Brooke Henderson’s name strikes fear into top players, and more bits and bites from the golf world
Canadian star Brooke Henderson secured her 10th LPGA Tour victory over the weekend but having better starts would make her even more successful than she’s been.
Bits, Bites and Barbs from the Wild World of Golf
Bits
The All-Star Exhibition We Crave: The New Orleans team event is a blast to watch, but wouldn’t it be even better with bigger names teeing off? Imagine a Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas tag team! A Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia duo wreaking havoc? Or a Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson pairing lighting up the course? Top players embracing this event would elevate it to another level.
The Exuberant Everyman: We’ve all seen them – the golf fans who erupt in cheers for any shot that manages to stay airborne. While these enthusiastic outbursts might seem comical to seasoned viewers, let’s cut them some slack. It’s likely the thrill of being back at a live sporting event, especially in the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans, that fuels their excitement.
Statistically Speaking, Something’s Amiss: A head-scratcher from the LPGA Tour? Statistics reveal that there are currently 14 players on the Symetra Tour (the LPGA’s minor league) averaging over 290 yards off the tee, while only one LPGA Tour player achieves this feat. This begs the question – are these powerhouse hitters simply waiting for their chance to shine on the big stage, or are there other factors at play? One such factor could be Maude-Aimee Leblanc, a Quebec native who recently tied for second on the Symetra Tour (her second top-two finish this season). Leblanc, who previously walked away from competitive golf in 2019, is currently sitting comfortably in third place on the tour’s money list. This anomaly highlights the depth of talent waiting in the wings and the potential for a shakeup on the LPGA Tour in the near future.
Bites
The Ontario Golf Saga Continues: The battle for fair play rages on in Ontario, where golf courses remain closed due to Premier Doug Ford’s stay-at-home order. “We Are Golf” officials are scheduled to meet with Ford this week in a last-ditch effort to get golf courses included on the exempt list. Some clubs are even preparing to reopen as early as this weekend, a move that carries some risk considering the recent announcement. You can join the fight to reopen courses by contacting your local MPP.
Rogue Reopening? Not So Smooth: A word to the wise – defying the stay-at-home order by opening a golf course without your head pro on board is a recipe for disaster. This selfish and brazen act only hurts the cause for a safe and responsible reopening of courses across the province.
The Soaked Champion Conundrum: Can we talk about the awkward post-tournament drenching ritual on the LPGA Tour? While the exuberance and camaraderie are commendable, showering the winner with water from a player’s own bottle isn’t exactly ideal. Imagine the champion, likely cold and potentially uncomfortable, struggling to give interviews while dripping wet. A solution? Perhaps confetti or celebratory streamers would be a more thoughtful and practical way to show appreciation.
Barbs
Brooke Henderson: The Champion in the Making
Over her impressive six-year LPGA Tour career, Brooke Henderson has established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Let’s take a closer look at some of her most remarkable victories and why she strikes fear in the hearts of her competitors.
A Dream Debut and a Duel for the Ages: Henderson’s first professional win came in dramatic fashion at the 2015 Portland tournament. Paired with childhood idol Morgan Pressel in the final group, the then-amateur golfer displayed nerves of steel, securing an impressive eight-shot victory.
Conquering the Majors: Henderson’s biggest triumph to date is her unforgettable win at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. In a heart-stopping playoff against the then-World No. 1 Lydia Ko, Henderson delivered two of the most aggressive and well-struck shots you’ll ever see under pressure. This victory cemented her status as a rising star in the world of golf.
A Consistent Threat: A closer look at Henderson’s record reveals a pattern of dominance. Her list of runner-up finishes includes prestigious names like Stacey Lewis, Michelle Wie, Lexi Thompson (twice), and most recently, Jessica Korda. Even World No. 1 Jin Young Ko couldn’t outshine Henderson in Los Angeles, where Henderson carded a scorching 67 to both Ko and Korda’s 72s.
A Player Who Demands Respect: While Henderson hasn’t always converted every opportunity to win, her presence near the top of the leaderboard is guaranteed to make
