Blog

Does Bryson Regret Not Getting Vaccinated?

Published

3 years ago

August 4, 2021

A positive COVID-19 test knocked Bryson DeChambeau out of the Summer Games in Tokyo. It also seemingly knocked the wind out of his sails. Or so we thought…

Still, despite his dream of representing the U.S. in the Olympics suddenly turning into the unfortunate reality of handing his spot over to Patrick Reed, apparently DeChambeau doesn’t regret his decision to decline getting vaccinated earlier this year.

Young and Healthy

“The thing is, the vaccine doesn’t necessarily prevent it from happening,” DeChambeau said Wednesday at TPC Southwind following his pro-am round ahead of the World Golf Championships-FedEx St. Jude Invitational. “I’m young enough. I’d rather give (the vaccine) to people who need it. I don’t need it. I’m healthy. I’m a young individual who will continue to be healthy and continue to work on my health.” Given the recent increase in cases due to the Delta variant and a shortage of vaccines, with almost 500,000 people a day initiating the vaccine, this position may hold a little weight. But we have to ask, is this just a posturing move from the brazen young “Bomb & Gouge” athlete?

DeChambeau seemingly stands firm on his position, despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stating that currently 90 percent of all positive cases – and 95 percent of all hospitalizations due to COVID – are the result of unvaccinated individuals.

“I don’t think that taking the vaccine away from somebody who could need it is a good thing for me,” he said. “Like my dad. He got it early on because of his status, being a diabetic. Now, over the course of time, if they really, really mainstream (the vaccine) and everything is vetted out, I won’t have an issue.” Our position is with all the responsibility: travel, entourage, playing with random pairings, etc…it may make more sense for ther PGA to enforce that all PGA players need to be vaccinated by a certain date, say 2022.

DeChambeau, the reigning U.S. Open champion and ranked No. 7 in the world, tested positive twice just days before he was scheduled to fly to Tokyo. The love him or hate him Patrick Reed (most in category B) replaced DeChambeau on the roster. DeChambeau had tested negative three times before playing in the British Open in mid-July, where he tied for 33rd.

DeChambeau, 27, had also tested negative ahead of traveling to Tennessee.

‘Bound to happen’

“It was the first time I tested positive,” he said. “It was bound to happen. Unfortunately, it happened during that week. The odds are, you’re testing year-round, you’re traveling the world, it’s going to happen. Ironically, our position is that is precisely why you WOULD be pro active and get the shots. At least eliminate the majority of the variables…

“I tried to take all the necessary precautions to not get contracted. Unfortunately, I tested positive. We took a couple tests and tested negative both times and I couldn’t do anything about it.

“I didn’t feel (any symptoms) until two days after I tested positive. It was weird. I didn’t feel anything at all and then, all of a sudden, symptoms started coming on. I don’t know where I got it, how I got it, I was just home in Dallas and it was in the air. The day I tested positive I thought it was a false positive. That’s why I thought I was asymptomatic.”

Fatigue was his overriding symptom and DeChambeau said he slept “all the time.” He said he felt weaker as well. He initially felt it was more so because he was behind d on his workout schedule due to the fact he was sleeping much of the day and night. He also had a day full of “a few coughing spurts.” Because of his inactivity, he didn’t eat much, as well. All in all after the 7-10 days he was back to his usual self.

He said he’s lost 8-10 pounds and has been struggling with allergies since testing positive. He said he started feeling much better – “Where I could spend a full day outside,” he said – three days ago.

But How’s His Performance?

As for his power?

“I still hit golf balls in my stimulator. I don’t have as much speed coming back from it. I just didn’t practice for a week,” he said. “With my irons, nothing (speed wise has been lost). With driver, I can’t hit driver at home. My ceiling isn’t high enough. I’ve probably lost 5 mph with my driver.”

Despite losing his place on Team USA for the Olympics, DeChambeau did in fact watch the men’s golf competition.

“It was sad when I tested positive,” DeChambeau said about missing the Olympics. “After I tested positive, my brain just shifted to a place where I just wasn’t in the Olympics. I love the Olympic Games & I love my country. I hope I can be there in three years.”

DeChambeau has only played two 9-hole rounds since his positive COVID result – both here at TPC Southwind.

“I’m not really expecting much,” he said of this week. “I’m just going out here and trying to get through the week and feel comfortable and then do it again.

“Maybe lower expectations will help me this week.”

Blog

All the Best Moments in Pebble Beach History

Featuring Tiger Woods, Tom Watson and Bill Murray

Published

22 hours ago

January 27, 2025

Lord Eagleman III

Spanning over half a century, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has undergone changes in latitude as well as attitude. But the core of the tournament remains not only the exceptional golf by the world’s best players, but also the lore surrounding each yearly winter extravaganza.

Wyndham Clark made history at the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Tied for 23rd heading into Saturday’s third round, he ended the day in first place with a 12-under 60, setting the course record for the lowest score ever at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

In 2017, Justin Rose & Justin Timberlake collaborated on one of the most unique moments in AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am history. While JR took a selfie, JT nearly made an ace on the iconic par-3 7th ultimately leading to a tap-in birdie.

Always a fan favorite and one of the best entertainers Pebble Beach has ever seen, check out Bill Murray’s best shots and funniest moments from his career at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Signature moments from the five U.S. Opens that were held at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links, site of the 2019 championship.

Perhaps remembered best for a hole out at the par-4 15th hole, Tiger Woods came back from a 5-shot deficit to move past 54-hole co-leaders Mark Brooks and Matt Gogel and claim victory at the 2000 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Iconic courses, iconic golfers. See you at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, returning for its second year as a PGA TOUR Signature Event.

Blog

The Most Exciting Storylines to Follow in the 2025 LIV Golf Season

Will you be watching?

Published

6 days ago

January 22, 2025

Lord Eagleman III

The 2025 LIV Golf season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in the league’s short but impactful history. With its disruptive approach to the sport, LIV Golf continues to challenge traditions and generate buzz. Here are the most compelling storylines to follow as the season unfolds:

1. New Players, Fresh Rivalries

One of the most exciting aspects of this season is the arrival of new talent. LIV Golf has successfully attracted top-ranked players from the PGA Tour, thanks to its lucrative contracts and innovative format. The clash of seasoned veterans and ambitious newcomers promises to create intense rivalries. Will the newcomers shake up the established order, or will the veterans defend their turf?

2. Team Dynamics in Focus

LIV Golf’s unique team-based format continues to set it apart from traditional golf tours. Teams like Crushers GC, Fireballs GC, and 4Aces GC have cultivated strong fan followings. This season, roster changes and new strategies could shift the balance of power. How will captains adapt their leadership styles to foster team cohesion and success? And which team will dominate the standings?

3. The Battle for Global Expansion

LIV Golf has emphasized its commitment to expanding the sport globally, with events scheduled in emerging golf markets like India, South Korea, and Brazil. These new venues not only offer fresh challenges for players but also present opportunities to engage with diverse fanbases. Will LIV’s global push solidify its status as a truly international tour?

4. Technology and Fan Engagement

One hallmark of LIV Golf is its embrace of technology to enhance fan experiences. This season, expect to see advancements in augmented reality, interactive broadcasts, and player mic-ups. These innovations aim to bring fans closer to the action than ever before. Will these efforts further distinguish LIV Golf as the most fan-friendly tour?

5. The PGA Tour Rivalry

The tension between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour remains a defining narrative. With both organizations vying for the loyalty of players and fans, the stakes have never been higher. High-profile defections and joint-event rumors keep fueling speculation. Could 2025 be the year where cooperation begins to overshadow conflict, or will the rivalry escalate further?

6. Defending Champions and Underdog Stories

Every sports season needs its heroes and Cinderella stories, and LIV Golf is no exception. Last season’s champions return to defend their titles, but a host of underdogs are poised to challenge their reign. The unpredictability of golf means that anyone could have their breakout moment. Which players will rise to the occasion and capture the spotlight?

7. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Amid growing concerns about climate change and sustainability, LIV Golf has pledged to make its tournaments more environmentally friendly. This includes reducing carbon footprints, promoting renewable energy, and supporting local communities at host venues. Will these efforts resonate with fans and set a new standard for the sport?

8. The Legacy Question

As LIV Golf grows, questions about its long-term impact on the sport persist. Critics argue that it’s diluting tradition, while supporters believe it’s revolutionizing golf for a new generation. How will this season shape the league’s legacy? Will LIV Golf prove its staying power or face challenges that threaten its future?

With a mix of drama, innovation, and high-stakes competition, the 2025 LIV Golf season is a must-watch for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a traditionalist or a fan of the league’s modern twist, there’s no denying that LIV Golf is making waves and keeping the world of golf on edge.

Blog

How To Shoot 13 On One Hole Like A Pro!

Stay out of the bunkers!

Published

1 week ago

January 20, 2025

Bobby Markowitz

During the 2025 American Express, PGA Tour rookie William Mouw found himself in a deep, 20-foot bunker on the par-5 16th hole—famously known as the “San Andreas Fault” for its ability to frustrate even seasoned pros.

Mouw’s shots went from bad to worse: after escaping the bunker twice, he’d end up back in it. After an epic 13 strokes, he followed up with a triple bogey on the 17th.

Despite a 5-under 67 in the next round, he missed the cut by 9 shots.

The lesson is to remain resilient despite setbacks. The 16th hole demonstrated how quickly things can go sideways, but his ability to shake off the octuple bogey and finish the weekend strong with a 67 shows that recovery and perseverance are key. Golf is unpredictable, but staying positive and focused on the next shot is crucial. Mouw’s resilience in the face of adversity can be an important learning experience as he moves forward in his career.