Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast PGA TOUR COUNTDOWN™

Rory McIlroy captured his second Players Championship title in a dramatic Monday playoff against JJ Spahn, cementing his place among golf's elite as only the fourth player to win multiple Players Championships and multiple majors.

The concluding day at TPC Sawgrass featured brutal north-northwest winds that transformed the course into the challenging test it was designed to be. McIlroy's victory highlighted his remarkable improvement in controlling ball flight in windy conditions—a skill he's deliberately developed since changing his ball earlier this season. "I'm a better putter, better around the greens, I can flight my ball better in the wind," McIlroy reflected during his post-round interview.

Behind the composed exterior was a champion battling significant nerves, waking at 3am unable to sleep before the playoff. "Standing over that tee shot on 16 this morning is the most nervous I've been in a long time," McIlroy admitted, offering a glimpse into the psychological challenges elite golfers face. His evening routine of watching "The Devil Wears Prada" to distract himself showcases the human side of championship golf rarely seen by fans.

For Spahn, despite the disappointment, the week represented remarkable progress in his career trajectory. "A year ago today, this was the first cut I made all season," he noted, "Now I've lost in a playoff." His candid reflections on overcoming earlier career fears demonstrate the mental evolution required to compete at golf's highest level.

The victory potentially reshapes McIlroy's Masters preparation, as he now plans to play one of the Texas events rather than taking three full weeks off before Augusta. As we shift focus to the Valspar Championship next week, McIlroy's renewed confidence and demonstrated resilience establish him as a formidable contender for the season's first major championship.

The episode captures the vibrant atmosphere of the WM, exploring how the tournament blends golf with community and celebration. Insights from Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, and Scotty Scheffler highlight both the competitive spirit and unique challenges of performing in front of large, enthusiastic crowds. 
• Exploration of the unique party atmosphere at the WM 
• Justin Thomas emphasizes the importance of patience and smart gameplay 
• Jordan Spieth shares the thrill and pressure of competing with a large audience 
• Scotty Scheffler discusses the relationship between players and crowd energy 
• The social and cultural aspects drew fans to the WM event 
• Teasing upcoming PGA Tour events and the excitement of the season

PGA Tour legend Davis Love III joins us to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the RSM Classic at Sea Island Golf Club. Discover the heartwarming journey of this beloved tournament, from its modest beginnings to becoming a cornerstone event on the PGA Tour, raising nearly $50 million for charity. Davis shares personal stories about the integral role his family plays in the event's success, with special mention of his granddaughter Eloise's contributions. We also discuss the excitement of this year's special guest, basketball star Caitlin Clark, adding a new layer of enthusiasm to the event's vibrant community atmosphere.

This episode dives into the shifting landscape of professional golf, highlighting the PGA Tour's strategic decision to reduce exempt players, aiming to nurture emerging talent and enrich the competitive field. Insightful perspectives from rising stars Sam Ryder and Rafael Campos illuminate the challenges and triumphs faced by golfers in this dynamic environment. We also share moving personal narratives of perseverance, from overcoming the swing yips to battling health issues, showcasing the resilience required to thrive in the sport.

Join us for a heartfelt celebration of Maverick McNeely's recent victory at the RSM Classic, where his journey epitomizes dedication and the joys of professional golf. We reflect on the supportive networks that fuel success, including Maverick's inspiring Team Mav, and the cherished moments with his biggest fan—his grandma. As the golf season winds down, we encourage listeners to embrace the off-season with gratitude, emphasizing the importance of family, friendships, and the pursuit of passion on and off the green.

Join us as we explore the thrilling world of the PGA TOUR COUNTDOWN, where I, Frank Bassett, take you on a journey to the Worldwide Technology Championship in the stunning locale of Los Cabos, Mexico. This episode promises an inside look at the tournament's spectacular growth, fueled by a strong partnership between the PGA Tour and Worldwide Technology. We've lined up insightful interviews that highlight not only the competitive spirit on the course but also the unique networking and innovation opportunities that this event fosters. Dive into the captivating stories of community involvement and witness the transformation of the El Cardinal course into a formidable challenge for the world's top golfers.

Are you ready to uncover the triumphs and challenges of the President's Cup? In this episode, we promise an inside look at the intense competition and the pivotal moments that shaped the outcome. Listen as we dissect the strategic decisions and the incredible sportsmanship displayed by players like Scotty Scheffler. Hear from international team Captain Mike Weir, who shares heartfelt praise for his team's camaraderie and fight, alongside insights from Ernie Els on the evolving dynamics of global golf and the rising stars to watch.

Learn how the victorious United States team, including Keegan Bradley and Xander Schauffele, led the charge in key matches and the meticulous preparation that contributed to their success. Jim Furyk and other team members discuss the importance of early vetting and the strategies behind their winning pairings. We'll also highlight the joyous moments of camaraderie and the deep bonds formed during this high-stakes competition, with personal reflections from rookies Sean and Russell on their unique experiences and the welcoming nature of their teammates.

As we celebrate the highs and lows of the President's Cup, we’ll also bring you a glimpse into what's next on the golf calendar, including the Corn Ferry Tour finals and the Sanderson Farms Championship. Reflect on memorable interviews and lighter moments that underscore the spirit of the game. This episode is a must-listen for golf enthusiasts eager to relive the excitement and gain deeper insights into the world of competitive golf. Join us for an engaging recap and stay tuned for more thrilling golf discussions!

How does the staggered start format impact the fairness of the Tour Championship? Join us on Golf Talk America as we debate this hot topic and explore whether rewarding players for their regular season efforts truly benefits the sport. Listen as we break down the latest performances, including Scottie Scheffler's standout moments in the FedExCup playoffs and Russell Henley's impressive 62. Special guest Steve Johnson, the esteemed director of Instruction at Vaquero Golf Club, joins us to share his expert insights and provide an update on the fresh renovations at East Lake Golf Club.

Get ready for an unforgettable Olympic edition of PGA TOUR Countdown! Scotty Scheffler brings us along on his Parisian adventure, balancing rigorous tournament preparations with the vibrant Olympic atmosphere. Hear about his recent Open Championship performance and how he tackles the challenge of staying energized throughout the season. Scotty also gives us a glimpse of his explorations around iconic sites like the Louvre, adding a touch of cultural flair to his golfing journey.

We then delve into the mental landscape of professional golf, where the significance of emotional balance and mindfulness takes center stage. Xander Schauffelle offers a heartfelt reflection on his Olympic journey, sharing the emotional weight of winning a gold medal and celebrating that victory with his father, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Personal anecdotes about dedicated "golf rooms" and the importance of staying grounded amidst success paint a vivid picture of the life and mindset of a top-tier golfer.

Conversations with golfers about their relationships with their fathers and coaches reveal the intricate dynamics that play pivotal roles in their careers. Learn how subtle changes in coaching have led to recent triumphs, and explore the camaraderie and competitive spirit that drive these athletes. As we anticipate the Olympic golf event at Le Golf National, predictions for standout performances by Scotty, Xander, and Jon Rahm promise an exhilarating competition. Join us for these captivating stories and insights that bring the world of Olympic golf to life!

As we gather around the microphone this week, our hearts are heavy with the loss of Grayson Murray, a figure whose battle with personal demons resonated with so many of us, both inside and outside the ropes. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan joins us to shed light on how Murray's candidness has left an indelible mark on the sport, propelling a much-needed conversation about mental health in professional golf. We take a moment to honor the legacy of a player who was much more than his scores on the leaderboard, discussing the emotional toll on his peers, including Scotty Scheffler, and the collective grief that swept through the Charles Schwab Challenge.

Get ready to explore the triumphs and techniques behind Rory McIlroy's stunning victory at the Wells Fargo Championship, where he notched his 26th PGA Tour win. We're bringing you a special episode featuring insights from the man himself, as he breaks down the key components of his game that led him to success at Quail Hollow. Discover how Rory's recent win with Shane Lowry at Zurich has supercharged his confidence, especially with his driving, which proved crucial on the course. Plus, we'll hear from Xander Schauffele, who, despite facing his own hurdles, admires McIlroy's exceptional performance and shares his determination to sharpen his short game for future triumphs.

As we aim our sights at the upcoming PGA Championship at Valhalla, McIlroy reflects on the emotional and technical journey that's shaped his game. He candidly discusses his battle through self-doubt, the tweaks to his strategy, and the Charlotte crowd's unwavering support that propelled him forward. Rory also gives us a glimpse into his preparation for the major challenges that lie ahead in Louisville, including the evolution of his iron shots that could make all the difference. Join us for a riveting conversation with one of golf's greats, and take away some inspiration for your own path to victory, whether on the fairways or in the game of life.

Imagine standing on the green of TPC Louisiana, with the buzz of New Orleans in the air and the stakes of PGA TOUR's Teams Week electrifying the atmosphere. That's where we take you in our latest episode of PGA TOUR COUNTDOWN, complete with exclusive chats with the likes of Billy Horschel, fresh off his latest triumph, and his zen-like partner Tyson Alexander. We unravel the tapestry of their golfing partnership, exploring the alchemy between Horschel's fiery competitive spirit and Alexander's cool, collected approach. 

Who doesn't love a good story of camaraderie and last-minute team-ups on the fairways? Our conversation with Billy Horschel takes us on a ride through golfing friendships, the serendipitous moment he stepped up for a pal at the Zurich Classic, and the culinary escapades that have cemented him as the unofficial foodie guide for his peers. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry remind us of the power of old friendships and Ryder Cup bonds, bringing their A-game to the unique challenges and strategies of team play.

Finally, we'll whisk you away to a close encounter of the reptilian kind from Florida's Gator Growl to the alligator-inhabited waters of TPC Louisiana. With the tournament in full swing, we invite our listeners to join the conversation, share their excitement and anecdotes, and get swept up in the team spirit that makes this PGA Tour event an absolute spectacle. Tune in, get inspired by the tales from the course, and experience the exhilarating world of professional golf as we count down the moments of the PGA TOUR's Teams Week.

As the echoes of Scotty Scheffler's triumph at the 2024 Masters still reverberate, we take you inside the ropes for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the drama that unfolded on Augusta's hallowed grounds. Feel the tension and glory with runner-up Ludwig Oberg, as he opens up about the rollercoaster of his first major championship appearance, and how his duel with Scheffler sharpened his thirst for the pinnacle of golfing success. Meanwhile, Alex offers a candid recount of the shot that could've changed it all, providing an intimate perspective on the fine line between victory and learning moments in professional golf.

Brace yourself for a wind-whipped journey through the 2024 Masters at Augusta National as we broadcast from the vibrant Azalea House. Tiger Woods, with his monumental 24th consecutive cut, shares his battle scars and strategic insights from the day, discussing everything from the physical toll the course takes to the importance of a laser-focused game plan. You'll also hear Tiger's admiration for Max Homa's performance, a testament to the fresh talent challenging the greens alongside seasoned pros.

Get ready to stroll the hallowed fairways of Augusta with us, your hosts Tim Matthews and Frank Bassett, as we bring you the essence of Masters Week. Feel the pulse of the tournament and the character of the PGA Tour, all bundled up in discussions rich with golfing lore and the latest industry shakeups. Our journey isn't solo; we're graced by the wisdom of former Senator Sam Nunn and the architectural insight of Robert Trent Jones Jr. Moreover, we reunite with Virgil Herring, reliving the foundation days of our show and the evolving landscape of golf media.

Feel the raw emotion of victory with Peter Malnati as he secures his second PGA Tour triumph at the Valspar Championship—an achievement teeming with heartfelt jubilation and the sweet relief of dreams realized. I, Frank Bassett, invite you to relive the climactic final moments of the tournament, where Malnati's journey to the top and the gracious sportsmanship of Mackenzie Hughes illuminate the profound spirit of golf. This episode offers a window into the fine line between triumph and second place, as Hughes openly shares his putting game insights and how the capricious wind played a pivotal role on the course that day.

Join us on the fairway as we unpack the excitement from the Arnold Palmer Invitational and celebrate Scottie Scheffler's victory that's got the world of golf buzzing! With putter in hand, Scheffler's game has hit new heights, and I'm here to share how his steady hand is shaking up the leaderboard. Plus, Shane Lowry spills on the consistency that makes Scheffler a force to be reckoned with and opens up about his own iron play finesse as he eyes the challenges at Sawgrass. We're tapping into the heart of the PGA Tour, where family and community spirit are par for the course, bringing you those touching moments that resonate off the green.

Imagine stepping onto the golf course, the weight of years of dedication on your shoulders, only to emerge victorious with your first PGA Tour win. This week's episode takes you inside the recent 2024 Mexico Open at Vedanta, where Jake Knapp's gripping birdie-led triumph is more than just a scorecard tale. Knapp shares his emotional journey, from guarding nightclubs to seizing golf glory, reflecting on the profound influence of his late grandfather, whose memory inspired a tattoo tribute. We also offer a peek into Sami Valimaki's sharp strategies that almost clinched the title, and his determination to carve out future successes on the tour.

Gather 'round, golf aficionados and sports enthusiasts, as we mark the momentous return of Tiger Woods to the greens and his hosting gig at the iconic Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club. Amid the stately eucalyptus and the storied fairways, we're talking comebacks, resilience, and the sheer love of the game with the man who's redefined golf. Tiger shares his candid insights on playing through pain, the fusion that's changed his swing but not his spirit, and the unyielding passion that keeps him coming back to the course he adores.

Step inside the ropes with us, Frank Bassett, at the redefined AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, where the game's elite face off on the hallowed grounds of Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill. Feel the sea breeze and the competitive tension as Justin Rose defends his title against the likes of Justin Thomas, and where a smaller, more intimate field promises a more riveting contest. This episode peels back the layers of what makes a tournament not just good, but great, from the weather's sway over play to those undeniable moments when golf transcends sport and becomes theater.

Discover the vibrant heart of professional golf as I, Frank Bassett, whisk you away to the scenic Torrey Pines Golf Course, setting the stage for a PGA Tour Countdown unlike any other. The stage is set for Max Homa's title defense, and the tension is palpable as we navigate the challenges of the course, and the tournament's strategic Saturday finish. You'll get insider access as Keegan Bradley, Max Homa, and Xander Schauffele pull back the curtain to discuss their tournament experiences, ambitions, and the incredible drive that keeps them climbing the world rankings.

Feel the pulse of golf's evolving landscape as we tee up with Hall of Famer Lanny Watkins, sharing his seasoned views on the Charles Schwab Cup Championship and his storied Ryder Cup history. Lanny swings into the heart of modern challenges, including the LIV Golf Series' impact on the beloved tournament. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the speculation around Tiger Woods' potential involvement in his Bahamian event, while our very own Frank Bassett stirs the pot with lighthearted takes on Arizona city names and a foggy escapade at the country music awards.

Facing the aftermath of Nashville's devastating tornadoes, our community's enduring spirit is a testament to the resilience that defines us. Join us, with Frank Bassett at the helm, as we navigate the complexities of personal triumphs amidst adversity, and delve into the intriguing world of professional golf negotiations. This episode is rich with insights from PGA Tour Champion Paul Stankowski, who shares candid reflections on his journey over the past year, his aspirations on the Champions Tour, and cherished memories from the emerald courses of Hawaii.

Get ready to tee off with us as we countdown to the much-anticipated PGA Tour. Our special guests, golfers Lilia Vu and Joel Dahmen, are gearing up for the Grant Thornton Invitational. Here's a sneak peek into their camaraderie - Joel can't stop praising Lillio's putting skills and Lilia is eager to learn from Joel's gameplay. Despite limited preparation, they appear undeterred, confident in their abilities to sink birdies.

Round two of our countdown brings the phenomenal LPGA winner Nelly Korda and PGA Tour winner Tony Finau into the spotlight. As they also prepare for the Grand Thornton Invitational, they share their course insights and discuss the challenges they anticipate. And get this, they're playing under the team name "Vutang Clan" - an amusing nod to their competitiveness. Listen in as they talk about using Masterclass, a platform that connects experts and learners, to further hone their skills.

In the final segment, we engage in an enlightening discussion about the future of golf with Korda and Finau. They discuss their recent preparations, their shared love for sports and family and their ambassadorship for Grant Thornton. The conversation also dives into the ever-increasing prize money in the LPGA and the recent rollback of the golf ball. As they express their excitement about being part of the event, they view it as a significant step forward for the sport. So, grab your headphones and settle in for an enriching episode that looks at golf's present and future through the eyes of its stars.

Get ready for an exclusive interview with the golfing great, Tiger Woods! As he gears up for his third comeback at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, Tiger Woods pulls back the curtain on his preparations, his recovery journey from ankle surgery and the anticipation of hitting the greens again. To add to the excitement, Hero MotoCorp, the tournament's sponsor, reveals a significant increase in the prize money, setting the stakes even higher.

We go further, delving into Tiger's health, his role in the upcoming golf agreement, and his future plans. Understand how his recent surgery has altered his life and golf game, and learn about the measures he's taking to adapt and overcome. Hear from Dr. Manjal on the importance of elevating the Hero World Challenge and rewarding players. We also present an in-depth discussion on the uncertainty shrouding the professional golf landscape and Charlie Woods' future role. 

The finale? An exploration of Tiger's potential schedule for the next year, reflections on his successful 1999 season, and his thoughts on PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan's work. We lay bare the discussions surrounding the new company, PGA Tour Enterprises, and the role of team golf in shaping the sport's future. With Tiger emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the tour's integrity while accommodating players who join rival leagues, strap in for a riveting examination of golf's future. Don't miss out on these enthralling insights!

Ready to hear the scoop on all things PGA Tour? We're letting you in on everything from recent developments, swirling rumors, to expected changes at PGA Tour Enterprises. We've got all the insights from Ludvig  Aberg's victorious press conference at the RSM Classic and the thoughts of runner-up Mackenzie Hughes. We're also speculating on what the future holds for dynamos like Jon Rohm and Patrick Cantlay. So join us as we discuss our predictions for the upcoming tournaments at Pebble Beach and Riviera, and the potential of Ludvig Aberg, a rising star to watch out for.

Our chat with a professional golfer is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. How did he feel during the nail-biting final stretch of a recent tournament, and what's the secret behind his unique golf swing? You'll hear about the tactics he uses to stay composed under pressure, his exciting recruitment to play for Texas Tech, and his game plan for the weeks ahead. Plus, join us in celebrating his recent achievement of securing a spot at the cherished Augusta tournament. There's nothing like hearing the sheer joy in his voice as he gears up for this life-changing opportunity. Tune in to this episode for an insider's view you won't find anywhere else.

Ready to discover the captivating world of professional golf? Join us for a riveting PGA Tour Countdown episode, where tournament host Davis Love III provides insights into the exciting anticipation surrounding the RSM Classic at scenic Sea Island. Tag along as we explore the impact of weather conditions on the two courses being played, the significance of FedEx Cup points for players, and how Davis is preparing to get back to playing golf.

Round off this engaging golf experience with a profound reflection on Zach Johnson's tenure as the Ryder Cup captain and his thoughts on future opportunities. Lastly, we leave you with an affectionate glance into Davis Love III's life journey, his victories in golf, and the crucial role of time in affecting player performance in competitive golf. This episode promises a feast of insights, emotions, and conversations, so brace yourself for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the golfing world.

Tee off with us as we navigate through the thrilling landscapes of the Worldwide Technology Championship, hosted in the beautiful locale of Los Cabos, Mexico. Our special guest is none other than Keith Mitchell, who gives us a hole-by-hole analysis of the Tiger Woods designed course, El Cardinal at Diamante. Get ready to walk in his shoes as he discusses the intricate strategies he has to plan while navigating this challenging field, and his reflections on the importance of these events in securing a spot in future tournaments like the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Genesis Invitational. 

Further adding to our golfer's tee party is PGA Tour rookie, Sahith Theegala. Fresh from his victory at the Fortinet Championship, Sahith takes us on a journey through his debut season, allowing listeners to share in his joy and gratitude for the support of his loved ones. But that's not all - Keith Mitchell returns to the fore, sharing his experiences from the Latino America tour, emphasizing the need for adaptability in the face of different cultural contexts and the hurdles posed by language barriers and travel hiccups. Join us as we navigate the fairway, taking in the lessons learned along the way, on this exciting journey into the world of professional golf.

What does it take to prepare for the Zozo tournament in Japan? Adam Scott, golf champion and aficionado, joins us in this episode to share his insider knowledge and his game plan. From an in-depth discussion about his preferred golf putter to his well-curated strategy for the first and fourth holes, Adam pulls back the curtain on his approach to the game.

But that's not all. We also catch up with Xander Schauffele, another top-tier golfer. Xander takes us on a journey, from his exhilarating experience at the Tokyo Olympic Games to his aspirations for the ZOZO Championship. His candid revelation about the challenges of rewarding Ryder Cup players and his anticipation to return to Paris makes for a compelling listen.

Lastly, we have a fantastic reflection on the unmatched hospitality of our Japanese hosts. This episode is a mixed bag of insights, strategies, memories, and aspirations, all centered around the fascinating world of golf. So, come along for an engaging episode of PGA Tour Countdown where we discuss, reflect, and anticipate golfing magic.

You won't believe the pulse-pounding excitement that unfolded at the Sanderson Farms tournament! We kick off the show sharing insights from the thrilling playoff that saw Luke List emerge as the champion. Join us as we chat with the other playoff participants, dissecting their perspectives on the tournament and the adrenaline rush of playing in contention. We also dish out how HelloFresh has redefined mealtime for these golfers, making it a breeze!

Join us as we explore the emotional rollercoaster of a professional golfer's life- from an exhilarating comeback on the PGA Tour to the unforgettable triumph of a first win. 

Join us as we celebrate the journey of Sahith Theegala, the Fortinet Champion, straight from his proud parents Merlee and Karuna. Discover the story behind Sahith's first big win on the PGA Tour and the lead-up to their anticipation of the upcoming RYDER CUP. Expect to be inspired by Murry's unique mental strategy that kept him focused during his round, developed from his time working with NAVY SEALs. And to those who admire resilience, we unravel the story of how Grayson Murray bounced back from a double bogey on the 16th with incredible mental strength to win on THE KORN FERRY TOUR.

But that's not all! Tune in for an in-depth conversation with these champions as we explore how they plan to commemorate their victories.  Whether you're a seasoned golf enthusiast or a newcomer to the sport, this episode is packed with insightful stories, personal triumphs, and a celebration of golf's recent champions. Come join us for a memorable episode, you won't want to miss it!

Victor, Rory & Scottie Interviews from Eastlake as we get ready to tee off at The Tour Championship...

And Then There were 50........  The final stop on the path to THE TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP and THE RACE FOR THE FEDEX CUP.  ONLY "30" WILL SURVIVE!

Lucas Glover "BRINGS IT HOME"  "LIVE" Interviews with Lucas, Rory & Tommy from HOT & STICKY Memphis, Tennessee at The FEDEX ST JUDE CHAMPIONSHIP...THE FEDEX CUP PLAYOFFS

The last stop before The Playoff's. We have the players in their own words......

Lee Hodges, J T Poston & Aaron Baddeley join us after their final round at THE 3M OPEN

Third round interviews....Get ready for the final round!

The thoughts on the events of late are starting to flow as we join the boy's in Scotland for The Genesis Scottish Open........."LIVE"

Caitlin Clark, Zach Johnson & Cameron Young join the show.

"LIVE" INTERVIEWS AFTER THEIR ROUNDS WITH FOWLER,  JOHNSON & SCHAUFFELE

Hear from Victor, Denny & Jack as we wrap up the Memorial Tournament

Live interviews from The Wells Fargo Championship

A special edition of Golf Talk America on PGA TOUR COUNTDOWN

"LIVE" from Hilton Head South Carolina for the RBC Heritage with Cantlay, Love III and Spieth....

Bennett, Hovland, Rahm & Koepka after their 3rd round from THE MASTERS

LYLE, MIZE & COUPLES on their historic making day here in Augusta...

The road to the Masters ends here in Texas as 133 players compete for a victory to gain an Augusta invitation.