Looking to add an extra layer of competition and excitement to your next round? The Las Vegas side game feature in VPAR Premium brings a unique team-based challenge to your golf experience. If you’re playing in a group of four, this golf side game is the perfect way to test your strategy and skill while keeping the stakes high!
How It Works
Las Vegas is played with four golfers, divided into two teams of two. But unlike standard team scoring formats, this game takes a creative twist—team scores aren’t added together; they’re paired instead.
Scoring Format
The player with the lower score on each team goes first, and the player with the higher score follows. This forms a two-digit number representing the team’s score for that hole.
The team with the lower combined number wins the hole.
The winning team earns points based on the difference between the two team scores.
Special Rule: High Score Pairing
If any player scores worse than a net double bogey, their team must use the higher score first when forming their number. This increases the potential points at stake and adds an extra layer of risk to every hole.
Example of Play
Let’s say we have two teams:
Team A: Player 1 scores a 3, and Player 2 scores a 4. Their team score is 34.
Team B: Player 3 scores a 4, and Player 4 scores a 5. Their team score is 45.
Since Team A has the lower score (34 vs. 45), they win the hole. The points awarded are the difference between the two team scores: 45 – 34 = 11 points to Team A.
Why Play Las Vegas Format with VPAR?
With VPAR Premium, the app seamlessly calculates scores and point differentials, keeping gameplay fast and competitive without the hassle of manual tracking. Whether you’re playing for pride, drinks, or something a little more exciting, the Las Vegas golf side game ensures a thrilling round every time.
So, the next time you tee up with three friends, add the Las Vegas format to your VPAR Premium experience and take your competitive edge to the next level.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Looking for a new way to challenge yourself and your playing partners on the course? The Flags side game, available in VPAR Premium, brings a fresh competitive twist to your rounds, testing your strategy and shot-making like never before.
How Does Flags Work?
In the Flags side game, each golfer is given a set number of strokes to advance their ball as far around the course as possible. When you reach your last allocated shot, you plant your virtual flag at that spot. The player who places their flag the furthest around the course wins!
Calculating Your Stroke Allowance
To ensure fair play and that all flags remain within the 18 holes, your stroke allocation is calculated as:
(Par + Playing Handicap) x 75%
This formula ensures a balanced challenge for players of all skill levels, rewarding both consistency and smart course management.
Strategy Tips for Success
Plan Your Route: Since you need to get as far as possible in a limited number of shots, think ahead about which holes will give you the best opportunity to maximise distance.
Risk vs. Reward: Taking aggressive lines can help you extend your flag placement, but it also increases the chances of trouble. Balance risk and reward wisely.
Know Your Strengths: Play to your strengths. If you’re great off the tee, use that to your advantage. If your short game is solid, consider a more tactical approach.
Why Play Flags Format in VPAR Premium?
Track progress in real-time through the VPAR app.
Compete with friends in a fun and strategic format.
Add an extra layer of excitement to any round, whether casual or competitive.
Next time you tee it up with VPAR Premium, try out the Flags side game and see how far you can take your flag around the course!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
The Belfry is truly a course that needs no introduction. Famous for hosting multiple Ryder Cups and British Masters events, it’s steeped in golfing history. I’ve been lucky enough to play here several times, including during my stag do, which made for unforgettable memories. The combination of great weather and fantastic playing partners (one of whom managed to drive onto the iconic 10th green only to three-putt for par) made for a day filled with laughter and enjoyment. The Belfry is beautifully set up for visitors, ensuring an immersive and thrilling golf experience, solidifying its place as my number five course. Each of these courses has left an indelible mark on my golfing journey, offering not just challenges and beauty, but also cherished memories that I will carry with me for years to come. I hope you get the chance to experience them too!
During a society trip to the North East of England, 20 of us embarked on a golfing adventure to play the Colt Course at Close House. A course that has played host to Asian Tour events and The British Masters. The property itself added a special touch to our experience, and the welcoming charm of the staff perfectly complemented the beautiful presentation of the course. We were blessed with magnificent weather, a rare treat in this stunning corner of England. The layout is challenging yet rewarding, and knowing it’s the home base for former world No. 1 Lee Westwood only adds to its allure. If you get the chance, it’s absolutely worth the visit!
While my international golf trips have been limited to Portugal and Spain, Dom Pedro Old Course left a lasting impression on me. Ranked the 7th best course in Portugal according to Top 100 Golf Courses, its tree-lined fairways and pristine condition year-round make it a true delight. Golf is often about camaraderie, and I cherish the fond memories of a group trip here, where laughter and enjoyment were as abundant as the picturesque views.
Steeped in history and nestled within stunning surroundings, Hollinwell comfortably holds a spot among England’s Top 20 courses. The back nine will certainly test your skills, but it’s the 13th Par 3 that captures my heart, a signature hole that exudes charm and challenge. It’s no wonder this course serves as a venue for Open Final Qualifying; every round here is a blend of tradition and excitement.
JCB takes the top spot on my list, and I can’t help but feel fortunate to have played it twice. Thanks to a friend who works as a greenskeeper there, I got the chance to tee off at this exclusive gem. Despite being relatively new, the course feels remarkably mature, with the vision of Lord Bamford and JCB shining through in every detail. The facilities and practice areas are immaculate, and the spacious, challenging layout is clearly designed for significant events. Who knows, maybe a future Ryder Cup is in the works! With risk-reward holes that keep you on your toes and perfectly positioned tee boxes, both tour pros and amateurs can find joy here. The standout moment? The iconic 17th island green, a breathtaking 255-yard par 3 that needs no introduction.
If you want to keep up with my adventures in golf, be sure to follow my Instagram page @golfaddyventures.
Looking to add some extra excitement to your next round? The Nassau side game, now available in VPAR Premium, is the perfect way to introduce friendly competition into your golf experience. Whether you’re playing with friends or testing your skills against new opponents, Nassau is a strategic and engaging golf format that keeps every hole meaningful.
What is Nassau?
The Nassau side game is a popular betting golf format that breaks the round into three separate competitions:
Front 9 – The best score over the first nine holes.
Back 9 – The best score over the last nine holes.
Overall – The best total score across all 18 holes.
Each section is its own game, meaning players have multiple chances to win throughout the round. Even if you have a slow start, there’s always a fresh opportunity on the back nine or in the overall game to turn things around.
How Nassau Works in VPAR Premium
With VPAR Premium, tracking Nassau has never been easier. Simply enable the Nassau side game within the app, and VPAR will handle the scoring in real time. Here’s how it enhances your game:
Automated Score Tracking – No need for mental math; VPAR calculates everything for you.
Live Leaderboards – Stay updated on where you stand for the front 9, back 9, and overall.
Increased Competition – Even if you’re out of the running in one category, the other two keep things interesting.
Why Play Nassau?
The Nassau format is great for golfers of all skill levels. It keeps rounds competitive, prevents early blowouts, and adds an extra layer of fun to your regular games. Plus, with VPAR Premium’s seamless integration, there’s no hassle—just pure golfing enjoyment.
Ready to elevate your rounds? Activate the Nassau side game in VPAR Premium and experience a new way to compete on the course!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Just six miles from St Andrews, Kingsbarns is a modern masterpiece that perfectly complements Scotland’s legendary links courses. Although one of the few true links courses built in recent times, it has quickly cemented itself as one of the world’s best golf courses.
Kingsbarns co-hosts the annual Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, alongside the Old Course at St Andrews and Carnoustie. This unique Pro-Am event pairs professionals with amateurs, with the final round played at St Andrews after a 54-hole cut. If the dunes at Kingsbarns could accommodate spectators, it would surely be part of The Open rota. It undoubtedly belongs among the UK’s top-tier courses.
Every hole here is postcard-worthy. And the hospitality from the staff ensures that your experience is first-class from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave. All in all, Kingsbarns is a true gem, a place where every round feels like a privilege.
Sentosa Golf Club offers two exceptional 18-hole layouts: Serapong and Tanjong. Since 2005, Serapong has hosted the Singapore Open, elevating its status as a premier tournament venue. Though slightly overshadowed, the Tanjong course remains a remarkable layout. It was originally designed by Frank Pennink in 1974 and later upgraded by Max Wexler and Chris Pitman. The 2016 renovation, which rebranded it as “New Tanjong,” solidified its reputation as a modern classic.
Fast forward to 2025, and Sentosa now plays host to Asia’s Major—the HSBC Women’s World Championship, as well as LIV Golf. If you ever play here, take my advice: spend extra time on the practice green. The putting surfaces are lightning-fast and undulating, providing a stern test even for the best with the flatstick!
Other than the 229-yard par-three 13th, all holes at Trump International Golf Links are laid out in a north-south direction along the rugged Aberdeenshire coastline. Some have criticised this uniform orientation. But what the course may lack in variety, it more than makes up for in sheer challenge and beauty.
With multiple tee options, the course caters to a wide range of golfers. But choosing the right set of tees is crucial. Stray into the thick, punishing rough, and your ball is as good as lost. Many of the green complexes feature subtle run-offs into bunkers or swales, classic elements of a world-class links course. The course conditioning is immaculate, with hand-manicured walkways that feel like plush carpets. I played here in 2021, and it remains a course I think about often. If ever given the chance to return, my answer would be an unequivocal yes. Words and even photos fail to capture its full majesty—it simply must be experienced.
Perched above the Pacific Ocean with mountains to the north, Torrey Pines was built on the site of a former military training center. Designed by William F. Bell and completed in 1957, the course has undergone several renovations. This includes a complete overhaul of the South Course by Rees Jones in 2001. It extended the championship layout to a staggering 7,607 yards.
The panoramic views from the course come free with your green fee but be prepared for unpredictable weather. Fog, wind, and rain can roll in unexpectedly, making an already challenging course even tougher. I had the opportunity to play the famous South Course just after the Junior World Championships. And despite shooting 100+, I relished every moment. With fairways no more than 15 paces wide and a rough that was brutally thick, accuracy off the tee was critical. Playing here truly deepened my appreciation for the skill level of the Tour pros. They make this gruelling test look effortless.
Established in 1982, Clearwater Bay Golf Club boasts a spectacular clifftop setting on a rugged peninsula extending into the South China Sea. Some of its breathtaking seaside holes have drawn comparisons to Nefyn & District in Wales, Old Head in Ireland, and Cape Kidnappers in New Zealand.
A round on the Ocean Nine begins with four stunning holes. It’s often described as “the most thrilling opening stretch in Chinese golf.” The highlight among them is the par-four 3rd, which demands a 180-yard tee shot carry over the ocean—a truly exhilarating experience. I had the privilege of playing a role in organising The Clearwater Bay Open in 2017, an event on the PGA TOUR China schedule. That week, players such as Tom Kim, Callum Tarren, and Gunn Charoenkul competed in what is undeniably one of the most awe-inspiring golfing landscapes I have ever encountered.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Master the Art of Competition with Split 6 in VPAR Premium
Looking for a fun and competitive way to shake up your next round? The Split 6 side game in VPAR Premium brings an exciting strategic element to your golf experience. Perfect for groups of three, this points-based game keeps every hole engaging and every shot meaningful.
How Split 6 Works
Each hole is a fresh battle for six total points, distributed based on performance. Unlike traditional scoring, Split 6 side game rewards consistent play and creates thrilling momentum swings throughout the round.
1st place on a hole = 4 points
2nd place on a hole = 2 points
3rd place on a hole = 0 points
But what about ties? That’s where it gets interesting:
One player wins the hole, and the other two tie for second → 4pts – 1pt – 1pt
Two players tie for first, one finishes last → 3pts – 3pts – 0pts
All three players tie the hole → 2pts – 2pts – 2pts
Why Play Split 6?
Split 6 side game is more than just a fun alternative—it’s a game that rewards steady play while keeping all three players in the mix until the very last hole. Even if you have a rough start, a few well-played holes can put you right back in contention. It also encourages friendly rivalry and strategic decision-making, as you try to maximize your points while keeping an eye on your opponents.
Seamless Scoring with VPAR
Gone are the days of manually tracking scores and points. VPAR does the work for you, automatically calculating your Split 6 standings in real-time. Just focus on your game and enjoy the competition!
So next time you hit the course with two friends, activate Split 6 in the VPAR app and let the battle for points begin!
Ready to give it a shot? Open your VPAR app, upgrade to Premium and start your game today!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
If you’re serious about improving your golf game, setting clear targets is the key to success. That’s why VPAR Premium’s Profile Goals app feature is designed to keep you accountable and motivated every time you step onto the course. By setting personal objectives for the season, you’ll have a clear roadmap to push your game further than ever before.
Set Your Targets, Track Your Progress
With Profile Goals, you can set and monitor four key performance targets:
Handicap Target
Dreaming of getting your handicap into single digits? Or perhaps breaking 20 for the first time? Whatever your goal, setting a Handicap Target helps you stay focused on every round, ensuring you’re making the right improvements to lower your golf score over time.
Low Gross Score Target
There’s nothing quite like that personal best feeling. Set a Low Gross Score Target and chase that career-best round. Whether it’s breaking 80, 90, or 100, this goal keeps you striving to fine-tune your game and achieve your best golf score yet.
Rounds Played This Month Target
Consistency is key in golf. By setting a Rounds Played This Month Target, you create a routine and make sure you’re getting enough reps in to improve. Whether it’s four rounds or ten, having a goal keeps you committed to playing regularly.
Rounds Played This Year Target
Long-term progress comes from staying dedicated throughout the entire season. Your Rounds Played This Year Target helps you stay accountable for your overall commitment to golf. More rounds mean more experience, and more experience leads to better performance!
The Power of Staying Accountable
The Profile Goals app feature isn’t just about numbers—it’s about keeping you engaged, motivated, and continuously improving. Every time you play, you’ll have a purpose, knowing that each round contributes to your overall targets.
No more aimless rounds. No more drifting through the season without direction. With Profile Goals in VPAR Premium, you’ll push your game to levels you didn’t think were possible.
Set your goals today and start playing with purpose!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
Jake Knapp was the 15th player to shoot a sub-60 round in PGA TOUR history yesterday. Had he made his eagle putt on the 18th hole, he would have become the second player to shoot a 58 on the PGA TOUR, following Jim Furyk, who did so in 2016 at the Travelers Championship. Below, I’m going to highlight six of these sub-60 rounds and break down how they were achieved.
Jim Furyk
Course: TPC River Highlands
Event: Travelers Championship 2016
Par: 70
Score: 58
Out: 27
In: 31
Eagles: 1
Birdies: 10
Bogeys: 0
Notes: Furyk made seven consecutive birdies on 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. He also shot a 59 at the 2013 BMW Championship!
Jake Knapp
Course: PGA National Resort (The Champion Course)
Event: Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches 2025
Par: 71
Score: 59
Out: 29
In: 30
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 12
Bogeys: 0
Notes: Knapp had an 18-foot putt for eagle on the 18th hole to tie the PGA TOUR scoring record of 58, however, he left it on the low side and tapped it in for birdie.
Scottie Scheffler
Course: TPC Boston
Event: THE NORTHERN TRUST 2020
Par: 71
Score: 59
Out: 30
In: 29
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 12
Bogeys: 0
Notes: He became the second player to shoot a 59 in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. He finished T4, 13 shots behind the winner, Dustin Johnson.
Adam Hadwin
Course: La Quinta CC
Event: 2017 CareerBuilder Challenge
Par: 72
Score: 59
Out: 29
In: 30
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 13
Bogeys: 0
Notes: He carded six consecutive birdies on the front nine and five more in a row on the back nine, finishing with a score of -13!
Justin Thomas
Course: Waialae CC
Event: 2017 Sony Open
Par: 70
Score: 59
Out: 29
In: 30
Eagles: 2
Birdies: 8
Bogeys: 1
Notes: He ended up winning the Sony Open by seven shots. He is one of three people in TOUR history to have shot a sub-60 score with a bogey.
Kevin Chappell
Course: Old White TPC
Event: 2019 A Military Tribute at The Greenbrier
Par: 70
Score: 59
Out: 28
In: 31
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 11
Bogeys: 0
Notes: After starting the day with a par on Hole 10, he made nine consecutive birdies!
Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.
A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes. Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland. Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.
Golf is always better with more friends, and with VPAR Premium’s Multi Tee Time feature, you can take your games to the next level. Whether you’re organizing a friendly competition or setting up a larger tournament, this feature allows you to add more than two tee times to your game, giving you the flexibility to include more players and create an unforgettable round.
What is the Multi Tee Time Feature?
Traditionally, playing with a group meant sticking to a single tee time or managing just one extra group. But with Multi Tee Times in VPAR Premium, you can seamlessly add multiple tee times, ensuring that everyone can be part of the same game, no matter how big your squad is.
This means you’re no longer limited to just a handful of players. Now, you can build a proper mini-tournament with your golf buddies, tracking every shot, score, and leaderboard update in real time through the VPAR app.
Why It’s a Game-Changer
Bigger Groups, More Fun – Expand your game beyond the usual foursome and include more players, making your rounds even more competitive and social.
Perfect for Tournaments – Whether it’s a casual weekend showdown or a structured event, the Multi Tee Time feature lets you easily manage multiple groups without the hassle of separate scorekeeping.
Live Leaderboards – Keep up with the action across all groups as scores update instantly, keeping the competition tight and engaging.
Seamless Organization – Say goodbye to confusing scorecards and missed updates. VPAR keeps everything in sync so you can focus on your game.
How to Use It
Create a New Game in VPAR Premium.
Select Multi Tee Times when setting up your round.
Add Additional Tee Times to include more groups.
Invite Your Friends and assign them to their respective tee times.
Play & Compete while tracking live leaderboards in the app.
With the Multi Tee Time feature, you’re no longer restricted by limited spots. Build your dream golf day, invite as many friends as you want, and enjoy the game like never before.
Ready to experience golf without limits? Upgrade to VPAR Premium today and start hosting bigger, better tournaments with ease!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Ludvig Åberg is the ideal modern-day golfer. He’s athletic, hits the ball long, straight, and doesn’t get fazed by the big occasions. He made his debut at Augusta National in 2024. And he did not disappoint, finishing solo second, which didn’t come as a surprise to me.
His game is perfectly suited to the course layout. And I don’t think there’s a better match-up to the course other than the reigning champion, Scottie Scheffler. He has won there twice in the past three years.
The main strength of his game is off the tee, where he ranked fifth last year at The Masters, according to Data Golf. However, the stat that caught my eye the most was that he was ranked first in strokes gained Putting. Arguably the most tested element of your game at Augusta.
The greens are huge, undulating, and absolutely rapid. So, to be ranked first in the field in your debut Masters is an eye-catching achievement. It suggests that he must feel comfortable with the pace of the greens, despite his limited experience. At Augusta National, combining a long, straight driver with someone who can precisely judge the greens is a match made in heaven.
Last week, he recorded his second PGA Tour win at The Genesis Invitational, held at Torrey Pines. I’ll be keeping a close eye on his performances over the next few events. I think he’ll be going into The Masters just behind Scottie Scheffler in the favourites market, maybe even as the favourite if he wins a tournament like The Players beforehand.
Joaquín Niemann
In 2022, Joaquín Niemann made the move to LIV Golf, but his decision was different from most players. He was a young player trending towards the top of his game. To be fair to him, his stock has risen since his move to LIV. He has won five times on three different tours worldwide since joining LIV. Also, he has gone out of his way to earn crucial world ranking points to qualify for all the major championships. Unlike other players on the LIV circuit.
For the second consecutive year, Niemann has received an invite to play in The Masters. This proves he has a real hunger to win major championships.
One of my starting points when looking for potential winners at Augusta National is players’ records at Riviera Country Club, where the Genesis Invitational is usually held. The similarities between the two venues, in terms of champions, are striking. Since 2000, winners at Riviera CC have included Mike Weir (back-to-back in 2003 and 2004), Adam Scott (2005 and 2020), Phil Mickelson (back-to-back in 2008 and 2009), Bubba Watson (2014, 2016, and 2018), Dustin Johnson (2017), Jon Rahm (2023), and Hideki Matsuyama (2024). All of these players are Masters champions.
This ties back to Niemann, who, in 2022, claimed a wire-to-wire win at the Genesis Invitational in a very strong field. He set the tournament scoring record through 36 holes and held on to claim his second PGA Tour victory. While his Masters record doesn’t yet boast much, he has made the cut four years in a row and has been trending in the right direction.
Personally, I believe his game has risen to a new level in the past year, evidenced by his recent win in front of 100,000 fans at LIV Adelaide. He’s definitely worth keeping an eye on in the coming months, especially with a chip on his shoulder.
Tyrrell Hatton
Tyrrell Hatton is a player known for winning big events. He has won five Rolex Series events on the DP World Tour, three Alfred Dunhill Links Championships at St Andrews, the Arnold Palmer Invitational on the PGA Tour, and two Ryder Cups. That’s a very good career to date. However, he does not have the best major record. I think this will be Tyrrell’s year to really cement himself alongside the world’s best players and compete to win a major championship.
With Tyrrell’s links record, some would say his best chance to win a major would be The Open. But I see him as someone whose game should match up well with the test at Augusta National. With a T9 finish in 2024, his best finish at The Masters, I feel he could go one step further this year. He has a naturally high ball flight with his irons, which will aid his approach play when landing on the firm greens. Also, he has one of the best short games in the world. He was ranked fourth in Strokes Gained Around the Green and tenth in Tee to Green in last year’s tournament.
I don’t see a career where Tyrrell Hatton doesn’t end up winning a major championship. So, will he follow the likes of fellow Englishmen Nick Faldo and Danny Willett by winning a green jacket?
Russel Henley
Russell Henley is a very consistent player on the PGA Tour. He has won four times and doesn’t have many weaknesses in his game, other than driving distance. Henley ranked ninth in driving accuracy in 2024, hitting 69.49% of fairways, and he is also a very good wedge player.
He suits shorter courses, however, his major record has been excellent over the last few years, with a T4 in The Masters and a T14 in the U.S. Open in 2023, as well as a T7 in the U.S. Open and a solo 5th in The Open Championship in 2024. That’s a steady record, and I think he has a good chance of a top-ten finish at The Masters, especially if his putter starts heating up like it can in the lead-up to April.
Brooks Koepka
Brooks Koepka has long been considered one of the most formidable competitors in major championships. Known for his calmness under pressure, Koepka has earned a reputation for delivering his best golf when it matters most, often using events before the majors as preparation for the big one.
Whatever his form is statistically beforehand, it’s almost irrelevant to how he turns it on when major season arrives. He is a five-time major champion and has made it clear that he judges his career on how many majors he can tick off.
Augusta National is a course where he has shown glimpses of brilliance, but he has also shown inconsistency. In 2019, he finished T2; in 2020, he finished T7; and in 2023, T2. He has proven that he has both the game and the mindset to win The Masters. I’m sure he’ll be in contention again going into the final round in the near future. He needs to win The Masters to get one step closer to the Grand Slam.
It will be interesting to keep an eye on Brooks’ form on the LIV Tour over the next few months to see how he’s preparing, but don’t be fooled if he’s not performing. His mind switches when the big tournaments come around!
Will Zalatoris
2024 was a tough season for Will Zalatoris after being sidelined for much of the year due to injury. However, he is back for 2025 and stronger than ever. He added 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason. Zalatoris’ major record is very impressive, especially at The Masters. In 2020, he finished T6 at the U.S. Open.
In 2021, he finished solo second in The Masters on debut, T8 in the PGA Championship, and, most impressively, in 2022, he finished T6 in The Masters, solo second in the PGA Championship, and T2 in the U.S. Open. Last year, he also finished T9 at The Masters. He has a solid record at Riviera as well, which correlates well with Augusta National, as mentioned in the case of Joaquín Niemann.
To have a solo second, T6, and T9 in your first three Masters appearances is a record that deserves more recognition. His major resume is near immaculate. One of those results will surely turn into a major win very soon. He will likely be viewed as an outsider in the betting market this year. This makes his value even greater. I’ll be keeping an eye on his progress on the PGA Tour leading up to The Masters. I believe history will repeat itself.
Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.
A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes. Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland. Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.
