In 2006, Tiger Woods took apart Royal Liverpool like an archaeologist. He’d uncover a win eventually, he was sure, as long as he didn’t make any big-time mistakes. Pulling driver to challenge a faraway fairway bunker? May as well bring dynamite to a prehistoric excavation. Woods left the blasting to his desperate competition, making his way around Hoylake with chisel and brush, using smaller, finer tools: 2-irons off tees and long irons to the middles of greens. With every fairway and green he hit, the inevitability of his victory drew closer.

 

To win a major championship, at some point you have to take some risks — unless you’re Tiger Woods. Particularly 2006 Tiger Woods. To win this major championship, he was determined not to take any risks at all.

 

“That week was far and away the best ball-striking tournament he ever had,” swing coach Hank Haney told The Scotsman later.

 

His was a win for discipline and for patience; Royal Liverpool was burnt to a crisp and Woods used that ground to advance his low-flighted irons down the fairway, even if it meant hitting longer approach shots than his competition. It was a strategy that served as tribute to his late father Earl, who had passed that May.

 

He was always on my case about thinking my way around the golf course and not letting emotions get the better of you, because it’s so very easy to do in this sport,” Woods said. “He would have been very proud.”

 

The bridled nature with which he attacked the course was a sharp contrast to his reaction on the 18th green, when he let out weeks and months of pent-up sorrow as he sobbed into the arms of caddie Steve Williams.

 

“I guess I’m kind of the one who bottles things up a little bit and moves on, tries to deal with things in my own way. But at that moment it just came pouring out and of all the things that my father has meant to me and the game of golf,” he said afterwards. “I just wish he could have seen it one more time.”

 

 

In 2014, Rory McIlroy dismantled Royal Liverpool like he was blasting a tunnel through a mountain. The Northern Irishman was already the best driver in the world and proved it, taking a wholly different approach to Hoylake. The course was greener and lusher than the one Woods had picked apart some eight years earlier. McIlroy’s style of play was in vogue, too: Smash it down the fairway and play it from there.

 

The way he plays is pretty aggressively,” Woods said that week. “When he gets it going, he gets it going. When it gets going bad, it gets going real bad. It’s one or the other.”

 

This week, he had it going. McIlroy opened with 66 to grab the first-round lead and built a six-shot advantage going into the final round, throttled back slightly and won by two, cementing his Open Championship dreams as well as the dream — and wager — of his father, who had predicted via Ladbrokes that his son would win the Open by the time he turned 26.

 

The win hastened comparisons to Woods; surely McIlroy was the next man up to chase his childhood idol? He was open to the possibility.

 

“Golf is looking to someone to put their hand up and try,” he said. “I want to be the guy that goes on and wins majors and wins majors regularly.”

 

In 2022, I, Dylan Dethier, arrived at the same hallowed ground. I neither dissected nor dismantled anything about the property, but I’d weathered its blows and, through 14 holes, had played the historic Open venue to something of a stalemate.

 

Enter No. 15.

 

The 15th will become iconic in just nine months’ time, when the Open returns to the Wirral Peninsula. It’s a brand-new hole designed by architect Martin Ebert, who the club brought in to ensure its enduring relevance. The course’s newest addition is arguably its flashiest; at just 135 yards, the pint-sized par-3 features a small, elevated green that gazes out over the Irish Sea, flaunting the view and reminding golfers that this is, in fact, a spectacular seaside property. (The course’s other 17 holes are near the sea but never rub your eyes in it; giving too many dramatic views would be too ostentatious. Subtlety and understatement are still prize possessions. This is England, after all.)

 

 

I made reference, in the title of this piece, to the fact that I walked in the footsteps of Woods and McIlroy and yet hit a shot they never could. That was enough enticement for you to make it this far, which is a good thing. It’s also a bit of a riddle. There I was, walking in their footsteps. My drives couldn’t keep up with McIlroy’s from 2014 nor, perhaps, even Woods’ 2-irons from 2006. But the fairways were the same, rumpled and delightful, a former racetrack turned golf playground, and small-town U.K. keeps even its mightiest courses available to the public. Here we were.

 

 

Neither Woods nor McIlroy has yet had the opportunity to play this tee shot, because the hole hasn’t yet made its Open debut. In that way, I was already covering ground that they had not. But as I stepped up to the ball, determined to hit one close and conquer this devilish beauty, my trailblazing took a sudden turn. A sudden right turn, to be specific. I tweaked something in my swing thought, and when I instinctively looked up at the moment of impact to watch my ball’s flight it was coming out of a different window entirely, veering dangerously over the head of Tamara, our host and playing partner, before careening into an adjacent shed with an emphatic wham.

 

I’d delivered a pure, cold shank. The kind that sears itself in your muscle memory. Even now, hundreds of wedge swings later, I can still feel that point of impact. I can see that ball shooting right. (Continually re-watching the video probably doesn’t help.) And while I’m not saying neither Woods nor McIlroy has ever hit one — YouTube results remind us that McIlroy delivered hosel to ball as recently as last year’s Masters — but to do so with a little pitching wedge? Off a tee, no less? That’s far more rare.

 

Sean Zak, my playing partner, fared far better when faced with the same shot. You can see precisely how much better in the video below. But on a surreal day in which we studied Royal Liverpool’s century-plus of history, dined on its patio, made ourselves at home on its fairways and greens, this was the realest reminder of all: I could walk the same holes as golf’s greatest legends, but I wasn’t playing the same game. Not quite.

 

 

P.S. — Our trip wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Destination Golf sponsors Footjoy. One reason I hit that shank is that I’d recently removed my gray Lightweight Hoodie for the first time in about 48 hours. Don’t mak

e the same mistake — check ’em out below!

 

In a surprising turn of events, Scottie Scheffler, the renowned professional golfer, is facing an unexpected personal crisis. His wife, Meredith Scheffler, has filed for immediate divorce following a seemingly innocuous seven-word romantic message he sent to Olympic gymnast Simone Biles. The message, which was perceived as overly affectionate and potentially inappropriate by Meredith, appears to have triggered a series of events leading to their separation.

 

The couple, who had been married for several years, had seemingly enjoyed a stable and happy relationship. Scottie’s message to Simone Biles, widely known for her incredible achievements in gymnastics and her charismatic public persona, was not publicly disclosed in full, but it was enough to raise concerns within their marriage. The exact content of the message remains unclear, but its impact has evidently been profound, prompting Meredith to take drastic legal action.

 

In her divorce filing, Meredith has cited irreconcilable differences as the primary reason for the split. This development has shocked fans and followers of both Scottie Scheffler and Simone Biles, who had previously been unaware of any underlying issues in the Scheffler marriage. The situation highlights the often-overlooked complexities that can arise from seemingly minor actions and their significant consequences in personal relationships.

 

The divorce proceedings are expected to unfold in the coming months, with both parties likely to navigate a complex legal and emotional landscape. As the public watches closely, it remains to be seen how this dramatic turn of events will impact Scottie Scheffler’s professional career and personal life, as well as his relationship with Simone Biles.

Tommy Fleetwood, the professional golfer renowned for his impressive performances on the PGA Tour, has often spoken highly of his wife, Clare. Despite their 23-year age difference, Fleetwood has praised Clare for her significant impact on his personal and professional life. In various interviews, he has emphasized how Clare’s wisdom, maturity, and insightful perspective have greatly influenced him.

 

Tommy has highlighted how Clare’s support and guidance have not only helped him navigate the pressures of his career but have also contributed to his overall growth as a person. Her intelligence and perceptiveness have enabled her to provide invaluable advice and encouragement, which Tommy credits for helping him become a better golfer and individual.

 

The couple’s age gap, far from being a barrier, has been a source of strength in their relationship. Clare’s experiences and life lessons have complemented Tommy’s ambitions and challenges, fostering a dynamic partnership. Tommy Fleetwood’s admiration for Clare’s cleverness and the positive effects she has had on his life exemplify the deep respect and affection he holds for her, showcasing how their unique bond has enriched both their lives.

Bradley expressed his excitement about the new role, noting, “With the Ryder Cup on the horizon next year, this will be a great experience to understand the team dynamics and how coaching can help our players perform their best.”

The International team will be led by Canada’s Mike Weir, who has selected Ernie Els, Trevor Immelman, Geoff Ogilvy, and Camilo Villegas as his vice captains. The U.S. team has historically dominated the Presidents Cup, winning 12 of the 14 matches played.

Bradley’s selection as Ryder Cup captain surprised many, including Rory McIlroy, who expressed disbelief and suggested that it would be difficult for Bradley to serve as a playing captain. McIlroy, who is also preparing for the Olympics, recently had a heated exchange about the Ryder Cup while playing at St Andrews.

Bradley will be the youngest Ryder Cup captain since Arnold Palmer in 1963.

 

Tommy Fleetwood, the renowned English professional golfer, has garnered significant attention not only for his impressive career on the golf course but also for his personal life and financial status. With a substantial net worth estimated in the millions, Fleetwood’s success extends beyond the greens, reflecting his achievements and endorsements in the world of sports.

 

Fleetwood is married to Clare Fleetwood, who plays a crucial role in both his personal and professional life. Clare, who serves as Tommy’s manager, has been instrumental in supporting and managing his career, ensuring that his professional engagements and endorsements are handled efficiently. Her role is pivotal in allowing Tommy to focus on his game, knowing that his career management is in capable hands.

 

Their family life is equally notable, particularly with their son, who captured public attention at a young age. When he was just four years old, he went viral for a heartwarming and memorable reason, showcasing the family’s endearing moments and adding a personal touch to their public image. This viral moment highlighted not only the charm of their family life but also the widespread appeal and relatability of Tommy Fleetwood beyond his professional accomplishments.

 

In summary, Tommy Fleetwood’s substantial net worth and successful career are complemented by a supportive and integral partner in Clare Fleetwood, who manages both his personal and professional affairs. The family’s public appeal was further enhanced by their son’s viral moment, adding a personal and relatable dimension to their story.

 

In a stunning turn of events that has rocked the world of golf, Rory McIlroy’s recent remarks directed at fellow golfer Scottie Scheffler have sparked a major controversy. The situation began to unfold after Scheffler clinched the Olympic gold medal, a feat that has already been the talk of the golf community. However, it was McIlroy’s subsequent comments that have really stirred the pot.

 

During a press conference following the Olympics, McIlroy was asked about Scheffler’s victory. His response, initially expected to be one of congratulations and sportsmanship, took a sharp turn. McIlroy’s remarks were described as unexpectedly harsh and critical, with some suggesting they bordered on personal attacks rather than professional critique.

 

McIlroy, who has long been considered one of the sport’s most respected figures, accused Scheffler of receiving an unfair advantage due to specific course conditions and the support he received from his team. This was not merely a critique of Scheffler’s performance, but rather a pointed challenge to the legitimacy of his gold medal win.

 

The backlash was immediate and intense. Fans and analysts alike were quick to express their dismay over McIlroy’s comments, with many viewing them as unsportsmanlike and uncharacteristic of the golfer known for his professionalism. The controversy has prompted heated debates across social media and sports news outlets, with some defending McIlroy’s right to express his opinion, while others argue that his comments undermined the spirit of fair competition.

 

As the debate continues, both golfers have been thrust into the spotlight, not just for their athletic prowess, but for the ongoing feud that now overshadows their achievements. The situation has raised questions about the pressures and expectations placed on elite athletes and the ways in which they handle public scrutiny and personal rivalries.

 

In the midst of this turmoil, it remains to be seen how McIlroy and Scheffler will navigate

Anthony Joshua bids to become a three-time world heavyweight champion on September 21 as he faces Daniel Dubois for the IBF belt in an all-British showdown at Wembley Stadium.

It will be almost three years to the day since Joshua relinquished his WBO, WBA, IBO and IBF titles to Oleksandr Usyk, and two years since his last world title fight after losing to the Ukrainian in a rematch.

Dubois claimed the interim title by stopping the previously unbeaten Filip Hrgovic in his last bout and has since been elevated to full champion after Usyk vacated the belt.

The 26-year-old champion admitted in the face-to-face press conference in June that Joshua “has been a target for me for a long time”. This fight will mean a lot to both corners and is likely to make or break the remainder of these boxers’ careers.

The night is part of the Saudi-backed Riyadh Season series that also includes the Los Angeles card featuring the WBA and WBO super welterweight title fight between Terence Crawford and Israil Madrimov, which also has former heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr on the undercard.

Where is the fight being held?

The IBF heavyweight world title clash between Joshua and Dubois will take place at Wembley Stadium.

When is Joshua vs Dubois? Date and time

The fight is scheduled for Saturday September 21. The ring walk times are yet to be confirmed, but generally headline fights in the UK start between 10.30pm and 11pm.

How to watch Joshua vs Dubois in the UK

Viewers will have their choice of broadcaster for Joshua vs Dubois as the fight will be shown on Sky Sports Box Office, DAZN and TNT Sports Box Office.