Why have Højgaard and Niemann been offered special invitations to this year’s Masters Tournament?
Joaquin Niemann and Nicolai Højgaard have received special invitations to the 2025 Masters Tournament. It’s due to their exceptional performances and contributions to international golf, despite not meeting the standard qualification criteria.
Augusta National Golf Club has a tradition of inviting outstanding international players to promote global interest in the sport. Chairman Fred Ridley stated, “In support of Augusta National’s efforts to develop interest in golf globally, deserving international players not otherwise qualified have been invited throughout the tournament’s history.”
Niemann, a 26-year-old Chilean golfer, is currently ranked No. 71 in the world. He has demonstrated consistent performance. This includes a tie for 22nd place in the 2024 Masters Tournament, then a tie for 16th in 2023. And also a victory at the Asian Tour’s PIF Saudi International. His achievements highlight his status as a leading international player.
Højgaard, hailing from Denmark, made an impressive Masters Tournament debut in 2024. He finished tied for 16th. His 2024 season featured strong performances. This includes a seventh-place finish at the Paris Olympics and consecutive top-25 finishes on the DP World Tour. Notably, Nicolai and his twin brother, Rasmus, are set to become the first pair of twins to compete in the same Masters Tournament.
These special invitations reflect Augusta National’s commitment to recognizing and including top international talent. With this, they enhance the tournament’s global appeal.
What do you make of the decision? Message us on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) @vpargolf with your thoughts!
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!
Branden Grace has rejoined Stinger GC for the 2025 LIV Golf League season. He signed a two-year contract after his previous deal expired at the end of 2024.
In the 2024 season, Grace faced challenges, including a wrist injury that affected his performance. That lead to a 51st-place finish in the individual standings and subsequent relegation from LIV Golf.
Despite his relegation, Stinger GC captain Louis Oosthuizen was determined to bring Grace back. He emphasized his value to the team both on and off the course. Oosthuizen stated, “We wanted Branden back… We were fighting to get him back here.”
Grace expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining the team. He highlighted that his game is improving and he is confident about the upcoming season. He said, “My form improved during the later stages of the campaign and my game is tracking in the right direction. I feel confident that I can carry that through into 2025.”
The decision to re-sign Grace was also influenced by business considerations. The team aims to enhance its brand and commercial presence in South Africa. Oosthuizen mentioned that having Grace on the team supports their efforts to attract potential sponsors. This can possibly bring a LIV Golf event to South Africa in the future.
Grace’s return to Stinger GC reunites him with fellow South African golfers Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, and Dean Burmester. They maintain the team’s strong national identity.
This re-signing highlights the team’s confidence in Grace’s abilities. Certainly, they’re devoted to maintaining a cohesive and competitive lineup for the upcoming season.
The LIV Golf season kicks off on the 6th February at Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia. Also, it has been muted as potentially being a night event…watch this space!
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 PGA of America recently announced that each of the 12 Ryder Cup players on Keegan Bradley’s side will receive $500,000 (£395,000). $300,000 (£237,000) of that donated to a charity or charities chosen by each player. The remaining $200,000 (£158,000) has been termed a “stipend”.
The USA Ryder Cup team’s desire to be paid stems from a combination of factors related to revenue generation, player workload, and perceived fairness. Here’s a breakdown of why this topic has become increasingly relevant.
Massive Revenue Generation
The Ryder Cup generates hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue through ticket sales, sponsorships, broadcasting rights, and merchandise. However, the players themselves do not receive a direct payment for participating. Some view this as unfair considering they are the main attraction driving the event’s success.
Time and Commitment
Playing in the Ryder Cup requires a significant time commitment. This includes preparation, travel, and participation in team events. Unlike regular PGA Tour events where players earn prize money, the Ryder Cup does not offer financial compensation, despite the players sacrificing personal time and energy.
Growing Player Influence
With the rise of high-paying golf leagues like LIV Golf and the evolving power dynamics within professional golf, top players have begun to realize their value as assets. Many believe that they should share in the financial rewards. Mostly because the event profits so heavily.
Historical Context
This debate isn’t new. Back in 1999, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson raised concerns about players not being compensated, suggesting that some earnings could go to charities or player causes. While a portion of Ryder Cup proceeds does go to charitable donations and player-nominated foundations, some players feel their contributions are undervalued.
Pressure on the PGA of America
The PGA of America organizes the Ryder Cup and reaps the financial benefits. Unlike the European Tour, where profits help sustain the tour itself, many players question where the PGA of America’s profits are allocated and why players do not see a share.
Changing Perception of “Playing for Pride”
While the Ryder Cup has always been about playing for pride, passion, and country, younger generations of players may have different expectations. In an era where professional sports are more commercialized than ever, the idea of unpaid participation feels increasingly outdated to some.
Ultimately, this issue highlights a clash between tradition and modern commercial realities. The players recognize their role in making the Ryder Cup a global spectacle. Therefore, believe they deserve compensation that reflects their contribution to its success.
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 Team Cup is a professional golf tournament that pits teams from Great Britain and Ireland (GB&I) against those from Continental Europe. Held at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club’s National Course, the event is scheduled for January 10-12, 2025.
The primary purpose of the Team Cup is to provide European golfers with experience in team match play formats. It’s a preparation for the Ryder Cup. The event offers players the opportunity to compete in a team environment. Hence, this is valuable for those aiming to represent Europe in future Ryder Cups.
In the 2025 edition, Major Champions Francesco Molinari and Justin Rose were named as the Playing Captains for the second edition of the Team Cup. Molinari captained Continental Europe to victory two years ago. He will go head-to-head with his Ryder Cup teammate Rose. He assumes the Great Britain & Ireland captaincy for the first time.
The tournament format includes one session of fourballs on Friday. Then, two sessions of foursomes on Saturday, and one session of singles on Sunday. Therefore, every player will be participating in all sessions. Each match is worth one point. The first team to reach 12½ points wins the Team Cup.
All in all, the event is seen as a platform for rising stars to showcase their skills in a competitive team setting. Also, it’s contributing to the development of golf talent in Europe.
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!
A golf membership for the modern golfer! The VPAR app allows you to take your pick from over 40K golf courses and effortlessly track scores, stats, use GPS maps and compete against friends! A VPAR Premium membership will add an additional twenty in-app features specifically designed to significantly enhance your game experience.
Putter Fitting
A personalized fitting session to determine the perfect putter for your game. With expert guidance,you will find the ideal putter to help improve putting performance, and therefore lower your handicap.
ProSendr
A training aid which will improve your game and make your training more precise and beneficial. It’s used by lots of professionals and is highly rated in the golf world.
Personalised Pro V1’s
A dozen Titleist Pro V1 golf balls, personalized with your name or custom text. They are something every golfer needs but with a personal twist.
Waterproofs
High-quality waterproof golf apparel designed to keep you dry and comfortable in any weather. If you’re based in the UK, this is a must.
RipIt Grips
A set of RipIt Grips, designed to enhance your comfort and control during your golf swing. These innovative grips are made with advanced materials to improve traction and reduce hand fatigue. They are also very unique and stand out compared to most golf grips!
FootJoy Classics
A pair of FootJoy Classics golf shoes, offering timeless style and unmatched comfort. Known for their durability, support, and superior traction, these shoes are perfect for both performance and all-day wear on the course. You can’t go wrong with a plain white or black pair.
Fifty Places to Play Golf Before You Die Guide
A beautifully illustrated book featuring 50 of the world’s most iconic and exclusive golf courses. Perfect for any golfer looking to plan their next bucket-list golf trip.
Thermals
High-performance thermal golf wear designed to keep you warm in cold weather without restricting your movement. They make a big difference when temperatures start to drop low and can be used in day to day life too.
Golf Bag
A stylish and functional golf is a must, especially if you carry. There are plenty of options out there, with many different styles depending on what you like.
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.
The PNC Championship is an annual golf tournament that pairs major champions with family members in a 36-hole scramble format. The 2024 edition is scheduled for December 21-22 at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida.
To qualify, players must have won either a Major Championship or Players Championship. And with the likes of Tiger Woods, Nelly Korda and Nick Faldo teeing it up, it’s set to be an exciting and feel-good watch.
As of now, the official field for the 2024 PNC Championship includes notable teams such as:
Tiger Woods and his son, Charlie Woods.
Defending champions Bernhard Langer and his son, Jason Langer.
John Daly and his son, John Daly II.
Annika Sörenstam and her son, Will McGee.
Nelly Korda and her father, Petr Korda.
Regarding favorites, specific betting odds for the 2024 PNC Championship are not widely available. But, teams like the Langers, given their defending champion status, and the Woods duo, due to their popularity and past performances, are expected to be strong contenders.
However, some individuals won’t be playing as a number of current PGA Tour players, as well as some who have moved to LIV Golf, won’t be making the trip over to Florida.
Here is a list of notable pairings who won’t be competing:
Justin and Mike Thomas.
Jordan and Shawn Spieth.
Henrik and Karl Stenson.
Jim and Tanner Furyk.
Bubba and Caleb Watson.
Tom and Michael Watson.
Rich and Micheal Beem.
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!
No explanation needed. The first name on the team sheet and the heartbeat of the European team.
Jon Rahm
Bringing the Spanish fire! Rahm is an incredible golfer and walks straight into the team, whether it’s on points or a captain’s pick.
Tyrrell Hatton
A great end to the 2024 DP World Tour season means he should have a good chance of qualifying. That said, I think he will be a captain’s pick regardless, and will likely play in the first pairing on Friday morning with Jon Rahm.
Viktor Hovland
The poster boy in Rome. Arguably the best player of 2023, and a real inspiration for the next generation of Ryder Cup players. His chip-in on the first hole on Friday morning in Rome was a real momentum shifter, and I think he’ll embrace the hostile environment of New York fans.
Ludvig Åberg
Arguably a generational talent. Åberg is on the rise and should play a crucial role in New York. Paired with Hovland, they are a force to be reckoned with. His driver is his superpower, and he can put opponents under immense pressure in the match-play format.
Tommy Fleetwood
Fleetwood needs another solid season. A win would secure his place on the team, and he’s a consistently reliable Ryder Cup player. The Ryder Cup seems to bring the best out of Tommy Fleetwood every year.
Matthew Fitzpatrick
A U.S. Open champion for a reason. Fitzpatrick has performed at the highest level consistently for a few years now and is one of the best putters in the world. He can be utilized by Luke Donald in many ways due to his short-game capabilities and ability to make a lot of birdies in the foursomes format.
Shane Lowry
The source of energy. He will bring the fire, like Rahm. The Ryder Cup means everything to him, and I’m sure he’ll find a way to silence the American fans. He’ll need to have a strong PGA Tour and DP World Tour season, but I’m certain he’ll do everything necessary, given it’s a Ryder Cup year, and he won’t want to miss out on that team.
Bob MacIntyre
A point of difference being a left-handed golfer. His rookie Ryder Cup in Rome was a great success, and he handled the pressure immensely. After a tough start to his PGA Tour career in 2024, he found his feet and ticked off two national opens in Canada and his homeland of Scotland. He is a fan favorite and will be carrying the hopes of Scotland around Bethpage Black with him.
Justin Rose
If Luke Donald needs some added experience in what is sure to be a cauldron of an atmosphere at Bethpage, the European captain may turn to one of his most trusted lieutenants to provide an element of calm amidst the chaos! Rose is a Ryder Cup legend and will be hard to leave out of an away Ryder Cup!
Rasmus Højgaard
We may see another brotherly pairing in the Ryder Cup! Rasmus had a great year in 2024, earning his PGA Tour card for next season. This will only help him prove to Donald that he is ready to compete with the best players in the world on the biggest stage. His career path has been steadily improving over the past few years in Europe, and the time is right for him to enter the Ryder Cup arena.
Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen
The risk that Luke Donald may take. Donald and his team are not afraid to select someone with limited experience, as shown in the selection of Ludvig Åberg in 2023. Neergaard-Petersen is a special talent who has just moved from the Challenge Tour to the DP World Tour. He is a winner, having triumphed three times on the Challenge Tour this season and topping the Road to Mallorca Rankings. He is a star for the future, and I don’t think that future is too far away! Donald has already shown an interest by selecting him for Continental Europe in the Team Cup in January. I believe this will be a stepping stone in Neergaard-Petersen’s career, and the golf world will soon begin to see the player Team Europe potentially has in their hands.
Other options:
Nicolai Højgaard
A strange season for Nicolai, but there were glimpses of brilliance. He has a great all-around game with very few weaknesses. Luke Donald backed him in 2023, and there is a chance he will again in 2025. However, he will need to be more consistent than he was last season to give Donald a reason to select him.
Aaron Rai
Aaron Rai is Mr. Consistent on the PGA Tour. He’s currently ranked among the top 25 players in the world and is an excellent all-around player, especially from tee to green, which can be relentless in match play. He has experience competing in America and will head into the 2025 season with hopes of qualifying in the top six of the Ryder Cup points standings.
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.
LAB (Lie Angle Balance) golf putters have gained attention for their innovative approach to solving the issue of torque in the putting stroke. Here’s a breakdown of their value and whether the technology might represent the future of putting:
What Makes LAB Putters Unique?
Lie Angle Balance Technology
LAB putters are designed to remain perfectly square to the path of your stroke, minimizing torque.
This design helps golfers who struggle with face rotation and inconsistent putting strokes.
Customisation:
LAB golf putters are often tailored to the player’s specific setup, including lie angle and weight preferences.
Alignment Features:
Many LAB models include unique alignment aids, which can improve aim for golfers who struggle with traditional putters.
Build Quality:
The materials and craftsmanship are premium, justifying the price to some extent.
Are They Worth the Money?
Yes, If:
You struggle with face stability during the stroke or have significant torque issues.
You’re looking for a highly customized putting experience.
You value innovation and are willing to invest in equipment that might genuinely improve your game.
No, If:
Your putting stroke is already consistent, and torque isn’t a problem.
You’re not comfortable investing £500–£750 in a putter without a trial period or fitting.
Is LAB Technology the Future?
Potential Influence:
LAB’s success may inspire other manufacturers to adopt similar anti-torque designs or more advanced customization.
The concept aligns with modern golf trends: using technology to optimize performance and consistency.
Market Adoption:
While LAB is currently niche, broader adoption will depend on continued performance validation and the willingness of players to adapt to their unconventional aesthetics.
Should You Try One?
If you’re intrigued, a fitting session or trial is crucial to see how the putter feels and performs for your stroke. LAB putters might not suit everyone, but for those they work for, the results can be transformative.
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!
Cross-handed chipping has gained popularity among professional golfers like Matt Fitzpatrick. It provides a few distinct advantages that help with consistency and precision in short-game shots. Here’s why it has caught on.
Stability and Control
In the cross-handed grip (also called left-hand-low for right-handed players), the lead hand takes a more dominant position. It can stabilize the wrist and reduce unwanted flipping or scooping of the club at impact.
This leads to more consistent contact and better control over the ball’s trajectory.
Simplifies Technique
By keeping the wrists quieter, cross-handed chipping promotes a pendulum-like motion similar to putting. This reduces the complexity of the stroke and helps players focus on consistent mechanics.
Many golfers struggle with “yippy” or jerky movements in chipping. Cross-handed chipping addresses this issue by limiting excessive wrist action.
Improved Clubface Control
With the lead hand controlling the motion, players often find it easier to keep the clubface square to the target throughout the swing. This can improve accuracy and predictability.
Confidence Booster
The technique provides a structured, repeatable method for chipping, which can inspire confidence, especially under pressure.
Influence from Putting
Cross-handed putting is already a popular grip among many professional golfers. Hence, its application in chipping feels natural for those accustomed to this grip in putting.
Why Matt Fitzpatrick and Others Adopted It
Matt Fitzpatrick has been known to experiment with various techniques to improve consistency. His adoption of cross-handed chipping highlights his focus on refining his short game, and it has influenced other players and amateurs to explore this style.
The rise in adoption reflects a broader trend in golf toward exploring unorthodox methods that can provide measurable benefits.
However, while cross-handed chipping may not suit everyone, it’s an excellent option for golfers looking to eliminate inconsistency in their short-game mechanics. Have you tried it yourself?
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!
21 Players Who Earned DP World Tour Cards Through Q-School 2024
The DP World Tour Qualifying School is often considered the toughest test in golf due to several factors that make it an incredibly gruelling challenge!
Q-School spans multiple stages, culminating in a six-round Final Stage where players must maintain peak performance over an extended period. The Final Stage alone involves 108 holes, which demands exceptional endurance, consistency, and mental resilience!
For many participants, Q-School represents a make-or-break opportunity to secure playing rights on the DP World Tour. After all, the pressure to perform is immense, as failing to qualify often forces players to seek alternative careers or lower-level tours.
Q-School recently concluded at INFINITUM in Tarragona, Spain, where 21 players secured their coveted Tour cards. This intense six-round tournament serves as one of golf’s most challenging pathways to the professional circuit, blending seasoned veterans, rising stars, and global newcomers.
Highlights and Notable Stories
Edoardo Molinari (Italy) The 43-year-old former Ryder Cup star claimed the top spot with a 29-under-par performance. Molinari’s consistent play saw him reclaim a spot on the DP World Tour after a difficult season that saw him lose his playing rights.
Niklas Lemke (Sweden) A consistent presence at Q-School, Lemke finished second, narrowly missing the title. His strong performance continued a pattern of successfully navigating the qualifying process.
Jean Bekirian (Armenia) Making history, Bekirian became the first Armenian to earn a DP World Tour card. His achievement symbolizes the growing global diversity of golf.
Jacob Skov Olesen (Denmark) Turning professional after securing a card, Olesen foregoes an amateur invite to The Masters to join the Tour.
Wil Besseling (Netherlands) Besseling’s dramatic finish, birdying the last three holes, secured his spot, epitomizing the high-stakes nature of the event.
Davis Bryant (USA) Climbing through all three Q-School stages, Bryant’s nine-under 62 in the final round highlighted his determination.
Other Qualifiers
Clément Sordet (France)
Wilco Nienaber (South Africa)
Justin Harding (South Africa)
Ryggs Johnston (USA)
Corey Shaun (USA)
Bastien Amat (France)
Gregorio de Leo (Italy)
Dan Erickson (USA)
Benjamin Follett-Smith (Zimbabwe)
Joshua Berry (England)
Ben Schmidt (England)
Jacob Tadek (Czech Republic)
Danny List (Australia)
Alexander George Frances (Denmark)
Albert Boneta (Spain)
These players reflect a mix of experience and youthful ambition, ready to compete at golf’s highest levels. The Final Stage of Q-School continues to serve as a gateway for talent, offering life-changing opportunities to players worldwide.
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!
