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2022 European Tour Will Be Bigger Than Ever Before
The last couple of years have not been particularly kind to the European Tour. Amidst the effects of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, purses generally have slipped, as has the quality of many venues. All in all though, the Old World circuit has done well to survive as well as it has, offering at least mediocre events to members increasingly desperate for competitive golf.Not any longer though. Now, a new era beckons as the 50-year old European Tour – long a geographic misnomer as the schedule expanded around the globe – is soon to be no more. When the 2021-22 season kicks off at the Joburg Open in South Africa later this month, it will be the maiden event on what will be known as the “DP World Tour.”
The numbers are impressive, especially by recent standards when €1m prize funds became increasingly commonplace. Claiming to “elevate the tour in every way,” next year tour members will be playing for an overall prize-fund of $200 million ($140 million outside the four majors and World Golf Championships) with $2 million the minimum purse for “solely sanctioned tournaments.” The climax to that season, the 2022 DP World Tour Championship, will offer $10 million in prize-money, a new record for the old tour, never mind the new one.
In all, there will be a 47-strong tournament schedule between this month and November 2022, one covering as many as 27 different countries. Included in that will be new tournaments in the United Arab Emirates, Japan, South Africa and Belgium and an expanded “Rolex Series” comprising five events: the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, the Slync.lo Dubai Desert Classic, the Genesis Scottish Open, the BMW PGA Championship and the aforementioned DP World Tour Championship.
For the first time, the new tour will also feature three tournaments co-sanctioned with the PGA Tour – the aforementioned Genesis Scottish Open, as well as the Barbasol Championship and the Barracuda Championship taking place in the United States opposite the Scottish and the Open Championship – as a result of the “strategic alliance” between male professional golf’s two leading tours.
“Thanks to the support of long-standing partner DP World, today’s announcement significantly elevates the European Tour on a global basis,” commented PGA Tour commissioner, Jay Monahan, who doubles as a European Tour board member. “We are excited for the continued growth and evolution of the European Tour, as well as the momentum this provides toward our Strategic Alliance. I’ve said before that our respective Tours are positioned to grow – together – over the next 10 years faster than we ever have at any point in our existence, and today’s announcement is another point of proof in those efforts.”
Lower down the packing order, Challenge Tour graduates will also benefit. The top five players on the end-of-season rankings will be supported by the R&A’s “John Jacobs Bursary Award,” which will cover their travel and expenses the following year on the DP World Tour.
Introducing the DP World Tour…#DPWorldTour— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) November 9, 2021
Understandably, the (still) European Tour chief executive, Keith Pelley, was making many satisfied noises at the press conference announcing all of the above. Especially given the rising profile/potential of a Saudi-sponsored rival circuit, the Canadian has surely been under pressure to offer a positive response to such a threat. And it would seem he has done so in some style.
“Today’s announcement is undoubtedly a momentous one in the proud history of our tour,” said Pelley. “The launch of the DP World Tour in 2022, coinciding with both of our 50th anniversaries, will herald a new era in global golf, and crucially it will benefit everybody involved – all our players, caddies, fans and partners – as well as making an important contribution to wider society. The entire ecosystem of our Tour will be strengthened because of this hugely significant deal., The DP World Tour is a natural evolution, the presence of ‘World’ in our new title better reflecting our global reach.”
This article originally appeared on Golf Digest.
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The Remarkable Legacy of Lee Trevino: Golf’s Self-Made Legend
The Legacy of Lee Trevino: Golf’s Merry Mex
Few golfers have a story as inspiring as Lee Trevino’s. Known as “The Merry Mex,” Trevino left a lasting mark on the game. He combined raw talent with an unforgettable personality. His journey from humble beginnings to golf legend is truly extraordinary.
Humble Beginnings
Lee Trevino was born in 1939 in Dallas, Texas. He grew up in a modest household, helping support his family from a young age.
Trevino’s golf journey began as a caddie at the Dallas Athletic Club. He practiced whenever he had the chance. Without formal lessons, he taught himself to play. Often, he would use a makeshift range on his family’s land. These early experiences shaped his unique swing and his approach to the game.
The Rise to Stardom
Trevino’s rise in professional golf was unexpected. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, he began playing in smaller tournaments. Over time, he built a solid reputation.
In 1967, he competed in the U.S. Open and tied for fifth place as a qualifier. This performance put him on the radar. A year later, he shocked the golf world by winning the 1968 U.S. Open. He defeated Jack Nicklaus by four strokes. This victory catapulted him into the spotlight.
A Career of Greatness
Trevino’s career was full of achievements. He won six major championships and 29 PGA Tour events. His major wins include:
- Two U.S. Opens (1968, 1971)
- Two Open Championships (1971, 1972)
- Two PGA Championships (1974, 1984)
One of his most famous rivalries was with Jack Nicklaus. In 1971, Trevino defeated Nicklaus twice in high-stakes events. He beat him in an 18-hole playoff at the U.S. Open. Later that year, he won the Open Championship, besting Nicklaus once again.t.
A Personality That Shone Bright
Lee Trevino was more than a golfer. He was an entertainer. Known for his constant chatter and quick wit, he brought energy to the game.
Fans loved him for his humor and his approachable style. Whether he was joking with the crowd or teasing his opponents, Trevino made golf feel fun and inclusive. His charm brought new fans to the sport.
Off the course, his story resonated with everyday people. He rose from poverty to become a champion. For many, he embodied the American dream.
A Lasting Legacy
Trevino’s impact on golf goes beyond his trophies. As a Mexican-American, he broke barriers in a sport that lacked diversity. He inspired future generations to pursue their dreams.
Even today, Trevino remains involved in golf. He shares his wisdom with young players. His influence is felt in the sport’s culture and history.
Lee Trevino’s legacy is a story of resilience, humor, and skill. He proved that greatness isn’t about where you start, but how you persevere. His impact on golf will be remembered for generations.
Raise a glass—or a club—to The Merry Mex, one of the greatest legends in golf history.
As the snow melts and the days grow longer, golfers everywhere feel the familiar excitement: the new golf season is just around the corner! Preparing for the upcoming season isn’t just about waiting for the courses to reopen—it’s about getting your game and gear ready to hit the fairways running. Here’s how you can make the most of the pre-season and ensure you’re ready for a stellar year of golf.
1. Tune Up Your Gear
Take stock of your equipment. Are your grips worn? Is your driver feeling a little outdated? Now is the time to clean your clubs, assess their condition, and consider upgrades. Fresh grips or a new putter might just give you that extra edge this year.
2. Check Your Golf Wardrobe
Golf fashion evolves, and so do your needs. Make sure your wardrobe includes comfortable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry on the course. Bright spring colors and updated styles can give you confidence as you step up to the first tee.
3. Sharpen Your Short Game Indoors
Even if you’re stuck inside, you can still work on your putting and chipping. A putting mat or chipping net can be a game-changer for pre-season practice. Spending just 10 minutes a day indoors can make a big difference when you finally hit the greens.
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4. Focus on Fitness
Golf requires flexibility, core strength, and endurance. Use the winter months to focus on your physical fitness. Stretch regularly, strengthen your core, and improve your balance. A fitter you will lead to a better swing and fewer aches after a round.
5. Plan Your Golf Goals
What do you want to achieve this season? Whether it’s breaking 90 for the first time, playing a new course, or finally sinking that elusive eagle putt, set realistic goals and outline how you’ll work toward them.
6. Schedule Early Rounds
As soon as your local course starts taking tee times, be one of the first to book. Early rounds can help shake off the winter rust and get you back into the rhythm of the game.
7. Reconnect with Your Golf Group
The start of the season is the perfect time to rally your friends, plan outings, and even organize a casual league. Golf is as much about camaraderie as it is about the game itself.
Preparing for the golf season is part of the fun of being a golfer. From polishing your gear to practicing your swing, these small steps can set you up for success and make the transition into spring smoother and more exciting. So, get ready—this season could be your best yet!
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The History Behind Augusta National
Home to The Masters, is a symbol of golf’s beauty and tradition—but its history also tells a story of exclusion, evolution, and progress.
Augusta National Golf Club, nestled in the heart of Georgia, is one of the most famous and storied venues in golf. Its lush fairways, blooming azaleas, and towering pines have made it synonymous with elegance and tradition. But behind the iconic beauty of this golf sanctuary lies a complex and, at times, contentious history.
The Beginnings of Augusta National
In 1931, famed amateur golfer Bobby Jones, alongside investment banker Clifford Roberts, founded Augusta National on the grounds of a former indigo plantation in Augusta, Georgia. The course was designed by Alister MacKenzie, a visionary architect whose intent was to create a course that tested both physical skill and strategic thinking. By 1934, Augusta National was ready to host its first tournament, which would later be known as The Masters—an event that would grow to become one of the four major championships in golf.
The Masters and Its Traditions
From the beginning, The Masters was a tournament like no other. Its traditions—such as the Green Jacket awarded to winners and the honorary tee shots by legendary golfers—were designed to set it apart. However, the exclusivity of Augusta National extended beyond its traditions and into its membership policies, shaping a more complicated legacy.
A History of Segregation
For decades, Augusta National adhered to strict segregationist policies, reflecting the prevailing social norms of the American South. African American golfers were barred from playing in The Masters until Lee Elder broke the color barrier in 1975, becoming the first Black golfer to compete in the tournament. While Elder’s participation was a watershed moment, Augusta’s issues with inclusion persisted.
The club’s membership remained exclusively white until 1990, when businessman Ron Townsend became its first Black member. This milestone came after years of external pressure and public scrutiny, highlighting the tension between tradition and progress.
“Men Only” and the Fight for Gender Inclusion
Similarly, Augusta National maintained a “men only” policy for its members well into the 21st century. This policy became a flashpoint for criticism during the early 2000s when activist Martha Burk publicly challenged the club’s exclusion of women. It wasn’t until 2012, under mounting societal and corporate pressure, that Augusta National admitted its first two female members—former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and business executive Darla Moore.
A Legacy in Transition
Today, Augusta National continues to evolve, balancing its historical traditions with a more inclusive approach to the future. While its past is marked by exclusivity, its efforts to embrace diversity are gradually reshaping its identity. The Masters remains a symbol of excellence in golf, drawing players and fans from around the world, while the club’s history serves as a reminder of the work required to make the game of golf truly inclusive.
Augusta National is more than just a golf course; it is a cultural institution that mirrors the complexities of the society around it. As The Masters continues to captivate audiences, the story of Augusta National reflects both the beauty and the challenges inherent in preserving tradition while striving for progress.
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