mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZHISV47LVDXTDSTEMRGXJGTUY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312490},"content":"For Scheffler, who had a delayed start to the season after suffering a hand injury over the Christmas period which required corrective surgery, it was a case of returning to his dominant self with a masterclass in which he hit 17 of 18 greens in regulation and required just 23 putts in a second round where he was in total control tee to green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"36GVD5BQLJFHHG5T5DQPTIN4LQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"LHCPBGWDTNHZ3KC7PFDBTTZYEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312491},"content":"Scheffler started his round birdie-birdie and just kept on rolling, only regretting not actually holing more birdies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4BGZS5F3UBFLTFS3FP5ZZT7P4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312492},"content":"“[It] was a day where I felt like my ball-striking could have been a bit better and I was able to hole some putts. I hit a lot of greens but I felt like my irons were just barely off, and I felt like I could have been hitting them a little bit closer to the hole, but overall kept it on the green, kept giving myself looks. The way I was putting, I didn’t feel I had to force ‘em there by many pins if I wasn’t totally comfortable with the shot,” explained Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCO77WAN4NC57AA7TK2T2Y5CHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743191312493},"content":"Denmark’s Rasmus Hojgaard, the reigning Irish Open champion who is on his rookie season stateside, carded a 67 for 133, four adrift of Scheffler, to get into the mix. Of seeing Scheffler’s name atop the leaderboard, he remarked: “There’s no hiding from that. You have got to play well to have a chance to beat him ... I’m just trying to play as good of golf as possible and see where that takes me.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Two rounds of 69 will see Séamus Power make the weekend in Texas"},"display_date":"2025-03-28T20:00:10.054Z","headlines":{"basic":"Scottie Scheffler storms into the lead at Houston Open after course record 62","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"L7EBYBUTIAGXMZIY5ZY7FRCDTY","auth":{"1":"7fde45fda5797c0beba3086127d0abcba6470deef6461a6045a7d4143c58f40c"},"focal_point":{"x":1447,"y":646},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/L7EBYBUTIAGXMZIY5ZY7FRCDTY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/28/scottie-scheffler-storms-into-the-lead-at-houston-open-after-course-record-62/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"HBQYTM5DE5FODNUJS4JRFJQUGE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":179,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/1f4ccf1a-8280-477d-924b-cf578ae701a3/versions/1743108215/media/90db98bb4ed59c0b1c391689674fb7c1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/27/rory-mcilroys-pedestrian-opening-round-in-the-houston-rain-leaves-him-with-work-to-do/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UX7OO5OJONALHERO245E5TGFK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352094},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_blank\">Rory McIlroy</a> may perhaps have second-guessed his decision to belatedly add the Texas Children’s Houston Open on to his playing itinerary for a large stretch of the opening round, where heavy rain conspired to make for challenging conditions at the Memorial Park municipal course in downtown Houston.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EWO4RPXIM5GOLF63SWZYMYWUQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352097},"content":"Indeed, the world number two – looking for a third win of the season on the PGA Tour and aiming to follow-up his win in The Players a fortnight ago with a further momentum driver towards the Masters in two weeks – struggled for large tracts, ultimately managing to sign for a level-par 70 that left him with work to do if he’s to play his way back towards contention in the $9.5 million purse event.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSJVSVLPXFHLHJA6WFTQZJQBNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352098},"content":"“A little pedestrian, I guess,” came McIlroy’s post-round observations of a day’s work that started in heavy rainfall and where his game only improved when he could dispense with the rain gear as his first round score left him trailing early clubhouse leaders Alejandro Tosti of Argentina and American Ryan Gerard, who carded 65s, by five shots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXM4TENETVC7LEWDURFYLVSYII","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352099},"content":"McIlroy’s round – two birdies, two bogeys – failed to find any real spark: he bogeyed the 14th, having started on the 10th, after driving into the right rough and, then, after finally managing a birdie on the Par 5 third (his 12th) of the round, he immediately gave it back with a bogey on the fourth where he found the left rough off the tee. He managed to get back to parity with a birdie on the par 5 eighth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WPJ2EANRZBHTDQRHCDQJL7PY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352100},"content":"“We had to deal with those conditions early on, rainy and not too pleasant to play in. I made a few par saves early on that I need to and then had quite a few chances on the second nine there that I didn’t convert. So yeah, sort of tale of two halves. I felt like I was scrambling for the most part on the first nine and then I feel like I left a couple out there on the last nine,” said McIlroy who, in fact, found only eight of 13 fairways and hit 12 of 18 greens in regulation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFMBFISVTFCFTK4CBTREXKR5SE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352101},"content":"He added: “I drove it better once I got my rain gear off. I couldn’t really find the middle of the club face for the first few holes. Once it brightened up and as the conditions got a little better, I felt like I drove it pretty well.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TASMGQP46BDTDFJPEPVBGY3334","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352102},"content":"McIlroy, a winner of the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players so far this season, hadn’t played in the Houston Open in 11 years but added it to his scheduling as a final competitive outing ahead of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7DZQHVJCREV3JIA5BHD5OXW2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352103},"content":"“I think a little bit of experience around this course isn’t a bad thing and I’m sort of just trying to learn as I go along,” admitted McIlroy of trying to quickly learn a new course.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TPQOBFDJZCYTLVDAXHJRXPSM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352105},"content":"In the Ford Championship on the LPGA Tour, Europe Solheim Cup star Charley Hull shot a sensational bogey-free opening round of nine-under-par 63 (a career low first round for the English player) to assume the clubhouse lead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FE3VV3XEABDNPI2N6D3X2J25YM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743107352106},"content":"Leona Maguire had a poor start, two over through her opening six holes, but fought back to sign for a two-under-par 70 which included a hat-trick of birdies from the 11th.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"World number two struggled to light up as he sits five shots behind the clubhouse leaders"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T20:38:28.708Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy’s ‘pedestrian’ opening round in Houston rain leaves him with work to do","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"G42VX6QUQTR5H5SAF5XLSMYMTQ","auth":{"1":"29dcdacf1e0b0e24ddd16cf57e9c4e341f2844fe49b5ac22c485077b3f52b140"},"focal_point":{"x":1044,"y":182},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/G42VX6QUQTR5H5SAF5XLSMYMTQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/27/rory-mcilroys-pedestrian-opening-round-in-the-houston-rain-leaves-him-with-work-to-do/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"G5I3VUCPRZBK7HMS4TPAWD3DKA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":333,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9a144dd6-8952-497e-a169-cc97085d4bd1/versions/1742926748/media/22683e540b6a0af378d9be58a586effa_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/27/john-feinsteins-dealings-with-johan-cruyff-revealed-a-young-sportswriter-who-never-pulled-his-punches/","content_elements":[{"_id":"Q4YB3GVY5RAO3BGGJ3DUJCCF2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following his death earlier this month, the obituaries for John Feinstein paid fitting tribute to his enduring contribution to the sporting wing of the great American library. Each trawl through his career touched upon 40-plus non-fiction books written across four decades, classics such as A Good Walk Spoiled, A Season on the Brink, Hard Courts, and The Majors showcasing his unique knack for lifting the veil on everything from professional golf to college basketball, tennis to the NFL. Soccer never featured in his sprawling bibliography, yet one of his most prized personal possessions was a jersey belonging to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/johan-cruyff\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/johan-cruyff\">Johan Cruyff</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGOXU5HOYBE2VA6PAX3NT7KY5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not some supposedly game-worn piece of memorabilia purchased at one of those online auctions where authenticity can be a fluid concept either. Here was the genuine article delivered right from the player himself. Shortly before the Dutchman departed the Washington Diplomats following his late-stage, not entirely successful flirtation with the North American Soccer League in 1981, he invited Feinstein for a farewell lunch and interview at the Four Seasons in DC. After the food had been cleared away, Cruyff said, “I have something for you.” Suddenly, he was fumbling under the table where he had earlier placed a box that he now handed over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E32EJWJD45GSRNRRP5YMWTOKSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Inside it was one of his jerseys,” Feinstein told Pablo Maurer in The Athletic in 2016. “So obviously, the tradition in soccer is that you give your jersey to your opponent at the end of the game, out of respect. And he said, ‘You deserve this. You were a worthy adversary.’ I never thought of myself as an adversary. I still have the jersey, which I cherish.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZWWOTZNVJDPRBKNZM7QWIJ6ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fresh out of Duke University, Feinstein started at The Washington Post, where the rookie cut his teeth on the police and court beats before fetching up at the sports desk. There, he was eventually tasked with covering the Washington Diplomats of the troubled North American Soccer League. A rather humdrum assignment typically given to those down the food chain, it morphed into something much more glamorous and exciting after the club signed Cruyff, newly bankrupt because of a dodgy financial adviser, in 1980. The cub reporter and the most cerebral footballer of this and perhaps any generation forged a strange, mutually beneficial relationship. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ANQ5NY22CFHQ5L3ZIZCER2SZ6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It became almost a ritual, if they lost,” said Feinstein in that interview with Maurer. “I’d say, ‘So Johan, what happened out there?’ He’d say, ‘What happened? The coach is an idiot. The players don’t know what they’re doing and they don’t f**king listen to me. This is impossible.’ That was what he’d always say: ‘This is impossible.’” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RY7E4PU6NNASFESQSJECYY66NE","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"FASUL3BXSFEGVEPAXXXXRDZKBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The savvy Cruyff knew enough about America to appreciate that venting about questionable tactics and unco-operative teammates carried more heft in the sports pages of the Post than anywhere else. It was then a great newspaper, still basking in the afterglow of Woodward and Bernstein’s Watergate exposé, rather than the emasculated private Jeff Bezos plaything of today. Smart and ambitious, Feinstein recognised too that he’d been afforded privileged access to an outspoken character whose name guaranteed column inches, the prized currency any young writer on the up craves.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABXI7GWAKRAAJHYHGEH3OE7A7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Johan would come up to me and say, ‘Why did you put this in the paper?’,” said Feinstein, about the routine that played out every time one of Cruyff’s printed harangues subsequently caused controversy at the club. “And I’d say, ‘For crying out loud, I had my notebook out!’ And then when practice was over, especially on the road, he’d just come up and say, ‘So where are we going to dinner?’ All was forgotten.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGXHLAJDHNHEJHXRGXTC2F2ZPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"John Feinstein, biographer of David Feherty: ‘I don’t think it shocked him but that doesn’t mean it didn’t hurt’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"GBBW2I67RFBJTMKVZJOVQEB2G4","additional_properties":{},"content":"After exiting the playoffs in the opening round in his first season, Cruyff was back playing with Levante in Spain in 1981 when Feinstein mentioned to Washington’s coach Ken Furphy that the struggling team needed its superstar. Five weeks later, he returned to the capital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6WKMDNCNFNESLMBIJLBDAMQVPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The greatness of so many of Feinstein’s later publications was that, just like in his dealings with Cruyff, he inveigled his way into inner sanctums, gaining the trust of normally private, reticent subjects, producing works that genuinely took readers behind the curtain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N2HY3YEJKBB4LOSZC7APHKCVOI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"5RGJEHC2ZBEVNGTVXJECRCKIKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"His prolific stretch in that regard began when he persuaded the legendary coach Bobby Knight to allow him to spend six months with the Indiana University Hoosiers’ basketball team in 1985. His sports editor signed off on the leave of absence because he wanted the peace that came when the rather demanding Feinstein was out of the office, and that sojourn spawned the timeless A Season on the Brink.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CLOHPJX4NZG47MAXDWHNAE6FWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Still billed as the best-selling sportsbook of all time, Knight went berserk at the completely accurate portrayal of him as a foul-mouthed bully. Cruyff was a little more stoic. Despite the fact somebody else at the Post once wrote that the European import “has been the biggest disappointment since Lyndon B Johnson’s Great Society”, his relationship with Feinstein appeared unaffected. Something which is all the more impressive since clippings from the era show the young journalist never pulled his punches. In one article alone, he reveals the star player was earning $9,000 a game, criticises the hypocrisy of his complicated relationship with the coach, and baldly states he had come to America simply because it was less pressure than remaining in Europe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCHR5AMNIZBRHAEGFFPRAHM6PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He insists that he does not think of himself as the Saviour,” wrote Feinstein. “But he did not object when somebody stitched “JC” on the front of his uniform.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"POC33TV3MVCZBO5WPN3B57LQRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Clever intro. Odd couple.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Dave Hannigan"}},"name":"Dave Hannigan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Late journalist’s career showcased his unique knack for lifting the veil on golf, college basketball, tennis and the NFL"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"John Feinstein’s dealings with Johan Cruyff revealed a young sportswriter who never pulled his punches","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BLFTLENLIJCGTGQTEPOBT5LIOQ","auth":{"1":"eda0cece1628cebe72c90321232e2c705643fc781353626ddfe006ca267937cc"},"focal_point":{"x":1826,"y":1195},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BLFTLENLIJCGTGQTEPOBT5LIOQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/27/john-feinsteins-dealings-with-johan-cruyff-revealed-a-young-sportswriter-who-never-pulled-his-punches/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"DCJ62PHU5FEVZN4QO4R7QHL2PY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":905,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/4c716928-6214-482c-b2d9-497e44fa590b/versions/1743018135/media/fbe2f556491599f6f4ee2cc0a435a455_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/26/kellie-harrington-remains-on-40000-podium-funding-as-some-sport-ireland-investment-figures-yet-to-be-realised/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5F7BW7I2GND73IFPYIYFSUBZZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325176},"content":"An increase to €27 million in high performance funding in the first year of the new Olympic cycle is the headline amount highlighted by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sport-ireland/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sport-ireland/\">Sport Ireland</a>, although there is still some moving and shaking to be done before final figures are realised.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4REBI4OFHVBENEC3MEIJQWBSXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325177},"content":"Up €2 million on the last of the Paris cycle amount, in all 16 National Governing Bodies (NGB’s) will benefit from high-performance programme funding worth €12.7m this year as they turn their attention towards Los Angeles in 2028, with another €4.85m announced in direct athlete support, including €3.8m under the international carding scheme.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NYDSS6KRTZGIPINRW2AN5IILIA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325178},"content":"The 16 NGB’s are down three on the 19 who benefited in the Paris four-year cycle, and the international carding amount is also reduced slightly, with 129 athletes plus 11 relays/pool funding named across 15 sports, with 29 athletes receiving the maximum podium amount of €40,000/€30,000, compared to 33 last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZQ4MCDCQGRFQ5DORAHHZM3SJNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325179},"content":"These still include boxer <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kellie-harrington/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kellie-harrington/\">Kellie Harrington</a>, who defended her Olympic title in Paris and declared that her last competitive bout, but has yet to formally announce her retirement to Sport Ireland. Thus, Harrington remains on €40,000, Sport Ireland acknowledging that formal announcement is pending, after which she will still be entitled to 50 per cent of the allocation under the athlete career transition programme (ACT).","type":"text"},{"_id":"IN3TGNRJZBFU3FDCH3WCX3L2OQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325180},"content":"Several other athletes are set to move up a grade, given these amounts were signed off weeks several weeks ago: boxer Aoife O’Rourke is also on podium funding of €40,000, having also qualified for Paris, her sister Lisa not yet listed even though she also won a silver medal at the World Boxing Championships earlier this month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7WDPNWB2VEJDFFW4Y77DXHUFE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325181},"content":"In athletics, five athletes are now on podium amounts, including Sharlene Mawdsley and Sophie Becker, both rewarded on the back of their contribution to the relay medal successes last summer, while Kate O’Connor and Sarah Healy are on world-class amounts of €25,000. Given O’Connor’s medal double this month, bronze at the European Indoors and then silver at the World Indoors, she’ll also move to the podium class, and the expectation is Healy will too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZBQ5MMQONBLVGQAZ5F7STJYXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325182},"content":"Rowing Ireland again tops the overall high-performance investment with €1.1m for 2025, and is joined at the top by Swim Ireland, also on €1.1m. However Rowing Ireland’s full four-year cycle amount is not yet agreed as they still have to appoint a new high performance director, and a four-year plan has also to be agreed with the Irish Athletic Boxing Association, who are on €1.05m.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5YRQ5URN65EQBMOE73VSCDYIEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325183},"content":"Athletics Ireland has also increased its amount from €841,666 to €1.05m, with Paralympics Ireland getting €1m, again for one-year only, as para swimming and athletes are currently transitioning to Swim Ireland and Athletics Ireland respectively.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7GN6INJZJCTDES4GA7K4D7CWU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325184},"content":"Last year, Rowing Ireland had 16 athletes on top-tier podium funding, that reduced to nine this year, including Ross Corrigan and Nathan Timoney and Aoife Casey and Margaret Cremen, who each received a special “one-off” podium amount of €30,000, agreed between Rowing Ireland and Sport Ireland, in recognition of them making their Olympic final in Paris.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6LCENF6HNACDAGCT5BDROHCDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325185},"content":"Speaking at the announcement in Trinity College, Sport Ireland high performance committee chair Olive Loughnane said it wasn’t all about the money: “It’s not just the funding,” said Loughnane, the 2009 World Champion in the 20km walk. “It’s also the practical stuff. Such as access to the Institute of Sport, and all the support and back up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B226E6ZPLBEEDHC4WM23XHWWZU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325186},"content":"“Back when I was university in Galway, I didn’t even have anywhere to train. There was a track there, but I used to climb over the gate to get in. I’ve gone past the statute of limitations, but I was basically trespassing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQBO4CDHTRAJZGDOCWOVUIHTSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325187},"content":"“So I’ve been involved in Irish sport firstly as a recipient [of funding] from 2000 to 2012, and after retiring I took a role as a member of the high performance committee initially, and latterly as the chairperson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWBNLW4XCJBFHDJJGPTGHO7VLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325188},"content":"“I have seen first hand the different money makes, but if you want that sustained success, you also need that strong leadership and systematic approach. I’ve seen that system evolve, and it is driven very much by investment in people, and also in processes.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4BEUOYRIJH6JH7PTDTVOTVKA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325189},"content":"High Performance coaching support will increase also from €1.2m to €1.5m in 2025, with additional high performance operational funding going to the Olympic Federation of Ireland (€600,000) and Paralympics Ireland (€450,000).","type":"text"},{"_id":"QWVI46RDVJBHZHKM4GD2NC5WPY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016325190},"content":"Six more NGB’s also received funding via the Performance Development Programme: Irish Judo Association (€200,000), Pentathlon Ireland (€150,000), Taekwondo Ireland (€75,000), Basketball Ireland (€200,000), Weightlifting Ireland (€50,000), Squash Ireland (€50,000) and Winter Sports (via OFI €50,000).","type":"text"},{"_id":"THVG2DWEC5HFDDTUULTY2AZJIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>High Performance Programme Funding – 2024/2025/2025-2028</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"H2ACAO6KPJEXDC3D6YIIZW4CNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431990},"content":"<b>Rowing Ireland</b> €1,093,333/€1,100,000/One year only","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXS4QPACYNEC3E2KYVJ4X2S2SM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431991},"content":"<b>Swim Ireland</b> €756,666/€1,100,000/€4,400,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z3U2E7CED5GVFG2RN5AAELS64E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431992},"content":"<b>Athletics Ireland</b> €841,666/€1,050,000/€4,200,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"IS3KNGHUA5CALLDUVZPH6IB4N4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431993},"content":"<b>Irish Athletic Boxing Association</b> €965,000/€1,050,000/One year only","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUH7JVTHVVHDJNUXG3OVMDA6HI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431994},"content":"<b>Paralympics Ireland</b> €1,000,000/€1,000,000/One year only","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBKA4A3UGBEQLHCBETWKOCZIWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431995},"content":"<b>Irish Sailing Association </b>€800,000/€1,000,000/€4,000,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"35AFATQ7ARCWBMWPBPO77QDWZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431996},"content":"<b>Hockey Ireland</b> €856,666/€950,000/€3,800,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHVQS7EIGREK7C4FHNTMXZHI2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431997},"content":"<b>Horse Sport Ireland</b> €803,333/€900,000/€3,600,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4OLECIJBVH5LF63VBRY2SXXYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431998},"content":"<b>Cycling Ireland</b> €520,000/€725,000/€2,900,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHQM4XWN3ZEAPEV4TSL6OJ3HO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013431999},"content":"<b>Gymnastics Ireland</b> €506,666/€725,000/€2,900,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"EV7SMMOEIRDG5BWENIGYQCQT3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432000},"content":"<b>Golf Ireland</b> €516,666/€650,000/€2,600,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3VGDVEDGBABXDVDXMBPTBZHTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432001},"content":"<b>IRFU </b>€416,666/€600,000/€2,400,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RL6UFHDANCRRCV7C25DFIVV6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432002},"content":"<b>Cricket Ireland</b> €333,333/€600,000/€2,400,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"XB42SI3FEBDEBLJNRKXDJPQZBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432003},"content":"<b>Badminton Ireland</b> €346,666/€500,000/€2,000,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"52Y64P7HLNDSRBYHTPNAZDIEKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432004},"content":"<b>Canoeing Ireland</b> €216,666/€475,000/€1,900,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDYRD7RZYZDZZNUDIJ3QBOG6YQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432005},"content":"<b>Triathlon Ireland</b> €250,000/€280,000/€1,120,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"H37URECCYNGE3PPY6THGNN6SUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432006},"content":"<b>Total</b> €10,223,327<b>/</b>€12,705,000/€38,220,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7W6HPJK7DJF5VM5SPMBHX2NNHQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432007},"content":"<u><b>International Carding Scheme 2025</b></u>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LNGW2GMSFJBFDBK2KHGWE3T7CM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432008},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Athletics Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"52QKLGKAH5FE5MNWC5PLG673W4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432009},"content":"Ciara Mageean Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAE6YRSNQVGGDLCJOH3PZ7BJH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432010},"content":"Rhasidat Adeleke Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEOM35JDIZDWVNZNSRDCOY4MAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432011},"content":"Sharlene Mawdsley Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JXJBQFVVIBGFBHHDECDNIBWVZM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432012},"content":"Sophie Becker Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"43CGRMSJSVDMVCGXCISDYJDRGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432013},"content":"Christopher O’Donnell Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QKXOU3KEIZENLECOMNGUYDZUXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432014},"content":"Sarah Lavin World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5GP7ECGHBDWVHWSZHBG72SJ6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432015},"content":"Sarah Healy World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"6S37XYQSVNAR7BTALYYUCEQFSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432016},"content":"Katherine O’Connor World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"T35TV3UIF5EFDACF76PVIOGZKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432017},"content":"Mark English World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DRBOEUYRRHMXHY77FSYYFPKHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432018},"content":"Andrew Coscoran International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"O5Y4GY5VE5CHNMT3NKYL7KSWYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432019},"content":"Brian Fay International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEBIT4C5DZBTDKPM3ZN4NAVKBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432020},"content":"Efrem Gidey International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RDPEWL2PNZD3RHBT5FRKLPVAM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432021},"content":"Eric Favors International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VPD4H6DBVZFRDJQYZZAXL6IA4I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432022},"content":"Luke McCann International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"X64OK2IKMFE7VJZHRXYTVX67GY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432023},"content":"Sophie O’Sullivan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WWUPCOXR5FEGLNQVF34ZOVDP7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432024},"content":"Nicola Tuthill International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"6AVL42NDJRATVBHSO7Z3JG7HMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432025},"content":"Cathal Doyle International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRKAWXEII5CB5B4YO4LSTCAB5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432026},"content":"Nicholas Griggs International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HFJZ57IJJERRPOVT4OZOJ65IE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432027},"content":"Fionnuala McCormack International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"D57F7I5FLZAWRIL4NSP3PWECME","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432028},"content":"Hiko Haso International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"KEVKF3TGMBGIZBXZDZWNPYQS5M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432029},"content":"Darragh McElhinney International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SCEH4G3DEFENVNFMYYQMJBZGDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432030},"content":"Israel Olatunde International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAHJGNVFW5FZ3DO4H5U6WTPHYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432031},"content":"Mixed 4x400m Relay Relay/Pool €60,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z54VWHOSAFA6DD4GNUA3SIOSEU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432032},"content":"Women’s 4x400m Relay Relay/Pool €60,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTZAANCONNEDXPG7NK64OVU6XY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432033},"content":"<b>Total €645,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMGGT56CDRFRZFBQXMZ7ZZQ6VI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432034},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Badminton Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZHU53SGQVD33KICPDUOTQISVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432035},"content":"Nhat Nguyen World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WL3OBVBR4RG47JXXWGNKP3GU6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432036},"content":"Rachael Darragh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"FC26X26YCRHFDDV2BYB3SFD63A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432037},"content":"Joshua Magee International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"XOOFQD6AEVB7HFU6ETXV2VLCTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432038},"content":"Paul Reynolds International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFETS4HDY5FHZAWY643BOBQTMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432039},"content":"Moya Ryan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7I2UG2TIW5EX3LNWLXVZBQGPR4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432040},"content":"<b>Total €97,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CORMTZDZ6FBJNILNJ3SSTHJ6NY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432041},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Canoeing Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNMXZWR7IJDLHBOF7N67MJ4V6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432042},"content":"Liam Jegou World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2JAMQLPZ5H4DBSXUHZELMTMQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432043},"content":"Ronan Foley International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JI4MMLLWVRDNLMQLNPWXRLHUZU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432044},"content":"Alistair McCreery International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQCGNDFKC5G23G274HHS6SOJ54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432045},"content":"Jake Cochrane International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7MKFN2WJRGQ7MIQE6MJHGDEQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432046},"content":"Noel Hendrick International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5XJZYKEDVCTVOLEDOX7URQK4U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432047},"content":"Madison Corcoran International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"F6UKJPZEHVCI7HHPZFIYDEYP6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432048},"content":"<b>Total €97,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"HDXZ6CBROVD5XKJWYEFYABTESI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432049},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Cycling Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DF4STFI5SBEBTLFMQYOUAS7M6Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432050},"content":"Lara Gillespie Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"T2HC3OMHFBGEJK2UKOBW4G6BHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432051},"content":"Mia Griffin World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXUU3RRAFNGO3LTSAOWJCA7TLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432052},"content":"Erin Grace Creighton World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKIUT6IUR5GNTJG46HMR3WA6EM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432053},"content":"Cycling Ireland (Para) Josephine Healion Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFJU2J4QFJFAXOBGSLXR3DIYPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432054},"content":"Linda Kelly (Pilot) Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXBTB7LESJECRHDVDJU3U24UEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432055},"content":"Katie-George Dunlevy Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XHC5INHYNFC5JQAU64NKRUB24","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432056},"content":"Richael Timothy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2PHBFP6M5GEZA5UZFQLR22HQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432057},"content":"Christopher Burns International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"6AG4MI57XJAWHF5MX3I5N4KJH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432058},"content":"Mitchell McLaughlin (Pilot) International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QO7H4NAUOBEELF7XKU4R7CEJ5A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432059},"content":"Damien Vereker International €18,000 Pilot & Pool Funding €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5OP6DNDMNVAKJH6XQKLNQMOEGI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432060},"content":"<b>Total €322,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MT5ASKRZ7RE7RJ7UIOIFWPT52A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432062},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Gymnastics Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"5KJKI3LVXFCIVDJQSMFYN4AEM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432063},"content":"Rhys McClenaghan Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4TMVGKKLRGTNLUT2Z7MQLJGAA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432064},"content":"Adam Steele International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWELR5MOO5GKJBEDNUR3OTLVLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432065},"content":"Dominick Cunningham International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCI4MXM5K5D5JCCHZJQVZDMM3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432066},"content":"Emma Slevin International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YV2PKDGCSZGWVDOVDEWKXURHGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432067},"content":"Halle Hilton International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"HY7DVZIW4RCFXFUKIQ4UKQYH74","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432068},"content":"Eamon Montgomery International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RTMQGBULURC4RG2NU5OBVSG4K4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432069},"content":"Pool Funding €80,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"V5GHHSORAJCWVGYHDCXWB6LW5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432070},"content":"<b>Total €210,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PTBYXCERZNFAZOLBG47PL47QV4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432072},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Athletic Boxing Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZB7J5LMYREOTM5KXA2IP6KRUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432073},"content":"Kellie Harrington Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHVQR6PUWZGALMUHZZ276UYYWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432074},"content":"Aoife O’Rourke Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJI54SDNSNBB5AFB3XFKGS6ZRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432075},"content":"Shannon Sweeney Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YKKG6F2ACREZZEPM35G3X4QF2I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432076},"content":"Jack Marley World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"2ZTU54NINVEZFPEYAFJDXD4IRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432077},"content":"Niamh Fay World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SBDKTOHIIRCQPKCSEY7ZK2IQ6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432078},"content":"Adam Hession International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUKLZ5MUABBUFBIHANGSQJTFY4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432079},"content":"Kelyn Cassidy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4UAGOSBHVC6HPCSDHBZWIFS3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432080},"content":"Martin McDonagh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y5DU3J57BZFQVMOATCAPIVRXYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432081},"content":"Dean Clancy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7SYMSA2BXRHDVI472HJ3F7YCJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432082},"content":"Daina Moorehouse International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"426KXT7GBVBCLAPGTCLOFTC23U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432083},"content":"Jennifer Lehane International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKCLKAYDCBFWRGKVL4LHHUSYYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432084},"content":"Gráinne Walsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCF5IX4HCNBJBCKGAZVFWFP6BM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432085},"content":"Aidan Walsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTARJASVERH57GQIXEIJRBEGZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432086},"content":"Jude Gallagher International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGEBRGDWEZHDBI7XDUDMLD6UOE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432087},"content":"Michaela Walsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHQC524ITZDAZP6UUQCNUF6E5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432088},"content":"Pool Funding €80,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEHRUG7DANFUTCPCFA7ES36TDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432089},"content":"<b>Total €430,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RI3YNKOYUBHKPLKMX6ABUITNBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432091},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Clay Target Shooting Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"K2R743SJQZEA3LP3XIS2Y34MIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432092},"content":"Ian O’Sullivan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"N4TNJPQATBEH7OBQ5ZJR4AQVPY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432093},"content":"<b>Total €18,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OLQ6VBXM4JAETD5BYJKTXY67CQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432095},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Judo Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TIUSXBV6NRDXVPW5RA24WUNF5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432096},"content":"Joshua Green International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"KVOOH3LIYVBGHMO3HAIKG3JNBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432097},"content":"Rachael Hawkes International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SR2KLDY2FG7VE7Y3B55KFGIOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432098},"content":"Bearach Gleeson International €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPUTMO5C75H6FBUSIEXO2FFNM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432099},"content":"<b>Total €51,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOZMQCFBQJFXNIVKW7N2ILRY7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432101},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Irish Sailing Association</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2N4IWBOTVGPVD4NBZXFYGLLG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432102},"content":"Finn Lynch Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"FJB4BTP3DZHT3BHRIHALML4P2Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432103},"content":"Robert Dickson Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GUTOQ5IDQRBTLN2BTVNZOPTABU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432104},"content":"Sean Waddilove Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ATMXG63LNFCMFJQ4QGALIYKERA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432105},"content":"Eve McMahon International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"YIYMXA44EJEGNKBN7YX6O7U44A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432106},"content":"<b>Total €145,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"GQ6ACJCDHZAJ7EXJ4SEVF6TPWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432108},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Paralympics Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7JTLIHBJBHL5D5QBZ7ESA7HCU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432109},"content":"Pool Funding €80,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JUFWEU5CBDNZFUXZUJIUZUOMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432110},"content":"(Para Athletics) Orla Comerford Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIPXDGHCXRCGNGFY6JEJHD25OY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432111},"content":"Greta Streimikyte World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RUVP465XCJE5BIN6PF5CK5NL6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432112},"content":"Shauna Bocquet International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLP7L6BBPZBSHBQTR6IFQJOOSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432113},"content":"Mary Fitzgerald International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSQP4PPNMJGURPBRNEHD5DAXKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432114},"content":"Jordan Lee International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DRAO5AIGFDNRC6BPXT3FERFMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432115},"content":"(Para Swimming) Roisin Ni Riain Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZKOHDIIWZZGBJPJHBC3EOU6IAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432116},"content":"Barry McClements World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4OIF2ENOFDWVFG74VYRYXUXSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432117},"content":"Dearbhaile Brady World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VAU4S6VDWJCL7GIJV7KE3DUE4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432118},"content":"Deaten Registe International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"IV5HYIBISZDH7PVPGDDVNELLUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432119},"content":"<b>Total €307,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHHPZXXZKFGRRIKU5I6AOVLHMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432121},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Rowing Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZPE5CNLT2JBELMOZZB23NCQX64","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432122},"content":"Paul O’Donovan Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZK2IAPWBCNHZTPW4Q2YFPHERGE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432123},"content":"Fintan McCarthy Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"AER7HJQCS5FJVMUP25PPROUQ4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432124},"content":"Philip Doyle Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2RDW4XAZVECFPQJG6SM3MPNYI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432125},"content":"Daire Lynch Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVPEBQ2J6ZBTLNADDO4JGI4XSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432126},"content":"Fiona Murtagh Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SNDCBF34YFDJNAQAM64DHQVMN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432127},"content":"Ross Corrigan Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"4UPNG4QR5BAQ7OMHZLUVJ4A76Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432128},"content":"Nathan Timoney Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWKOKLXXPVHBTC4X6UJVEXXUIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432129},"content":"Aoife Casey Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKSDJVRROFHEDDTFVZXKF3Z54Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432130},"content":"Margaret Cremen Podium €30,000 *","type":"text"},{"_id":"L4LXZQOYTBCF5ODQQQI4KBAMEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432131},"content":"Zoe Hyde World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"37P2VAOODVA7HBSHDWILJCZHNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432132},"content":"Alison Bergin World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"77DCEGBDLJAPBF4XWUX4HYH5LM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432133},"content":"Eimear Lambe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"R5EZJBP2YNGXVEUNOWL7KD36MU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432134},"content":"Emily Hegarty World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"TG6G5BH46VGUNHEP6O4OMUSK4Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432135},"content":"Imogen Magner World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"RABUNHA3TFENBO6SVY33ZLVX2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432136},"content":"Natalie Long World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7344CGUFHZCD7NLWRXC3XKMRMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432137},"content":"Brian Colsh International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GYGSZFZMC5CIFAHOAK7YP4JFWY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432138},"content":"Adam Murphy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LXUWGAE4GRGJLFNCPS6AGPUWEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432139},"content":"Konan Pazzaia International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEFN7KUE4NGYPMTISKPSX7LLFU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432140},"content":"Ciaran Purdy International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WZHK2HNGVCXDKCVB72JFUPZMY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432141},"content":"Donnacha Keeley International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"PHNRQVMWVJBALFSR4FAQOLJDRQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432142},"content":"Siobhán McCrohan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWW2ZQKDTVHHFEO3HJLLM5OOMY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432143},"content":"(Para) Katie O’Brien International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"J34VSEGUGNCPHNSGKXAHOSGHXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432144},"content":"Tiarnan O’Donnell International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"64DNWRJV7NFNTBG7YGYHF427WM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432145},"content":"Steven McGowan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFV7VURCINGXPBOPYJX32Y2JKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432146},"content":"<i>* One off podium funding of €30,000 in recognition of making Olympic final</i>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYMCAX2EEFCBHILIT256HUSADY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432147},"content":"<b>Total €632,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"NA3MOCRAFZDQZNKRFVMNXT3EF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432149},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Swim Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CTFAEH4SNDOBP3BUGNRX562CM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432150},"content":"Daniel Wiffen Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JWFQWRGMTNBT7PZ3UYXG5DLSZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432151},"content":"Mona McSharry Podium €40,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"VTC3TSUYUJH6JAKWZU4ZJT2QHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432152},"content":"Ellen Walshe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"SUG4EPUE5VEDTGWG2M3Y2JG7CQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432153},"content":"Danielle Hill World Class €20,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ISL6J3NWVJGJVLRIDCDMR2F7NI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432154},"content":"Tom Fannon International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JXCRPLM65ZG3TPYAGE25CO7LXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432155},"content":"Shane Ryan International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"JNKWSKBU7JDE7JJEVHHKWBD2H4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432156},"content":"Eoin Corby International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"OVRMTX42BJBCZGFLLFL4X4E3CU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432157},"content":"Charlotte Cullen International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AMFI4PLVVE2TNEH3DKNXBCOJQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432158},"content":"Ellie McCartney International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"GAKBGYHBBRENPIXC4XWRBTFLPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432159},"content":"John Shortt International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZATFQMMIAVFQNEAFX2YCOK6UZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432160},"content":"Darragh Greene International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYEHBIVTKBGUHFKG3QSZTVFAUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432161},"content":"Nathan Wiffen International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CPROV5YJ2RC27NZ2LWR73LKVLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432162},"content":"Jake Passmore International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"37UINUT4MBC5LLR2B4F6YTTCYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432163},"content":"Conor Ferguson International €18,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CDHTIHAMBNF3BBIB6TP2GFHOJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432164},"content":"Women’s 4x100m Medley Relay €100,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"2ZESD3C7NRHIJCXQSXN3LENCLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432165},"content":"Men’s 4x100m Medley Relay","type":"text"},{"_id":"5V575G7TCNBT5PDRBEVAWGAGRY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432166},"content":"Women’s 4x100m Freestyle Relay","type":"text"},{"_id":"PFZEUX4LBBDWVI2NDFNZXH37NQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432167},"content":"Men’s 4x200m Freestyle Relay Mixed 4x100m Medley Relay","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFQNM6V75ZGDRPWD2ZFSWRKA3Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432168},"content":"<b>Total €423,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZRKT6DCWIFAG5BL5KVH33KZWHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432170},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Table Tennis Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SW4SRG474NBM5H6LGYDDRT6ML4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432171},"content":"(Para) Colin Judge World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"IDCECC3P5BFIBNFMG3LDAOUMME","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432172},"content":"<b>Total €25,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OL3HF7MPGBBSFBA5BRW2JH7CWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432174},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Taekwondo Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XZH7YVXEBEWBLMKUZ4JMYUVM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432175},"content":"Jack Woolley World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVTH7FQX4NEGFJFX6GWFFMD7IE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432176},"content":"Programme Costs €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"S562DFGJJBCSPELJTN5VZU2EHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432177},"content":"<b>Total €40,000</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OEXCVAOWKNGYPDLOYWF2JVZPEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432179},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Triathlon Ireland</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AL3PKWPKCNCUXLHFOCL6SBNW3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432180},"content":"James Edgar International €18,000 Triathlon Ireland (Para)","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPBMOFOEK5DAPIVY2K7VHFMIEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432181},"content":"Chloe MacCombe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"NRDMV2ZAPVEQHBFQ5CYB47YBDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432182},"content":"Catherine Sands (Pilot) World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"PK4WM3NOSRH2DHSKHCRK7YEQRU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432183},"content":"Judith MacCombe World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4JAWBWDYZAK7JJTDQ6LV7EXXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432184},"content":"(Para) Eimear Nicholls (Pilot) World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCGNRDOMURDAZM37PN3MJPTK7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432185},"content":"Tom Williamson World Class €25,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"CBOARVSPBJEVFJMSBWYV5OHUTA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432186},"content":"Donnacha McCarthy International €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLBSYWU6FJFD3GU3EJRE2XHT6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432187},"content":"Sean Husband (Pilot) International €15,000","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGRISBOYPNE43G6ONOVEHTGGYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743013432188},"content":"<b>Total €173,000</b>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Funding increased to €27 million for the first year of the new cycle after successful Paris Olympics"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:37:09.791Z","headlines":{"basic":"Kellie Harrington remains on €40,000 podium funding as some Sport Ireland investment figures yet to be realised","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5RXYUNLWFH7DDQWPGNQYY2NVU","auth":{"1":"da06a310255af9d6547d948b7bb338b99effdbdbec27e674eed6ea2fa4f9f213"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5RXYUNLWFH7DDQWPGNQYY2NVU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Cycling"},{"name":"Boxing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/26/kellie-harrington-remains-on-40000-podium-funding-as-some-sport-ireland-investment-figures-yet-to-be-realised/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"JLZXIFLC4FBD3OUAN7SZAS3E3Y","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":553,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0c03b76b-cf58-475d-8a87-b1f43d711ffa/versions/1743013979/media/3e7fd8952da11e929f88c02d237a456b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/26/rory-mcilroy-fits-in-augusta-visit-to-refamiliarise-himself-with-course-before-houston-open/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IIFNVXVWFVAIVBHVXEYOJUOHTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714323},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_blank\">Rory McIlroy</a> has one eye on the here and now – as in, contending and trying to back up his win in The Players a fortnight ago with another in the Texas Children’s Houston Open at Memorial Park – but, naturally enough, also with another eye on what lies ahead in two weeks time, at the Masters in Augusta National.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOHENNXBNRBWBH3ZLBLX7IAYJY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714324},"content":"Since lifting the 28th win of his career on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a> at Sawgrass, McIlroy – who has added the Houston Open on to his schedule for the first time in 11 years as part of preparatory work in the quest to add a green jacket to his wardrobe – revisited Augusta National to “refamiliarise” himself with the course, especially in light of some remedial work that was carried out after last year’s storm including around the 16th green where a number of trees were felled.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7S466ID5PJBBTFYEVRM35AG3DQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714325},"content":"“The loss of a few trees is definitely noticeable ... they’ve had to redo that green but it’s exactly the same as what it was. Apart from maybe a few less shadows on the green late in the day because of a couple of trees that were lost, it’s pretty much the same,” said McIlroy, adding of the reasoning for his latest reconnaissance visit:","type":"text"},{"_id":"4YF2CAHYPJBT5H6XN5B77W4SLA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714326},"content":"“There’s four greens that are new this year that they’ve redone. You just sort of, you have a look at those and see if there’s any 2 new hole positions they give you, stuff like that. Apart from that, honestly for me, it’s nice to play a practice round without people around and it sort of takes the pressure off the start of the week for me. There’s a lot of obligations, there’s big commitments whether it be from media or the par-3 tournament on Wednesday. I just like to get up there and feel like I’m not rushed Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday the week of the tournament and that’s usually the reason I go there.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FZIDZVF7LQCDBHE343SF4C474","additional_properties":{"_id":"GKSDVXPDLBFV5CWU4C3XHFXFLA"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6TOP5YSNLBB4BDRCA7FRFLBHH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714327},"content":"McIlroy has not played the Houston Open since 2014 but the rejuggling of its position in the tour schedule and the need for another event between the Players and the Masters saw him add it to his itinerary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6TZSXMCLBB4LGREFNKTEOLMVE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714328},"content":"“I’ve watched this tournament the last couple years, especially since it moved to this date instead of (Autumn), and felt like it was a golf course that would be right up my alley and would suit my game and suit my style of play,” said McIlroy, who has started the season really well with two wins, in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and the Players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N3ANK3JRDFCSDIE57LWFQIN4VA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714329},"content":"Although it would be natural to look slightly into the future and that perennial bid to complete the career Grand Slam at the Masters, McIlroy insisted: “I just want to get a card in my hand and shoot scores and hopefully get myself in contention and try to win another golf tournament. It’s not as if I’m playing here this week and thinking about two weeks’ time. I’m here, I’m in the present, I’m trying to do my best this week and trying to win this golf tournament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4I4ZNCCVGJGP7GOY6I5J4CVHCE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714330},"content":"McIlroy is the only player to have won multiple tournaments on the PGA Tour this season and, effectively, ventures into world number one Scottie Scheffler’s den this week. Texan Scheffler finished tied-second last year (the only event in a five tournament stretch he didn’t win) but, this time, is looking for a first win of the season after a spell recuperating from a hand injury in the winter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43GKHDCO2ZHKBAYAG73EVNQYPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714331},"content":"“I feel like where I’m at in my game right now. I’m kind of, I would say, dialling things in, is how I’d describe it. I’m getting a little bit sharper and I feel like I’m improving a little bit. I feel like I’m fully in the swing of things, yeah. I don’t really think about missing any part of the season any more, everything feels normal. I feel like I’m definitely in the swing of a normal year now,” said Scheffler, who will defend his Masters title in two weeks time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNA6MDWS6RHRTLLL4ABZIONWZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743012714332},"content":"McIlroy is one of three Irish players in the field at Houston, but the only one with a ticket to the Masters. Séamus Power must win to earn a late exemption, same for Pádraig Harrington. Power’s first top-10 of the season last week in the Valspar also provided some movement in the Aon Swing 5 (a run which takes in the Puerto Rico Open, Valspar Championship, Texas Children’s Houston Open and Valero Texas Open) with five places on offer off a mini-order of merit in the Heritage, a signature event the week after the Masters. Power is playing both Texas events in his bid to claim one of those five spots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CXXCXW7KY5DPBN4RSSTFBBWD34","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761847},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Texas Children’s Houston Open</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XUNCZ2HNB5HKBL7II4KHQFHTNU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761848},"content":"<b>Purse</b>: €8.8 million/$9.5 million (€1.57m/$1.7m to the winner)","type":"text"},{"_id":"BIC3ZYZ3BVA7XB6ILFYFQXEXYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761849},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Houston, Texas, USA","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKTFD5PWNBCAPMFDW35R2OXMTM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761850},"content":"<b>The course</b>: Memorial Park Golf Course – 7,475 yards par 70 – was originally designed by John Bredemus but in recent years the public facility has undergone significant upgrading (at a cost of $35m) under noted architect Tom Doak with player input from Brooks Koepka. It is a public course located in downtown Houston and has proven to be a popular stop on the PGA Tour ... the layout includes a very strong finishing stretch, with the 16th (a par 5 of 616 yards) and 17th holes located on either side of a lake with peninsula greens, while the par 4 18th measures 503 yards and features three greenside bunkers. Scottie Scheffler and Tony Finau share the course record with 62s.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWKR377NEBEYVI76N66HQCC65E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761851},"content":"<b>The field</b>: The addition of Rory McIlroy – winner of The Players on his lasts outing – to join Scheffler in the event means that the top two players in the world feature in this tour stop, two weeks ahead of the Masters. Germany’s Stefan Jaeger is the defending champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5H5N26QGZD2BJVWCQ6ADEIQPI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761852},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote</b>: “As a golfer, a lot of us are very visual players and there’s certain golf courses that just look good to our eyes compared to others. I would say this is one that for me to me looks pretty good ... and, then, having won somewhere, I think that gives you the extra confidence” – Tony Finau, winner in 2022 and tied-second last year, on his liking of Memorial Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOXE2LTBMBBRBLCEAP77NQBONE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761853},"content":"<b>Irish in the field</b>: Rory McIlroy was in an either-or situation in whether to add the Texas Children’s Houston Open or next week’s Valero Texas Open to his schedule following the Players and chose this one. The Northern Irishman is in a group with Wyndham Clark and Maverick McNealy (off the 10th at 12.53pm Irish time); Pádraig Harrington is playing on a sponsor’s exemption and switches from the Champions Tour to the main circuit in a group alongside in-form JJ Spaun and Keith Mitchell (off the first at 5.41pm Irish time); Waterford’s Séamus Power secured his first top-10 finish of the season in last week’s Valspar Championship and needs a win to force his way into the Masters, playing in a group with Aaron Rai and Adam Svensson (6.36pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNMAVUXQHFGHJPFLR6EX3IXJB4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761854},"content":"<b>Betting</b>: World number one Scottie Scheffler missed a five-footer on the last a year ago to force a play-off with Jaeger, at a time when he was in the form of his life. This season has been a slow-burner, not helped by his off-season hand injury, but a return to a favoured course should see Scheffler – the market leader at 4-1 – contend strongly for a first win of the season, while McIlroy brings momentum in on the back of his Players title win and looks decent at 11-2. In terms of each-value, Jacob Bridgeman – with two top-3 finishes in his last four outings – is available at 40-1 while Ryo Hisatsune is worth a look at 100-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FXISIFL4JJFCJCJQQJ6OKKCAWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761855},"content":"<b>On TV</b>: Live on Sky Sports Golf (8pm, with featured group coverage from 1pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKENCVTDT5GODDMBKKDK3CCYJA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761857},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XOI7WJWZXJG2RI4ESXX23HAOYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761858},"content":"<b>Purse</b>: €2.1 million/$2.25m (€310,000/$335,000 to the winner)","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZLPXQ23B5NC6JA3E5GLK2OHTNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761859},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Chandler, Arizona, USA","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZ6XUCDDUVGWZD2GA2O5EY7KBI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761860},"content":"<b>The course</b>: Whirlwind Golf Club – 6,661 yards par 71 – was designed by Gary Panks and played host to the inaugural tournament last year, won by Nelly Korda. Located south of Phoenix, the resort is located in the foothills of the Sierra Estrella mountains in a desert setting. The par 5 17th is this week’s Aon risk-reward hole.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYAQ23LAARDTJKGZQDDZGX26KE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761861},"content":"<b>The field</b>: A stellar field with 19 of the world’s top 20 – headed by defending champion Nelly Korda – playing. All five Major winners of 2024 are competing. Gabby Barker, who has received a sponsor’s exemption, is the first Native American professional golfer: “It’s an honour to compete against the best in the world while also representing something much bigger than myself. As a Native American woman, it’s so special to see Indian Country pushing for women’s golf and creating a space where this is happening.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXK6HWERL5F2PE4NKVTBY252RE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761862},"content":"<b>Irish in the field</b>: Leona Maguire is again the lone Irish player in the field as the Cavan golfer looks to hit form ahead of next week’s T-Mobile Match Play. Maguire – who opened the season with a top-10 in the Tournament of Champions – is back to the US after playing on the tour’s Asian Swing (t33-t21-t33) and is in a group with Jin Hee Im and Pajaree Anannarukarn (off the 1st at 3.17pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEGSJNVBL5GS7LPKXG4CK4U2NM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761863},"content":"<b>Betting</b>: No surprise that Nelly Korda, defending champion and world number one, heads the market on 7/1 ahead of the in-form Jeeno Thitikul who is rated an 8/1 shot. In terms of each-way value, A Lim Kim (33/1) and Sarah Schmeizel (80/1) are worth looks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7ECF4HABRGEDO4STPABVGY2OE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011761864},"content":"<b>On TV</b>: Sky Sports Golf (from 11pm).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"The world number two is joined by Séamus Power and Pádraig Harrington in this week’s PGA Tour event in Texas"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T18:23:34.005Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy fits in Augusta visit to ‘refamiliarise’ himself with course before Houston Open","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SP5S7J7H2IP4JDTF7X5ZXMWHP4","auth":{"1":"d58675d9bfc317694e41300ef04d507afc628146f182fd441735787e0cf0841f"},"focal_point":{"x":1696,"y":321},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SP5S7J7H2IP4JDTF7X5ZXMWHP4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/26/rory-mcilroy-fits-in-augusta-visit-to-refamiliarise-himself-with-course-before-houston-open/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"KX76MO366NAGJO72LSIJ5CW3YI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":362,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/eecddeec-c497-4791-a3d7-5628aacf8c2d/versions/1742834055/media/160eadb3788a5c6ef2e6c3c7afeed738_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/25/sergio-garcia-knocked-back-again-but-still-has-opportunity-to-reach-open/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UEVIGE7C7ZDZDLA4SOM6XGQK2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1652361113636},"content":"Sergio Garcia knocked on the door – again! – in his bid to earn a place in the field at the 153rd <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/british-open/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/british-open/\">Open</a> at Royal Portrush . . . without success, missing a three-foot birdie putt on the final hole of the International Series in Macao, where three places to the championship on the Causeway Coast were available.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NK2R2GPQGBFDNLXURGG6GNH26M","additional_properties":{},"content":"As it happened, three other <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\">LIV</a> players – Carlos Ortiz, Patrick Reed and Jason Kokrak (Garcia’s birdie putt, if made, would have tied him with Kokrak and given him the exemption due to a superior world ranking above the American) – earned the precious tickets, with Garcia, who had competed in 22 straight Opens up to 2022, left to mull on what might have been and to redirect to other pathways.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ACVWBL2CUZCYLGPMLS5FB4PBCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of those is through the LIV Golf order of merit which offers one place to the player in the top-five through LIV Dallas in June not already exempt (he is currently third in the standings, behind exempted Jon Rahm and Joaquin Niemann) or, failing that route, the Spaniard can play in final qualifying.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XE4UCQ4BZJHNVEQWD2HKKF6NCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/graeme-mcdowell/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/graeme-mcdowell/\">Graeme McDowell</a>, another without an exemption, also competed in Macao but finished in tied-40th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4ABJIZL4BEHDEERDQHU2P2ZY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The next event in The Open Qualifying Series is the Kolon Korea Open being played at La Vie Est Belle, Chuncheon from May 22nd-25th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVAHGQAHXRAENIMNBDW2E5QA2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Tiger Woods confirms romance </mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"4L7FF7MPFZDP3FKC7UGJTJSLLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\">Tiger Woods</a> hasn’t played a competitive round of golf since missing the cut at the 152nd Open at Royal Troon last July . . . but the 15-time big champion continues to hog the global golf headlines, following on from news of his ruptured Achilles tendon with confirmation that he is in a relationship with Vanessa Trump, the ex-wife of Donald Trump jnr.","type":"text"},{"_id":"36E3X6N6LVGH5BBFDIOBBR5JIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods underwent surgery on his Achilles tendon injury and is doing rehabilitation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5TZT2SQPXVAR3KCDFM5JCGMLO4","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"2NSGX6CDMBEA5GA4PHBLUJLSN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"That tendon injury ruled out any chance of Woods making it to the Masters at Augusta National, just three weeks away, but he took to his social media platforms to announce his new relationship: “Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side,” posted Woods along with photographs of the couple.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQLRNPBDS5A47AQW3ZZF456X4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods’s son Charlie (from his first marriage to Elin Nordegren, which ended in divorce in 2010) and Vanessa Trump’s daughter Kai (the eldest of five children from her marriage to Trump jnr, which ended in divorce in 2018) are both talented junior golfers in Florida and attend the same school.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWIA7JDF3VFIXBHWACPZXJ5HD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kai, indeed, has already committed to playing college golf at the University of Miami.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZVMQHJIXNGHTKJXB2HFULTUF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Word of Mouth</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"WVTI4NL5XCXPHHMMXMT4OJUOAI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IZVMQHJIXNGHTKJXB2HFULTUF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"QA6SKIQQMVAFZLP5RV5E57EY3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It sucks not winning when you’re that close and have a great chance, but I just hopefully put myself in the same position at Augusta and finish it off better” – <b>Justin Thomas after letting a three-stroke lead slip away when bitten by the notorious Snake Pit run of closing holes in the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook on the PGA Tour.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"356AUIIMBFD7BENT3MTNV4SWCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">By the Numbers: 6/13</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"MCXXIQCUANAZBI4T7SG5W6QXHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"European golfers have won six of 13 tournaments so far this season on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a>: Sepp Straka (AmEx Championship), Rory McIlroy (AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players), Thomas Detry (Phoenix Open), Ludvig Aberg (Genesis Invitational) and Viktor Hovland (Valspar Championship). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3K537GMC6JAD5IMNYDD62BAUZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUOFCLRTR5HWJO776DFNS6WAOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">On this day: March 25th, 2007</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"LHZVPZSSJNFVFPOY6QAGO46OYA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZUOFCLRTR5HWJO776DFNS6WAOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"QNDKN3GIMZBEZF34FNMCSSWT2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tiger Woods’s ownership of the WGC-CA Championship – in its various sponsorship guises – earned him millions of greenbacks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UBX5UA2ZBFAORBK6357EMVSLMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In winning the championship at Doral in Florida, Woods claimed the title for a sixth time ... and on a sixth different course, to boot (having previously won at Valderrama in 1999, Mount Juliet in 2002, Capital City in 2003, Harding Park in 2005 and The Grove in 2006).","type":"text"},{"_id":"USYP5KUWPZCXJNWXBHNUDRI2SY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods struggled to a 71 in the first round to trail co-leaders Henrik Stenson and Robert Allenby by four shots but a second round 66 propelled him to the 36-holes lead and he never looked back, closing with a 73 in testing, windy conditions for a 10-under-par total of 278, two shots clear of runner-up Brett Wetterich.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CLGKSN5LZZHXBNMQZL2OFBZCOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Showing common sense rather than any macho inclination to use a driver on the last, Woods laid up off the tee with a 3-iron to avoid the water, hit an 8-iron for his second shot and wedged on to the green followed by a two-putt bogey. That safety-first policy earned Woods another $1.35 million from the event he won seven times in his career, also returning to Doral in 2013 for another triumph.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XH4ML64X5BDLGK4O63U3F2QJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Social Swing</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"Q6LOETK3YRGITHV5OO4PNGMV2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Closed my defense of @HoagClassic with a 67 to finish t12th. Lots of good stuff just not my week @ChampionsTour – <b>Pádraig Harrington taking the glass-half-full approach form his performance in the Hoag Classic, won by Miguel Angel Jimenez.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNOURXXPUFCT7KQZBTTW3X2HIU","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"NLTNEORFQVHPDIHTX3LUQLHGVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"European squad is peaking a little too early …..I think ... – <b>Michael Kim has noted the hot form of potential Ryder Cup opponents.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZG2EMGFB2BH2NANGQ4PKRWI3MY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finally – <b>Short and very sweet from Richard Mansell after the Englishman’s breakthrough win on the DP World Tour at the Porsche Singapore Classic. The win came in Mansell’s 103rd start on the European Tour.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JX7EZ2VTC5CDPPBYF24AKGJOFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">In the Bag</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"WOY3ONIVSVCW5LUL3IW4RDUDJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Viktor Hovland – Valspar Championship </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5T4RQFOEHDK4CAWPEBID22IHU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WOY3ONIVSVCW5LUL3IW4RDUDJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Driver: Ping G425 LST (9 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSWGUA2GMRBDZKQ2FGKWOGP33Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"3-wood: TaylorMade Sim Ti (15 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJAQRXG23NEWFC6ZGGGYGW2IF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irons: Titleist U505 (3), Ping i210 (4-PW)","type":"text"},{"_id":"BKEHUHWKORAP5DNSE6GDNNCQDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wedges: Ping s159 (50, 56 degrees), Ping Glide 2.0 (60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUTKZA7JEZBL5NUJBLAGLBYR5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Putter: Ping PLD DS 72 Prototype","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3SHARYF6FFRLPMX3QASXSWQAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ball: Titleist Pro V1","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABUOEMLWPFHTJD7Z77KHXGKVDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Know the Rules","type":"header"},{"_id":"CP7XD3VQQFBMRJJCWEONQMSG7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q </b>In match play, a player observes a breach of the rules by his opponent but decides not to act on it. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"4T64GTJ4QFH7RAH36SVLVDYJEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A </b>If a player knows that the opponent has breached a rule that has a penalty, the player may choose whether or not to act on the breach. This is covered under Rule 3.2d(4) – Protecting Own Rights and Interests: If the player knows or believes that the opponent has breached a rule that has a penalty, the player may choose whether or not to act on the breach. (But if the player and opponent agree not to apply the rules or a penalty they know applies, and either of those players has started the round, they are both disqualified under Rule 1.3b). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BRRU5FC67FEBPHZSVIXJJQVZ4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXPR44TUOREXZGQONNQELVJ3WI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJIVTDO3WRBYPCWKYNKEAFSS7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Love is in the air for Tiger Woods"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sergio Garcia knocked back again but still has opportunity to reach Open","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LEUDI227AAYNSV3UAU7EXJ6EAA","auth":{"1":"b2130f233538a892ab1fc4d094c968ed91986402eac23c7d629d469b0e2cab7c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LEUDI227AAYNSV3UAU7EXJ6EAA.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/25/sergio-garcia-knocked-back-again-but-still-has-opportunity-to-reach-open/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"3SB4DKOFH5EAVK6GEHPZPQ3S4U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":267,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c406c380-3c50-4f74-9939-c00e12892ce6/versions/1742849409/media/e91f9e544b2306b5c22931b985aa4133_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/rory-mcilroy-adds-houston-open-to-slimmed-down-pre-masters-schedule/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> may be in fine form, but the world number two has rejigged his schedule to include this week’s tour stop on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a>, the Texas Children’s Open in Houston, to retain the competitive juices ahead of the upcoming Masters tournament. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RY63OXQ2FNC3ZBG7USP255DRZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A two-time winner already this season, in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am and The Players, McIlroy had originally mapped out a three-week prep and break period between Sawgrass and Augusta National only to change his mind and has now opted for the Houston Open rather than the following week’s Valero Texas Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNEFJ5ZOPFCGVFRHLQULDF44DE","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s form – two wins in four tournaments stateside this year, all part of the reduced playing itinerary aimed at finally requiring a fitting for a green jacket – has seen him leapfrog Xander Schauffele to move from third to second in the world rankings, but still far behind world number one Scottie Scheffler, who is also playing in Houston ahead of his Masters defence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R555FJ5S35AXLAY4E3YQLZJN2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> is also Masters bound in fine form but, after four productive weeks of the Florida Swing (11th-7th-20th-8th), the Offaly man – who has risen to a career best 12th on the official world rankings on the back of that rich vein of form – has sufficient competition sharpness and is not playing in Texas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QE6BGWXSY5DAHDFGAXGGWUVZ4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is one of three Irish players in the field at the Memorial Park Golf Course, where Séamus Power, who secured his first top-10 finish on the PGA Tour since August when finishing tied-eighth alongside Lowry in the Valspar, will be aiming to find an exemption (through winning) to the Masters. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6S524GYB3JEBPJHHQWDMDN4NZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pádraig Harrington’s hopping from one tour to another continues – having played on the Champions Tour last week the Dubliner has been given a sponsor’s exemption into Houston on the main circuit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJMC4OSISM7VDXNHAUTY4FHOIY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6S524GYB3JEBPJHHQWDMDN4NZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Power, that top-10 finish in Palm Harbor brought some welcome upward movement in the world rankings, jumping from 125th to 110th. Incidentally, Tom McKibbin’s third-place finish in the Porsche Singapore Classic on the DP World Tour saw the Northern Irishman regain some lost ground (since his move to LIV Golf) by moving from 117th to 107th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IAKHSVIY7NFZBCMGT3DMKDAEXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Given his improved form, bouncing back from successive missed cuts at the Cognizant Classic and The Players, Power can have heightened expectations in the two Texas tournaments in that quest to, as he put it, “play my way into Augusta.” If that doesn’t happen, Plan B will see him adding the Corales Puntacana Championship in the Dominican Republic the week after the Masters to his schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGIA45Q2PJHFFERGBYRUR5JL2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of his first top-10 since the FedEx St Jude Classic last August, Power – who has battled injury issues over the winter – remarked: “All in all a lot of good stuff and a step in the right direction.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BCBBMFWXYNE3LANWKZNFBDDSJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Viktor Hovland had missed three straight cuts ahead of his win in the Valspar Championship, which jumped him from 19th to eighth in the updated world rankings, while also seeing him move up 86 places to 19th in the Europe Ryder Cup standings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ESGDFB5RDZATBHT2IMGODQCXUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hovland has been fighting swing changes and, even in victory, admitted: “It’s still not great. I’m still hitting the same shots that I have been the whole year, really. But it’s just I was able to time it extremely well this week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXFLQH23FNHYRHFNCPBVLGJAXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It felt like every single good shot that I hit I just saved it really well, because the club is just not in a great place for me coming down. It’s just not what it used to be. So I can’t really rely on my old feels any more because the club is in a different spot and I have to change my release pattern to make that work. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DNAOD52PBHNDPILPPRIUS3W54","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Now, incredibly, I did make it work and was able to win and I think that is something that I’m extremely proud of that I can show up at a PGA Tour event at one of the hardest golf courses we play all year and still win with not my best stuff. I think that’s really cool, that’s something that I’m extremely proud of, but at the same time it makes this game a lot more stressful than I think it should be.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F56MD2JLANBDNOOYRR2N7LPQAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"With the Masters on the horizon, Hovland admitted: “I probably shouldn’t doubt myself to that extent. I still need to be honest so I can attack the problems that I have and we can improve, but at the same time I got to give myself some credit and even no matter how bad it feels or how many poor shots I’m hitting, I’m still capable of shooting good scores with it, so I kind of have to keep that in the back of my head.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKONJ7VPSZFO7HIEFNXFORLIZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the LPGA Tour, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leona-maguire/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leona-maguire/\">Leona Maguire</a> – who has made a steady start to the season, including one top-10 in her five outings – resumes competition following her Asian endeavours, playing in the Ford Championship in Arizona.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RXOQIBZQ65BBJD2D4HJJ5DGNT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Séamus Power and Pádraig Harrington will also be among the field in Houston"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T20:45:03.267Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy adds Houston Open to slimmed-down pre-Masters schedule","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HB6AZ6QGIMWNX6OUXERPY2UDBI","auth":{"1":"ab40f8b878e1d24892225284f02967700adfeb016e7a28b8e1a8a0c4ab1b9b86"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HB6AZ6QGIMWNX6OUXERPY2UDBI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/rory-mcilroy-adds-houston-open-to-slimmed-down-pre-masters-schedule/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"76X4LR4GX5HOXPQFHBPBK5DGTI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":132,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/db2699db-f511-4d90-a621-03f95dc6999b/versions/1742810120/media/d9dedc4df5a7f78794085e766a464021_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/tiger-woods-confirms-relationship-with-donald-trumps-former-daughter-in-law/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> has confirmed he is in a relationship with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a>’s former daughter-in-law, Vanessa Trump.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NRR3XVAPW5HR3M6QWJHVZRRQSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods announced the news on Sunday. “Love is in the air and life is better with you by my side! We look forward to our journey through life together,” Woods wrote on X to his 6.4 millions followers … At this time we would appreciate privacy for all those close to our hearts.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CWBZE424MBELRHA76KKKQIPBNQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"3RPPWEABKBDVVLDMEVJDPGGK3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Vanessa was married to Donald Trump Jr from 2005 to 2018. They have five children together, including 17-year-old Kai, who is set to play golf at the University of Miami in 2026. Kai also attends the same school as Woods’s children, Sam and Charlie. Kai and Charlie competed at the same invitational tournament earlier this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNUJXTYRQNEDZEEKXBGATZTDWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods and Vanessa Trump had been featured in gossip outlets for the last several weeks. Woods announced this month that he ruptured his achilles tendon, knocking him out of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NBQAK73LRBEHPQQXWPPZ5M6IA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was not clear what prompted Woods, who keeps his personal life fiercely private, to publish photos confirming the relationship. The post was reminiscent of 2013, when he and Lindsey Vonn announced on social media that they were dating.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7KMGGVEIBHMREAUCJ2NA45XYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods said at the time he and Vonn “wanted to limit the ‘stalkarazzi’ and all those sleazy websites that are out there following us,” saying it could lead to dangerous situations involving his children. He also said their photos would devalue anything the paparazzi had.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKHO46UTNJBWTPJ2BQJKZYCKUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam and Charlie are from Woods’s marriage to Elin Nordegren, who divorced him in 2010 after he had been exposed for multiple extramarital affairs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVXG4MLHLBG4TG7U5LUUDGRZ6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"His only other public relationship was with Erica Herman, which lasted about seven years until October 2022. It was a messy split, and Herman eventually dismissed lawsuits against Woods and the trust that owns his south Florida estate, where she had been living.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2Y4A6XPWCVF2TKHTIKJDZ3GNFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods has played golf with Donald Trump on several occasions. Trump awarded Woods the presidential medal of freedom in 2019. In February, Woods attended a meeting with Trump at the White House to discuss the fractured status of golf amid the rise of the Saudi-backed LIV tour.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Golfer announces relationship on social media with Vanessa Trump, who was married to Donald Trump Jr"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T09:50:11.533Z","headlines":{"basic":"Tiger Woods confirms relationship with Vanessa Trump","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SZFG53S3AFGIJBXFJ7AKVV7VU4","auth":{"1":"fc132dc4ce73ab4bcad3bb266dfb1c609455e3f753626031c5310c43a4a72c59"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SZFG53S3AFGIJBXFJ7AKVV7VU4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/24/tiger-woods-confirms-relationship-with-donald-trumps-former-daughter-in-law/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"25MGLRBBAVEYVI43G63XF3JEQY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":209,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/379b56bf-9cbe-490e-8c94-191a8d6df614/versions/1742767934/media/f2c9ed509197526a78ee2a5619abe5b2_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/23/seamus-power-finds-his-mojo-and-gathers-momentum-for-masters-tilt/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finally, Séamus Power found his mojo. The Waterford man claimed his first top-10 finish on the PGA Tour since last August with a superb final round 66 in the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, which saw him leapfrog up the leaderboard and provide some momentum to his season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJ6NFIYCBZACJHL72UJPKKD5A4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Norway’s Viktor Hovland claimed his seventh PGA Tour win, and first since the Tour Championship in 2023, with a brilliantly crafted closing round of 67 for 11-under-par 273, to fend off Justin Thomas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DKM5LL3FVDTDJUPF3MD3CJFUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hovland became the fifth European player to win on the US circuit so far this season (joining two-time winner Rory McIlroy, Ludvig Aberg, Sepp Straka and Thomas Detry).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPX6H6W6MJDATH2FCYILLHKPNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thomas had a three-stroke lead on the homeward journey only to bogey two of his final three holes and that late stumble enabled Hovland, who charmed the Snake Pit with birdies on the 16th and 17th, to edge him to the title. Even a closing bogey didn’t derail the Norwegian.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UWEZWKGR7RGUBKFMY6CKBECNIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hovland, who had missed three straight cuts before returning to the winner’s enclosure, claimed it was “unbelievable” to win. “There is a lot of insecurities, a lot of doubts ... it has been a rough year and a half but i have become stronger because of it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7Z2MOOCZZCYJEH6FJSEV5ETGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Power – who will play the next two tournaments in Texas, the Houston Open and the Valero Texas Open, in his bid to gatecrash his way into the field for next month’s Masters tournament – finished with a 66 for a total of six-under-par 278, where he was joined by Shane Lowry on that same mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5SPUKDIPUBH4DCECJEYPT2FYBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry entered the final round just two shots off the lead but had a cold putter in his hands, and the Offaly man signed for a closing 70 for 278. A birdie-birdie start offered a false dawn as Lowry failed to add another birdie to his scorecard and his frustration was only compounded with a bogey on 16th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHXSIR5TT5YP5AKMRXP6OXFVIQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TKGDUB4V3VDDZHC46FDKI45NJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Power, though, a round which featured seven birdies and a lone bogey provided hope that a corner had been turned after a period battling injuries. His last top-10 on the tour came in the FedEx St Jude last August.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E7G7WOL3H5BR3AXLGYVPHGXYAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“[This year] was slow coming out of the blocks with a little injury in the off-season, but I had some good little runs. Florida Swing has always been tougher for me, so to get some decent points here is going to be nice and a step in the right direction heading to Houston next week,” said Power, adding that this might provide the spark he had been seeking. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6QRRHVMONBHCJGHGISSWG6JOSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Golf’s funny like that. You get a lot of points in only a handful of your weeks, so maybe this is a start of a good run for me. Even if it isn’t, it’s nice to see the work you’re putting in show up on the golf course, and that’s also encouraging, and can remove some of that frustration quickly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U74TBL5RLRHCFLJ5BNZAMECNHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Right now I’m going to play the next two [in Texas] and from there obviously I don’t know. Hopefully I can play my way into Augusta, but right now I would play the Dominican the week after Augusta and then go from there. We’ll see. Things can change fast in golf, so that’s going to be the plan.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4PGFNEDJLRGRRIF3ANJO3M2664","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry jumped into a share of the lead with those two opening birdies but, thereafter, the putter went cold, although he still managed a third top-10 finish of the season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GGL277F67VEMBKPSLRYEMN5B3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, winner of the Players Championship last week, has added on this week’s Houston Open to his schedule ahead of next month’s Masters, where he will again seek to complete the final piece of the jig saw in his quest for a career Grand Slam.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Victor Hovland claimed win at Valspar Championship after late mistakes by Justin Thomas"},"display_date":"2025-03-23T22:06:59.601Z","headlines":{"basic":"Seamus Power finds his mojo and gathers momentum for Masters tilt","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ED7YPSHA35FIXJ47H2FVYZUZ2Y","auth":{"1":"a36e63b943b487c996b430af74fa1b5a2aa6f8ea90eb4ff6168341f469c72959"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ED7YPSHA35FIXJ47H2FVYZUZ2Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/23/seamus-power-finds-his-mojo-and-gathers-momentum-for-masters-tilt/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"7HWHLQINPNH3XCQOBIQJQWJ6AY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":187,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/41b45391-743b-4ba3-90cb-a49dc9f5307d/versions/1742585252/media/690921a0786318dce17fd59ab83db5e2_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/21/stunning-outward-nine-puts-shane-lowry-in-contention-at-the-valspar-championship/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258463},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Shane Lowry</a> is a dangerous man when comfortable in his own skin. This was one of those days, where Lowry ventured from the car park in the cold at the Innisbrook resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, wondering what lay ahead ... only to find not only a hot putter, but every part of his game working in sync.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T32GMXR3FFHFDFAAJ3JBOKXBBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258467},"content":"If his walk from the car to the locker room and onwards to the range started with a sense of uncertainty, there was much to admire about his navigating of the Copperhead course and, especially, the notorious snake pit – that stretch of three holes from the 16th to the 18th – where Lowry was more akin to a snake-charmer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NLCY4JMXKRAEZGHCIKJOH36D5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258468},"content":"A superbly crafted second round 67 for a midway total of four-under-par 138 saw Lowry move into contention in the Valspar Championship trailing clubhouse leaders Viktor Hovland, his Ryder Cup team-mate, and Japan’s Ryo Hisatune by a stroke.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGVM4G3NF5AIDPKBS3EBZHQAHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258469},"content":"Lowry’s consistency so far this season has been admirable, including a runner-up finish behind Rory McIlroy in the AT&T Pebble Beach along with contending in the recent Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TCPKII4EUFEEHPBNCUFSDO2BUA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258470},"content":"Playing for a fourth straight week on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a>, and now very comfortable with his new Srixon driver, Lowry produced a stunning outward nine of 29 strokes – six birdies and three pars – to leapfrog his way into the lead before a homeward run that brought speed bumps with two bogeys.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMSXBCLFFJEOHKJUJYEBTY6CSQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"RTR7ZGHUQFAUBHAS2UYZFRG53A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258471},"content":"Lowry’s round started on the 10th with a birdie, from eight feet, and he just kept on going. Indeed, his round – in difficult cool conditions with a gusting wind – began with three straight birdies, getting up and down from a greenside bunker on the Par 5 11th, and holing from six feet on the 12th and claiming another from nine feet on the 14th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DP73D4V6HVEKPJBZAUVMUCYAGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258472},"content":"It was his play of the notorious snake pit, though, that earned most ground on the field. On the Par 4 16th, he holed out from just off the green, from 35 feet, and then hit his tee shot on the Par 3 17th to 14 feet and rolled that birdie putt in too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5IBIBJGQPZBDLEZGG7F2GZAJ2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258473},"content":"“I just got it going. I got some nice numbers and then hit some good shots, and when I hit good shots I converted the putts. I played that nine holes pretty flawlessly, didn’t really miss many shots. Unfortunately, I wasn’t as good on the other nine, but I think 4-under on a day like today, if you had given me that in the locker room this morning I would have taken it,” said Lowry, who had 25 putts in his round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LI33XTYE7REKVHKW7G23SEFSUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258474},"content":"He added: “I know it’s a course that had been quite wet the last few days, but with this wind it’s kind of whipping up especially with the cold this morning those get firmer. And it’s just tricky, it’s just, it’s hard to hit a load of fairways, it’s hard to hit loads of greens, and you just need to be on your game. I think it’s one of the underrated golf courses that we play all year, I think it’s a great track.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2RNTOM4MNBLJFCASDJEWNCANM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742584258475},"content":"While Lowry moved his way into contention headed into the weekend, Séamus Power – the only other Irish player in the field – ensured his presence for the final two rounds in adding a 72 to his opening 70 for a 36-holes total of level par 142 to be comfortably inside the cut line.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Séamus Power – the only other Irish player in the field – ensured his presence for the final two rounds in adding a 72 to his opening 70"},"display_date":"2025-03-21T19:22:25.72Z","headlines":{"basic":"Stunning outward nine puts Shane Lowry in contention at the Valspar Championship","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HTWMMNFRWNRTIAYGQH4BQ7OZOY","auth":{"1":"70eda9d682dc3c4190724442ae48d6e72193a375f3d477080b7a439d1dbd2183"},"focal_point":{"x":2756,"y":370},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HTWMMNFRWNRTIAYGQH4BQ7OZOY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/21/stunning-outward-nine-puts-shane-lowry-in-contention-at-the-valspar-championship/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"KP3O3AHMDZF6VHPHCC5XLM3TNU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":341,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2727b611-3b69-43a7-9282-235b38bec0c4/versions/1742502938/media/4b8dbd06d2db4634541493ebc90754e5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/21/los-angeles-2028-is-where-inclusivity-implicit-in-the-olympic-charter-is-set-to-collide-with-reactionary-trump-agenda/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6Z75RGIFQ5HOTJMKTLA2CMJMKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The most recent version of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\">Olympic Charter</a>, in force from January 30th, 2025, is not for the faint hearted. The first sentence of the first paragraph under the subheading Fundamentals of Olympism sets out the charter’s otherworldly vibe. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCRFE6N5M5GYZPSXFGV3R6RGGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Olympism is a philosophy of life, exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, will and mind,” it says. Continuing, it speaks of “the educational value of good example, social responsibility and respect for internationally recognised human rights and universal fundamental ethical principles”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AVO4EREWRJF4LD5GW6R45SFHDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Olympic Charter is a bubble bath of goodness, possibly one of the most aspirational documents ever written.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MWUQYIYHJEZXLKTJWHUFODQLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of humankind,” it says. It is wokeness in gold leaf. You get the picture. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGYTFJQNH5HM7C2X6V5EJKOCSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of course, it also talks of race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political and other opinion, national and social origins and birth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UUB5QPJCRAHTM2WNUC7GZ42PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It ends by saying that belonging to the Olympic movement requires compliance with its doctrine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RVSJRJAXFDOPCRRGSD6AXEFB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ioc/\">International Olympic Committee </a>(IOC) takes the charter extremely seriously. It is their sporting bible, their sacred scripture.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKH4Q7L2GND47K4V5UGIEEPZCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That leads to the question – whither the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games in Maga (Make America Great Again) land? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EB33TSAWXJEBZMAK6HHY2ZKGGI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-36221","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YVG2YPEJHFES7AZIIRNMB42DUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Three years away and already the Trump administration has trashed any pretence that it respects or cares about the Olympic Charter. The alarm bells have been ringing with Maga’s accelerated and carefree way of banging all things right out of shape. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LC572IJYPBCS3GHUQDVEJTIOTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The increasingly belligerent rhetoric and behaviour of the administration, and the recent rounding up of unidentified men in the US and their deportation to a jail in El Salvador without due process, is likely to send a shiver down the spine of new IOC president Kirsty Coventry, the first woman and African to hold the office in 130 years. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7TLEA4MLDFHCVNMD5VGG533YEM","content":"<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\"><p lang=\"en\" dir=\"ltr\">Kirsty Coventry delivers her acceptance speech after being elected as the 10th President of the International Olympic Committee, and the first female President in IOC history. <a href=\"https://t.co/3BXf9kK0dI\">pic.twitter.com/3BXf9kK0dI</a></p>— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) <a href=\"https://twitter.com/iocmedia/status/1902747047989526646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">March 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src=\"https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>","type":"raw_html"},{"_id":"T53GSLHTCZCJNJBJI43IHO34YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will especially resonate with the “s**thole” countries US president Donald Trump spoke about in 2018, referring to Haiti and African nations. Coventry might reflect on whether her country, Zimbabwe, was in his thoughts at the time. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6FNQL75LRGBBLDX2HUG6BTHIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another red flag went up last week when the New York Times reported on a draft list of countries the state department was proposing to ban from travelling to the United States. The list was, noted the newspaper, in circulation and in three sections: red, orange and yellow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HPVC6GIYF5DLJLCPXRWKLIRBMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The “red” list included 11 countries whose citizens would be forbidden entirely from entering the US: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EUAOWNZTL5AG3OAEBJEDXCK3TE","additional_properties":{},"content":"If ratified, that would deny entry into the country of two IOC members, Afghan Samira Asghari and Cuban Maria de la Caridad Colon Ruenes as well as honorary IOC member Samih Moudallal from Syria.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVTVZ5HKVFCRVJROWAZLUXOY5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"This week French newspaper Le Monde ran the headline, “Trump’s shadow looms over world sport.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TBEROMOBHVHGBM2MFR5U4RRJDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last month in the Los Angeles Times a letter to the editor was printed beneath the headline, “Will the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles become the ‘dictator games’?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4TOT6FISRCMFM4OHQ2G3TFYOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In it, the author, from Boston, noted the extent of alienation and threat the administration has directed at US allies Canada, Denmark, Mexico, Ukraine and Panama and suggested that a boycott would be a reasonable response.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OQCR2QFLDUXOQZRNA27BHBTMHU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PW4GRMRZDVFP7LC3YCCP6SKAYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"History has shown that the Olympic movement has a strong stomach for unsavoury characters. It ran the games in Hitler’s 1936 Berlin despite the threat of a boycott. Then IOC president Avery Brundage (American) was a Nazi sympathiser and stated publicly that Jewish athletes were being treated fairly and that the games should proceed as planned. In the end, 49 teams from around the world competed, more than in any previous Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RESB4GAXRNHZZNNNUPLI7BL4DM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In that, there is a lesson about the durability of the Olympic movement as much as the stance of athletes and nations. Also, that the old Olympics carapace has not changed much across 90 years. The message has not changed either. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CYELJA46FERHLOVFUXYH2OS24","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Tuesday, outgoing IOC president Thomas Bach spoke to CNN and advocated for the Olympics as a unifying force. Deploying his diplomatic skills, he praised Trump as “an outspoken supporter and promoter” of Los Angeles. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJ4GHMTEGFDYDKQMCZCFHNNNBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Too astute for controversy over the proposed visa changes or that Trump had wrongly asserted that Paris gold medal-winning boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting had “transitioned”, Bach knew those issues were at the mercy of a fractured American political landscape and a White House that prides itself on being a disruptive force.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6OCI4H5Y5CTHJJUXR7D4D53T4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Five ring circus: Trump jnr squeezes in fake news with criticism of opening ceremony","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ELKKJORPQRB3LO3ZSEEKP4PND4","additional_properties":{},"content":"This is an administration where nothing is too small and cruelty is sometimes the point. On Thursday French officials expressed dismay after one of their space research scientists was denied entry to the country. Immigration officers had found text messages containing a “personal opinion” about the Trump administration and its policies on scientific research. It begs the question of what chance a Palestinian athlete might have.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RE5U6ZTJLJF2DJNZBRJM7DPNAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there was one thing that may have dampened the spirits of Coventry as she walked from the luxury Greek resort of Cota Navarino on Thursday afternoon, it was the certainty that the next Olympic Games and its athletes will not be immune from the clash of cultures. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6PF2JVXHVFDCXNQG44KJTXSMUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Los Angeles 2028 is where Project 2025, the hard-right playbook for American government and society, meets the Olympic Charter’s mission statement of inclusivity and hope. It is a car crash in the making.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"‘This is an administration where nothing is too small and cruelty is sometimes the point’"},"display_date":"2025-03-21T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Olympic charter and USA’s hard-right playbook are on a collision course for Los Angeles 2028","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5WWEXPJTUJPTOVXZSGW4FKVSLM","auth":{"1":"b390b68f09179fd81fea63cc65855994fe79c8d8bd3c489d2bb3c859605003bd"},"focal_point":{"x":2130,"y":1018},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5WWEXPJTUJPTOVXZSGW4FKVSLM.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Tennis"},{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Hockey"},{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Cycling"},{"name":"Boxing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/21/los-angeles-2028-is-where-inclusivity-implicit-in-the-olympic-charter-is-set-to-collide-with-reactionary-trump-agenda/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"UMAPDS6DGBBCFBYQ76ULKADCYM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":374,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e3885a18-4dfd-4c39-ac30-0188c9ac34a7/versions/1742328452/media/21ba313e326a1862216959a43e5fd6e6_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/19/lord-of-the-rings-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-race-to-become-the-next-ioc-president/","content_elements":[{"_id":"3JXIIDNVRZBQ7KDBCLT23GHTAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Sebastian Coe added his name to the race to become the next president of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-olympic-committee/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-olympic-committee/\">International Olympic Committee</a> (IOC) last September, he was not thinking about finishing anywhere other than first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2JK3CZYJUBBVTDFSQN7KEUPRIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Often dubbed the Lord of the Rings, the IOC presidency is considered the most powerful position in global sport. The race to succeed Thomas Bach, who has been in power since 2013, will reach the finish line on Thursday afternoon at the suitably luxurious Romanos Resort in Costa Navarino, Greece.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BEO6ZACWI5FINIMQNBZSJWVTE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The IOC don’t like to reveal much about the running of their business, and while Coe is seen as the favourite among the seven candidates, the opaque election process and notoriously nebulous IOC politics leave plenty of scope for a surprise.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHZIQVKDEJC65L5G3Z6DMFZGBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Coe, the president of World Athletics, the stakes are high as he looks to become the first British man to hold the position and thus complete his rise through the ranks of sporting governance and power. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHQU5N3ET5DNRAPUVKC4AZUGFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I see this as another extension of the journey,” Coe said when launching his presidential manifesto last September. “It’s the dance I just couldn’t sit out.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YC3L2HLOA5HINHUPH5W66JZXDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 144th IOC session gets under way on Wednesday, before Thursday’s vote among the 109 <a href=\"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_members_of_the_International_Olympic_Committee\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_members_of_the_International_Olympic_Committee\">active IOC members</a>, made up of royalty, former athletes, sports administrators and politicians.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7WZLAOHQABBSFI7EYLUPLS3UZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Why is Thomas Bach stepping down?","type":"header"},{"_id":"E2KPA4OOSVHTHJLQBU5H7IKJ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Only the ninth president in the 131-year history of the IOC, Bach secured his first eight-year term in 2013, and another four-year term in 2021. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCRUY452GRCAVFXE2XID4T7IKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Change or be changed,” the 71-year-old Bach said when confirming his decision to resign from the IOC in August. “New times are calling for new leaders.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CEURWCPM45EYXK4WUOANUFFNIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The IOC confirmed the seven candidates in September, all of whom are IOC members and had to fulfil certain election criteria. Bach will officially step down on June 23rd, the new president assuming power the following day for an initial term until 2033.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5GWZODPDX5ECJNBCY5ORBX36QM","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, the IOC has set an age limit of 70 for presidents, with the possibility of extending this by a maximum of four years. If Coe wins, his term would probably be shorter, as he would be 74 in 2030.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZVHQ34CCBGYHBQ7MLZVVU42PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There have only ever been nine IOC presidents in 131 years?","type":"header"},{"_id":"N5OZP6A7GNCJZE6NOQJJMX7X4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yes, that’s it, all nine from the western world, including <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/former-olympic-committee-president-dies-at-84-1.177799\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/former-olympic-committee-president-dies-at-84-1.177799\">our own Lord Killanin</a>, three of them being former Olympic athletes, and no women.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZ2BIVLSNNH77GGB5DGOPZIZX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"They are Dimitrios Vikelas (Greece, 1894-1896), Pierre de Coubertin (France, 1896-1925), Henri de Baillet-Latour (Belgium, 1925-1942), Johannes Sigfrid Edstrom (Sweden, 1946-1952), Avery Brundage (USA, 1952-1972), Lord Killanin (Ireland, 1972-1980), Juan Antonio Samaranch (Spain, 1980-2001), Jacques Rogge (Belgium, 2001-2013), Thomas Bach (Germany, 2013-2025).","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTCWHDUL7VHETHLATVIFDXPXDI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4LIJGF37AZAMPCFWL77VJG63DQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4MEKQTTOTZGEXAPV44MX37LVYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Who are the seven candidates?","type":"header"},{"_id":"RI23CJXBSRHYLDZ6B4RHDJ5NCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Sebastian Coe</b> (Great Britain, age 68). Seen as the front-runner, Coe’s record as an athlete and administrator sets him apart. As head of World Athletics since 2015 he’s helped revive the fortunes of that sport. His decision to award prize money at the Paris Olympics was not supported by Bach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4PPQ3XNG7BBZDKSDMFQKFT3EXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Kirsty Coventry</b> (Zimbabwe, age 41). The most successful African woman in Olympic history, Coventry won seven medals in swimming and is looking to become the first woman and African to head the IOC. She’s been minister of sport in Zimbabwe since 2019. Her inexperience on the global administration stage may count against her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5CZ2TQTG5GO7MXWBCSVHCRFBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Juan Antonio Samaranch jnr</b><b> </b>(Spain, age 65). Son of the man who was IOC president from 1980-2001, transforming the Olympics into a commercial powerhouse. Samaranch jnr is in his second stint as an IOC vice-president, and has been on co-ordinating committees for three Winter Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2KVTFTFK5F6HLHICOUROOZVCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>David Lappartient</b> (France, age 51). Despite only being an IOC member for three years, Lappartient has served seven successful years as president of the International Cycling Union and helped secure the 2030 Winter Olympics for France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNOSYJZA6NA33GVBSWIRGEAFYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Morinari Watanabe</b> (Japan, age 66). Currently president of the International Gymnastics Federation, Watanabe was on the executive board of the Tokyo Games organising committee, and part of the co-ordination commission for LA 2028. Seen as a traditionalist, he also opposed prize money at the Games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"63IEOG5RXJHVDKOKOO4YK6R4MU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Prince Faisal al-Hussein </b>(Jordan, age 61). The younger brother of King Abdullah II, Prince Faisal has been an IOC member since 2010. Looking to become the first Asian president, he was part of the IOC executive board that approved controversial rules for the women’s Olympic boxing tournament in Paris.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V36V2IYJTNGSVASU4ROSNIADFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Johan Eliasch</b> (Sweden/Great Britain, age 63). The Swedish-born multi-billionaire businessman and environmentalist was elected as the International Ski Federation president in 2021, and only became an IOC member last July. He is seen as the outsider.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RX475J25RVBXHIDCCEU3WVPMSE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EDR7ILOBIFBQHNQONT27LRJ2SY","additional_properties":{},"content":"How exactly will Thursday’s voting work?","type":"header"},{"_id":"X7DDO54LBRG2NM2OMFSBOMOZN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Good question, given the IOC’s secret ballot and conclave voting structure dates back more than 100 years and is not too unlike the election process for a new pope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QIEHLMGOTNG77ALPXLBYFA7QSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since 1925, candidates have gone through a series of rounds until one receives an absolute majority (more than half of the total votes) of the IOC members. In each round, the candidate with the least support is eliminated (in the event of a tie, an intermediate vote will split them).","type":"text"},{"_id":"3N3T7XP2R5BARFNE4L6275D3DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The voting excludes IOC members from the same country as a candidate, unless already eliminated. There will be no disclosure on the nature of the voting in between rounds before the new president is declared by Bach himself.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sebastian Coe is the favourite in a seven-strong field"},"display_date":"2025-03-19T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Lord of the Rings: All you need to know about the race to become the next IOC president","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WQJZDPHN7FHR7B2QQYTUZKAJIM","auth":{"1":"406ffa355f583e333bdfe417a39e7b3d01d34a973feab4c07769dab60ddaa8a0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WQJZDPHN7FHR7B2QQYTUZKAJIM.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Tennis"},{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Hockey"},{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Cycling"},{"name":"Boxing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/19/lord-of-the-rings-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-race-to-become-the-next-ioc-president/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"U5P5CJPQGJH3VMW5RJUXH4SVXI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":351,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/7af1c751-b601-4dc6-a33d-7f37a34fe029/versions/1742224765/media/ab67bc0347e8936224b88fd29f46b618_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/18/rory-mcilroy-takes-home-the-big-bucks-while-shane-lowry-stays-consistent/","content_elements":[{"_id":"XZLQUOIXRBAXPPOEPIX5W7IZCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1652361113636},"content":"“Sometimes just making the cut means a lot to us out here,” remarked <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> on surviving into the weekend on the mark at The Players, where he made the most of his final two rounds in leapfrogging his way up from tied-65th to ultimately secure another top-20 finish in a season that is providing consistently good results.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ULBPMPBCRC4VBLUELOMSVHCIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry has finished tied-11th in the Cognizant Classic, tied-seventh in the Arnold Palmer Invitational and tied-20th at The Players in successive weeks and makes it a fourth tournament on the trot at this week’s Valspar Championship at the Innisbrook resort in Palm Harbor in Florida.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NBLWVLQARDKDOAPWBYR5KC5KY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\">Séamus Power</a>, who missed the cut at Sawgrass, is also in the field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NVEHHY4DVZE3ZPP2C6NNQ7TBZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another Irish player showing good consistency is Lauren Walsh, who is into her second season on the Ladies European Tour. The Kildare woman finished 16th in the Australian Women’s Classic on the LET and finishes her stint Down Under at this week’s Ford New South Wales Open in Wollongong where tour rookies Anna Foster and Anabel Wilson are also playing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UF65S7A7NFFHRPKWAVZNAET7BU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tom McKibbin, meanwhile, plays in his first event on the DP World Tour since moving his main focus to LIV when the Northern Irishman competes in the Porsche Singapore Classic where Dubliner Conor Purcell, in his rookie season on the main circuit, returns to action for the first time since missing the cut at last month’s Kenya Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXZ2HCXDYJCF5AJMV4SUCUTWPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Future focus</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"TS2T7IM5PFFALJXCBYWOHNPABY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nick Faldo will be the headline speaker at the inaugural Golf Business Technology Conference scheduled for Belfast from May 13th-16th, a B2B (business-to-business) event aimed at helping golf course owners and operators stay at the forefront of innovation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MJZPFJ2S4ZD7HHKM7P7QYX73BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The six-times Major champion – who has forged a fine reputation as a golf course designer, including Lough Erne among his portfolio – intends to share his insights on the evolution of the game and the impact of technology at the conference which takes place in the Merchant Hotel in the heart of the city. Registration is available at www.golfbusinesstechnologyconference.com ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NXHVYF4CXFH6XKWFDND52NZQLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Technology is having such a big influence over the game and how it is played and consumed. It is good to be a part of a conference that is bringing key players from within this part of the industry together, paving the way for the future of the game,” said Faldo.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43VMI3O3ZBCSTFFLFX4HRFBMKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Word of Mouth","type":"header"},{"_id":"H33TRJCO4FEZ4EGBPI7PLTZR7A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GXZ64MYNDVHTHPJJUWZ5PVYQEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It was a perfect club. I hit it, I guess, just too good. Kind of went right through the wind. I almost was telling it in my head to get up because it looked like it was kind of floating. I didn’t know where it was. I thought it was maybe in the front bunker, it was in the water. I hit a great shot. I did what I needed to do. It just didn’t work out in my favour” – <b>JJ Spaun </b>on airmailing the 17th green with his 8-iron tee-shot on the second play-off hole of his duel with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> in The Players at TPC Sawgrass.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4Y3FQIEJVFG75J533WGSOU4QPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"By the Numbers: 4,500,000","type":"header"},{"_id":"YXRK45LMTJDVVBTJ7JPGVOOCZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s the amount, in US dollars, which Rory McIlroy took home for his win in The Players. McIlroy’s second win of the season, adding the PGA Tour’s flagship tournament to the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am, also moved him to number one on the FedEx Cup standings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34ET4V7A2VBPFLKQQF467AM7NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On this day: March 18th, 1990 ","type":"header"},{"_id":"5WF6HLAHQRD43M2WOF33UTFVMI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"Y4AV7P2I4JGH5OTWRWIV5IUV64","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was a familiar theme to the newspaper headlines following The Players after Jodie Mudd triumphed by a shot over Mark Calcavecchia: “His name is Mudd!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PMMGFQ4A6REIPA4JN6PTP4HLDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 29-year-old American compiled rounds of 67-72-70-69 for a 10-under-par aggregate of 278 to fend off Calcavecchia, who also closed with a 69, in what proved to be a two-man battle on the final day. Steve Jones and Tom Purtzer finished six shots behind Mudd in tied-third.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LUOSK2SONCEZFF37O6NHU3DSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mudd had his brother Tommy working as his caddie and, ahead of the final round, told him: “Today is the day we take it up one more level.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2QCKU3SBNBFDEMEMFPAJUFYFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The win in the flagship, Mudd’s third of his PGA Tour career, came with a defining birdie on the island 17th green. “It’s something I’ll always cherish,” said Mudd of his victory, which earned him a pay-day of $250,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JU542ZYLZVDXDDA7TII4OZT24M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Swing","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZDDX3JVEDRACDOEQXEA6MIWV5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"So sad to hear Brian Waites has left us. We were partners in the ’83 Ryder Cup matches, you will go down in history as the last club pro to play, oh and to never miss a fairway. Sorry for missing that chip. Thank you for being a supportive friend and the special memories – <b>Ken Brown </b>pays tribute to his golfing partner and friend Brian Waites.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X5LN7WL7ZRFVNK2RWG6YI2EAZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Here’s a hot take. Does Scottie win in 2025 before the Ryder Cup? I don’t think so – <b>Phil Mickelson </b>not holding back on his thoughts about world number one Scottie Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPUUHIFTXZEL3HYKY6J6YQQJHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solid 2 weeks on the road finished off @THEPLAYERS to be walking away from both weeks happy enough with the performance but knowing there is still loads of room for improvement is satisfying. Dreamed of playing these events as a kid, now getting to live the dream #keepdreaming – <b>Bob MacIntyre </b>after his top-10 finish at TPC Sawgrass. The Scot goes time-zone hopping to Singapore for this week’s DP World Tour stop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFHVFDKZRNH2ZNF7SF6NGY2EMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Bag: Rory McIlroy (The Players)","type":"header"},{"_id":"M2DIVEVEDNPMX5WFYB3UCMMEMM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6AHQP6DXYFD2VAGMYSVNPPXXZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Driver – TaylorMade Qi10 (9 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"TTAV3JF2YRGCVJIGYYPBKHROFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fairway woods – TaylorMade Qi10 (15 degrees), TaylorMade Qi10 (18 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLJCJ62C6FFBBCHKIPIKJBIDFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irons – TaylorMadeP760 (4), TaylorMade RORS Proto (5-9)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTMS3BXIUZCLRKX5Z5ZUUZJ5EA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wedges – TaylorMade MG4 (46, 50, 54 and 60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUMV3UZ2BFAX7EGTDATHNAXLDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Putter – TaylorMade Spider Tour X","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSBMXAVCVBDFNDGYQDELPDKFQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ball – TaylorMade TP5","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYHRBQU6Y5GVLGFVCT5UD3C5Z4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Know the Rules","type":"header"},{"_id":"CHSUNX44MVCTBA2X6SM6BRCMOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q </b>In a match, player A requests player B to lift B’s ball that is on A’s line of play. Player B refuses to do so. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"B42BWNE2JZFMVNS7QRZ5YHFLQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A </b>If player B refuses to lift their ball or move their ball-marker when required to do so by another player, and a stroke is then made by the other player, player B gets the general penalty (Rule 15.3).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Win at The Players Championship earns McIlroy a $4.5 million pay-day"},"display_date":"2025-03-18T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy takes home the big bucks while Shane Lowry stays consistent","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BSNPHKJKGR7ARH5UDWJ4WD33MQ","auth":{"1":"bbe8933c74eceab6ec0ffb8a3fcae3a55a0284a30c03f629447ad4dcb2d34314"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BSNPHKJKGR7ARH5UDWJ4WD33MQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/18/rory-mcilroy-takes-home-the-big-bucks-while-shane-lowry-stays-consistent/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"HNDBB7BGBJAK5C3WZQM24YNEIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":295,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/112dca36-afcf-4bc2-982f-b5b29375e830/versions/1742225674/media/d84c0bb748398f64b93cadebbb9001aa_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-beats-jj-spaun-in-play-off-to-win-second-players-championship/","content_elements":[{"_id":"RFN4WDSRQFG6PNVDMXJ4LAC2Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lucky 13 on St Patrick’s Day for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a>: the world number two put together a sequence of birdie-bogey-bogey, 13 shots in the aggregate three-hole play-off, to defeat JJ Spaun in The Players at TPC Sawgrass and claim a 28th <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a> career win. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXU2RVB55FGZ3CF5SE6JK5WLS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It will be another confidence booster ahead of next month’s return to Augusta National in his quest to complete his career Grand Slam at the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJ7SJ4EQ7VCSJBSTNJFYJJ5U4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"In cool, windy conditions, McIlroy took jig-time on his return to the course to complete unfinished business from Sunday’s final round which left the two men tied atop the leader board. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BLHDZW6RJBTNJ55Z2VICRQFKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Before the play-off, McIlroy and caddie Harry Diamond had spent time on the range practising what shot he would hit to the Par 3 17th, the famed island green. He’d identified that short hole across water into a cool, stiff wind as being the critical play and he was proved correct, as Spaun’s tee-shot airmailed the green and found a watery grave as the American ultimately ran up a triple-bogey six to McIlroy’s bogey.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGYYGUCFRFB5PHG2I2JARZIZ3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was warming up with the TrackMan this morning and tried to hit a few shots with the same wind direction on the range. I knew it was the same distance (as Sunday), and I just sort of had that little three-quarter 9-iron dialled in. Once we got up there, I knew what to do, and made a good swing,” recounted McIlroy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BW3R46ONRJGTXJ2HHT22AULWOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun had taken a glance into McIlroy’s bag on the 17th tee to see what club was absent. When it was his turn to play, his 8-iron proved too long.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33P5ZDOXSASQDJY4UNMWY7PVOU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"CSQGYOST5JGSHBNBDB7ICBCYII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having started the play-off with a birdie four on the Par 5 16th to Spaun’s par, it meant McIlroy had a three-shot cushion playing the 18th where he took water out of play by hitting his driver down the right, behind trees, chipping out to the fairway and then hitting another three-quarter punched shot, this time with 8-iron, and two-putting for a bogey that meant Spaun didn’t even need to finish the hole. The title was McIlroy’s, adding further to his golfing legacy and a second Players title having previously won in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYBB42ZGFZE7JLUFNIKYA3TKWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think the only multiple Major champions and multiple Players champions are Jack (Nicklaus), Tiger (Woods), Scottie (Scheffler) and myself, so it’s a pretty nice group to be a part of,” said McIlroy, who will head to the Masters with multiple wins on the PGA Tour already in the bag for the first time in his career.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZ2DH6REEJCGTBPEYRFGVIZLOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s rich vein of form continuing from last year into this season has come on the back of a lot of work on his game over the winter, including using a simulator, and his decision to switch golf balls back to the TaylorMade TP5: “I’ve worked really hard. I feel like I’m a way more complete player than I was a few years ago. Even in conditions like this, that little 9-iron into 17, the little 8-iron into the last there. I said to Harry there, ‘that little shot will take us a long way’ ... I feel like I’ve got everything pretty much under control, which is a really nice feeling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQ6BVJQFHJE5ZPI2WGIO4Q2HLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m a better putter. I’m better around the greens. I can flight my ball better in the wind. My ability to shape shots both ways. Yeah, I’d say those are the things ... by no means did I have my best stuff this week, but I was still able to win one of the biggest tournaments in the world. That’s a huge thing!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3GUEO2T6UVFWM4SW5ZOTH3VGNQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"JPN4Y5BA3RBKHD4CHY5SUOZUZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rather than stick to his original plan to take a three-week break ahead of the Masters, McIlroy will add one more event on to this itinerary – either the Houston Open (March 27th-30th) or the following week’s Valero Texas Open (April 3rd-6th). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOPLCWH24ZDBHGWICR2NNGQCFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"For those three weeks before returning to Augusta in the bid to slot the missing piece of the Grand Slam jigsaw into place, McIlroy said it was important to “double down” on what he has been doing in playing consistently well. His last 10 starts worldwide have seen him go 2-2-25-3-1-4-1-17-15-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6IAHWXVXZC4NCNUB2VJ7RSUNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think just double down on what I’m doing. Double down on the work that I’ve been doing at home. Double down on the conversations I’ve been having with Bob Rotella, all that sort of stuff. It’s just continuing to do the same things.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DFBTUYW6JF6NGBMWHHNUBM5IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m feeling really comfortable, as I said, with how I’m flighting my ball in the wind. I feel like I’m always trying to refine what I have. I’m certainly a proponent of if it’s not broken don’t try to fix it. Everything feels like it’s in good working order at the minute. Just keep practising and doing the right things and practising the right habits, and day after day, week after week, they all add up to days like today.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Victory at TPC Sawgrass marks McIlroy’s 28th PGA Tour career win"},"display_date":"2025-03-17T15:29:28.412Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy beats JJ Spaun in play-off to win second Players Championship","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7PH73HALCCSWJDTO66RMV23N6I","auth":{"1":"57bea39eadba3224b96d466494678298419f6058ee084a5de2e20ca668323ad4"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7PH73HALCCSWJDTO66RMV23N6I.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-beats-jj-spaun-in-play-off-to-win-second-players-championship/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"JHGNFV5L7BBHVLWQ2UXBBOBGGA","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/the-players-championship-play-off-live-rory-mcilroy-and-jj-spaun-face-off-over-three-holes/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EKLUMXXQOVDYBIHU73X6P2HIHQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742212800000},"id":"timestamp-41048","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5QIQBCOK7VF3PC7WFLN32LOD64","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy’s</a> bid to become a two-time The Players champion requires extra time with a three hole aggregate playoff against JJ Spaun this afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EAZI5E6QIND4BM5EGLAZSQJBOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The players are expected to tee-off at 1pm Irish time where they will play the 16th, 17th and 18th to decide the winner at TPC Sawgrass. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EI3QXY544JDGDMTKUJSVAN5FEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’ll be following proceedings at Ponte Vedra Beach live, keeping you updated on all the action as it happens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PAGJEAPPBA6HNZ6NZTJH65GTQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742213400000},"id":"timestamp-25347","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5SWDZ4Y2MZDHBHOLQVB2UBE6TA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Let’s start with a quick run over how this will play out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IW6R7Z7CFBDJHFMER2JQ4ODZSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy and JJ Spaun will tee off at 1pm Irish time, playing three holes – the 16th, 17th and 18th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFMY6LTAQVHDFKDIANZUVQ5JMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Their respective scores across the three holes will be totted up, lowest scorer takes the title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6SELLF4ENGNPBSF6UISTOOCAM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"H6QRTEBSFFAS3CBS4XRP6VU6VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"If the pair are tied after the three holes then we go to sudden death on the 17th hole, proceeding to the 18th if needed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BGLIQ7NQBC77KXRM3JJENN5PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"If they’re STILL tied at that point (give me strength) then it’s back to the 16th hole we go, moving on to the 17th and 18th if needed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I4OFCKJXBRGYPNGJXAEFV6BUYA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742214240000},"id":"timestamp-54396","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2PWC2I6T5BCXNLQFLBKBZG5P3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy has fond memories at Sawgrass having won here in 2019, seeing off American Jim Furyk.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PAKKTNX3ZA3TC2X3QETE7VA5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"This time around McIlroy survived a Saturday wobble to pull it back for a fourth-round 68, finishing on 12-under.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EP26CITIA2DJVRIANCOFJNCHO4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ETYC5QO2LJA5XIVLRXXZDRUS3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun had a less impressive Sunday with a round of 72, but was already in a strong position after a 66 and 68 in the opening rounds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSGEJDNKFNG3DCNTP5H5QBL7LI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of the shocks of the weekend saw last year’s champ Scottie Scheffler, who also won in 2023, finding himself back in tied-20th after the four rounds, with Shane Lowry for company.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UJDKKZF2SRFE5ICLKWWMBAVWXU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742214607437},"id":"timestamp-80118","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HGT7P4LN2NHKZF3WTCCWHTWSCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"How did we get here? Here’s <b>Philip Reid</b>’s report from yesterday’s final round:","type":"text"},{"_id":"7HHMB4MNCNG77GOSXDOLPFVB7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy got an extra night in Orlando, for good reason: the Northern Irishman’s bid to claim The Players for a second time in his career was only thwarted by a weather delay, so that the world number two’s quest for a second The Players title required extra time, a three hole aggregate play-off against JJ Spaun.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QY7LSTIYMRH3DA4G6BXTP7K6SU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy started the final round four shots adrift of Spaun but a 68 to the American’s 72 left the pair locked together on 12-under-par 276, two shots in advance of Tom Hoge, Akshay Bhatia and Lucas Glover. Shane Lowry closed with a 67 for 284 to finish in tied-20th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GZVBITNRGFFPHKFOUE5JAKWPQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On a weather interrupted final round, with a four-hour suspension due to the front that included lightning, McIlroy and Spaun, the world number 57, finished tied through 72 holes and required to return to the TPC Sawgrass course for a play-off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LH5DDVZCUFGLFHLNX23RXM2HJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Have a full read of Philip’s report below:","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDJ4EXV5TZDQDK6FOV3A33PEUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Players Championship: Rory McIlroy and Spaun head for play-off with $4.5m on the line","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"IEJXETGJ35CPNOIE3QVDSIBAQM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742214932456},"id":"timestamp-84927","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"65TPF5YNZJF7PJ2TBKTBUI2LF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scores across four rounds:","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHGWU54VLFH2XDEHEWMGC6QBBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlrory – 67 (-5), 68 (-4), 73 (+1), 68 (-4)","type":"text"},{"_id":"BX24GPM25BFBNCPW35XEL3YRI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"JJ Spaun – 66 (-6), 68 (-4), 70 (-2), 72 (E)","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSWBNXRTRRCB7OUB7E6GMQIUH4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742215440000},"id":"timestamp-67390","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NSJ24NYLKZERZAPHBBB32CD454","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy and Spaun will play the 16th, 17th and 18th in the play-off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEJ5OOB3SNEJ5EMF2HNIH74L2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"16th = 5 par","type":"text"},{"_id":"HOI5XGM7HFANTLEE4DURLVYOZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"17th = 3 par","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VKTSIZW5BG4FBDX5MAQFZCJKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"18th = 4 par","type":"text"},{"_id":"54LWMNL3D5H3TFAAHPIPTX2JPQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742215842064},"id":"timestamp-56747","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FK77UWBQFJFURFRZHJ3XI2Z23A","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’re now 10 minutes out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4NHBBOYOVA4JMOOHEXIDDGDJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Did I mention there’s $4.5 million on the line?","type":"text"},{"_id":"R37IFYWYKNCYNOU2IUWPC73T7E","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"AYZGRRHB2VF3LJW47ZW77V76Q4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742216110218},"id":"timestamp-64456","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FLOAFUS6DVENPDFO2IT2FKPVTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Here’s how the two players have managed the three holes involved in the play-off over the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZMJYAWJVQFFJPNO3OG5LAYRNK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rory McIlroy</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"27HYE7ZP7FBG7FFD2OQJEDXS6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"16th (par 5): R1 5; R2 4; R3 5; R4 5","type":"text"},{"_id":"7SPY4EVFGZE33NFHGNNZ22TE7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"17th (par 3): R1 3; R2 3; R3 4; R4 3","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QFWG6N5X5FSRALR3VO3IFEM3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"18th (par 4): R1 3; R2 3; R3 3; R4 4","type":"text"},{"_id":"FF24OV367ZHQBPYAAYMBXEXBNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>JJ Spaun</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MRA37MSF6FGRTFXX6Q5MEWU7KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"16th (par 5): R1 4; R2 5; R3 4; R4 4","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6N6J2CPAVA47EA7ULFEO32H2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"17th (par 3): R1 3; R2 2; R3 4; R4 3","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5S7RGBOQBBGLMBRINU6TKUFM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"18th (par 4): R1 4; R2 5; R3 4; R4 4","type":"text"},{"_id":"OFAUBIBQWBGEPNOQ4SVBQWYEVU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742216520000},"id":"timestamp-62528","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"Q6CAF43G3ZBTHP5EDXPTB7YVTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy and JJ Spaun are at the 16th tee. PGA Tour rules official Gary Young is chatting them through the day’s proceedings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52MJT555QJEFNH7YY6YSCAQ474","additional_properties":{},"content":"Quick shake hands. McIlroy is up first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RJZHLQ6CVOKBKJG2PGKEV5TCYM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"F2J43NJ7YJDYTK6KMLIEIIGSCU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742216580000},"id":"timestamp-49226","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I335CKPKOBENTI7Y5MHTYQ4BQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy gets a nice strike to set himself up for a possible 9 iron shot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TG6EP53LSRGKPIUH4K7LW6J7TA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not case for Spaun. He finds himself that bit further back just right of the fairway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLFIL4HATJHTPMPT3DH42FZ2YU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217120000},"id":"timestamp-91873","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TQOCDXAUQVEXVFC5CUNRRAMNXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun is readying his shot. He has to negotiate the water to the right. He gets over the water to find the bunker.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EV6BQQSLS5FBVFG3HBPV46LFTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy goes with the 9 iron and finds the green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ICM4I5HHFBSTH6LVJEZMD7JCM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217300000},"id":"timestamp-74240","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4LLEVC3RGJAWRNOBXHZQCQOJKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun finds his way out of the bunker well to get himself on to the green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPMD2QQ2ANA47PQ2ICPULOW43E","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is eyeing up his putt. He sends it just left, a few yards beyond the pin. Not ideal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SU4U4XFWZFBS5OY3FAOM7XGXEI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217420000},"id":"timestamp-19825","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NMYX2ODVEVDE3O7NDLDQIJIRXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solid effort from Spaun but his first putt attempt is a yard short.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFS3MW75NRD53GDS3ZPGLANT44","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217480000},"id":"timestamp-3625","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MLECQPE7ZJCJHIYW7P7KUFZ4YU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy takes a birdie on the 16th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPZN54PDQVCQHIGTQM5VLQ3AHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"JJ Spaun stays level par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7RZ4OX75VEK3OONHSFXMSNFKI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217720000},"id":"timestamp-50911","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I72LEYPPV5DQNBQN3ZJ6YBDSPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy steps up to the 17th tee. Over the water to find the green. Lovely stuff.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNI645Q6WRE33L2MID2XVENY3A","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742217780000},"id":"timestamp-59483","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IPM7R5CBARHBNA6XUW7TH7XFNY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun overcooks it and finds the water.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HACGNCS5P5FYLBYHAYNWACFGJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He heads over to the drop zone to have another crack at making the green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OAHGHFEJXZA4RMXNJW6KKQ4NNA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218020000},"id":"timestamp-61793","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"G2Y6X4SVBNDBLIRCOAYBQKRSNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"JJ Spaun gets to the green but his ball goes with the slope. It finds its stop at the collar of the green making for a very difficult two-putt attempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWYRBF2Q2FAZ5BQKFWHY2CBIDA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218200000},"id":"timestamp-99319","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BCBGRWXCKNBWLO5EAIAZEKTQ6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sapun opts to chip instead to see his shot over the slope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZFKLSHKHBDX3C53W6AQA47DIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy up now with his first attempt. The putt goes beyond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4UZ7CDYYKRDILF6C6NQRPLBW7A","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218380000},"id":"timestamp-98818","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3FVUU5GAHZHTXHE7KOHVZTLTC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun ends his nightmare 17th on three over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOK7UPRXKRE2JJII4KGTLBMYGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy fails to take the putt on his second attempt. He knocks it in for a bogey.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZT6NBBFWW6O6L6ULQ6VQ7OX76M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LHI6NVK3XVBVHL6ICICHAHTSAA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218500000},"id":"timestamp-55654","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YQ24T3NGWFCVPCIR3PVKFJ5GXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"On to the 18th we go. Last of the three-hole play-off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMO5NWCZ6VCRBEFQ7FNIRBWV3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s on level par, Spaun’s on three over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTYQSM3VFFCNJCNPSTIBQXU3DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Again, Rory’s first up to the tee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L43UDS5PEJGJRCEWB6FTZRCZA4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218733020},"id":"timestamp-38604","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JLAIEEQVIBBWJDQEBJQDAUXI5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy’s shot from the tee goes into the trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQAGFSQETBAQDHPWSYUJHVEMII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun’s goes a similar direction thanks to the wind.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGS2BFCCZZHJDPBY3WOBJDP54M","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742218920000},"id":"timestamp-52649","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NH57RFHT5JCFBEKBWVKMKUAT7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both golfers have to find their way through the trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGSNKNPM2FFMZGAMVS7UYYMWYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two easy chips brings them both back on to the fairway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C7WLGKTCGNBQRHKN3TPDGZXPOM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219040000},"id":"timestamp-21191","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CWD37OYLCFESDFBVHOVGGFUQSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun hits to the green. Shorter than he would have liked.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CZ2MUVB4T5BOXFW44YOMVXFJNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Three shots ahead, Rory looks nice and calm. And he hits a lovely shot to give himself an easy final putt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXWMH2IUBFCSTGW262RQ7DIRRQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219220000},"id":"timestamp-88678","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"AGV5LOJDUVES7O76MYUU73SXUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun moves closer to the pin with his first putt, but it’s all eyes on Rory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXXGBBVJKRBRDGD23KIOSXIQHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He lines up his putt. It’s just to the left. He’ll need another go.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZCJGDJ6M5EZJJQXVPOVHHTDUM","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219400000},"id":"timestamp-97227","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"XKBXK4MUF5BLHKGS6DQCZXKZKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy makes the putt at the second time of asking to take the win!","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCPFKM2CJJDLDJWUBXL3CUZCEI","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742219580000},"id":"timestamp-96425","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"AUMDGGGPNRBKVENQWHZKPIVSJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s Rory McIlroy’s second win at The Players Championship and his 28th victory of the PGA Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JST6ZGITO5EZFMN7JNBFL42W7Q","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742220216052},"id":"timestamp-81642","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KXQ7HEHRVBEQDJSRKRET2WHZUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy’s been speaking after his win. Here’s what he had to say:","type":"text"},{"_id":"OC5DNSZ53NGLLD33DNXOWCRJVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Wind coming out of a completely different direction. I’m just glad we didn’t have to play 18 in that, three was enough.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFYVPU6WVBFQHBCMOHGCSGAYFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel bad for JJ. He hit a really good shot on 17 and it just went straight through the wind. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPTUIBPNGVG3HELVYSO7NCVMXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was lucky to do enough to get it done but unbelievably proud and happy to win my second Players Championship. And I think this is a third time I’ve won on St Patrick’s Day so it’s been a good-luck charm for me.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y65NIENRQBBNLAQJG4U7WOZHBA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UY4NDMVXMRCBFMZNOE2GECKJ3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"On his 28th win on the PGA Tour and becoming the eighth player to win multiple Players Championships, McIlroy added: “I’ve worked really hard. I feel like I’m a way more complete player than I was a few years ago, even in conditions like this.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2KUYIGX625DKFJRCHEEZGYONDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I can play in all conditions and anything that comes my way. Really happy I was able to get it done today.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDQJ436NMNGRVF47N5ZURO3XB4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1742220815623},"id":"timestamp-47208","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"NQG6KQEMXNE4JAB7QNHUH7GVF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"And the world number two had some kind words for the world number one, Scottie Scheffler.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZING35SBKVDEZPI7WCAXW5SLXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Picking up the trophy, McIlroy said of the 2023 and 2024 Players Championship winner: “Seeing what Scottie did last year going back-to-back – Scottie’s been on an unbelievable run and I think it’s inspired all of us to try to be better.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3B72DPA435AL3AWZAYYSIQJDRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I know I need to be better to compete with him. I’ve knuckled down, I’ve worked hard, and it’s nice to tie him with this, and with Tiger [Woods] and the five others who’ve won this multiple times.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy wins three-hole play-off to claim second Players Championship"},"display_date":"2025-03-17T14:19:45.721Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Players Championship: Rory McIlroy beats JJ Spaun at Sawgrass – As it happened","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BCKUTKFD7JF6JNHHPYOTHWDCTE","auth":{"1":"6756946bbe2dd504d81d89cbb3ee9313102a3e8d3124aaff8812d801e4f454d9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BCKUTKFD7JF6JNHHPYOTHWDCTE.jpg"}},"subtype":"live-story","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/17/the-players-championship-play-off-live-rory-mcilroy-and-jj-spaun-face-off-over-three-holes/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"GY52B4RHEBBJHACM43DQQHNUAU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":157,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/b69a9dfa-a821-4154-b3ab-9cf00fca9bb6/versions/1742192392/media/0f5a31230fe7098e8bac42641bf84d41_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-sets-up-st-patricks-day-duel-with-spaun/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NBLEU4K2NRD5XARUZ4YEJTQPH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> got an extra night in Orlando, for good reason: the Northern Irishman’s bid to claim The Players for a second time in his career was only thwarted by a weather delay, so that the world number two’s quest for a second The Players title required extra time, a three hole aggregate playoff against JJ Spaun.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SOOKQYSCL5FGDPFTZPZOAGUSS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy started the final round four shots adrift of Spaun but a 68 to the American’s 72 left the pair locked together on 12-under-par 276, two shots ahead of Tom Hoge, Akshay Bhatia and Lucas Glover. Shane Lowry closed with a 67 for 284 to finish in tied-20th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6VSMYRFSRDT7AV7VCHGRQATIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On a weather interrupted final round, with a four hour suspension due to the front that included lightning, McIlroy and Spaun, the world number 57, finished tied through 72 holes and required to return to the TPC Sawgrass course for a playoff.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4DLP2ZUA5BYFDRMVWRA4RNRGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy, winner of The Players in 2019 and chasing a 28th win on the PGA Tour, having already won the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am this year started the final round as a pursuer but a birdie-eagle start moved him into contention.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2YDGUTP3ZGCRO4XBH2HKOJ3DE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of sleeping on a playoff prosect involving three holes, (the 16th, 17th and 18th), McIlroy remarked: ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTPGZYBR7NFCHJCRF7QHLDDSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve never experienced it before. I don’t quite know. But yeah, it’s going to be cool to be a part of.I guess it’s very much just a three-hole match play scenario. That’s all it is. Just try to prepare as best I can tomorrow morning. Get a good night’s sleep. It’s been a very long day for all of us. Yeah, and just try to be as prepared as possible.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CJD5LYUK5NHORMLZP5A3FHCUTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m happy to be in the position that I am, but also I feel like I had chances there on the back nine to close the door, and I didn’t quite do that. But I’m excited for the opportunity (to win).”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2Y5INVBFRBHM5OJSCE6S2UKOY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spaun, who has only won once before on the PGA Tour and who considered retiring last year before a late-season flourish, started with a four shot lead over McIlroy before trailing by three at one point and then getting back on level terms remarked;","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCGN2IU7LBA5HLNG536DXRDUGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I showed myself that I don’t have to shy away from the moment. I think in the past I’ve done that, just kind of been afraid of being in that spotlight, being in that pressure, be worried about failure. But it’s hard to win, and you have to fail multiple times in order to win. That’s kind of what I’ve learned throughout my career, and it paid off today.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CQMJNW5IDFEH3BCYCSKRS4XHMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy and Spaun are headed into a St Patrick’s Day duel, with a $4.5 million payday to the winner. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy started the final round four shots adrift of Spaun "},"display_date":"2025-03-17T00:09:04.351Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Players Championship: Rory McIlroy and Spaun head for play-off with $4.5m on the line","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5FCMRVDGQY5B3UK6OBYAJWPQII","auth":{"1":"f15c1e043be72c9cfc35e58779b23c02ab5264acc031a27a96f9993557e64439"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5FCMRVDGQY5B3UK6OBYAJWPQII.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/17/rory-mcilroy-sets-up-st-patricks-day-duel-with-spaun/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"T3YBVS7ED5DXLJBZ3NDTKI3BVI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":166,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/1eff3311-582a-48aa-980a-68bb9eb08601/versions/1742128513/media/73f2756478baec18db464863835dd7f1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/16/rory-mcilroy-four-off-lead-at-players-with-early-finish-on-cards-due-to-weather/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JGFT2E2A5RG7BF7L7GXYFTH5FM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> remains in contention at the Players Championship despite a disappointing one-over 73 in his third round that left him four shots behind playing partner JJ Spaun as he led the American charge at TPC Sawgrass after a third-round 70 put him one stroke ahead of compatriot Bud Cauley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"24GZIHKWM5DA5CGU744WX4IDDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"World number 57 Spaun, joint-leader after shooting a six-under 66 in Thursday’s opening round, followed up Friday’s 68 with five birdies and three bogeys on Saturday to hold a slender advantage heading into the final day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EEGA4SBMURHSHNDFWIWSC67V5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 34-year-old Californian saved par on the final hole to stay ahead, sinking a 24-foot putt after a wayward second shot had left him in trouble to reach 12 under.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2EHVCRJIJFS3KAEGOS34WTNLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cauley’s six-under-par 66, which included an eagle at the par-five ninth, seven birdies and three bogeys, catapulted him up 14 places into second at 11 under, two shots ahead of fellow Americans Lucas Glover and Alex Smalley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YG2FDQLGVBFM3EA7LWWNGXWNLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glover, who finished one under for the day, is tied in third place with Smalley, while another American, Akshay Bhatia, appeared on course to join them on nine under before he bogeyed the last to slip two places.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IL2CTEJ4XVEBJJQ6MV4RTQIS6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is tied with Bhatia in fifth place at eight under. The world number two, who shot a 67 and 68 in the first two rounds, was one under for the day after 11 holes but bogeyed three of the last seven holes before birdieing the last.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7AD6NTE7FAMHLH4W43EAECYSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I played better than I scored,” said McIlroy. “All the bogeys I made were really soft. I just need to chip and putt better tomorrow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2UE43JR2OBDR3DJ3TDAVDPF2WQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Not out of it by any means. The wind is supposed to still be blowing tomorrow, so it was nice to make a birdie on 18 just to get one closer to JJ.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C2D5AX4FLJDDXCQM4PHSVUVPRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I just made a few too many mistakes around the greens and on the greens. If I can tidy that up tomorrow, I feel like I’ll have a really good chance.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MISORDF4FBFE5BNRN63UHWXM2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Defending champion Scottie Scheffler is seven shots off the lead, tied in 16th place at five under par after carding a 72, alongside five other players, including Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre, who also finished level-par for the round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTL2PXY5ONDLXFA4C455CTABWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shane Lowry made a double-bogey six on the 18th to card a two-over 74 that leaves him on one over for the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QY56S5N7UJHXVIMIALSSRHKAZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The final round has been moved to an earlier start, with groups of three starting from the first and 10th tees, because of bad weather which is forecast to bring storms and heavy winds later in the day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FC52VHM45E4FO4TA46VQBQACA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It means McIlroy will play in the second last group off the first at 1.50pm Irish time alongside Smalley and Corey Connors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NIGKPTE55GTBLE4BT6ZCUVWYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The leading group of Spaun, Cauley and Glover go off at 2.01pm Irish time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MI22IG2FYZDJNEL2QSXTETZVAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"American JJ Spaun leads the way on 12 under at TPC Sawgrass "},"display_date":"2025-03-16T12:33:14.81Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy four off lead at Players with early finish on cards due to weather ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3YW6I25T2X4JGOXLFO7ZMO2PLE","auth":{"1":"c237f8139fd91f093d20108cdbd60ad6a420b90481dc2a06444efc305d525df9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3YW6I25T2X4JGOXLFO7ZMO2PLE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/16/rory-mcilroy-four-off-lead-at-players-with-early-finish-on-cards-due-to-weather/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"OSWMLLFGTJFCDOKMHQBSWFSUR4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":197,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/207f4fed-546f-439b-bf98-2b1063cc231e/versions/1741972106/media/2a9b86fc03ca6ac4de9776940c928cd8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/15/cairn-homes-offers-clontarf-golf-club-land-swap-as-several-thousand-new-homes-envisaged/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FDGYGXIXABGMBKBZCT767NMAGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QF4JNBH4D5DMBFJF6AJDBQLVWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741966797178},"content":"Irish housebuilder <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cairn-homes/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cairn-homes/\">Cairn Homes </a>has approached <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/clontarf-golf-club-given-offer-to-relocate-to-haughey-estate-under-housing-plan-1.4740113\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/business/construction/clontarf-golf-club-given-offer-to-relocate-to-haughey-estate-under-housing-plan-1.4740113\">Clontarf Golf & Bowling Club </a>with a land swap proposal that it believes could deliver “several thousand new homes” on the prime 72-acre site, just north of Dublin’s city centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GXNXKXQW4RCJ3KH4EZFUNWBZT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280355},"content":"Cairn, which built 2,593 new homes here last year, has partnered with Green Land Capital on a land swap proposal that would involve the Clontarf club relocating to 185 acres in Kinsealy that were previously part of the Abbeville estate owned by late taoiseach Charlie Haughey. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NFDZLVDXFABNIAPXTUSEWVQZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 18-hole championship course would be designed by Irish golfer and former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley. Green Land, which is led by businessman Ray Cotter and his sister Barbara Cotter, has an option to buy the Kinsealy land from its owner, the Nishida family, who own the Toyoko Inn hotel chain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNW6XZG5GZBQJDBNZREFAF2EBI","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-44209","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PUCDGJDAUZCCPLYK7D6KLXOPL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280356},"content":"Green Land approached the golf club with a similar proposal in 2021, which was turned down by members. Cairn is now leading the plan, adding some weight to the prospect of a deal being realised.","type":"text"},{"_id":"643DS3D5E5FM7HGGDOJIS2KV5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280357},"content":"In a statement to The Irish Times, the housebuilder said: “Cairn Homes has commenced engagement with the officers at Clontarf Golf Club to explore the possibility of engaging in a land swap to potentially construct, subject to zoning and planning, several thousand new homes on the land. This is at a preliminary stage and requires consideration from the club’s members.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCMLY56RBZDVHI3QXRA2I4FIYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is understood that Cairn chief executive Michael Stanley wrote a letter recently to the management committee of the golf club, outlining his proposal. Mr Cotter has also written to the club. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JO4XUATURETZEEQZEWUH6UECE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier this week, Gerry Donnelly, chairman of the management committee, wrote to golf club members to inform them that he had received a letter from Mr Cotter seeking to “reintroduce” the proposal to relocate the club to Kinsealy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"65TV3FKPMJHTXK3TBT233DP3B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That proposal was considered by members at the club’s annual general meeting held on 25th February 2022 and was rejected,” he said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PPI2JPKTTBCLJP65MOE23HF2AE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The latest correspondence makes no new offer to the club and the proposal referenced by Mr Cotter remains identical to that which was received in 2021. The only difference is the involvement of Cairn Homes plc as promoter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGKSUFE7FZCQPCFOOVDOQN7D4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The correspondence, which includes a letter of introduction from Cairn Homes, has been acknowledged. Members will be kept informed of any further developments as they occur.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEFGGYUV7NFXXKGSP6RGIWDYO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Clontarf club has about 1,400 members and they would have to vote by special majority for any deal to proceed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LX72RB3KSFGA7NBRSFBQ6PC3IA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280358},"content":"Some 62 acres of the club’s land is leased from Dublin City Council, which would have to consent to any development and rezone the site for housing. The other 10 acres are owned by the members.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWD7PSQ56RAK5DD6EWEE2QWD3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741967280359},"content":"Mr Donnelly and Clontarf Golf Club were contacted for comment. Green Land was also contacted for comment. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GTQDKMJZ45BQHISH7P6DV5W3TQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In 2007, members of the Clontarf club accepted a €125 million deal from Capel Developments that would have resulted in a payout of €100,000 to each full member, with lower amounts for other membership groups.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DWV6GPIPAJD3XMOLYS4D3IADJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The club was to relocate to the Portmarnock Links course where a new clubhouse would have been constructed. However, the deal fell apart in 2008 when Capel pulled out as the property crash loomed.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ciarán Hancock"}},"name":"Ciarán Hancock"}]},"description":{"basic":"Facility would relocate to Kinsealy with Paul McGinely designing new course"},"display_date":"2025-03-15T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cairn Homes offers Clontarf golf club land swap as ‘several thousand new homes’ envisaged ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ROB5QPLNLNJFHEU4RP2VNLE3EY","auth":{"1":"4169f91c20c4e622bf8197d580b94dc714d20987e1222505dfda44168716a5be"},"focal_point":{"x":1448,"y":941},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ROB5QPLNLNJFHEU4RP2VNLE3EY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Property"},{"name":"Residential"},{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Golf"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/15/cairn-homes-offers-clontarf-golf-club-land-swap-as-several-thousand-new-homes-envisaged/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"QFQKMS675ZDS3KBN7ND4D5TTUQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":194,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6a1ebb01-85e1-4006-9919-257ed8c1c659/versions/1741979856/media/c022f4a0976955b78bcd659e3035c627_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/well-placed-rory-mcilroy-undeterred-by-bogeys-and-bad-forecast-in-players-championship/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> shrugged off a disappointing finish to his second round of the Players Championship and insisted he would relish the forecasted tough weekend conditions at Sawgrass. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TMBN2H4ZBNAUHCLP4URGLY3MLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mcllroy bogeyed two of his last four holes to add a 68 to his opening 67 and lie two shots behind clubhouse leaders Min Woo Lee and Akshay Bhatia, who both shot 66 to reach 11 under par. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H4JVL5WMD5DVFN3E7V2Q4EOSNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Starting from the 10th, McIlroy chipped in for birdie on his opening hole and picked up further shots on the 12th, 14th, 16th and 18th to cover the back nine in 31. The world number two also birdied the par-five second but dropped a shot on the sixth after twice finding sand on the difficult par four, which has provoked a mixed reaction from the players after an overhanging tree – replacing the original that had to be removed 11 years ago – was planted in front of the tee. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SY5WQXIGSZCHPNIXNJ4RRQKSTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy also bogeyed the par-five ninth after his second shot clattered into the trees short of the green but he was happier with his long game than he had been on Thursday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZANMJDAOXVFITOS7TOWVG7SAMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Much better,” McIlroy said when asked to assess his swing. “Hit it much better off the tee. I think I hit more fairways in six holes today than I did in 18 yesterday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQKLPZJEYRHUTKCVQJ7K5ES2FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yeah, got it in play much better and then from there was able to give myself some opportunities and obviously make some birdies early. Couldn’t quite continue that on to the back nine, but it was much better off the tee.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3VRNEMJ6JEQ5M6VAV47LFLF2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wind gusting up to 48km/h is forecast for Saturday and Sunday, but McIlroy believes he is well equipped to deal with the challenge as he seeks a second Players Championship title. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CTAWYPB2ZZCZJKSFM4O5KUF65A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m looking forward to it,” the 2019 winner said. “I think it’s going to be really important to try to flight your ball and keep it under the tree line. I think once it gets above the tree line here it can start to really get hit by it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKKXSWWYXFANHO3GUQNDIHKU2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It does swirl a little bit, but I think when the wind is so strong it will be a little more consistent. This course is challenging enough, but with a wind like that, yeah, I’m excited for that challenge. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5OBIOGVZNFBTDVEIEGNQMKEEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Just trying to control my ball flight, trying to hit different shots, trying to play with some creativity is something that I think I’ve gotten a lot better at over the last few years.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPHEPUYHCNAORJNRXHMCGZQI5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two-time major winner Collin Morikawa was alongside McIlroy on nine under par following a superb 65, with Tommy Fleetwood on seven under after a 66 and world number one Scottie Scheffler two strokes farther back following a 70. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVDL6TYAJFBRNI74UQEWSXCWGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playing alongside McIlroy and Scheffler, US PGA and Open champion Xander Schauffele birdied the ninth – his final hole of the day – to finish one under par and potentially extend his streak of made cuts to 59, the longest since Tiger Woods’s run of 142 from 1998-2005. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IA6S6FSSQJCTJGSHDU6LMW7XLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was thinking about the cut line for sure,” Schauffele said. “Knew I needed to make birdie. I think two-putting is probably the easiest way to birdie nine and I was able to do that.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Min Woo Lee and Akshay Bhatia share lead after second round"},"display_date":"2025-03-14T19:12:31.719Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy unfazed by bogeys and bad forecast in Players Championship","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"TTCGVVTPBJM6MVPCP3ZKF6VSDE","auth":{"1":"78a9e9ad8d51cacc77ce556073fee4eb18edf15dd14437e5a0b0d7701a9d788d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/TTCGVVTPBJM6MVPCP3ZKF6VSDE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/well-placed-rory-mcilroy-undeterred-by-bogeys-and-bad-forecast-in-players-championship/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"FHY4KETQ45GUPNC3TVZN75SR3U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":266,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/8bb56be4-532d-45eb-b7e1-58946fce756c/versions/1741953293/media/fa8379d929f713f55b6b05c931ac587a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/rory-mcilroy-answers-the-call-after-a-spot-of-mobile-phone-interference/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HFVPKJIIGBEL3EIZ636QNC2UM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> opted to let his golf clubs do the talking. A wondrous approach to the 18th, setting up a birdie for an opening round of 67, emphasised the Northern Irishman’s ability to create his own storyline.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBTW7FH5ZFAYZOENACU2A6E4WQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social media descended into typical frenzy in the build-up to this Players Championship after McIlroy was heckled by an aspiring golfer during a practice round at Sawgrass. Video footage showed McIlroy removing the intemperate spectator’s mobile phone beside the 17th tee before the individual in question was ejected by security.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TWGLML4UOJHJDL2TUXW2RNU6DU","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"N4ZBIJS7VRD3HPWG7G34Z27PK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No, you can’t,” was the McIlroy response when asked whether he could be probed about the incident. Why not? “Because I don’t want you to,” the reply. The 2019 champion was laughing but his stance was clear. He was far more open about the tournament scenario, which shows McIlroy just one shot off the lead. At the last, he found pine straw from the tee before punching a terrific iron from 161 yards to within 8ft of the cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSUSAFVVGZGVZJJ2D6QWHYQ33A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I certainly didn’t drive it the way I wanted to,” McIlroy said. “I didn’t hit it in as many fairways as I would have liked. I think with the greens being so receptive, you can get away with it a little bit. I’m not going to be able to get away with it for the rest of the week. I sort of rode my luck out there a little bit.” Indeed, McIlroy headed straight to the range when he had completed his media duties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2NI2GK2LJCK3KXQXO73O5DGSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It had emerged that the individual who sledged McIlroy is a college golfer and ranked 60th in the world’s amateur standings. Luke Potter represents the University of Texas, the alma mater of Jordan Spieth and Scottie Scheffler. Potter has written to McIlroy and the PGA Tour to express remorse for his actions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDUII6P6EJEJ7NKGBJPYPZD7AQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Look, I just made a mistake and I take ownership for it,” Potter told golfchannel.com. “I apologise for it. That’s about all that needs to be said. It’s just a good learning experience. Yeah, I apologise.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RECF3MZKMNEEHHFXADB5KWGG7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The renowned Texas golf coach John Fields even got involved. “He’s got a hole in his heart,” said Fields of Potter. “He had no idea that what was coming out of his mouth was going to result in this fashion.” What an episode; a hilarious storm in a tea cup. We can only hope Potter faces off with McIlroy in a future version of the Ryder Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2LCGQPWU7NB5RGE5BWM4ATXBSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lucas Glover, JJ Spaun and Camilo Villegas head the pack at six under. Billy Horschel and Min Woo Lee are alongside McIlroy at minus five. Scheffler made a 69 as he pursues a third Players title in succession. “I didn’t think at all about last year,” Schefffler insisted. “Last year doesn’t truly matter when it comes to this tournament. This is a new four rounds and 72 holes and today I got off to a good start.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFWKNS22KNFZTPOOUEESM7QVPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That Justin Thomas declined to answer questions after round one was amusing. The two-time major champion wrote an impassioned letter to fellow PGA Tour professionals earlier this year, urging them to engage more with the media. “We’re incredibly lucky to have many passionate people tuning in to watch us every week,” Thomas said. “But let’s be honest − this game can feel a little distant at times.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIL4AKXJLBG5HOIPOH7G45WMMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet here was Thomas, being guided away by a member of his management team rather than offer insight into a bruising 78. Do as I say, not as I do. Others to struggle included Matt Fitzpatrick, who finished triple bogey, double bogey to match Thomas’s score. Viktor Hovland slumped to an 80.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LDJETMNNNJCVPGHOGHV6VZIFLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Aaron Rai, now a resident just a five-minute drive from Sawgrass, opened with an impressive 68. Robert MacIntyre continued his strong performances on golf’s biggest stages by signing for a three-under-par 69. MacIntyre seems to relish the toughest of tests.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYLZQ7OAPFBBJFNFWNWSWSJ5IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry’</a>s level par 72 was perfectly passable in scoring context. Ludvig Åberg lurks ominously at one under. The Swede will fancy his chances of opening his major winning account at next month’s Masters. Players glory would only intensify existing hype around Åberg. Jason Day withdrew before the start of the first round, with a stomach bug cited as cause for the Australian’s non-participation. — Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"name":"Ewan Murray at Sawgrass"}]},"description":{"basic":"World number two sitting one shot off the lead in Players Championship at Sawgrass after clash with spectator"},"display_date":"2025-03-14T11:16:18.514Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy answers the call after a spot of mobile phone interference","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"VTP37LEODFPB43XEUBA2SM5UBA","auth":{"1":"2c784dcef939bdd51859a75216665f1b91d8de0551dd6bf20a5acf2785c91d96"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/VTP37LEODFPB43XEUBA2SM5UBA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/14/rory-mcilroy-answers-the-call-after-a-spot-of-mobile-phone-interference/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"VR7TKMVD3JAS5CD77SUQT6A2SQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":220,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0d4e0dfa-d515-4874-bdcf-ebc9f3039ef0/versions/1741907444/media/fb37b32f4f16eeccf6eb60c6ab098a7d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/13/rory-mcilroys-magic-touch-on-the-18th-leaves-him-one-shot-off-lead-at-players/","content_elements":[{"_id":"VLYEIMASMVFYLIUG743YME26PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A stunning approach from the pine straw on the 18th hole helped Rory McIlroy card a five-under 67 to sit one shot off the clubhouse lead at the Players Championship in Florida.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCMSBUUEEZCJZK5TCBO7R7H7AA","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy drove into the trees on the right of the par-4 18th but manufactured a wonderful second shot from 160 yards with a 5-iron to inside eight feet before sinking the birdie.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRPKPU7CEJB3TKIPZEJOBI5MZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It meant world number two McIlroy comfortably won the bragging rights in the prize three-ball alongside world number one Scottie Scheffler (69) and number three Xander Schauffele (72). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RXBUDECG2BBHTFFRECQX3N76ZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy opened his round with back-to-back birdies but dropped shots at the third and seventh dropped him back to level par. But four birdies in a row from the ninth got him to four under before his hot streak came to an end. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFSRZOW7SBHB5GMKBBREROE6QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former US Open champion Lucas Glover produced a blistering finish to set the early clubhouse target on day one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDJ4WOPWIJBOXKNMZENMWALQBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glover birdied the last four holes at TPC Sawgrass to card a six-under-par 66, a mark he was joined on by fellow American JJ Spaun. Australia’s Min Woo Lee was joined by McIlroy on five under. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M572AFWFI5H4BBFYG52HL7WOAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glover, whose closing salvo included a birdie from 18 feet on the famous par-three 17th, said: “On 15 I had a great number [to the pin], so that was a green light.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VZU2KSWH2ZDDNJWLYDETYSZNH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Sixteen, if you hit it in the fairway you feel like you should make a four and I drew a good lie in the rough left of the green. On 17 I happened to know a putt from years past hitting it there and over-reading it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4WX2YMFWKVARBARH6UFXCH3J74","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Then 18, wind switched, I had help all of a sudden. It was an eight-iron number and ended up hitting nine. Then gravity kind of took over for me and pulled it down there to the left, which it does to that hole location if you just get the right number.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PISSEAULLFHFBFTZTZVSEVIYCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s the thing about this place is there’s always some really good scores and always some really bad scores. The margins are razor thin here, akin to say Augusta or Bay Hill. You get off just a little, you can make big numbers in a hurry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K5EGZVHKQNEKPDCD446NWYQACM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So I happened to have a bunch of good numbers today and a bunch of good yardages and was able to be aggressive and I putted great. But any time you get off to a good start it gives you confidence.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"72FQKBIZ6ZB63ON7ZW26HIF2BI","additional_properties":{},"content":"England’s Aaron Rai was among a group of players two off the leaders after he carded a four-under 68.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNZBKYFHQ5BDPGGTWVNQU5YR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rai is based at Sawgrass and made the most of his local knowledge in Florida with a round containing six birdies and two bogeys, the last of those caused by three-putting the 17th from 50 feet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WNA5KUCGO5HKPNFQWMFZUF2FAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Justin Lower somehow managed to play the 17th in one shot fewer than Rai despite hitting his tee shot over the island green into the water, the American then taking a penalty drop before holing out from the drop zone for an unorthodox par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BQASVKOOFVCHPKUAFAD7ZNGUMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre was three shots off the pace following an opening 69, with three-time Major winner Jordan Spieth another stroke back following an eventful 70 which included two chip-in eagles, two birdies, a double bogey and two bogeys.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6CPLQ7DONJD43BJBRW42CUJS3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shane Lowry carded three birdies and three bogeys in an even-par 72, while Séamus Power carded two double-bogeys in a four-over 76.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQZICJKL2RBXRG6FBS52TGIASU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former champion Jason Day withdrew from the event before the start of play due to illness.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XDHU37YNJDUJEEDSW4YPVVPW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Day, who was scheduled to go out in the morning wave with Spieth and Wyndham Clark, was replaced in the field by Danny Walker, who returned a 73.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEGKHUIP3VAGRBBXA7VT6LTPNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Justin Thomas was two under par after seven holes of his round before finding water on the 17th and 18th to drop five shots, the two-time Major winner slumping to eight over par before making birdies on his last two holes to card a 78.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"World No 2 cards 67 in the first round with brilliant approach to the last hole the highlight "},"display_date":"2025-03-13T22:47:06.26Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy’s magic touch on the 18th leaves him one shot off lead at Players ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"36JKLPKBBTBFREIRDCI45LJONE","auth":{"1":"c326654d544314de090b9dd0f259488489ea73a8c050f81d82cb0fea5d39fb5f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/36JKLPKBBTBFREIRDCI45LJONE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/13/rory-mcilroys-magic-touch-on-the-18th-leaves-him-one-shot-off-lead-at-players/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"OBNMFA22YRCJRKJHCYNJR6XTUY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":398,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f9703efd-938f-4707-af70-2e2ba3bd1372/versions/1741789288/media/273a3ddd7bc33a85f25ba8168d5e27c7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/12/no-way-ill-still-be-playing-at-50-rory-mcilroy-saddened-by-tiger-woods-injury/","content_elements":[{"_id":"36DPWK6TNJG3ZO56RM3A4DZVGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"As <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> begins his recovery from yet another injury, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> has firmly dismissed any notion of his own career stretching into his 50s.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HC4CFRI7LNB5XOISD2PL4NDEGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 49-year-old Woods ruptured an Achilles while training at home on Tuesday morning and McIlroy believes he will not feature in any of the 2025 Majors. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HRD4XIFPTZAARBZE4KWKOCOX24","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It sucks,” McIlroy said. “He doesn’t have much luck when it comes to injuries and his body. Obviously he was trying to ramp up to get ready for Augusta and Achilles surgeries aren’t fun.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPJK6TO5T5CC3KNJQOTH26LR3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am hoping he’s in good spirits and hoping he’s doing okay. We obviously won’t see him play golf this year and hopefully we see him maybe play in 2026.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEG5SI7QJVGXHCEXMBTEOHEET4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods’s ongoing desire to participate in golf events contrasts starkly with the outlook of McIlroy. The Northern Irishman, who will turn 36 in May, has a clear idea of his professional longevity. “I’m very happy to move aside for the younger generation to come through,” McIlroy said. “I look at other sports. I turned pro in 2007. I’m 18 years into a career. Not a lot of athletes can say they’ve had an 18-year career and I’m only 35.","type":"text"},{"_id":"532RXRL3AVF7HKLS4JG6IVB36Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I can acknowledge how lucky golfers are to be able to do what they do for so long compared to other athletes, so whenever I feel like the time is right, I’ll have no problem moving aside and letting the next generation do their thing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYI5PCMBYVDD7MVLSEBNUPAF4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pressed on precisely when that may be, McIlroy added: “I think when I’ve achieved everything I want to achieve in the game and I get to the point where I don’t think I can maybe do that any more. I’d also like to walk away with a little bit left in the tank. I don’t want to be out there embarrassing myself. I’d like to walk away maybe a little before I should. Put it that way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TDE47D3APBB2NLBGO2Z7BROHDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I will not play Champions Tour golf. I’ve said a lot of absolutes in my time that I’ve walked back but I do not envision playing Champions Tour golf. Something has gone terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZMPDX6EVCZFBNPOAOUBUMWWMFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy re-emphasised his desire for a more global approach to elite golf, as talks rumble on between traditional tours and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund aimed at some form of unification.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5URD25ZTSFCOPA2MGW4PTMOXFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In Singapore on Wednesday, Brooks Koepka did not exactly play down the sense he may seek a return to the PGA Tour from the Saudi-backed LIV circuit. The former Masters champion Fred Couples turned heads last week by asserting Koepka has eyes set on a PGA Tour comeback. A widespread assumption is that Koepka, a five-time Major winner, feels undercooked by LIV’s light playing schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KIYCKQHJOBG7DDAGF7YD653U4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve got a contract obligation out here to fulfil and then we’ll see what happens,” said Koepka. “I don’t know where I’m going, so I don’t know how everybody else does. Right now I’m just focused on how do I play better, how do I play better in the Majors, how does this team win, and then we’ll figure out next year and how to play better again. It’s the same thing. It’s just a revolving cycle. I’ve got nothing. Everybody else seems to know more than I do.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AD4TZCBPHL5MBTSAEYX7ZADFGQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WELYGFJRTJCEDFK4WMBKA363FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHJSW3H6YJGOHDIK5Y5VF72FGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7VLUELBLHFEBTMJXI4SUUVNQSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_green\">Philip Reid’s tournament lowdown</mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVZ3UVA2N5ERPFYRPQII4R334Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse: </b>$25 million (€22.9 million) ($4.5 million/€4.15 million to the winner).","type":"text"},{"_id":"2OCO2WYMM5HCLDW7D7TGJGD564","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where: </b>Ponte Vedra, Florida.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6IMJCGTNZAZREBSLNGLGHK2KM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The course: </b>TPC Sawgrass – 7,352 yards, par 72 – is a so-called “stadium course” which features a large amount of purpose-built mounding around the layout to facilitate spectator viewing. It has been beefed up since Scottie Scheffler’s successful defence a year ago, with 23 yards added to the par-5 second hole and added length to sixth, 11th, and 16th as well. In addition, new trees – palms and oaks – have been planted down the right of the 14th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DX5WEZY2CJFSHK43VXGER5BV4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Designed by Pete Dye, with input from his wife Alice in the creation of the famed 17th hole island green, the design philosophy includes deep bunkering and small greens, while Dye’s clever tracking around the former swamp encourages players to work the ball both ways off the tee. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZWKPNF4PTFC4PBB66POLEGYWSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It has traditionally made for a stern examination and past winners include both long-hitters and also those more inclined to strategically navigate a way around the course. The signature hole is the par-3 17th but it is part of a very strong closing stretch that also includes the risk-reward par-5 16th which has water down the right and in play around the green, while the par-4 18th has a crescent fairway that works its way along a lake which has water in play all the way up the left-hand side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ELR33HXL2JCSZOPSOBVKB4TES4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The field: </b>The PGA Tour’s flagship event has a stellar field featuring all of the world’s top 10 and also the leading 10 players off this season’s FedEx Cup (with Rory McIlroy seventh and Shane Lowry 10th in those standings). Scottie Scheffler made history last year when successfully defending his title and will attempt to create more history this time by making it three in a row. There are 13 first-timers in the 144 player field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSM7X6XTVJCNHOMQACGRQPIMXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Playoff holes (if required): </b>Three hole aggregate: (16-17-18), then sudden death 17-18-16.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERACQBXZNRBCJN3YMSSXTWHMCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote: </b>“TPC Sawgrass is one of my favourite golf courses because it’s so straightforward and it’s so in front of you. But you’ve still got to hit the shots. You have to execute. If you don’t, you’re going to get punished real hard. But also, if you do execute the shots, you’re going to get a lot of opportunities” – Ludvig Åberg, who has moved into the Ponte Vedre area since last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YIS5WDO7OBE4JFFXDPE4QLX4UE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish in the field: </b>Rory McIlroy is in the standout group with Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele (off the first tee at 5.29pm Irish time); Shane Lowry is grouped with Viktor Hovland and Russell Henley (off the 10th at 12.35pm Irish time); Séamus Power is grouped with JT Poston and Mackenzie Hughes (off the 10th at 1.08pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWVUOWUFZJDCBCOT7UZUQS6GKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting: </b>Scheffler’s recent form on the Dye masterpiece has him installed as 5-1 favourite, although he has yet to hit the vein of form he showcased last season. McIlroy – a winner in 2019 – and Collin Morikawa, who had the Arnold Palmer snatched from his grasp last week, are each rated 11-1 shots with Åberg a 14-1 chance ... but better value can be found further down the market with in-form Lowry a decent each-way prospect at 33s while Jason Day is worth a look at 50-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKIX7TDZVZBNPDRMZQYJG6M36Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV: </b>Live on Sky Sports Golf from 11.30am.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKCAYFCP2FD3XPSCMW5SM7GAMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray at Sawgrass"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy: ‘I’ll have no problem moving aside and letting the next generation do their thing'"},"display_date":"2025-03-12T14:16:21.618Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘No way I’ll still be playing at 50’: Rory McIlroy saddened by Tiger Woods injury ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Y47ULIJGO25WJHBH327YZ4LGHA","auth":{"1":"b3bff80ef33e09a5423cdd40f98e3436b44640fd93380e580582d459356f8a4c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Y47ULIJGO25WJHBH327YZ4LGHA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/12/no-way-ill-still-be-playing-at-50-rory-mcilroy-saddened-by-tiger-woods-injury/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"E47L3JU5LBGPFFO6O75YJRDA6A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":76,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6a785e37-ec85-456d-ac1c-e9d512a639b5/versions/1741806959/media/9c92eedecac103f0a6011f6f7ac46bd3_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/tiger-woods-undergoes-surgery-on-ruptured-achilles-tendon/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FCVGWADD7ZBXRAM4CVKUKR2W4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> had surgery on Tuesday to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon, after the 15-times Major winner said he suffered the injury while training at home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CO5536YZ6NHB3A6SJMGKAMN7UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The injury marks the latest setback for Woods, who has kept a limited competitive schedule for years due to several injuries. He was targeting a comeback this year after undergoing surgery for nerve impingement on his lower back in September. Woods has not played on the PGA Tour since July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C6RSWVFY3RD2DBNZHK4HOY3PZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“As I began to ramp up my own training and practice at home, I felt a sharp pain in my left Achilles, which was deemed to be ruptured,” Woods wrote on social media.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N2OCGMYN6ZBW3MHZVIRPHF2V7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This morning, Dr Charlton Stucken of Hospital for Special Surgery in West Palm Beach, Florida performed a minimally-invasive Achilles tendon repair for a ruptured tendon.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPYHPMWMMZG3XB6FU5CJ2GGGGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods gave no timeline for his return, with little over four weeks to go before the opening round of the Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LKOGZR2CMFGD3PQW6FHW7T76NM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Strucken said in a statement that he expected Woods to make a full recovery.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BT4LEURWZH3DNIDLING2244MM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods pulled out of last month’s Genesis Invitational days after his mother’s death and later sat out a TGL match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFD6WLK4D5B7RFHRJUFCWVSPFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am back home now and plan to focus on my recovery and rehab, thank you for all the support,” said Woods.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"15-times Major champion said he suffered the injury while practicing at home"},"display_date":"2025-03-11T20:35:44.214Z","headlines":{"basic":"Tiger Woods undergoes surgery on ruptured Achilles tendon","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DT4IC4YXVY4DPKUMBZCUTFZG34","auth":{"1":"a84cf749b87b773d5c4b68ecf4f24ee976ecffe908ea86851d3fba6d3785e085"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DT4IC4YXVY4DPKUMBZCUTFZG34.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/tiger-woods-undergoes-surgery-on-ruptured-achilles-tendon/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"4GVF6D6AIZEBBIV725MLTXW4S4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":158,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/907ff473-2e27-42cc-bfa1-14e9108460c1/versions/1741717738/media/a75dd103fe4c445b859bda4b9ab1dcb7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/pga-tour-could-name-and-shame-slow-play-offenders-after-player-unrest/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ADPHRLD4ZBATPCEF6D26SUZCUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> may be unable to conclude a deal to unify professional golf but there is, finally, progress on another key issue for spectators: slow play. Speaking ahead of the Players Championship, the Tour’s commissioner, Jay Monahan, revealed the imminent arrival of new sanctions which could include the naming and shaming of offenders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RY4OSYESJJB6LNNZCIZG6Y5DVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The two-time Major champion Collin Morikawa had already made clear that the PGA Tour’s current pace of play policies – which only occasionally sees golfers fined – are unfit for purpose. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUTLTVHAIBG2XHSXBVFWHXGTW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think you just have to start stroking guys and giving guys actual penalties, whether it be strokes or FedExCup [points],” Morikawa said. “What I’ve learned is that monetary fines are useless. We make so much money and some guys frankly could not care less.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"FP3PHPF3HJCKZKRTIZZQ6JNU5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Monahan, who had previously rebuffed the widespread sense that slow play was an issue worth tackling, has taken note. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BOO2A76IN5FHNGFJJ66ZELPPHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’ve committed to addressing the speed of play,” said the commissioner. “To that end, I’m excited to formally announce these recommendations from our player-led speed-of-play working group. We will begin publishing speed-of-play related statistics later this season. We will also begin testing a new speed-of-play policy on the Korn Ferry Tour and PGA Tour Americas, beginning next month, which will include assessing penalty strokes for slow play.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETLU7JOKXJEDFOAQID3DIY5HME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Strangely, Monahan would not directly address whether those punished would have their names shared with the public. However, it is understood that very plan is under consideration. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QUIFCJKDN5GZLOELKQRNQLM6IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Monahan added: “This is not done so from the standpoint of negativity; there’s also a really positive element to this. They’re celebrating the players that are playing faster and improving, and at the same time there’s giving players the information that they need to have to be able to improve in the eyes of not only how they’re competing but also in the eyes of our fans.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJKB2AEXMJCNTKJFMQEQH62XVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So I look at this as a very positive development and I think it’s pretty telling that when you’ve got six player directors that sit on our boards and you’ve got 16 members of our Player Advisory Council that there’s a lot of shaking of the heads and there’s an understanding that this is an area where we need to improve and we’re committed to doing so.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSTLSLPX2JH4LN7K5RC3IKDWVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Justin Thomas believes posting the names of slow players in locker rooms would be sufficient. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDFC4ORXBZCKVOKKEN6Z2SMYJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It would obviously end up getting out,” Thomas said. “Nobody wants to be known as that. I’m the first to admit I mean I’m on the slow side of players. It bothers me. I’ve talked to many officials about it, I want to know why I’m slow because obviously the first thing that any slower player thinks is that they’re not slow.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray at Sawgrass"}]},"description":{"basic":"Players believe current rules and cash fines are not fit for purpose"},"display_date":"2025-03-11T18:23:54.118Z","headlines":{"basic":"PGA Tour could name and shame slow-play offenders after player unrest","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6O5W5OIOHWM4OPQ2E2FWUOMLMA","auth":{"1":"3eac0eef0ff22e7547426eb9e6e09eb438a137230218fb22ea647edb8cab6885"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6O5W5OIOHWM4OPQ2E2FWUOMLMA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/pga-tour-could-name-and-shame-slow-play-offenders-after-player-unrest/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"JK5T3WH36ZA3XGHH3DGLIFA3MQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":346,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f1dbcdc3-ce35-49d5-add2-82c2daf24343/versions/1741634467/media/b3b947326fd472bdf964c69bd6c59eb4_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/spanish-ambition-the-ladies-move-on-and-henleys-inspiration/","content_elements":[{"_id":"L4F4UHH6WBARJLYPMJZ24O5GJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sergio Garcia may have defected to the dark side but the 45-year-old Spaniard isn’t giving up hope of forcing his way into Europe captain Luke Donald’s plans for the Ryder Cup in Bethpage later this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FJAJGJJLD5BTLPMGLCBO76LVIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garcia’s win in LIV Hong Hong – his second win on that tour in a matter of months – has renewed his ambitions to again be part of Europe’s Ryder Cup team: “I think (Luke Donald) is watching. We’ve been in touch, so I know he’s keeping an eye,” remarked Garcia, who has fallen to 509th in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHT3LVYKZBD6PB7UZUKNIY3DQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He added: “The only thing I can do is keep playing good golf, and I just want to help the European team like I’ve tried to do every single time I’ve been a member of that team, and hopefully he will think I’m good enough for it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AIBB6QEESJFIBB3OWA5JDC5E4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garcia is playing in this week’s LIV stop in Singapore, where Tom McKibbin is also playing and planning to remain on for next week’s DP World Tour stop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCWMMFJCQJBSXILRAHFOJ2MC44","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Golfing weather </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"QCOTRKGZZ5CNJICS7L4GZ77PLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The effects of tropical Cyclone Alfred caused last week’s Australian WPGA Championship to be cancelled as players were advised to leave the Gold Coast area for their own safety, and this week’s Australian Women’s Classic has been reduced from 72-holes to 54-holes due to weather damage at Coffs Harbour Golf Club in New South Wales.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SU5X4H6KWBHDDEDO33LLHJHOL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Three Irish players – Lauren Walsh, Annabel Wilson and Anna Foster – were among the Ladies European Tour contingent to make the long journey Down Under before having to make hasty onward trips away from the worst hit storm region in Queensland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NAD7OPJGBFB7JBFUWHKDRR2L7A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SGDCOYY2Q5DRRBZDRPAFG2DCG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"At least the trio will get to play this week, with the tournament moved back a day to a Friday start with the greenstaff at Coffs Harbour “working tirelessly to alleviate the storm’s impact to ensure the course is ready for play later this week”, according to a statement from the LET.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4SOXD4ARRFHB5NDEULBZMQB6X4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Walsh has made a strong start to her second season on the LET, finishing tied-fourth in the season-opening Lalla Meryem tournament in Morocco last month, where she had considered withdrawing on the eve of the event due to illness but recovered sufficiently to contend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HGOAX63GMNH2XNGD7MPYKXIZUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Word of Mouth</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"JSOVE735ENDSXDQR5WK5RRMP7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was just so lost with my game, with my putting a few years back and just super inconsistent, didn’t really have a great plan. He’s kind of learned my personality and really just tried to get me to focus on the little details of improving, just set up and start line and how I read the greens and believing, you know, in my process, even when things aren’t going well. So it’s not just a little tip here and there with the putting. It’s also like he’s a psychologist as well, really. He’s amazing” –<b> Russell Henley</b>, winner of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, on how guru Phil Kenyon transformed his putting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RH472KEO3RGZTPYKPYBCIP4K74","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>By the numbers: 14</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"7MP5IVDZVZBORI4FQFN665KVXQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"D2FUSDAUOFD7HGNO6THCCB2VUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shane Lowry moved to a career best 14th in the official world rankings, following the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Lowry has finished 7th-11th-39th-2nd in his last four tournaments. His previous best ranking was on moving to 17th after his win in The Open in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSR3W4IQFZAM7HDZ5EEAULUJ2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>On this day: March 11th, 2001</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZKP2LJIVSZEIRMU4SMEW422YPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tony Johnstone, these days, is known for his commentary work with Sky Sports but the Zimbabwean was also an accomplished player in his time with six wins on the European Tour, the last of those coming in the Qatar Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGVHAXBV4NHEJLCCX7EY34OFYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On a windswept final day’s play, where scores ballooned into the 80s for some, Johnstone closed with a fine 70 at Doha Golf Club for a total of 14-under-par 274, which gave him a two-stroke winning margin over Sweden’s Robert Karlsson. Karlsson had an outside chance to force a playoff, but his attempted chip for eagle on the 18th slid by the hole and he then missed the birdie putt back.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RFEMJG2FA5HKNKGY5EYKNP473I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"3QDHUL3EOJHDNPAIA56SGBOSZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Johnstone had started the final round a shot behind Karlsson and Angel Cabrera, who slumped to a closing 78. His route to a sixth career win on the European circuit was given a wonderful start with a chip-in eagle on the first hole to leapfrog into the outright lead but Johnstone and Karlsson fought it out until late birdies on the 16th and 18th gave the golfer-turned-commentator the win.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOCXM7T73JABLBVM3BJKXMAFXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"David Higgins matched the low round of the day with a closing 68 for 282 to finish in tied-eighth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFRJNK4C2RDE7OFWNPPVWQWL5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Social Swing</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"73PJJJNVEVEH3B2REZ7F22Z2JA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not the result I wanted but nice to be in the hunt again at Bay Hill. Thanks to everyone at @Mastercard and @APinv for a great event. Onto @THEPLAYERS – <b>Shane Lowry</b> adopting the glass half-full approach in moving on to Sawgrass.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HR6WGB7KJRBP7EQ7YX2EA7U3ZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"An up and down day. Struggled on the greens. Shot 70 for minus 9, 3 back of the playoff @ChampionsTour @CologuardGolf – <b>Pádraig Harrington</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5RT3KR7WBAWBI4GB7IZKMCUXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"I’m currently a better golfer than Jon Rahm – <b>Michael Kim </b>(very much tongue in cheek) after jumping ahead of the Spaniard in the official world rankings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGBDOESGGRC3HCA4NFCIVYCYM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>In the bag: </b></mark><mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Russell Henley (Arnold Palmer Invitational)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"DVYMA2A3AZBJXBIEUFNX3O7TGA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NWOXDO63PBFCLLWTN77DSX4I6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Driver:</b> Titleist GT3 (10 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KKEPF4LF2VH5DGKWWXLT4TFTUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>3-wood:</b> Titleist GT3 (16.5 degrees) <b>Hybrid:</b> Titleist TSi2 (21 degrees) <b>Irons:</b> Titleist T200 (4), Titleist T100 (5-9) <b>Wedges:</b> Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (48, 50, 54-and 60 degrees) <b>Putter:</b> Scotty Cameron T5 Tour Prototype","type":"text"},{"_id":"K76IXZ4F5FBG7EO5IYX2GZDA4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ball:</b> Titleist Pro V1x","type":"text"},{"_id":"JWH6KWMZTNA6DG4KLKJXM6OQPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Know the Rules</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"P2GOUVTQZBFWHI6UE6BOH7BLX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q:</b> In a stroke-play competition players A, B and C were drawn by the committee to play together starting at 9.00am. A and B were ready to play at the appointed time. Due to bad traffic player C arrived at 9.02am after A and B had teed off but just in time to play in the correct order. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"M2ONUBNDTJC2RCGABVO7UT5W7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A:</b> As C arrived and was ready to play no more than five minutes late, instead of being disqualified, player C gets two penalty strokes for failure to be ready to play at the appointed start time (Rule 5.3a).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Spaniard has not given up on being part of Europe’s Ryder Cup team"},"display_date":"2025-03-11T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sergio Garcia holds out hope as Cyclone Alfred has his say Down Under","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ZFSXBLQSDFBDPJFPAC2A36VQOM","auth":{"1":"da0abdd65dccc5329905854e1830349df3fec5427e9d1ba8a10f2fa933c485b3"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ZFSXBLQSDFBDPJFPAC2A36VQOM.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/11/spanish-ambition-the-ladies-move-on-and-henleys-inspiration/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"5DGIROAH6NHPDHRZW64AEKWURA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":204,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/a3fc9072-b9cb-49d6-8de5-d6b0e7a4541b/versions/1741625718/media/d8fc1f3febb80f686e39138f703bc013_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/10/rory-mcilroy-to-revert-to-tried-and-tested-tools-for-the-players/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"At least <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> managed a little, self-deprecating laugh at the numbers which didn’t add up for him at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, where his experiment in changing driver – and fairway woods – proved to be a short-lived affair.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RYP3VSKJM5AEXI22GDDYWTBERI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I led strokes gained off the tee in both Pebble [where he won] and Torrey, so it was a really good idea to change,” quipped McIlroy, who finished 15th behind winner Russell Henley at Bay Hill, after losing shots to the field when ranked 25th in strokes gained off the tee out of 51 players who made the weekend cut.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSBVHXEW45FDHHH3S7LXEALBHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not surprisingly, McIlroy has accepted the failed experiment and will have his oldish driver (with which he won the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am) back as his power tool of choice off the tee at The Players this week at TPC Sawgrass and further on at next month’s Masters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGEPMVWRTNAAXLZBM623M6DFQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The world number two is one of three Irish players – along with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\">Séamus Power</a> – in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a>’s flagship event, which carries a purse of $25 million and $4.5 million to the winner. World number one Scottie Scheffler is chasing a third successive win in the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJLSWKV7TJEONBH3YYGXFCF4UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Certainly, McIlroy wasn’t intent on lingering too much on what transpired in the Arnold Palmer Invitational. “It’s really just sort of move on from this week and put in a good three days of work to get ready for next Thursday,” said McIlroy, who – as one of the named featured groups in Sawgrass – will be playing with Scheffler and Xander Schauffele for the opening two rounds at The Players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWG7KUPXAT6MRPP53BNY5JPCFI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SSS7XB6OMBGV5HIBAQBEJPE7WI","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy is undecided on whether or not to add another tournament on to his schedule ahead of the Masters but does plan on making one or two advance visits to Augusta National in preparation: “I think it’s just going to be a little bit different this year, just with there’s some areas of the course that are maybe a little thinner tree-wise, just with the hurricane that rolled through; 16’s a new green, so I’ll probably go up there once or twice beforehand.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2ONZ73MI2VDIZC2KRGB37MFGKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"As for Sawgrass, McIlroy knows what to expect of a course where he initially struggled before getting to grips with its examination, winning in 2019, but since then has missing two cuts at the venue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LIDFNZXYQZGYXPXMBOEHLGILM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry’s initial appearances at Sawgrass proved frustrating – with three missed cuts in his first five appearances – but has proved more consistent in recent years with a top-10 in 2021 followed by finishing positions of 13th-35th-19th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CFMVSBGAENFJTEPESBHWRSLQMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Offaly man’s good form of late has moved him to a career best 14th in the official world rankings and has seen him improve to 10th on the FedEx Cup standings. Lowry has also moved up one spot to fourth on the updated Europe Ryder Cup standings, which are headed by McIlroy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ELNUSLOWWZBEZDWJZCBEG4JEPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Power didn’t get into the field for last week’s API but returns to action in The Players where he has struggled so far in his career, with a best finish of tied-33rd in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HGG7H46IBRDFDGU4PQVO4C5LFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Henley, his vastly improved form, capped off with the win at Bay Hill, has seen the American move to a career best seventh on the official world rankings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YITWJH4C6FHBJDSFOUNKJWQZZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I don’t really feel like a top-10 player. I have so much respect for this game and all these amazing players, and it’s just, it’s so difficult to even put yourself in the position to try to win a golf tournament in these, on the PGA Tour. I definitely don’t feel like it. I guess the rankings would tell you that ... so it’s hard for me to kind of comprehend that,” he said of reaching new heights.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"McIlroy returns to Sawgrass along with Shane Lowry and Séamus Power for PGA Tour’s flagship event"},"display_date":"2025-03-10T16:50:10.566Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy to revert to tried and tested tools for The Players","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JR7KPGYIL5BQH5EXM5X2SLIXAU","auth":{"1":"e38d374d8ade73beba3c221877a58c980d268ac05d7378ff025c5a1c39fcf751"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JR7KPGYIL5BQH5EXM5X2SLIXAU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/10/rory-mcilroy-to-revert-to-tried-and-tested-tools-for-the-players/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"DYUPLNQSERG2RPRQ2Q3DARPZOI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":195,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/d34945e2-0529-4ed6-a785-742b60b40618/versions/1741559243/media/995d3518b47d29fa146a86e1004726cc_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/09/rory-mcilroy-to-ditch-driver-experiment-while-shane-lowry-continues-good-form/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WTSFMAOVVNH3FJIIEXQNK7FWYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy will most likely revert to the tried and trusted when he heads to the Masters next month in seeking to add the final piece to the jigsaw in his quest to complete the career Grand Slam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y24GWEX4VVCH5OEHEBWWRPKXL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy, the world number three, used new equipment – in drivers and fairway woods – at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in Orlando, Florida, but spent too much time playing from the rough in a tournament won by Russell Henley, who closed with a 70 for 277 to win by a stroke from overnight leader Collin Morikawa.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LXSX77MIWNCP5IBFQQRKUJPE4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"While Shane Lowry’s quest for the title went astray with an error-strewn third round, the Offaly man shot a final round 70 for a total of six-under-par 282 that gave him a seventh-place finish which further strengthened his Ryder Cup points standing. But McIlroy’s disappointing weekend had him thinking of reverting to old type in his bid for a green jacket.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZH5LFTL5VA5TJCDD37ANSUH4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy, who closed with a 72 for 285 in tied-15th, is headed to The Players at TPC Sawgrass with the intention of reverting back to his old driver after an experimental use of new driver and fairway clubs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XWPBKFNGENDKVPKLDNDIZVNQHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of his decision to try something new, McIlroy admitted: “There’s pros and cons to it, and it’s a blessing and a curse at the same time that we sort of have to go through these 12-month club cycles. I probably just didn’t give myself enough time. It can look good on the Trackman and it can look good on the range at home at the Bear’s Club or on the golf course, but once you get out here in these conditions that’s where it really shows itself and it just wasn’t quite ready.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXFPV76VHBA4RLXL7UGHOQ4T64","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy has yet to finalise his scheduling up to the Masters, playing The Players this week but leaving open the possibility of adding to his itinerary in that quest to claim the missing link of his career Grand Slam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AKATP3EJPP4PA3LWYTPFROULQ4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PFCVSI6DOJE4JHWL3Z3K52ZFC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry continued his strong start to the season with another top-10, projected to move him to eighth on the FedEx Cup standings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKHTWOIWNFCRJI7M5TKSPPQMI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having led through 36 holes, Lowry suffered a speed bump with a third round 76 but responded with a final round 70 that gave him solo seventh place which strengthened his FedEx Cup and Ryder Cup standings and he brings momentum to The Players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W24EXOVM6FGARKCMBXLLN4S5IM","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Henley, a fifth PGA Tour win gave the 35-year-old American the biggest success of his career as he played catch-up on Morikawa for a one-shot lead. Henley’s closing 70 for 11-under-par 277 included a tournament winning chip-in for eagle on the Par 5 16th that propelled him into the lead: “This game is just so hard and that was so unbelievably difficult,” said Henley, winning for the first time since his World Wide Technology title in Mexico in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGRFFJE2XJC25PRTGB3HOAS7IA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Keegan Bradley, the US Ryder Cup captain, covered the front nine in just 29 strokes in ultimately signing for a final round 64 for 281 that lifted him to tied-fifth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OUWKPSOVT5AUHEA5XNL3SJ3LME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Dubliner Max Kennedy – playing on a sponsor’s invite dating back to his time as a student at the University of Louisville – marked his debut on the PGA Tout with a closing 74 for a total of six-under-par 282 to finish in tied-70th in the Puerto Rico Open, which was won by Australian Karl Vilips.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BBKFNZEOFACJIUICYCGGYNEIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the LIV Golf Hong Kong tournament won by Sergio Garcia, Tom McKibbin finished in tied-sixth position.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Russell Henley took win at Arnold Palmer Invitational by a stroke from overnight leader Collin Morikawa"},"display_date":"2025-03-09T22:22:15.033Z","headlines":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy to ditch driver experiment, while Shane Lowry continues good form","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OUD5JGF4NYDXOK4SNCZAYTZFGM","auth":{"1":"683b13a6419ad370fd7d27d033a3907d98721c6b455f3d6644f7998bc037c48a"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OUD5JGF4NYDXOK4SNCZAYTZFGM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/09/rory-mcilroy-to-ditch-driver-experiment-while-shane-lowry-continues-good-form/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"NXY537Z45BHOFEXKU57COCIF6E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":125,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/d14c7529-d91b-48ca-b743-9b9f39602e6d/versions/1741525589/media/b5cb0a85613176a234ecffaa81473062_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/09/shane-lowry-slips-six-shots-off-the-pace-after-error-strewn-arnold-palmer-invitational-third-round/","content_elements":[{"_id":"TIBX5PYT7ZDTHM3UOV35DSC5UM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Halfway leader <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> fell six shots off the pace after the third round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TFVPINRHTZGUVGILN4HPM5ENJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry began the day with a two-shot advantage, but struggled to an error-strewn 76 at Bay Hill which left him at four under par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HPPAIJ2EJNEI7MTPETARRRG7AI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The former Open champion bogeyed the first two holes and although he bounced back with birdies on the sixth and seventh, double bogeys on the 11th and 13th left him with a mountain to climb on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TAAU24HO5FHBOMNQGSCRCPPOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two-time major champion Collin Morikawa carded a superb 67 to take over at the top of the leader board on 10 under par, a shot ahead of fellow American Russell Henley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVONSDVYAVBZZBUPT76OOWTF6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Henley holed out from a bunker for a birdie on the first and had four more in succession from the 10th as he matched Morikawa’s 67.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHODHVBF3NF3PMPSNJYHEIB25U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Morikawa missed the cut on his last two starts at Bay Hill, but believes he has “more control” over his game as he bids to claim a seventh PGA Tour title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6VYLM4UKTVFSPLWB5HC2DLI5HM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You have to hit good shots out here,” Morikawa said. “It can kind of get you from any direction, but I felt like I’ve had control the first three days and just got to keep sticking to that game plan for tomorrow.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GSIEE7ALMBCEXLTCC2WG762T6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Told by CBS interviewer Cara Banks that it has been more than 500 days since his last victory, Morikawa joked: “Thank you for putting that in exact days – I hope you have the hours and minutes!","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJ7QFPKELVCH7NBKGQZPXMS3A4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve said it since day one, stick to my game plan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZWPR44DS6BG4XFR2LLAMPMTA7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I know how to win out here, I’ve done it before but honestly tomorrow, for 18 holes I just have to put it out there every single shot, not get ahead of myself, not think about the past and just be in control of who I am.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ER7WNFJHVRAYTHT47LXMFULOWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Canada’s Corey Conners lies two shots off the lead following a 69, with former world number one Jason Day another stroke back after completing his own 69 with three straight birdies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCGAPA6NV5HDBJXGJ7DHZTDVQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy bogeyed three of his last four holes to return a disappointing 73 which left him on three under alongside Ryder Cup team-mate Robert MacIntyre and England’s Aaron Rai, with world number one Scottie Scheffler and Justin Rose on two under following matching rounds of 71.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Collin Morikawa leads on 10 under heading into final round"},"display_date":"2025-03-09T12:46:07.736Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry slips six shots off the pace after error-strewn Arnold Palmer Invitational third 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actions spoke louder than any words. When <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry</a> rolled in an 18-footer from the fringe of the 18th green for his sixth birdie of the second round, a 67 for a midway total of eight-under-par 136 to assume the 36-holes lead in the $20 million Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Country Club in Orlando, his immediate reaction was to punch the air and to accept the clap on his back from caddie Darren Reynolds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R6IUKWV4IJAELAAKN7M7T4Q6R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Then, he shook hands with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a>. Lowry’s superb round at Arnie’s Place may have moved him into the lead, but McIlroy’s second successive 70 for 140 meant the Northern Irishman, too, entered the weekend in contention, if cast in the role of one of Lowry’s pursuers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6N2IZHLKTRHENDNJRAAICWODKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry, with a new Srixon driver in his bag for this fourth signature event of the PGA Tour season, has made a great start to this Ryder Cup year and his form over the opening two rounds at Bay Hill – where he finished third behind Scottie Scheffler last year – again reaffirmed just how comfortable in his own skin he is around this piece of Florida real estate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCJR6UQNJNCHZOHMAAHSWPB2SQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The key? “I think it’s my iron play is good, and conservative when it needs to be. You need that around places like this. I just like the grind of pars are good, you know. There’s a lot of weeks out here where you get where you shoot level par for nine holes and you feel like you’re beating your head against the wall. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNVDEBA7A5G7ZCUZKLDDKGRCUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Whereas, weeks like this, level par after nine you’re actually doing okay, you’re a little run away from having a lovely day. I like the type of golf where any time you break 70 you feel like you’ve had a good day,” said Lowry, whose birdies came at the second, third, seventh, 10th, 13th and 18th, with his only blemish coming on the par-5 16th where he pushed his drive down the right behind trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DL7Y4S3BBBXXLMIYGKYOO5WTA4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TNFBQUCZV5CRFJNGWM4OHVJ3BI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playing with McIlroy for a second day was, Lowry, reckoned, good for him: “Look, you’re out there with one of the best golfers in the world, with big crowds, great golf course, lovely weather, what’s not to like? It’s easy to get up for something like that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"POTXY3HFSZBOHPVQSA7CBQFGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I thrive in those situations. And, yeah, I enjoyed my couple of days and I feel like we did play off each other a little bit. I know he probably feels like he could be better, but he’s still in a great position going into the weekend.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKWVP2FSJNFXNJQTWX2Z4OLRCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry assumed the clubhouse lead two shots clear of first-round leader Wyndham Clark, with McIlroy lurking four shots behind. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6VJGBFKTRCPZK7ND7QZZZR624","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of his mindset headed into the weekend, Lowry remarked: “It’s about putting the ball in play, just fairways and greens are key. If you can hit a load of greens out here, and then you’re probably going to end up with four or five par putts that you need to hole at the right time, and if you can do that you can win the tournament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IUZ7AVVHYVC75FETYABXTWRRKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHGBJKH2JRFM7BXPGBGD6ONN5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJ5BRDVFVRHSBPEN2H24UGL6GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy four shots off the pace but well in the hunt in Florida"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T20:16:56.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry goes top of leaderboard at Arnold Palmer Invitational after 67","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JEPCCWG5HVP3L4UUXP7TMW57G4","auth":{"1":"a389db3ed12078d01b961fae2477f4ab75f952b5225bb6e3b28e993b73c6f0d1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JEPCCWG5HVP3L4UUXP7TMW57G4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/07/shane-lowry-goes-top-of-leaderboard-at-arnold-palmer-invitational-after-67/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"W7KOFJ6TSNB55HK5XNHAAA4ASQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":335,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2ab56647-9505-4ce3-8609-46b7cb8eac50/versions/1741204433/media/849e1ee2da1b2400c606602b7668e9a1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/05/mcilroy-changes-his-armoury-for-tilt-at-20m-arnold-palmer-invitational/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QCCESQWHE5CMXB6QZUISC7JWUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> has conducted something of a spring clean in terms of his equipment, with a new TaylorMade Qi35 dot driver and fairway woods in his bag for the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, where he will have <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry</a> as company for the opening two rounds as he seeks to maintain a strong formline at the Orlando venue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54XPS2PANZH4DA5PJ3MF4EKE44","additional_properties":{},"content":"A winner in 2018, McIlroy has six top-10s in his last eight starts at the API, and the world number two – already a winner on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> this season at last month’s AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am – has bolstered his armoury for this latest tilt at one of the $20 million signature events on the US circuit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44ZPEZGKCBG2NA52R4BN3SPV3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy changed his ball ahead of that win in California, and that has resulted in the knock-on change to going back to three wedges and now changing the make-up of his longer clubs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GFF7FACK5CDDNTSLVNE325ZHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I sort of had to look at the top end of the bag then of how I was going to configure it. For a while I’ve been looking for a club that sort of carries 300 in the air. I feel like there’s a lot of golf courses we go to that really pinch in at like 310, 320, and I would hit a 3-wood ... I can’t hit a driver because it’s just too narrow, but then I would hit my 3-wood that’s going like 285, 290, but guys that are shorter than me are hitting driver sort of 300 or 310, so I feel like I was at a disadvantage in some ways, even to people that hit it shorter than me depending upon the course set-up. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2QWX5L4ENFGNP6GZERL4PGK5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So I messed around with the mini driver last year, but I just couldn’t quite get comfortable with it. So I’ve sort of been playing around with stronger 3-woods. This 3-wood that I have carries like 300, 305 in the air, which is a really, really good club for me to have. And then I’ve went from a 5-wood to a 4-wood. And that 4-wood sort of bridges that gap. And then I’ve got the 3-iron that sort of replaces the 5-wood,” said McIlroy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4QGZ72PGVEJ7JSURG4JHLDIIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"World number one <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/scottie-scheffler\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/scottie-scheffler\">Scottie Scheffler</a> made an equipment change a year ago in taking McIlroy’s advice to put a TaylorMade Spider into his bag − the inclusion of that mallet putter resulting in a stellar year for the American.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6IYYASI3S5EAVHIAP5TGAA6XKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Reflecting back on that putter change, Scheffler – fully fit again having been forced to miss a couple of early-season tournaments due to a hand injury which required minor surgery – said: “When I look back to a year from now I think about how different I feel over the ball on the greens. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LRCBZVJVFZBHFO2J6GWFJEUSPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Any time the ball’s not going in the hole I think you – myself especially – you try and do anything you can to almost force the ball in there, and that’s not how golf is, you can’t force things in this sport. You especially can’t force things at PGA Tour events. Feeling more free, not lining up the ball, just getting over, leaning into my athleticism and focusing as much as I can out there on just playing the game. Those are some of the big differences for me when I look back to where I was a year ago.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DE222HTOYQ4IAZLPXOTYEFXV5E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GZEBRSA7FBE6BJCK646ZHAEII4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>The Lowdown - Arnold Palmer Invitational</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"AGY5PCSIXNFKHM6NDWATCUFIJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse: </b>€18.6 million (€3.7m to the winner).","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPRIPM3WIBCXBOQKRJ5IHAYBOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where: </b>Orlando, Florida, USA.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6TQBELXT5GMFH2WAZHLSWDSZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The course: </b>Known as “Arnie’s Place” for its long-time association with Arnold Palmer, Bay Hill – 7,466 yards and Par 72 – was designed by Dick Wilson and Joe Lee and features copious water hazards. The finishing two holes typically provide for exciting finishes to a tournament with a rich history, held at the venue every year since 1979. The Par 3 17th measures 221 yards from an elevated tee to a green which has water lurking on three sides, and the once large bunker to the front (an integral part of Palmer’s thinking) is no more, having been removed and replaced by rough. The Par 4 18th is a 458-yard hole that features a slightly blind tee shot to the fairway and an approach to a long, narrow green that again has water in play down the right.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZYMZ2LJCVFJTDQYFN3QJBKHXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The field: </b>Quite literally a loaded field, the tournament’s designated elevated status on the PGA Tour bringing all of the highrollers to Orlando, headed by world number one Scottie Scheffler and world number two Rory McIlroy. Xander Schauffele is recovered from a rib injury that has kept him sidelined since the season-opening Sentry in Hawaii. Nine of the world’s top 10 and 23 of the top 25 are playing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HSG7Y6GZ25CEXAEHVWGP6NJJJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote: </b>“You can’t speak enough of what Arnold Palmer and his legacy means to our game. I sort of try to do it the way that he does it, or the way he did it, which was amazing. If you can slightly do it the way that he did it I think you’re going to be pretty good” – Ludvig Aberg, the current FedEx Cup points leader, on following in Palmer’s footsteps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5KBNGV4VBGS7N6JPCDZRY7ONA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish in the field: </b>Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy are paired together for the first two rounds (1st round tee time 6pm Irish time on Thursday).","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDJAPHYYB5GJTEA5AGIN2YGUPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting: </b>Scottie Scheffler, still chasing a first win of the season, is installed as a tight 10/3 favourite as he bids to successfully defend the title he won last year, while Rory McIlroy – another past winner – is a 15/2 shot. Ludvig Aberg’s strong start to the season, marked by a win in The Genesis on his recovery from illness, has the Swede rated a decent-looking 14/1. Shane Lowry is available at 28/1 and his closing round at last week’s Cognizant makes those odds tempting. The value bet looks to be that of Maverick McNealy (runner-up to Aberg in the Genesis) who is priced at 45/1 (each way).","type":"text"},{"_id":"RDBT7RIIR5GY5FU7NBJX33RNZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV: </b>On Sky Sports Golf (from 7pm).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"‘Arnie’s Place' has copious water hazards, which will be a challenge for all the highrollers playing in Orlando"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:50:42.774Z","headlines":{"basic":"McIlroy changes his driver and fairway woods for tilt at $20m Arnold Palmer Invitational","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"UYWAO73OQS7JAG72LUWULBTJ6Q","auth":{"1":"917333d9b7ce105bbc16281904c9ea1684c835098878b233a9dd7143fabaa8aa"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/UYWAO73OQS7JAG72LUWULBTJ6Q.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/05/mcilroy-changes-his-armoury-for-tilt-at-20m-arnold-palmer-invitational/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"GVPA3RVEDBC5FNCV5XN2N6BW34","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":449,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c4298e59-3dfb-4927-a8c3-98591401d7cd/versions/1741015934/media/dcb7c9ce68e5b84f0e20baecd573cea1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/04/different-strokes-jake-knapp-runs-out-of-steam-after-stunning-59-at-cognizant-classic/","content_elements":[{"_id":"D3LWK3KKNFCPZH4V4LOJDNDWCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jake Knapp became the latest player to shoot a sub-60 round on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\">PGA Tour </a>and not win the tournament. Knapp shot 59 in the opening round of the Cognizant Classic and led until the back nine on Sunday when he was derailed by a triple-bogey at the 11th – his first bogey in 21 holes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR7RSYH6HZE6BELSQSL7P25C4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Knapp was the 14th player to dip under 60, but only five players have turned the achievement into a winning week. Jim Furyk, the only player to have broken 60 twice, shot 58 in the final round of the 2016 Travelers Championship and David Duval carded a 59 in the final round of the Bob Hope Invitational 17 years earlier.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPURNYL6BFAB3LV2OS6OEYO5JE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Justin Thomas and Brandt Snedeker both shot opening-round 59s, just as Knapp did, but they managed to keep the boot down. Thomas won the 2017 Sony Open by seven shots and Snedeker had three shots to spare at the Wyndham Championship a year later.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GR5WVDTIG5HVHA3VEW5NF2XP3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The very first 59 on the PGA Tour was shot by Al Geiberger at the Memphis Classic in 1977, and he went on to win too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SVFB2ZDLKBFCDJ37OCXEQ2KSHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Sunday Knapp came to grief at the par-four 11th when his approach shot came up short and bounced into the penalty area. Knapp elected not to take a penalty drop and tried to hit the ball out of the water. He shifted it on to dry land at the second attempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSPBK77RHJAQPMXXOIJQNSVTF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s probably one of the tougher shots of the day,” Knapp said afterwards about his second shot. “Front right pin, downwind. Chipping from long isn’t super easy. Could see kind of the top quarter of the ball, figured I could just kind of blast it out for the most part.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQSLZD5H5FGEHERNJPMLX66WEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I could see a little bit more of the ball [for the second attempt], but underneath there, it’s just like soft sand and rocks and things like that. It feels like the club gets through fine, but the ball just doesn’t come through with anything on it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SCIXIPXKFRE2NGZPPXBDSAMWRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Knapp racked up a seven and played the remaining holes in level par to finish in a tie for sixth, four shots behind the winner Joe Highsmith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZRSZSZO4BZEVTL2QMUBWADBIK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Peake puts trough behind him as he books spot at Royal Portrush","type":"header"},{"_id":"OXE5THGS3JDLTIRM3NZXXKKN54","additional_properties":{},"content":"Golf is full of redemption stories but stop us if you’ve heard one like this before. At the weekend Ryan Peake won the New Zealand Open, with a back story that included membership of a biker gang and five years in prison for assault.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTMATCCLZ5BRHDBPWPCFN52JUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having only secured a visa to travel to New Zealand at the beginning of the week the 31-year-old Australian carded a final-round 66 to finish on 23 under par and win by a shot. Among the prizes for his victory is a place at the Open in Royal Portrush in July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNIYGZZJJBG77ERHPC22CWGP5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve just changed me life,” said Peake. “This is what I do. I want to be here and just play golf. The story is what it is, but I’m just out here playing golf. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OZDJ6YAQDND6FEUQ5F55DWAJZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy hoping to put signature on another Arnold Palmer win ","type":"header"},{"_id":"V5LY7N5WV5CWJNGDRVHWXBCBYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"After a fortnight off Rory McIlroy returns to action at the $20 million Arnold Palmer Invitational this week, one of the signature events on the PGA Tour; Shane Lowry will be the other Irish player in the field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBKINEE4GZAGDJH53H2XSDQHRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry tied for 11th at the Cognizant Classic, shooting a closing round of 67 in tricky conditions on Sunday. After a strong start to the season, Lowry is inside the top 20 in both the world rankings and the FedEx Cup standings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L2ZNABCEPFCFNJD6O5F4LNNJUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy won the Arnold Palmer Invitational in 2018 – ending a 26-tournament drought without a victory – and he has a good record at Bay Hill, where he has six top-10 finishes. Séamus Power needed a high finish at the Cognizant last week to get into the field at Bay Hill but failed to make the cut at PGA National.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UWX4YW77ZBGRRC7AZ64D4VSI2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The LPGA Tour heads to China this week where Leona Maguire will tee it up in the Blue Bay tournament in Hainan. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"T46GYUBZFFGZZKOJPITHTZFPC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Word of Mouth","type":"header"},{"_id":"LIKIBGRZRJDF3P6QS44N3QHLJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Did you say the Masters? Yeah, I don’t want to break any protocol. I’m not sure if I’ve officially received [an invitation]. But that’s the one. I’ve only been there a couple times as a spectator and I was able to play, fortunately, with a couple members last year.” – <b>Joe Highsmith</b> on being informed of his imminent schedule changes after winning the Cognizant Classic, his first PGA Tour win. Highsmith shot seven under on Sunday having made the weekend on the cut line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOGSSRKE5VDC7CJKLT5M6HN47I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Number: 67 million to 1","type":"header"},{"_id":"7AMO5UFCSRAZVCEYKGUF4XBTME","additional_properties":{},"content":"The odds of having two holes in one in the same round, a feat achieved by Dale Whitnell at the Kenya Open on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QN442YHTYNH6BGTUQQGIFSAVKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Social Swing","type":"header"},{"_id":"3A3SGSXKEFENXNB5FE6PSBM5FY","additional_properties":{},"content":"@PengeMarco: 3 Month Ban, 3 Rounds, 3 Cuts on the bounce, Solo 3rd, 3 stripe life ///, 3 years with Mizuno, 3 years married, 3 years on the bounce Arsenal bottle it. @MizunoGolfEU – A lot going on with <b>Marco Penge</b> here after he finished third in South Africa, qualifying for the Open. The three-month ban was for a gambling offence, by the by. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOMCLZPKNVDSXPQZZM7KX7AXCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"@fredcouplesgolf: What a win for @joehighsmith33! He brought the Bear Trap to its knees @The_Cognizant on a Sunday I will remember forever. I am so proud of this kid and he is on his way now. Also proud of Joseph Lacava. What a great team those two make. See you @TheMasters – <b>Freddie Couples</b> congratulates the latest PGA Tour winner Joe Highsmith. And also his caddie, whose father Joe won the Masters on Freddie’s bag in 1992 and on Tiger Woods’s bag in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"37POMJ5IWNHO7I4Y2KE637C3FY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"R2T4KSHCIVGA7L4TSYECPU53IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On This Day: March 4th, 2012","type":"header"},{"_id":"K7WGLBZI75HNXEZGOJGR2ANJ5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy became the second youngest player – after Tiger Woods – to reach number one in the world rankings after winning the Honda Classic in Florida. McIlroy, who was 22 at the time, held off a charge from Woods, who shot a stunning 62 in the final round, including an eagle at the last.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSSXZH67JJEA3K3KIR2TNZ6CCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods was the leader in the clubhouse when McIlroy birdied the 13th to go two clear and he managed to hold on to that lead through the Bear Trap, the notoriously difficult stretch of holes between the 15th and 17th at PGA National. Earlier in the day Pádraig Harrington had dropped five shots at those holes, but McIlroy got up and down out of the sand twice to save par.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJBVPH62KFFZVJS3QAVGQINURE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I knew going out there the conditions would be tough,” said McIlroy in his post round press conference, “and I was just trying to make as many pars as possible, and you know, when a few opportunities presented themselves, I tried to take them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PLWOIN7SDNH4ZIODWDVD2F5ULQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Obviously I saw a couple of guys making a charge, and I heard the roar on 18 when Tiger made eagle, and I was just about to line up my putt for birdie on 13. I was able to hole that putt, which was very important, and you know, I knew if I could just play the last five holes at even par, it was going to be good enough.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QD7ZE4IHFBEPLHJLH6GLXZ3HA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the bag: Joe Highsmith (Cognizant Classic)","type":"header"},{"_id":"Q32SHQUROBA47FMYWQBQP5QU2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Driver:</b> Titleist GT3 (8 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"EA5F6YHDMZCERHTAKTMSLDX4NE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>3-wood:</b> Titleist GT3 (15 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KWHEADHWVBE5TL3TJX3XVDBS3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irons:</b> Titleist T200 (2), Titleist T100 (4-9)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDPMC3CRXBDOFNCWK5LO73FU2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Wedges:</b> Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (46-10F, 50-12F, 54-14F, 58-04T)","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NJ2GDWJ4RAZFIHZC3RBURD53Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Putter:</b> Scotty Cameron 009M Tour Prototype","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDF7AYKFCVGP3BN56WVAEZXQFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Know the Rules","type":"header"},{"_id":"NXCWNLEAWJH4ZH5V6YTJ3GRRCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q:</b> Does a player need to use the word ‘provisional’ when playing a provisional ball?","type":"text"},{"_id":"YANNX5J4INB5NJCRJMU2HIFATY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A:</b> No. Players do not need to use the word “provisional”. They only need to make clear that they are playing another ball in case their original ball is lost or out of bounds. Rule 18.3b.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K4XIDXB275DLFPWF52GXMUBYIU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Denis Walsh"}},"name":"Denis Walsh"}]},"description":{"basic":"Peake puts trough behind him and books Open spot; McIlroy back in action as Lowry’s fine form continues "},"display_date":"2025-03-04T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Different Strokes: Jake Knapp runs out of steam after stunning 59 at Cognizant Classic","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OCDTGPH3K35YUUJBWJLNZQFEQE","auth":{"1":"06be8b8a8208454d813c0aa3a2a93e21e6d13e65d232473ca67ec381fdc0c21e"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OCDTGPH3K35YUUJBWJLNZQFEQE.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/04/different-strokes-jake-knapp-runs-out-of-steam-after-stunning-59-at-cognizant-classic/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"UFSJIOISOJGWHPO4FNVKREWP6M","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/02/former-biker-ryan-peake-books-his-place-at-royal-portrush/","content_elements":[{"_id":"H3GJUYS6LZB7RGF45JCALIQXPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ryan Peake, a former member of an outlawed motorcycle gang who served five years in jail for assault, shot a five-under-par 66 to win the 104th edition of the New Zealand Open by a shot in Queenstown on Sunday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIZOIA6HPZGMBBQEJNSAZFJAWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The burly Australian, who was released from prison in 2019, finished on 23-under 261 for the four rounds on the composite course at Millbrook Resort to claim his first title in his debut season on the PGA Tour of Australasia.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEURH6I7PVABTKIWTEFHS2SVHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A fifth birdie of the day at the 17th set up by a perfectly-judged eagle putt took the left-hander out of a four-way tie for the lead with fellow Australian Jack Thompson (63), South African Ian Snyman (66) and Japan’s Higa Kazuki (66).","type":"text"},{"_id":"72JPCWCDZ5FT3PYZJEVZQOY6QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Peake held his nerve to sink a six-foot par putt at the last to secure the winner’s cheque from the $1.12 million co-sanctioned Asian Tour event as well as a ticket to this year’s Open at Royal Portrush.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJRNSFVFBJCLRJK3S2E72SBPYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s life-changing,” said the tattooed 31-year-old, who let out a huge roar when the ball landed in the cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IC6YL7BEORFELEYFU63O5WL7UQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I always knew I could do it, it was just a matter of time when I was going to do it. 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","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZSTW2W4UZHDVOYOST3A474U4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve had everything today: an air shot, two bogeys, a double, three eagles and come out nine-under par so I can’t complain.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Odds of making two holes-in-one in same round estimated to be around 67 million to one"},"display_date":"2025-02-28T15:11:03.495Z","headlines":{"basic":"Dale Whitnell makes two holes-in-one in same round at South African Open","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7MRV57N2EDALSNVW2YP6UZYEQI","auth":{"1":"3dceed1ff1301f5138b0fb79f558ae9900c26124ef1335587e2a777106ebb096"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7MRV57N2EDALSNVW2YP6UZYEQI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/dale-whitnell-makes-two-holes-in-one-in-same-round-at-south-african-open/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"LO6PKDFZGNCB3GTCVR4IYBBIOU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":139,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/44f714c7-727b-42d6-945e-534090b554ff/versions/1740735012/media/dab5d1413655ccb993e174b0368e1d02_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/solid-start-for-shane-lowry-at-cognizant-classic-as-jake-knapp-shoots-59/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1740733833757},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Shane Lowry</a> made a solid start to the Cognizant Classic with a five-under-par 66 in unusually low-scoring conditions at PGA National.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZLMSPBLENG3XHOFWDXKY2LCCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802890},"content":"The Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Florida, known for the “Bear Trap” traditionally plays one of the most difficult on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a> all season but gave up a series of low scores on Thursday, including a stunning 12-under-par 59 by Jake Knapp, only the 15th sub-60 score in the tour’s history.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJDXCCHIKZGYTAZIVAH7IIF6UE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802891},"content":"Knapp had written his name into history by the time Lowry started his round, which left the Irishman knowing he had to go birdie hunting. He made a strong start with two birdies in his first three holes and a third at the seventh to turn in 32. Three more birdies followed by the 14th but he will be left disapppointed by his finish of one over for the final four holes. Lowry, who has a good record at PGA National, is tied 16th, seven shots off the lead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RZEH24L7ZEVJLU7Y75AWEDDO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802892},"content":"Séamus Power shot a two-under-par 69 in his opening round to leave him 10 shots off the lead in tied 76th, the Waterford man looking for a high finish to qualify for the Arnold Palmer Invitational.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KVAENULYU5DHTJS46QKPND3XMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802893},"content":"Knapp’s 59 included five birdies in the first five holes, 12 birdies in total without a single bogey. The American hit 12 fairways and 16 greens, birdieing the final hole to seal his place in the record books.","type":"text"},{"_id":"URAZDZPSTBGHHL4WME4SC7VQLY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802894},"content":"“I knew obviously I had it going really early, but at the same time, that can happen and then it can kind of fizzle out pretty quick,” he said. “I thought I did a good job of just trying to focus on shot by shot and not letting what happened or what could happen affect anything.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZECEYRX25JHYBGRPGZBVYXWCVM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802895},"content":"“Then once I made the long putt on 15, it was like, okay, now this is kind of here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHXMWATSRJDTXOT3XW2PUEOKTM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802896},"content":"“But at the same time, didn’t let it affect the game plan or anything like that. 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Year after year even the most popular brands – for instance the Titleist Pro V1 is 25 years old this year – seek improvements that enable the nearly €4 billion global golf ball market to satisfy one and all, from elite professionals to high handicappers who, admittedly, make up the larger slice (no pun intended!) of sales.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ANPWP2C7BAANIS3RYVWJ6QKCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Most of us are happy to survive 18 holes of a round with the same ball, although the number of tee shots I’ve pushed right into the trees off the first hole at Roganstown down the years would provide any search party with a healthy return.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DC2ZCPN7QBFAXPPORJCXXDH6OE","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, there is one ball that I have managed to keep safe and sound primarily because it has been put away unused. 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The player who hit the approach shot was Dustin Johnson, the world number one at the time, who – whether thankful that my interaction had stopped the ball from finishing in a bush or, more genuinely, was just happy that no serious injury was done – later signed it and inquired of my wellbeing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJNLDNJ4VFDJDJSSONZHUWFWEM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"Z2CN7TVNPVB6PHX5HSXZSNRMAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Anyway, that TaylorMade TP5 was the first edition of what has proven to be a big seller for the company and which was used by Rory McIlroy in his most recent PGA Tour win in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the Northern Irish man switching to it for its softer feel in preference to the TaylorMade TP5x, the company’s newest variation of the ball.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4VIMSPETNDJNK6LJKKFDJ6UNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of course, the golf ball has evolved through the years. From the original wooden balls to leather featherie, on to guttie and rubber and onwards to the modern resin and polyurethane balls which must meet the criteria set by the two governing bodies, the Royal and Ancient and the United States Golf Association who work together for a common consensus so that the balls perform within the specified mass, diameter, velocity, distance and symmetry limits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DAXHBHXNTRGB7HJUOU467ST7PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The majority of tour players, men and women, use Titleist which is the dominant player and manufacturer of the iconic Pro V1. It is estimated up to 70 per cent of players in any given tournament are using the ball.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZQDPWV4VNDX3PY3QCQWF3SFAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mike Madson, Titleist VP of golf ball R&D, described how – even with the success of the Pro V1 since its inception – it continues to be further improved. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WKXURZJI5RET3OIJG2EK6H4SZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’re always trying to improve the golf ball in some way, and it’s all driven by golfer feedback. We start by talking with the best players in the world, who help us define what better is for both Pro V1 and Pro V1x. The goal is to help golfers score better and to do that we’re going to use every tool we have,” said Madson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BPYQLUUA5ZEBDEJ34VCDDVN7WU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not every leading player plays Titleist, of course. McIlroy plays TaylorMade, Shane Lowry plays the Srixon Z-Star XV, Tiger Woods, when he plays, remains a Bridgestone man. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUHKCUIH25AHVELSTSZPWWJZPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Tiger has been playing our balls for almost 20 years and he has renewed that commitment for another three years,” said David Vogrin, marketing director at Bridgestone Golf who has introduced the Bridgestone E12 series. 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It doesn’t make sense, in truth, for high handicappers to be forking out for the Pro V1, for example, if the water and other hazards act like magnets, which is the reason the more economical Titleist TruFeel is a popular option in the market.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4AHAT2OMFA5XOZG6XKJC6UP24","additional_properties":{},"content":"And, in terms of punching above its weight, and taking on the might of the international brands, Seed golf balls – which are based at the Carlow Institute of Technology campus – have been developed, with a price structure for an online presence delivering quality, affordable balls that has enabled it grow year after year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WL7WM5V3PRHZ3KR23TM2I3BQV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Most golf retail outlets also have second-hand balls, or lake balls, which are greatly discounted. And likely to include some of our lost balls!","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ORESEYDPJHH3NP6ECACYQKRTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_green\">Top five golf balls for 2025</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XDJBHEGOTJDI7CWJWC2QD2F44Q","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"QWS24CUZ5BE2DMHMEODYYEZTHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Titleist ProV1 25</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3S4DY6A7VGF5MQQW2FM7GCPLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended Price:</b> €59.99 per dozen","type":"text"},{"_id":"YIYI6C6VFJDCXN5263XW44RGAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The latest take on the iconic ball, it is aimed at players looking for “mid-trajectory flight, very low long game spin and maximum short game spin, with softer feel.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"6SADZVKULRDUBOWN4CYHIQKUNY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BYDGOXOFDRFKLIWOFYDBGSBKM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Srixon Z-Star Diamond</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETRQNDXDYRC3RETJDKW33SAYHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended Price</b>: €59.99 per dozen ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PQESINPSKBFZ3L6KAEEZJ4RAJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"This popular premium ball has a “newly formulated core that starts soft in the centre and gradually becomes firm around its edge, giving high-speed players exceptional feel, optimised iron spin, and plenty of ball speed for maximum distance”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7GT5V3LZA5A2XAP3EAZF6VS3JA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GQB4JX56YVDOXKAVN6TBIFLRMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Seed 0-1</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"H4U5N3AT25DUJNYE7XY5QNH5NA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended price:</b> €35 per dozen","type":"text"},{"_id":"527LO6SLRZDAXKTX5GTY6C5N4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The third edition of the ball comes with a newly developed ultra-thin urethane cover, providing “enhanced overall performance by improving ball speed, increase in distance through the bag and an improved softer feel for more responsiveness off the club”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZ6RUUCHTJCUBB7KUONFQX7IME","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LTY2SJJVOJEO5BRPD5CSVZKTXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TaylorMade TP5x</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZMMNKV2PNDAHMAWVUDN5IPR6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended price:</b> €58 per dozen","type":"text"},{"_id":"XYULDZXDWNBPZIPN6C4Z7RCSXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The hint is in the digit 5: this is a five-layer golf ball which “promotes a fast launch, maximum carry distances and a steep angle of descent for extra stopping power”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4EX3GWE4BBEEHCJ3JMOQHYRBQ4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"V5HNP4VM4ZAI7CB5ZPXN3VZCBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Callaway Chrome Tour X</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BOV7KLHXVBGTFCIENE36HL62RA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended price: </b>€64.95","type":"text"},{"_id":"SB4THYZBJNCL3JR64YN7RI54H4","additional_properties":{},"content":"A popular premier ball, the ball features a triple track to aid putting accuracy while the Callaway “hyper-fast core ... is engineered for the best players who want maximum ball speed and distance, especially off the driver”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2HVIMSAEEBB3TMJUQ3CZ3NMK5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FTNH6XXPZBAU3BCRO7LS32JWJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"This intrinsic piece of kit has evolved down the years and is priced right to suit all pockets "},"display_date":"2025-02-28T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"A Pro V1 or TaylorMade like Rory McIlroy? Choosing the right golf ball no matter the ability","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KIH7A2XGYKLQMQTGNEWMD7LHTM","auth":{"1":"7d39e9a3abfd10b2d0cd13ab616c63aee0eefca9b3c1dad5aa1e13fc8be2a565"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KIH7A2XGYKLQMQTGNEWMD7LHTM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/selecting-the-correct-golf-ball-can-help-develop-your-game/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"T6XBVSDT6VBNNETQ3UHW2CP3GE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":240,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/b835946c-3ace-4ffc-a87f-077562990557/versions/1740592007/media/87320cd1d6229696b4fc5cf7c1533efb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/26/cognizant-classic-lowdown-the-purse-the-field-the-course-as-shane-lowry-and-seamus-power-tee-off-on-pga-tour/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011355},"content":"<b>Purse:</b> $9.2 million (€8.7m)/ $1.68m (€1.6m) to the winner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXFSB2CMPZBV5D2BWPDYZVUMDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011360},"content":"<b>Where:</b> Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, USA","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AG4DGTADRHNTHXJGSLGA7GIYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011361},"content":"<b>The course:</b> PGA National has five golf courses in the resort with The Champion – 7,167 yards par 71 – originally designed by Tom Fazio but subsequently upgraded by Jack Nicklaus, aka The Golden Bear, who was involved in the redesign of the course which is why the famed late stretch of holes (from the 15th to the 17th) is known as the Bear Trap. The tough stretch starts with the 180 yards par 3 15th which has water down the right and to the rear of the green; the 16th is a dogleg right par 4 with the approach played over a lake to the green; and the 172 yards par 3 17th is again played mostly over water to the green. A few changes have been made to the bunkering systems, with a reduced number of sand traps on the 13th and 16th holes while the 10th hole, increased in yardage to 550 yards, is now a par 5. There is water in play on 15 of the 18 holes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3SGOCT2V5G73NONQJYL2MHLYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011362},"content":"<b>The field:</b> With next week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational (a signature event) and The Players (the PGA Tour’s flagship tournament) on the horizon, many of the world’s top players have opted to factor in a break from tournament play. There are four players from the world’s top 20 playing – Russell Henley (17), Shane Lowry (18), Sepp Straka (19) and Billy Horschel (20) – who each have great track records on the course that Jack built. Austin Eckroat is the defending champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7JVH2DOXZAUTLX5SJMIW7AR5M","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011364},"content":"<b>Irish in the field:</b> Shane Lowry was hard done by in 2023 when a squall on the final hole in the final round proved costly as he finished second to Sepp Straka and he contended again last year, when finishing tied-fourth. For his latest appearance, and with the chance to sleep in his own bed, Lowry has been grouped with Gary Woodland and Min Woo Lee (off the 1st, at 5.40pm Irish time). Lee has Lowry’s former caddie Brian Martin on the bag. Séamus Power is not yet exempt into next week’s API at Bay Hill and needs a big week to gatecrash that party through the AON Swing 5. Power is in a group with Kurt Kitayama and Brandt Snedeker (off the 10th, at 5.29pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"GY47RBYWLJG77K3J6IY7ISE7MU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011366},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote:</b> “At the end of the day, I’m fighting. The last thing I’m going to let this do is let this thing in my head stop my dreams, and that’s why I fight every day. I want to be there for my kids and my family, but I want to chase my dreams, too. I’ve got a lot of dreams out here. I’m starting to understand what I need to do every day to function in life, but the things I’m doing to help with my brain are also helping me play golf, and I’m knocking on the door. I know my game is close. It’s coming, and I’m going to keep knocking on that door until I bust through, and then we’ll see what happens” – <b>Gary Woodland</b>, who is currently 73rd on the FedEx Cup standings, on his recovery from surgery for a brain tumour and his goal to win again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IATNGAMLV5FXLEAJZLWZS7XBIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011368},"content":"<b>Betting:</b> Local knowledge and a good track record are worth their weight in gold around PGA National and Shane Lowry, with top-5s on each on his last three appearances, is the market leader at odds of 18-1 ahead of former champions Daniel Berger (20-1), Sungjae Im (22-1), Russell Henley (25-1) and Sepp Straka (25-1). Lowry has shown good form this season (highlighted by a runner-up finish to Rory McIlroy in the Pebble Beach pro-am) and should again contend on one of his favourite tour stops, further down, there is some each-way value to be found with Denny McCarthy rated a 33-1 chance and defending champion Austin Eckroat priced at 50s.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOXPLIKYVZH2BOGFQFBERBLV6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011370},"content":"<b>On TV:</b> Live coverage from 4pm on Sky Sports Golf.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Shane Lowry’s former caddie Brian Martin is on the bag of playing partner Min Woo Lee this week"},"display_date":"2025-02-26T17:37:38.485Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cognizant Classic lowdown: The purse, the field, the course as Shane Lowry and Séamus Power tee off on PGA Tour","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HVJYKALD64YQ7GOULAZO2XHZLM","auth":{"1":"06bdf6a43722958858dc6c692a9ec2e5ec62838c992f440509d520563d072438"},"focal_point":{"x":1282,"y":674},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HVJYKALD64YQ7GOULAZO2XHZLM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/26/cognizant-classic-lowdown-the-purse-the-field-the-course-as-shane-lowry-and-seamus-power-tee-off-on-pga-tour/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"6K2WKQWSQFDSTJTLS34ZJ2ND5A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":395,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/4e6cd9de-d830-432c-a450-b2371ffd6f04/versions/1740431621/media/493ba8ad651b683cb6821e359b830375_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/25/shane-lowry-and-seamus-power-step-up-as-rory-mcilroy-sits-out-cognizant-classic/","content_elements":[{"_id":"O7SGT7HDTVDVPDZ2KGZDX4RBLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nordqvist takes the reins","type":"header"},{"_id":"GNFXK55XDRDA3H6FYDYWEJ7WAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leona-maguire/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/leona-maguire/\">Leona Maguire</a> will have a very familiar face at the head of Europe’s quest to regain the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/solheim-cup/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/solheim-cup/\">Solheim Cup</a> after Swedish veteran Anna Nordqvist was appointed as team captain for next year’s match against the United States at Bernardus Golf Club outside Eindhoven in the Netherlands.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DIAX6QXCUNGGBGPNNPSCFBSE3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Cavan golfer will be seeking a fourth-straight appearance in the Solheim Cup having played a starring role on her debut in 2021 when Europe won in Ohio, featuring again in the successful defence at Finca Cortesin in Spain in 2023, before her third appearance, in an underused role, in the loss to the USA in Virginia last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BLS4BPUVLBEINEC64F6KDYNY3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Maguire actually partnered with Nordqvist twice in foursomes in Spain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVRBUKYAIFEGFB7BDAH4UC2C4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nordqvist is a nine-time Solheim Cup player and doubled up as vice-captain in 2023 and 2024, so her elevation to the captaincy, succeeding Suzann Pettersen, comes as no surprise.","type":"text"},{"_id":"37OL4WPVWKKH3IJ2NSSL53UW7Y","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FMP6V545ZBHQNINAQO2GCDTY2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am so honoured to be appointed as the 2026 European Solheim Cup Captain. Whether we were winning or losing, the Solheim Cup has played such a huge part in my career ever since I made my debut in 2009 in Chicago. The friendships I have made, and the memories created during the nine matches I’ve played, make it so incredibly special to be given the opportunity to be European Captain at my tenth Solheim Cup!” said Nordqvist.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZQYZ46VJ6BBULB6PID6M7IWMWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Making that team in 2024 will be among Maguire’s goals but, for now, she is very much in playing mode. This week she is in the limited field at the HSBC World Championship in Singapore and will complete a third leg of the LPGA Tour’s Asian Swing in next week’s tournament in China.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IYKJAOLMGFASFBRE2MKWJDKLZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sara Byrne, meanwhile, shifts from her rookie season on the Ladies European Tour to compete on the Epson Tour in the United States where the Cork player also has a card this season. Byrne makes her debut on the US secondary circuit – a pathway to the LPGA Tour, the route taken by Maguire – in the Central Florida Championship. The top-10 of the end-of-season Epson Tour rankings get full LPGA Tour cards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPIPE5DXRRHTTFMMPRKBGAMEKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Light schedule","type":"header"},{"_id":"6IRHWBCSFVGC7KFT5OLFIFAOXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In keeping with his policy of playing a reduced schedule, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy/\">Rory McIlroy</a> is skipping this week’s Cognizant Classic – despite it being virtually on his doorstep in Palm Beach Gardens in Florida – where both <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/seamus-power/\">Séamus Power</a> tee up at the PGA National.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XI7GUM7SV5GOPIAFGIELCBARIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry, currently 16th on the FedEx Cup standings after a strong start to the season that included a runner-up finish to McIlroy at Pebble Beach, is kick-starting a run of events that also takes in next week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill and the following week’s The Players at TPC Sawgrass.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CRN4ZECM5TIIE5YBYSL26HPHBQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"AYSC7QBGPZH3HM6TV7NL2URE4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"While Power has enjoyed a solid start, with top-25s at Pebble Beach and the Genesis, the Waterford man is in need of a big week in Florida if he is to earn a late exemption into the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the fourth of this season’s signature events with a $20 million purse. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SU2WL5SK3ZC7JM5UYJDD272OK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In Numbers: 0-Zero-Zilch","type":"header"},{"_id":"QJEWR6NGBVAUHE3P3OMMDFZOZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There are no Irish players in the field for this week’s Investec South African Open, co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour and the Sunshine Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEX5NOEEAZGUDJTNI3BJUVZ7KI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Word of Mouth","type":"header"},{"_id":"XO2ODWUMXZD55JJ77QZVZ4ED5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That was not by design. I don’t recommend going right on that tee shot. I was very fortunate to get the bounce” – <b>Brian Campbell</b> on riding his luck en route to a breakthrough win on the PGA Tour, after the 31-year-old American’s tee shot on the second playoff hole of the Mexico Open with Aldrich Aldrich Potgieter rebounded off a tree which saved it from going out of bounds. Campbell sank a four footer for a winning birdie in making the most of his lucky break. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7GSU4JL37VFL5LRDHR7WZ6VBBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"On this day: February 25th, 1990","type":"header"},{"_id":"IR2FJE7QJBFUHCUWVA7EUNQ6R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Éamonn Darcy, aged 37, was in the twilight of a fantastic tour career when he captured his fourth (and last) title on the European Tour, where a stunning opening round 64 in the Dubai Desert Classic gave him a lead he would never relinquish.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2ANBXHJD5AMZENIXIOMG74TMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Darcy, who won 17 professional career titles worldwide, shot rounds of 64-68-75-69 for a total of 12-under-par 276 which gave him a four-stokes winning margin over another Irish player, David Feherty, who was suffering from a throat infection on the final day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNR3V4U2OBGPLE53COX243BHME","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"AOPW6P54O5AQVLOOWM33HHIGBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Indeed, there was a green hue in the desert that year, as Des Smyth finished in tied-third alongside Spanish legend Seve Ballesteros.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ACZNL5X7UNB3REUIKIUCK46CQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Darcy, though, stole the show. The Wicklow man, who’d ventured into life as a golf professional as a 16-year-old with a handicap of 12, brought his unique swing far and wide, including a winning Ryder Cup in 1987, was imperious in the desert, if admitting to final day nerves: “I didn’t enjoy it until I knew I was going to win. Even in bed this morning so many things were going through my mind that I felt more pressure than in almost any other tournament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJJOSE6J5JAM3EMEWFFCIJZ56E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Social Game","type":"header"},{"_id":"IQKEGRAJQBATHHMVTX7D335WV4","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"PUOSU2CGVBDYRE4C5USKJODQFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shot 75 for a one over total and a missed cut. Struggled trusting my reads on the greens and putted badly because of that @MexicoOpenGolf @PGATour – <b>Pádraig Harrington</b>’s self assessment of his poor putting in Mexico.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WITFLV6LJBDT3PK5HML6NV2JQM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"666WDEI5JZGN7A3TIGMKBCJAXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s so awesome for @IlliniMGolf to have two @PGATour winners in the past three weeks, but when they’re former team-mates, it makes it extra cool! Mega-proud of you @4Brian_Cam and @tomdetry! I know how hard each of you have worked, and you both deserve this! #proudcoach – <b>Mike Small</b>, headmen’s coach at the University of Illinois, quite rightly blowing the trumpet after Brian Campbell joined Thomas Detry as a PGA Tour winner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H6SCBII62VAKNKQGMQ7LBPRZBQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"HIIHUX5THNEMRGEMY5NGCIKOCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"So proud of our Amateur champion Aldrich Potgieter – incredible golf from the 20-year-old #hardlines – <b>Golf RSA</b>, the governing body for golf in South Africa, singing the praises of the country’s new phenomenon who lost out in a play-off to Campbell in the Mexico Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P7J66WVEFRDURBUU2Y227VZZEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Know the Rules","type":"header"},{"_id":"I4CCAZBTEFDXRKY3764KJWZMIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Q:</b> In a match, a player’s shot from the fairway accidentally strikes their opponent’s golf bag. What is the ruling?","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XOBZK6XYZEMDEKXK2WOQ7AVYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A:</b> There is no penalty and the ball is played as it lies. Such a situation is covered by Rule 11.1a: If a ball accidentally hits any person or outside influence (such as a golf bag), the ball must be played as it lies and there is no penalty.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAD6JNNVK5JW6NYMZKYM6KKEGA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UKJ5WO2RVZCULH5CC575FFQLDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Bag","type":"header"},{"_id":"HPOFP6LD4ZBWVPGKIKF4BCNW2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brian Campbell – Mexico Open","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGX4THRL2RDXXIDH57XEXXK6BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Driver:</b> Ping G440 LST (10.5 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLBOAD7PABC5FHKP35IBTXEWUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>3-wood:</b> Ping G430 LST (15 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7EEIUJAMFDC3PCOW3ZPUHFSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>7-wood:</b> Ping G430 Max (21 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"6OCMQAFZWFCN7GGQ22OQSBZW4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irons:</b> Ping Blueprint S (4-PW)","type":"text"},{"_id":"5OCDF7NSSNFP5KKGFMVNUBC4LI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Wedges:</b> Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (52 and 56 degrees), WedgeWorks (60 degrees)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLT5NYNJVZEKHC3YAH4Y2UWCNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Putter:</b> Ping Redwood Anser 2","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHTXWRTN3RCKTLRLRL2FT37VMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ball:</b> Titleist Pro V1x","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Lowry among the favourites after runner-up finish at Pebble Beach"},"display_date":"2025-02-25T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry and Séamus Power step up as Rory McIlroy sits out Cognizant Classic","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NARQSGZXHF4H5RNWKZJKYLZKC4","auth":{"1":"1de5dd27b3ece1645c9495962998889ce27366bbb9b4b3ffaa106884084a422b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NARQSGZXHF4H5RNWKZJKYLZKC4.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/25/shane-lowry-and-seamus-power-step-up-as-rory-mcilroy-sits-out-cognizant-classic/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"XAWQCJKQAZCUVHPMD64F7WDP4I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":174,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c65d8c8d-4a61-48a3-9688-13c90b64e2ee/versions/1740129887/media/46d238c87a7ded60623b6f1d8c04f47d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/21/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-hold-interesting-discussions-on-golfs-rift/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a>’s involvement in professional golf’s peace talks has ramped up further, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\">Tiger Woods</a> among those afforded an audience with the US president at the White House on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4B7K6SNHNFEPL4HU3GWRMK72Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods joined the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a> commissioner, Jay Monahan, fellow board member Adam Scott and representatives of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in a meeting hosted by Trump amid increasing hopes the fractured sport can unite over the coming months. Key sticking points were expected to surround the precise role for Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the PIF’s governor, in golf’s new world and where the Saudi-established <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\">LIV Tour</a> sits on the sport’s schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIMA2SQXEVBMLNJ3U5OR6PLIBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Trump introduced Woods at the White House after the meeting in a reception marking Black History Month, saying they had “interesting discussions” about the future of the game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EABJ3VJHKVGP7M4DLPKYIEBZHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"LIV’s formation in 2022 created divisions in elite golf that are yet to heal. Players such as Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau swapped the PGA Tour for LIV with no apparent hope of return. If Trump can accelerate a deal – and he believes he can – a pathway would be established for those golfers to play in PGA Tour events once again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A62NCGEUTNBCTDJ3RICHIBSE3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Equally intriguing is where the PGA Tour, LIV and the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dp-world-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dp-world-tour/\">DP World Tour</a> all sit in what ideally would be a global golf schedule. The PGA Tour declined to comment on the White House meeting when approached by the Guardian on Thursday, but Monahan later confirmed the “constructive working session” with Trump and Al-Rumayyan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JPLPAUTQMVC7VPOY4AKQAMYJEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Thanks to the leadership of President Trump, we have initiated a discussion about the reunification of golf,” Monahan said in a statement. “We are committed to moving as quickly as possible and will share additional details as appropriate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W4KKPIVZQBBO5AAPVPUCXNMVIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We share a passion for the game and the importance of reunification. Most importantly, we all want the best players in the world playing together more often and are committed to doing all we can to deliver that outcome for our fans.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4GP5CKD2BAX7GPYCXKYRSORXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Trump holds a significant role not only because of his love for golf but because of the influence he can exert on the US Department of Justice, which under Joe Biden’s presidency was seen as a potential stumbling block to the PGA Tour and Saudis forming an alliance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHWWQFGUBJFPLPI4LUW7TYWXNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In practical terms the PIF will seek to invest in PGA Tour Enterprises, a body created in June 2023 when a framework agreement for peace in golf was surprisingly announced. Broader matters of intrigue involve potential increased involvement by Saudi Arabia in US sports franchises.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HK65EJ33XNGTDF3QXHCE52IBFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scott and Monahan also attended the White House in early February. Woods spoke more positively than ever on Sunday about golf’s future. “Things are going to heal quickly,” Woods said. “We’re going to get this game going in the right direction.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGOJQPSSZFD4ZACEKXHKZKXZMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy had earlier revealed he played golf with Trump in early January. – Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former world number one Tiger Woods joined PGA delegation at White House on Thursday"},"display_date":"2025-02-21T09:19:40.625Z","headlines":{"basic":"Donald Trump and Tiger Woods hold ‘interesting discussions’ on golf’s rift","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2RGNICSVGZATRGGLST5OISCZXY","auth":{"1":"56d4e4b10daa5d77147043ee8d7dc69c20fd1edef4bd90154024e4ea41f5df30"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2RGNICSVGZATRGGLST5OISCZXY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/21/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-hold-interesting-discussions-on-golfs-rift/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"DJIIJX4R55B6TCJWRYSMD256SI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":328,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/7f882547-4d95-47dc-a7d3-9f0a0b353c64/versions/1740075671/media/8bb9b151c2cbfca2766a3a9f9841aa5f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/20/the-open-tickets-royal-portrush-drives-soaring-demand-for-big-golf-events-in-ireland-this-year/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CPPP27N2RNFXRNW5VF3TIYPBLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, did you get a ticket? In a sign of the times, the hottest ticket in golf for 2025 came via email confirmations from the R&A to those golf fans who applied for general admission tickets to the 153rd <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/british-open/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/british-open/\">Open</a> at Royal Portrush in July. More than a million applications were made through the public lottery portal. Obviously not everyone could be successful.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERCWOZ4T5VCFHIIFL3NTX7VV7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The demand for general admission tickets broke all records for the championship. General admission tickets for all eight days – four championship rounds, along with four practice days – were snapped up with an expected attendance through the week of 280,000, almost 40,000 more than attended in 2019 when <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\">Shane Lowry</a> lifted the Claret Jug.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCVKGR3GD5ASDOCNKIV7565PZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The sold-out sign may be up for general admission tickets but there remains a (slim) hope of those unsuccessful in the public lottery managing to get their hands on one: the R&A’s resale platform is now live, allowing ticket holders to resell any unwanted general admission or Ticket Plus tickets securely at face-value prices. This resale portal will remain open right up to and during the championship.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3HKQJNMNQZHBRDJ2N6GLXOZW74","additional_properties":{},"content":"The R&A notes that sales are made on a “fan-to-fan basis” and “any purchases made through the platform are non-refundable and these tickets cannot be listed again for resale”. Each fan will be restricted to a maximum of four tickets a day and there are no junior tickets available on the platform.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PO452EPZKRDDJJQUIMQTI7ZAWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Alternatively, for those with deep pockets, a very limited number of hospitality packages are available for midweek days (for example, there is availability for Thursday’s first round in the Clubmakers' pavilion from £925, plus VAT; or in the Scorers' for Wednesday’s final practice day from £350, plus VAT). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IOSSCVNWHBAURIYVLUPOYT6TKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Open’s return to the Causeway Coast is set to further benefit the Northern Ireland economy. The 148th Open in 2019, according to a study conducted by Sheffield Hallam University’s Sport Industry Research Centre (SIRC), estimated a £100 million economic impact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L3S4ZFVJJVD2VAM2L4XIWUQTYI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BAI5IVEVE5EOXDE45QWWFQ73PQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Interestingly, that Open – which attracted 237,750 – provided follow-up numbers that showed more than half of the spectators who attended travelled from outside Northern Ireland: just over 20 per cent attended from elsewhere in the UK, slightly more than 18 per cent from the Republic and 11 per cent from the United States. People also came from continental Europe, Australia and Canada.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPZJKQYARVH77NGMEA4GHNTWDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s marvellous for this part of the world,” said Royal Portrush club professional Gary McNeill. “It was a great success in 2019 and people are very excited about it again and looking forward to seeing all these great players and enjoying the occasion.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQPBQ72ZXZEKTKNYSGK6OBAQWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Open at Portrush – from July 13th-20th – is, naturally, the biggest professional tournament on the island of Ireland but there are other events spread across the various circuits. The Amgen Irish Open, the KPMG Women’s Irish Open, the Irish Challenge and the OFX Irish Legends all – have availability on their respective ticket sales platforms.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXLIT7LYEVG63BCIKSGMSRXUN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Five Hot tickets for 2025</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"PFDHBTIQGBDC7BJ2R3N2LTWLKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The 153rd Open </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MMMQNHQOVJ752223SCJGECG654","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"7ZGT3CM6VFF3HFXR4WL7RUW5DQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Royal Portrush Golf Club, Co Antrim ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JE2CMFAVQZGL3MXKYLSGVLUAWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>When</b>: July 13th-20th ","type":"text"},{"_id":"32OJDPMJ6BERBNNINVHD24AVU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"All general admission tickets are sold out (in record time) but a very limited number of hospitality packages remain available ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFOP3JIXFVAV3HYIOIFZS6H73E","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"http://www.theopen.com/tickets-and-hospitality\" rel=\"\">www.theopen.com/tickets-and-hospitality</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DV46MTWTT5HY3AYH2YAE3LZ3S4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Amgen Irish Open</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"NP4MI7IQTX2FCQTXSAPJORHLE4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"DV46MTWTT5HY3AYH2YAE3LZ3S4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"3I55VASY4VAURMWNGXIJRXO3B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where</b>: The K Club, Straffan, Co Kildare","type":"text"},{"_id":"H5D6K4I2BNGGHAWA3747DK2PP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>When</b>: September 4th-7th (pro-am on September 3rd)","type":"text"},{"_id":"LXQPNWGM2FBWTB4EC5BKQWDBAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"General admission tickets (from €35 daily) remain available along with season tickets and hospitality packages. Sunday’s final round was sold out in 2022 and 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7K5WLC4IRNHFXBPAK6XUQKYDPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"http://www.europeantour.com/dpworld-tour/amgen-irish-open-2025/tickets-packages/\" rel=\"\">www.europeantour.com/dpworld-tour/amgen-irish-open-2025/tickets-packages/</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KRN53TH6INFFZMDIY665EG7VXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>KPMG Women’s Irish Open</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XHDWMIRFHMQU4XRQYYZTBBVSZU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"KRN53TH6INFFZMDIY665EG7VXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"G74FU4HWMBEENL42CRBY3KPBJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Carton House Fairmont resort, Maynooth, Co Kildare","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ZIGPKKC3FDTVC72J6S22EXARA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>When</b>: July 3rd-6th (pro-am on July 2nd)","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZDRFKRCYJHB7F3X2ABYSQQAQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A record number of Irish women have full Ladies European Tour cards this season, which adds plenty of spice to this tournament. Last year’s event was awarded the Tournament of the Year 2024, voted on by the players. General admission (daily from €20, season from €75) and hospitality packages are available. U16s free.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EU2UTDY2IZHQPALK6OWUZS56TM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"http://www.kpmgwomensirishopen.ie/tickets\" rel=\"\">www.kpmgwomensirishopen.ie/tickets</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"32FWRMVJ25HX7LZCWUCBXA6YJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>OFX Irish Legends</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"EYWML2AH7N2VS3BGN6T4PSVU5Y","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"32FWRMVJ25HX7LZCWUCBXA6YJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"ANBEMM765NCIBIT3L3ST3VT6KI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Mount Juliet, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6EIRLG26JC65LET7YFZZAYPFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>When</b>: May 15th-17th (pro-ams on May 13th and 14th) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQJKWHHVH5D3NBT4JWVWPODGVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"After a successful stint in Seapoint, the Irish Legends moves to the Jack Nicklaus-designed Mount Juliet with Peter Lawrie expected to be among the home challengers. A multi-day pass is available for €25 and daily adult for €15. Under 16s free.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PXNVMB5DFCQRPIW43I5PUQ52Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"http://www.legendstour.com/ticket/ofx-irish-legends-2025\" rel=\"\">www.legendstour.com/ticket/ofx-irish-legends-2025</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDXYZ4TAVZGRVKYKFSC2MNVAY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The Irish Challenge</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"TWPJ6XJWOBA6HORCJFKWITYPGQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MDXYZ4TAVZGRVKYKFSC2MNVAY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"header"},{"_id":"QTYCWRH4MZHOTFLM7UNZ2RU25M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where</b>: Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co Meath ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDD3REIMFNBNJDLZ54H7SI7HX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>When</b>: August 7th-10th ","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6VV3AQT4JEV7HVJMCGBTJSHCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A brand new venue for the tournament on the rebranded hotelplanner tour (formerly the Challenge Tour). <a href=\"https://www.europeantour.com/hotelplanner-tour/irish-challenge-2025/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.europeantour.com/hotelplanner-tour/irish-challenge-2025/\">A link</a> for ticket registration will shortly go live. Last year’s event at The K Club had free entry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNNSG7JG4BCANH7YOCWEJBIQCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Royal Portrush isn’t the only place to be in a year in which several top tournaments take place on Irish courses"},"display_date":"2025-02-20T19:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Open tickets: Royal Portrush drives soaring demand for big golf events in Ireland this year","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BQSXV22V2RAMVD6KDJ2R5S56J4","auth":{"1":"309f9076e7bb6efeeeec72c2bd39f5c0400473c5ed40bc0be2a2101af8010116"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BQSXV22V2RAMVD6KDJ2R5S56J4.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/20/the-open-tickets-royal-portrush-drives-soaring-demand-for-big-golf-events-in-ireland-this-year/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"PV3JXA5QCVEUXKKHHEZDICTIMM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":132,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0f3bce66-b2fc-4202-89ed-817cfe2763c9/versions/1740064093/media/73691b41933fe95622408ce0b4c93605_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/20/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-to-meet-at-white-house-for-talks-on-golfs-future/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a>’s involvement in professional golf’s peace talks have ramped up further, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> among those due to be afforded an audience with the US president at the White House on Thursday afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFEJ6J6ZAZFZXE2D6W34XKTYDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods is expected to join the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> commissioner Jay Monahan, fellow board member Adam Scott and representatives of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in a meeting hosted by Trump amid increasing hopes the fractured sport can unite over the coming months. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RO2V27RCH5F5ZHIGIYXKQ6DF5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Key sticking points surround the precise role for Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the PIF’s governor, in golf’s new world and where the Saudi-established <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\">LIV Tour</a> sits on the sport’s schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZKPJSNPBNE2JPLMAI2WRG2QMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"LIV’s formation in 2022 created divisions in elite golf that are yet to heal. Players such as Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau swapped the PGA Tour for LIV with no apparent hope of return. If Trump can accelerate a deal – and he believes he can – a pathway would be established for those golfers to play in PGA Tour events once again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FTWMD5IEREETGI3NOJMAOPKUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Equally intriguing is where the PGA Tour, LIV and the DP World Tour all sit in what ideally would be a global golf schedule. The PGA Tour declined to comment on the White House meeting when approached on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4QX3FQN6FGXDCWGJQL6J2OUIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Trump holds a significant role not only because of his love for golf but because of influence he can exert on the US Department of Justice, which under Joe Biden’s presidency was seen as a potential stumbling block to the PGA Tour and Saudis forming alliance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJSZ66GDSFEG7PT4XZYAG2C74E","additional_properties":{},"content":"In practical terms the PIF will seek to invest in PGA Tour Enterprises, a body created in June 2023 when a framework agreement for peace in golf was surprisingly announced. Broader matters of intrigue involve potential increased involvement by Saudi Arabia in US sports franchises.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OVWTED6XBNDU5J3XIBTIU7ZPDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scott and Monahan also attended the White House in early February. Woods spoke more positively than ever on Sunday about golf’s future. “Things are going to heal quickly,” Woods said. “We’re going to get this game going in the right direction.” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> had earlier revealed he played golf with Trump in early January. – Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray"}]},"description":{"basic":"Woods to join PGA delegation on Thursday for meeting where LIV representatives will be present"},"display_date":"2025-02-20T15:02:59.372Z","headlines":{"basic":"Donald Trump and Tiger Woods to meet at White House for talks on golf’s future","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KKIMXTVBBYEABDLMRIUO2YMWXI","auth":{"1":"f5d95d4ec8467b12dca08e01d08fde55c120719becc60fec8479a10a0d3ea140"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KKIMXTVBBYEABDLMRIUO2YMWXI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/20/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-to-meet-at-white-house-for-talks-on-golfs-future/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"LD2IJRAO5RF7FG5IUAR4URD4YU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":385,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/0febc799-0764-4b81-a09d-311bb746e23a/versions/1739987502/media/4aa8aee2438ac9ac7fc79f369eaec445_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/can-donald-trump-really-swing-a-deal-and-reunite-golf/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MOUDKTKR6NFM7BO563G7EQXPH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153797},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund are racing to reshape their plans to combine their rival golf circuits, emboldened by US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a>’s eagerness to play peacemaker for a fractured sport, according to four people familiar with the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIAWSOMGZRAL3EBWWHGLZC7Z2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153798},"content":"Since the start of secret talks in April 2023, PGA Tour executives and their Saudi counterparts have been weighing how they could somehow blend the premier American golf circuit with the Saudis’ <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\">LIV Golf</a> operation. But negotiators have struggled to design a deal that would satisfy regulators along with players, investors and executives.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QF2BYJB6DNFIFLUJ2ALMGZBOT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153799},"content":"Trump’s return to Washington has offered a new opening: After an Oval Office meeting this month that ethics experts have said tested the bounds of propriety, the two sides are considering options that might have stalled during Joe Biden’s presidency but that the Trump administration’s antitrust enforcers could offer a friendlier glance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCY732KS3VBXZF4UDVB3D24MZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153800},"content":"The details of any prospective agreement, including LIV’s fate, remain in flux. In general, regulators would see any transaction that led to the dissolution of one of the leagues as anticompetitive; under Trump, though, antitrust regulators could take a more relaxed view.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6OIMD7QE5ANNCWZB6SKPCLO7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153801},"content":"The two sides are looking beyond a simple cash transaction, though it is unclear how exactly the deal would be structured. PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has said they are looking at a “reunification” but there are many complicating factors, including how to value both ventures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBLIRABA5JFXZABHDIZHC5S76M","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153802},"content":"There is also the matter of how to handle any deal alongside a separate $1.5 billion investment in the PGA Tour by a band of American sports magnates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QL3QJWSOF5DJZKXBOKV6Q44YNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The people familiar with the deal talks spoke on the condition of anonymity because the negotiations are confidential. The White House did not respond to a request for comment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5J3H47NTJATNF2SBU5SQGGZSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153804},"content":"Before Trump returned to power on January 20th, Biden’s Justice Department had been reviewing term sheets that called for the Saudis to invest $1.5 billion in a new commercial arm created by the PGA Tour. Regulators sat for months poring over reams of documents, but talks were at an effective standstill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R67JLIXIWZBP3LMXKD5KK26WOU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"33IVQ2UHR5BX3NM3PZABRPWNHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153806},"content":"The chance now to explore potentially cosier terms is a remarkable turnabout and underscores how the legal and political realities of deal-making can quickly change under Trump, especially when he acts as mediator.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHPDIMGK75HADB4MPNN72V77O4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153807},"content":"The Saudi-backed LIV league roared into the golf world in 2022 with huge contracts for established stars and a shorter, livelier tournament format that challenged the PGA Tour. But it effectively split the stars of the golf world across two circuits, fracturing the audience and weakening the business prospects for both leagues. The Saudi wealth fund is valued at about $925 billion, but its golf operation has bled money for years, even as LIV sought to cut a swaggering public profile.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRTXVNDMWVC3ZHTU5GKQDW4XXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153809},"content":"In an Oval Office meeting two weeks ago, Trump met with Monahan and spoke by telephone with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the Saudi wealth fund’s governor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E2R63UMMA5DOZMCVBOX4QKMBJQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153810},"content":"Trump’s lifelong love of the sport and his family’s ownership in more than a dozen golf properties around the world, including Doonbeg in Co Clare, suggest his involvement could raise conflicts of interest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"53NCUSE3QRC6ZI2VWZMNWGQVXA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153811},"content":"The PGA Tour has not held a tournament for its flagship circuit at a Trump property since 2016, and Trump has been especially close to LIV and its power brokers. His company’s courses have hosted LIV tournaments, and another is planned for Trump National Doral, near Miami, in April. Trump has often appeared at LIV events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQGV276PDRAKFFXPFVFBWW5ZXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153812},"content":"Al-Rumayyan and Trump are both expected to attend a meeting of investors and executives hosted by the Saudi wealth fund in Miami Beach this week. It is not clear whether they will try to complete a golf deal at the conference, which is about far more than sports. But Tiger Woods, the greatest player of his generation, sounded a broadly optimistic note over the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KNWUW3FUBCLTPPFVC7EHDDEJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153813},"content":"“We’re going to get this game going in the right direction,” Woods, a member of the PGA Tour’s board, told CBS on Sunday. “It’s been heading in the wrong direction for a number of years, and the fans want all of us to play together, all the top players playing together, and we’re going to make that happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGP7NHR2M5CHPN4AUHARLTT6GE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153814},"content":"Woods also said another meeting with Trump was “coming up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBXITHRKEVGA3KNWBLQBXG6MWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153815},"content":"The clock on the Justice Department’s review of the original agreement expired this month, according to two of the people familiar with the talks. Ordinarily, that would have meant the parties could just proceed with the agreement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4YCQSI7MNF7VBMHY66ROSNIHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153816},"content":"Instead, they have turned toward the possibility of better options.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BGQPM7I4RHKXGMLZ5VE6XMMKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153817},"content":"Even the possibility that golf’s turmoil could end with an antitrust whimper, rather than a regulatory thunderclap, shows how much the environment has shifted over the past two years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLALJWWFMBBDDBP2HTUUJFRRMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153818},"content":"In 2023, LIV officials encouraged a federal inquiry into professional golf, arguing that the PGA Tour’s efforts to stem defections to other leagues threatened the labour market’s integrity. Investigators examined phones and interviewed LIV players, including Bryson DeChambeau and Phil Mickelson, as they studied the tight-knit structures of men’s professional golf.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQOBGEYUMVFLZE2ZSFPYN2VNNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153819},"content":"Then came the surprise agreement between the Saudis and the tour to pursue a joint venture. Monahan stunned observers the day it was announced when he publicly declared that a deal could “take the competitor off of the board”, a comment that antitrust experts saw as a flagrant red flag. The Justice Department pressured the two sides to abandon the no-poach clause they had included in their preliminary accord.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SV7N4V6EEJH37D343YZAK7LRTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153820},"content":"The PGA Tour’s television ratings have declined sharply, and Monahan told reporters last week in California that people wanted to see the world’s top players competing regularly against one another again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DULPZOHWZDEDBTTDB2JUHFPRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153821},"content":"Asked whether the talks could lead to the end of LIV, Monahan did not answer directly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ML4NGLTFI5AP7LGGI6OIQVJ774","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153822},"content":"“What it means is the reunification of the game, which is what we have been and are focused on,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W42AYOO2XZA5JOYGZYKJPT7TSI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153823},"content":"Monahan added that he could “certainly see a day where we’re adding Trump venues to our schedule.” – This article originally appeared in the <a href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/business/dealbook/pga-tour-liv-golf-saudi-deal-trump.html\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/business/dealbook/pga-tour-liv-golf-saudi-deal-trump.html\">New York Times</a>.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"name":"Lauren Hirsch"},{"name":"Alan Blinder"}]},"description":{"basic":"PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund seek friendlier deal terms under new president"},"display_date":"2025-02-19T17:23:57.824Z","headlines":{"basic":"Can Donald Trump really swing a deal and reunite golf? ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OCPTDS76C5AGNMP4PSBOOYAPFQ","auth":{"1":"590e83b72cbaa7e6a934742f8315ca411216985a90122233972e25b3989a50f5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OCPTDS76C5AGNMP4PSBOOYAPFQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/can-donald-trump-really-swing-a-deal-and-reunite-golf/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"ATK73F4EIFBWLEQ5O5JEKZ4XGQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":156,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/8241728f-0677-4749-b5e0-be6ef3cf8c5f/versions/1739975494/media/8dcc49cda5a98753dab132a799ff16c9_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/mexico-open-lowdown-course-guide-prize-money-irish-in-action-betting-and-tv-times/","content_elements":[{"_id":"63ANB2RR3VAQJHGAKPN2SUU23M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse:</b> $7 million (€6.7 million)/$1.26 million (€1.2 million) to the winner","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHWDJSBIL5HVVK7MNBS7TXQNXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where:</b> Vallarta, Mexico","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD2YNSX7KFAW3C7HSTNHXLL4QY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Course: </b>The Vidanta course – 7,436 yards, par 71 – is a set in a picturesque setting along the meandering Ameca river with views of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range on every hole. The resort course first opened in 2015 and features large landing areas and also large greens, which are protected by deep bunkering. The back nine’s layout features three Par 3s, three Par 4s and three Par 5s. Jon Rahm set the course record 61 in 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2LTYRMVZYRHFLLDHZTNAZ6DHQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Field: </b>Unlike past events at Vidanta World which featured some high-profile names, with Tony Finau among the past champions (2023), this year’s field – one of two counting events, along with next week’s Cognizant Classic, that offers a pathway to the Arnold Palmer Invitational – lacks such star quality. Akshay Bhatia, the world number 30, is the top ranked player in the field, while the Højgaard twins, Rasmus and Nicolai, head the European challenge. Jake Knapp is the defending champion. An interesting sponsor’s exemption is 17-year-old Blades Brown who becomes eligible to join the PGA Tour when he turns 18 in May. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHDWRIKIZJFC7PLLJ2YG3BQM6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish playing: </b>Pádraig Harrington, who is playing on a sponsor’s invite, is the lone Irishman in the field as he moves across the Atlantic following stints on the DP World Tour (in UAE and Bahrain) and on the Champions Tour in Morocco. Harrington made the cut in the tournament last year, finishing tied-52nd. Harrington is grouped with Nicolai Hojgaard and Michael Kim (off the 1st at 6.32pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"PPNNF5VW7JCMRBNHJCFQFCO34E","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting:</b> This is a wide-open market, with Bhatia installed as the 11-1 favourite ahead of Rasmus Højgaard. However, there are a number of strong each-way prospects given the absence of many of the world’s top players who are keeping their powder dry ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players inside the next month. As such, it is worth looking at Aldrich Potgieter (tied-15th in the Farmers Insurance Open on his most recent start on the PGA Tour this season) who is available at 60-1, while Matteo Manassero, who hasn’t missed a cut since the Spanish Open last September, is on offer at 100-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZPSZHSXZFGQPLWQCGF5PWLHZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV:</b> On Sky Sports Golf (from 9pm).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"The PGA Tour heads to Vallarta for this week’s $7m tournament"},"display_date":"2025-02-19T14:26:26.391Z","headlines":{"basic":"Mexico Open lowdown: Course guide, prize money, Irish in action, betting and TV times","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5Q6TAKSX3NBBNMJXQRZEHDP5BM","auth":{"1":"1dd0dcd92faf2129d100b70a38939b6c34808bf8ea5b9a7af2ff51d960219128"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5Q6TAKSX3NBBNMJXQRZEHDP5BM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/mexico-open-lowdown-course-guide-prize-money-irish-in-action-betting-and-tv-times/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"OU66XQRAI5EXBGIIPCY3SHN4XE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":382,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0edede15-635a-4211-a9d4-708e6751e429/versions/1739813917/media/7f9076e8c8751ce813d4923b33cc60d6_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/18/rose-zhang-joins-list-of-investors-in-tgl-golf-league/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IU4O3MPVEVHIHMTBZ5A2XGD54M","additional_properties":{"_id":1652361113636},"content":"LPGA Tour star Rose Zhang has become the latest sportsperson to financially back the TGL golf league founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N5HA35OO7ZECRA6TSZU3BL7SM4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884576},"content":"Zhang – just 21 but already a two-time winner on the LPGA Tour – has joined the ownership group of The Bay Golf Club, which already includes basketball legend Steph Curry. This is Zhang’s first venture into business investment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HZ67SCKARGEZKBFAL3XXTODRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884577},"content":"The Bay Club’s roster features Shane Lowry, Wyndham Clark, Min Woo Lee and Ludvig Åberg, whose win in the Genesis Invitational moved the Swede up to a career-best fourth in the updated world rankings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"47V5JO2HXZHMZEL3MMQBAKBQAY","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884578},"content":"“This investment aligns with my goal to be the best golfer in the world while inspiring the next generation of players, especially youth golfers in California, where I grew up. Having athletes like Steph Curry, who exemplifies the values of work ethic, faith, and family that resonate with me, involved in this team made it an honour to have this opportunity as my first business investment,” said Zhang, who is currently ranked 14th on the Rolex world rankings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSKD7QB7GBGD5FKF3E7CMO6RCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884579},"content":"Pádraig Harrington retains zest for tour life","type":"header"},{"_id":"DKNE772RXVC4VMSB7K2YNUHGHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884580},"content":"Pádraig Harrington’s zest for tour life hasn’t abated, judging by the 53-year-old Dubliner’s crisscrossing of time zones in playing on different tours this season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSMF2RXRO2ELSFCTUIH5TIPJXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884581},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WNLISEEBQFHJTFZYHREQQYMQXE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884583},"content":"The three-time Major champion is living by the old proverb that variety is the spice, following up on his early season endeavours – which took him to the UAE and Bahrain on the DP World Tour followed a fourth straight week when playing in the Hassan II Trophy on the Champions Tour – by flying out to Mexico for this week’s Mexico Open on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2HZD4DE65ZHL7AQ6GB26ASEQBE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884584},"content":"Harrington is the lone Irish player in the field in Mexico, as Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry take time out before the Arnold Palmer Invitational, while Séamus Power (who is not yet exempt into the API, the fourth of the PGA Tour’s signature events this season) is expected to play in next week’s Cognizant Classic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJYPDMHD5JEDXEUNKVHQJ4PXSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884585},"content":"Leona Maguire is also crisscrossing time zones this week, playing in the Honda Thailand Championship in Chonburi on the LPGA Tour, the first of the Asian Swing events that also features tournaments in Singapore and China.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NLY2SFSVOVAEZE44K67SYFCNFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884586},"content":"On the DP World Tour, there are two Irish players – Conor Purcell and Dermot McElroy – competing in the Magical Kenya Open in Nairobi.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNX3IKOQAVGGBEVBTP2NZYYJWA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884587},"content":"<b>Word of Mouth</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"W2WXW23SNZHCLKJTUPTIXMXNLY","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884588},"content":"“Part of playing late in the day on Sunday is distractions. You get drones, fans, there’s all kinds of stuff going on ... I think having the ability to refocus is always one of my strengths” – <b>Scottie Scheffler on outside noise being part and parcel of the final day at golf tournaments. Scheffler’s tied-third place finish behind Ludvig Aberg in The Genesis further strengthened his lead over Xander Schauffele in the world rankings.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"47SCHLK7LBAKBJHOLTD7PXMLV4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884589},"content":"<b>By the Numbers: 6,097</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"F66CMG77ZRHTPGT5B5XDXTEFDE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884590},"content":"That’s the number of days which Justin Leonard had gone without winning, dating back to his 2008 FedEx St Jude Championship win on the PGA Tour. On Sunday, the 52-year-old snapped that winless streak with a victory in the Chubb Classic on the Champions Tour, as he birdied five of his last seven holes for a closing 68 for 201 (-15) and a four-stroke margin over runner-up Billy Andrade.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2MT3BJFB4JD2LCN6RJRTWEGI7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884591},"content":"<b>On this day: February 18th, 2007</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"PBN2LYQKU5C3NH3AQ66IVUJH5E","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884592},"content":"Charles Howell III didn’t make things easy for himself en route to finally claiming a second career win on the PGA Tour, finally getting his hands on some silverware with a play-off win over Phil Mickelson in the Nissan Open at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTOJNOTL7BGB5LWCO2GFUPZ4TE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884593},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FKCU57QGJ5BXVGFYIMINUPRPHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884595},"content":"Howell turned pro in 2000 and won his breakthrough event in the 2002 Michelob Championship, only to find it difficult to add to his CV: he’d had nine runner-up finishes since that tour win before finally getting over the line again, defeating Lefty at the third playoff hole after making up a three-shot deficit in the final round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZDP3GFM2BAIFJJ6YUFRD35FS4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884596},"content":"In shooting a final round 65 for a total of 16-under-par 268 to tie Mickelson, Howell finally claimed career win number two with a par on the par 3 14th, the third hole of sudden death. “I said a prayer before I hit the putt. I said, ‘It’s time, let’s go in’.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"77D6KUVA7BEIPN7WNJR7SBHEME","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884597},"content":"<b>The Social Game</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"NHLIRGOGA5GTVPCTYPWAIQDEOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884598},"content":"That feeling of being in the mix on a Sunday is why we work so hard. It wasn’t my day but my game is in a good spot. Congratulations to @justinleonard02! Huge thanks to @robwattsperformance and @arizonasportsclink for our work in @theabacoclub the week before the @chubbclassic. And to @philkenyonputting for the tempostik+ and @labgolfputters for the new OZ1 putter –<b> Darren Clarke, after finishing third behind Justin Leonard in the Chubb Classic on the Champions Tour.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FJ2NYPD3TFBP7DQKUUWOJVSQUY","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"TPFO4TPTFJAIBNYPT47VTBPY7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884600},"content":"Congratulations to Ludvig Aberg on winning The Genesis Invitational. Thank you @GenesisUSA and all the players who participated this week. To the City of San Diego, thank you for the hospitality at Torrey. My @TGRLiveEvents and @tgrfound teams had a short runway to relocate the event and I’m proud of what they were able to accomplish with the help of many. Our support continues to go out to those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. See you next year at Riviera for the 2026 Genesis Invitational – <b>Tournament host Tiger Woods.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"GLGCWDA6WBENTC55MLO24UQP2Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1739810884601},"content":"The drive for excellence knows no bounds. 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