The PGA Championship is renowned for delivering thrilling golf and unforgettable moments year after year. As we gear up for this prestigious tournament at Valhalla Golf Club, let’s take a look back at some of the most shocking and memorable moments in PGA Championship history. From incredible comebacks to stunning upsets, these are the moments that have left golf fans worldwide in awe.
1. The Miracle at Valhalla
One of the most iconic moments in PGA Championship history took place right here at Valhalla. Rewind to 2000 when Tiger Woods faced off against Bob May in what is often hailed as one of the greatest duels in golf history. The two were neck and neck, with Woods eventually securing victory in a gripping three-hole playoff. The intensity of this showdown is still talked about today, and it set the stage for Valhalla’s reputation as a venue for unforgettable golf drama.
2. Rory McIlroy’s Lightning Finish (2014)
In 2014, Rory McIlroy provided another thrilling chapter in PGA Championship lore. As darkness descended on Valhalla, McIlroy was locked in a tight battle with Rickie Fowler, Phil Mickelson, and Henrik Stenson. Despite the fading light and immense pressure, McIlroy powered through the back nine, finishing with a birdie on the 18th to clinch his second PGA Championship title. His determination and skill under such conditions were nothing short of spectacular.
3. Y.E. Yang Topples Tiger (2009)
Tiger Woods, leading a major after 54 holes, seemed unbeatable. However, in 2009 at Hazeltine National, Y.E. Yang staged one of the most surprising upsets in golf history. Yang’s gutsy performance, highlighted by an incredible eagle on the 14th hole and a clutch birdie on the 18th, saw him become the first player to overcome Tiger Woods when he was leading a major going into the final round. Yang’s triumph remains a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport.
4. John Daly’s Fairytale Victory (1991)
Perhaps one of the most improbable victories came in 1991 when John Daly, the ninth alternate, won the PGA Championship at Crooked Stick. Known for his prodigious driving distance and “grip it and rip it” approach, Daly captivated fans with his fearless play. His win not only launched his career but also inspired countless fans and future golfers. Daly’s Cinderella story remains one of the most beloved underdog tales in sports.
5. Brooks Koepka’s Dominance (2018)
More recently, Brooks Koepka’s 2018 performance at Bellerive Country Club showcased sheer dominance. Koepka held off a resurgent Tiger Woods, who electrified the crowd with a final-round 64, and secured his third major title. Koepka’s unflappable demeanor and power game underlined his status as one of the modern era’s greats.
What to Expect This Year
With the PGA Championship returning to Valhalla Golf Club, the stage is set for more unforgettable moments. Will we see another dramatic playoff? Could an underdog rise to glory? One thing is certain: the 2024 PGA Championship promises to deliver the excitement, skill, and surprises that have become synonymous with this historic tournament.
Stay tuned and follow all the action as the world’s best golfers take on the challenges of Valhalla. For real-time updates, highlights, and exclusive content, make sure to check out our coverage throughout the tournament. This is one PGA Championship you won’t want to miss!
Phil Mickelson recently found himself at the heart of a heated dispute between Anthony Kim and Brandel Chamblee over the contentious issue of LIV Golf versus the PGA Tour. The exchange, characterized by its fervor, shed light on the ongoing rift within the golfing community regarding the new breakaway tour and its relationship with traditional circuits.
The argument unfolded when Anthony Kim targeted Golf Channel analyst and former Tour winner Brandel Chamblee, criticizing him for urging the North American circuit to negotiate with the Saudi backers of LIV Golf. Chamblee, known for his outspoken views, had previously advocated for Mickelson’s removal from the golf hall of fame due to his connections with the Saudi financiers—a stance that dramatically contrasts his current position.
Kim, who returned to professional golf with LIV in February after a lengthy hiatus since his last PGA Tour appearance in 2012, has been open about his past struggles with addiction and how his family has played a crucial role in his recovery. Despite facing challenges in regaining his form within LIV Golf, Kim remains optimistic about his future successes in the sport.
Ramble Chamblee @chambleebrandel ur such a pussy 4 beating on ur chest & basically saying never retreat & hypocritically retreat. It is well known this talentless fool is disliked by most people in the golf world. U still gonna cover golf if @livgolf_league is involved?🤡 😂
The altercation began with Kim’s blunt critique of Chamblee on social media, labeling him derogatorily and questioning his integrity. Chamblee retorted by highlighting the irony and inaccuracy in Kim’s attack, especially considering it followed a request for parenting advice.
This is about as inaccurate as a lot of Mickelson’s drives and sadly ironical coming two tweets after you asked for advice on raising your daughter that you would refer to someone as a female body part in a juvenile attempt to denigrate them. It’s clear that you were not offered… https://t.co/LVeSgfZenG
— Brandel Chamblee (@chambleebrandel) May 11, 2024
Amidst this exchange, Mickelson weighed in, suggesting that resolving the underlying issues between men’s professional golf circuits is a work in progress, emphasizing the importance of addressing the problems before the situation deteriorates further. His comments come at a time when the PGA Tour has announced the creation of a ‘transaction subcommittee’ intended to engage in discussions with representatives from LIV Golf and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Intriguingly, the committee is reported to include notable figures such as Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Adam Scott, despite initial claims of Woods’ sole participation. This development was particularly surprising regarding McIlroy, given recent tension and his temporary block from returning to the policy board—a matter he addressed by denying any rift with Woods.
This unfolding drama represents a significant chapter in the evolving narrative of professional golf, highlighting deep divisions and the potential for change in the sport’s governance and affiliations
As the sun dipped below the horizon in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a young boy stood with his parents near The Dunes Golf and Beach Club clubhouse. The boy, Blades Brown, had impressively scored a 4-under 67. His remarkable performance, especially with a 4-under 31 on the back nine, secured his spot in the inaugural Myrtle Beach Classic.
Parke Brown, his father, radiated pride as he admired his 16-year-old son’s achievement. “A year and a half ago, I had a year left to live,” he said, holding back tears. “I’d been diagnosed with leukemia and we’ve been through a lot as a family. … The Lord gave me some more time. Special.”
On a memorable Saturday in Myrtle Beach, the younger Brown outdid himself, carding a flawless, 5-under 66 round without any bogeys.
The Nashville native delivered a solid performance on the front nine, scoring eight pars and a birdie. Noteworthy par saves from 7 feet on holes 3 and 5 set the pace. Transitioning at 34, precision on holes 10 and 13 with approach shots to 4 and 3 feet led to successful birdie putts. Further birdies on holes 13 and 17 from 13 and 17 feet capped off a remarkable back-nine score of 4-under 32.
Rhonda Blades Brown, the mother and namesake of Blades, who holds the distinction of being the first player in the WNBA to make a three-pointer, remarked… “I think he loves these moments, the spotlight, the best ones shine brighter when the lights are on, and I think that’s him.
“The way I was able to block out stadiums of thousands of people and focus on my game, he reminds me of that. He gets his demeanor and his name from me. I’m not good at golf, so that’s about it.”
While he thrives in the spotlight, transitioning from junior golf to the TOUR has required a subtle adjustment process.
“I’ve reached for my range finder four times and then gone — ‘Oh, wait,'” Brown admitted. “After I got acclimated to everything — the only big environment I’ve ever really been around was the (U.S. Amateur Golf Championship). There were a lot of people there, but nowhere near to how many people are here. But I think this is just perfect for my future. … You can’t practice for this. You can only get this experience playing in a tournament like this.
“Yes, it would be nice to shoot another 5-under or 6-under tomorrow. It could happen. But I’m 16 playing in a PGA TOUR event, so I’m just stoked to be here.”
“He’s just getting going though,” said Rhonda. “He knows there’s a lot of stuff he can better at in his game. … Playing with these guys, they’re amazing and I think they’re great for him and keep raising the bar.”
Ah, Masters week. The air crackles with a unique energy unlike any other sporting event. But the 24 hours leading up to the iconic first tee shot hold a special charm – a day known as “Practice Day” or, more evocatively, “Wednesday at the Masters.”
A new video, aptly titled “Bring The Whole Family | Wednesday at the Masters,” uploaded by the official Masters Youtube channel, captures the essence of this special day. It’s a far cry from the focused intensity that will soon grip Augusta National. Instead, Wednesday is a celebration of the sport, a chance to soak in the atmosphere, and most importantly, to share the experience with loved ones.pen_spark
Gone are the pre-tournament jitters that undoubtedly plague even the most seasoned golfers. The 89 participants, all vying for a coveted green jacket, can take a deep breath. Today is for the fans, the families, the folks who come not just to witness greatness, but to revel in the shared love for the game.
The video beautifully contrasts the upcoming pressure cooker of competition with the carefree joy of Wednesday. It’s a day for kids to chase pigeons across the pristine fairways, for parents to point out iconic landmarks like Amen Corner or Magnolia Lane, and for friends to reminisce about past Masters memories. Laughter mingles with the rhythmic thwack of practice shots, creating a symphony of pure, unadulterated joy.
Make no mistake, the Masters is a serious tournament, a test of physical and mental fortitude. But Wednesday at the Masters is a potent reminder of what truly lies at the heart of the sport. Golf, at its core, is a game for everyone. It’s a shared passion that transcends generations and skill levels. It’s a chance to create lasting memories with family and friends, all against the backdrop of golfing history.
For many, attending the Masters, particularly on this special Wednesday, is a lifelong dream. It’s a chance to walk the same hallowed grounds as legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. But beyond the star power, it’s the sense of community, the shared excitement, that makes the day truly special. So, as the clock ticks down to the first tee shot, take a moment to appreciate the magic of Wednesday at the Masters. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most cherished moments in sports aren’t about the final score, but about the joy of the journey itself.
Nelly Korda isn’t your average golfer. Sure, the swing is picture-perfect, the drives are laser-straight, and the trophy cabinet is filling up fast. But there’s something undeniably captivating about Korda that transcends the fairway.
Maybe it’s her infectious smile that lights up the leaderboards, or the way she carries herself with a cool confidence that’s both relatable and aspirational. Whatever the secret sauce, Korda has become a breakout star in the world of professional golf, capturing the attention of not just hardcore fans but also the casual sports observer.
Born into a sporting dynasty – her parents were both professional tennis players and her brother swings a mean racket himself – Korda defied expectations by picking up the clubs. But athleticism runs deep in her blood, and her natural talent for golf shone through early on. Years of dedication and relentless practice have paid off in spectacular fashion.
Nelly Korda’s parents are Petr Korda and Regina Rajchrtová, both former professional tennis players from Czechoslovakia who competed in the 1980s and 1990s and later settled in Florida. They are renowned for raising an elite athletic family, including Nelly’s sister Jessica (LPGA) and brother Sebastian (ATP tennis).
Nelly Korda and her family after winning the trophy at the Gainbridge LPGA in February 2021.Credit : Julio Aguilar/Getty
Seven LPGA Tour wins, including a major championship, and a meteoric rise to the No. 1 ranking in the world – Korda’s trophy haul is already impressive, and she’s only just getting started. Her work ethic is undeniable, and her on-course composure is a masterclass in focus under pressure. But there’s more to Korda’s story than just birdies and bogeys.
Off the course, Korda cultivates a life that’s as glamorous as it is inspiring. Picture luxurious vacations to far-flung destinations, a keen eye for designer fashion (those shoe collections are legendary!), and a savvy approach to building a real estate portfolio. But Corda isn’t all glitz and glam. She dedicates her time to charitable causes, showing a depth of character that extends far beyond the green.
And then there’s the love life! Korda’s relationship with Canadian ice hockey player Andreas Athanasiou is the picture of social media perfection. Their playful banter and adorable photos give fans a glimpse into a world beyond competition, reminding us that even world-class athletes have their happily ever after stories in the making.
Nelly Korda is more than just a golfer; she’s a role model for young athletes, a fashion icon, and a philanthropist. She’s a reminder that professional athletes are multifaceted individuals, with passions, dreams, and challenges that resonate with fans who might not be able to hit a perfect drive themselves.
Korda’s journey is far from over, and with her talent, determination, and undeniable star quality, one thing’s for sure – we’re going to be hearing her name for a long time to come. So buckle up, golf fans, because Nelly Korda is taking the sport by storm, and the ride promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
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Ever find yourself aimlessly scrolling, looking for that perfect mix of golf and giggles? Put down your club and grab some popcorn, because we’ve got you covered. We’re not film critics, just golf fans who love the smell of fresh-cut greens and the sound of a driver hitting the sweet spot. Here’s our list of the 12 best golf movies. It’s a completely unofficial ranking, so feel free to argue with it.
Remember, this is just our two cents, not the final word. These picks come from a love of the game and of movies that don’t take themselves too seriously. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone who thinks a birdie is just a cute animal, we hope you find some inspiration for your next movie night. And who knows? You might end up with a new favorite that’s as comforting as a perfectly executed chip shot.
Golf, oh golf – it’s that kind of sport. People either fall head over heels for it or they just can’t stand it. No middle ground, really. But, love it or hate it, golf has been swinging its way through history as one of the classiest, most prestigious sports out there. Plus, it’s given us some pretty great movies along the way.
Golf, with all its seriousness and tension, is just asking to be made fun of. Whether you’re totally into golf or couldn’t care less, flicks like “Caddyshack” and “Happy Gilmore” are guaranteed to crack you up. They’ve got the laughs, and if you’re in the mood for a bit of romance, “Pat and Mike” and “Tin Cup” mix in love with their humor. And for the die-hard golf enthusiasts, “The Greatest Game Ever Played” and “Tommy’s Honour” dive into the fascinating history and celebrate the legends of the sport. It’s like, even if you’re just a casual fan or someone super passionate about golf, there’s something out there that’ll entertain you and maybe even teach you a thing or two about this game we just can’t get enough of.
While the world of golf movies might not be overflowing with hits, there are definitely a few gems out there. Classics that stick with us, and a handful of feel-good, inspirational biopics that make us want to grab our clubs and hit the green. Let’s take a stroll through our photo gallery featuring the likes of Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Kevin Costner, Katharine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, Adam Sandler, Will Smith, and many more.
12. Seven Days in Utopia (2011)
Luke Chisholm (played by Lucas Black) is a rising golf star who loses his cool during a tournament, leading to a rather dramatic exit that ends with his car breaking down on the property of retired golf legend Johnny Crawford (portrayed by Robert Duvall). In a twist that sounds like it’s straight out of a feel-good movie, Crawford decides to mentor Luke, offering him a shot at redemption and a chance to get his swing back on track during a week-long stay in the seemingly magical town of Utopia.
In this heartwarming true story, the fabulous Taraji P. Henson takes on the role of Catana Starks, a trailblazer who didn’t just stop at being the women’s swim coach for Tennessee State University. Nope, she went on to make history as the first African American woman—scratch that, the first woman period—to coach a men’s collegiate golf team.
Imagine her, tasked with putting together a golf team from scratch at the university. With a budget that was more of a joke and facing a whole lot of side-eye, Starks somehow pulls together a team as diverse as a United Nations meeting. Despite the bickering among her players and the snooty attitudes from the uppity teams, she leads her motley crew to victory. Talk about squad goals, am I right?
Sports movies, like “A Gentleman’s Game,” aren’t just about the thrill of the game—they’re life lessons in disguise. Take young Timmy Price (played by Mason Gamble), whose heart is set on golf and the country club vibe, even though his dad (hello, Dylan Baker) isn’t exactly cheering him on from the sidelines. But does Timmy let that stop him? Nope. He lands a gig as a caddie and starts swinging his way into the golf scene, catching the eye of Foster Pearce (Gary Sinese), a once-celebrated amateur champ who hung up his clubs after his big win.
Under Pearce’s wing, Timmy not only bags a junior championship but starts getting a taste for victory. Yet, it’s not all about the trophies. Pearce, being the wise mentor he is, dishes out some life truths, teaching Timmy that winning isn’t everything. It’s a heartwarming tale of swings, misses, and life lessons, showing us that there’s way more to life than just keeping score.
Dive into this hilarious gem from Hollywood’s Golden Era featuring the iconic duo, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Lewis plays Harvey Miller, dreaming of becoming a pro golfer like his dad but just can’t deal with crowds. So, he sticks to giving golf lessons and caddying for Joe (played by Dean Martin), who starts winning big and getting a bit too big for his boots.
Cue the laugh-out-loud moments as they start stepping on each other’s toes, not forgetting the romance each finds along the way. And yes, this is the movie where “That’s Amore” makes its grand debut, courtesy of Martin.
Dive into the heartfelt and quirky story of golf icons Old Tom Morris (played by Peter Mullan) and his son, Young Tom Morris (played by Jack Lowden), in this top-notch biopic. Picture it: Scotland in the 1860s, where golf is just getting its groove, and these two are at the forefront, sometimes butting heads in style but also smashing records left, right, and center – records that some folks still haven’t beaten today.
It’s a deep look into how golf became the game we know and love, sprinkled with a bit of father-son drama. A total must-watch for golf enthusiasts or anyone who loves a good story about pioneers who weren’t afraid to stir the pot.
Meet Pat (played by Katharine Hepburn), a super talented athlete whose skills take a hit whenever she’s around her pressuring fiancé, who’s all about her hanging up her sneakers to settle down. But Pat’s not having any of it. She teams up with Mike (Spencer Tracy), a crafty sports promoter with a heart of gold and a head full of schemes. As Mike starts falling head over heels for Pat, he decides to clean up his act. Together, they hustle through the ups and downs, making us root for them all the way.
This flick marks one of the nine iconic screen pairings of Hepburn and Tracy, snagging an Oscar nod for its witty script and standing out as a top-tier romantic comedy in their collective filmography. Oh, and for the record, Hepburn wasn’t just acting the part of an athlete; she was practically one, nailing all her sports scenes with the grace of the avid golfer and tennis player she was off-screen.
Get ready to tee off with the story of Bobby Jones, golf’s ultimate legend, in “Stroke of Genius.” This guy was no ordinary golfer; in 1930, he did the unthinkable by winning all four of the men’s major championships in a single year. Fast forward 90 years, and he’s still the solo member of that club. Imagine that!
The film takes us on a journey through Jones’s life, played by Jim Caviezel. From his early days in Atlanta, obsessing over pro golfers and scooping up amateur titles, to juggling a law degree in his college years. But it’s not all smooth sailing; Jones had to conquer his temper and snag those major championships, only to hang up his clubs shockingly early at 28. Talk about going out on top!
And here’s the cherry on top: “Stroke of Genius” got the green light to film at The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. Yeah, that’s the epicently old and fancy golf club where legends are made. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to walk the fairway with one of the greatest stories in golf.
Dive into the heartwarming tale of Hardy Greaves (played by the legendary Jack Lemmon in his final role), who, after his sixth heart attack on the golf course, takes us back to how his love affair with golf began. Picture it: the Depression era, where young Hardy worships the ground walked on by Rannulph Junuh (Matt Damon), a once-glorious golfer turned struggling alcoholic, haunted by his WWI past. Enter the scene, a mysterious caddie named Bagger Vance (Will Smith), and with a little nudge from Hardy, they embark on a journey to reignite Junuh’s passion for golf.
Along the way, Junuh not only rediscovers his love for the game but also rekindles an old flame with the enchanting Adele Invergordon (Charlize Theron). This is more than a story about golf; it’s a nostalgic ride through love, redemption, and the magic of second chances, all set against the backdrop of a simpler time.
When you think of golf, you might picture it as a game for the affluent, but Francis Ouimet (played by Shia LeBeouf), a guy from the working class, totally flipped the script. Back in 1913, defying his dad’s wishes, 20-year-old Francis, who had taught himself how to play, decided to take a shot at the U.S. Open with just a ten-year-old caddie by his side. Believe it or not, this is all true. His victory over the British golf legend Harry Vardon (Stephen Dillane) is a story that’ll get you pumped up about the underdog. It’s brilliantly told in this movie, showing how a young amateur’s unbelievable win is still one of the coolest sports stories ever.
In the world of hockey, Happy Gilmore (played by the ever-hilarious Adam Sandler) wasn’t exactly making waves. But then, almost by accident, he discovers that his killer slapshot translates into an incredible golf swing. With his grandma’s house on the line, thanks to the IRS eyeing it for unpaid taxes, Happy decides to swap his hockey stick for a set of golf clubs. Under the guidance of Chubbs Peterson, a pro golfer who’s seen better days (and has one less arm than most), Happy finds himself butting heads with the snobby golf elite, especially the pompous Shooter McGavin (brought to life by Christopher McDonald).
Shooter can’t stand Happy’s unconventional methods or his complete disregard for golfing etiquette. From creating the iconic “Happy Gilmore swing” to an unforgettable fight with Bob Barker, this comedy takes you on a wild ride through the ups and downs of golf, making it a cult favorite for fans and newcomers alike. It’s a story that shows sometimes the underdog can teach the old guard a new trick or two, especially when it’s all about saving the family home.
Directed by Harold Ramis and featuring a lineup of the era’s top comedians, “Caddyshack” has won over a dedicated fan base and stands out as one of the most hilarious sports movies ever. Picture this: At the fancy Bushwood Country Club, Danny (Michael O’Keefe), a low-ranking caddie, gets a front-row seat to all the madness. This includes a heated rivalry between the club’s arrogant co-founder Smails (Ted Knight) and the boisterous, newly wealthy Czervik (Rodney Dangerfield), not to mention the wild antics between zany groundskeeper Carl (Bill Murray) and a mischievous gopher wreaking havoc on the golf course.
Add Chevy Chase into the mix as an enthusiastic golfer, a high-stakes golf match with the club’s ownership on the line, and Carl’s hilarious attempts to outwit the “Varmint Cong” with a shotgun, and you’ve got a movie that’s not just funny, but a treasure trove of quotable moments.
Meet Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy, played by Kevin Costner, a once-promising golfer whose career has taken a bit of a nosedive, leading him to the less glamorous life of running a driving range. Enter Molly Griswold, portrayed by Rene Russo, a psychologist looking for golf lessons, and her boyfriend, the big-shot pro golfer David Simms, played by Don Johnson, who’s in need of a caddie. Though Roy initially jumps at the caddie offer, it’s not long before his passion for golf reignites, sparking not just a rivalry on the golf course with David but also a contest for Molly’s affection.
As Roy and David try to outdo each other on and off the green, the sparks fly—not just between the rivaling golfers but also in the undeniable chemistry between Costner and Russo. Culminating in a finale you wouldn’t see coming, especially at the U.S. Open, this film masterfully tees up a blend of sports excitement and romantic comedy vibes. It’s a tale that reminds us about the unpredictability of love and golf, proving that sometimes, taking a shot from the rough can lead to the most unexpected victories.
