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Rahm Ends Remarkable Streak, Spieth’s Wild Ride, & Hovland Turns Heads

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RAHM MAY HAVE MADE THE CUT

Cameron Young broke the 36-hole scoring record for the Genesis Invitational, a pretty big deal considering the annual PGA Tour stop at Riviera dates back nearly a century. There’s just one slightly disappointing part about the 24-year-old’s first two days: He’s not even leading the golf tournament.

That’s because 23-year-old Joaquin Niemann broke that record as well, thanks to a second consecutive 63. That gives Niemann a blistering 16-under-par total of 126 through two days—five shots better than the previous 36-hole low at Riviera. 

“I think everything is working pretty well,” Niemann told reporters after. “Obviously I’m making a lot of putts right now. I feel I’m starting my ball online with the putter. When you have greens this good when you start your line, I think you’ve got a good chance of making putts, so I think that’s been big this week.”

The young star from Chile said he didn’t get much sleep with an early tee time, but he eagled the first and birdied the second. After making the turn at five under, he bogeyed the famed 10th hole before bouncing back with birdies on four of his final eight holes.

There will be plenty of time to sleep before Niemann and Young have Saturday’s last afternoon tee time; however, nerves could always get in the way. Young, a two-time winner on the Korn Ferry Tour last year, will be looking for his first PGA Tour title. And for Niemann, who won at The Greenbrier in 2019, it seems that way.

“Yeah, it feels forever actually. I think it was two or three years ago. It feels a long time,” Niemann said. “Obviously you play this game to try to win every week and yeah, but you know how hard it is to win here and how competitive they are, how many good players there are here. You have to be patient and just wait for my week.”

At this rate, he might not have to wait much longer. Here’s what else you may have missed from Friday’s second round at Riviera.

Viktor Hovland turns heads

As he did on Thursday, Hovland played the 15th hole by hitting his tee shot down No. 16. And as he did on Thursday, he made par on the difficult par 4. Have a look:

After posting a second-round 64 to vault into contention, Hovland explained his eye-opening strategy.

“So I did that at the U.S. Amateur here in 2017,” Hovland said. “Actually, got to give my buddy Zach Bauchou some credit. He was the guy that first mentioned it. Yeah, I did it there and I did it once last year, I believe it was the third day and it was humming downwind. I think I hit a driver and a sand wedge in there. And there’s not too much trouble there I thought. Obviously that bunker on the left side is no good, but at the same time the bunker down 15 on the right is no good either. I don’t know, just fits my eye.”

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But what caught the eyes of other people were Hovland’s lightning pants. Check these bad boys out:

“It’s my first time,” Hovland said of wearing the pants. “Maybe I should keep wearing them.”

Hey, when you’re ranked fourth in the entire world, you can wear whatever you want. And he was certainly in better spirits than the World No. 1 following his round … 

Jon Rahm’s remarkable streak ends

Well, he was due for a bad round. And it really wasn’t even that bad.

Rahm shot a one-over-par 72 on Friday, his first over-par round on the PGA Tour since Day 1 of the Open Championship. Yep, that’s right. We’re talking about July. As in seven months ago.

Rahm’s streak of shooting rounds of par or better ended at 34, one of the longest in tour history, and the longest since Charles Howell III also had 34 in 2003. The record, as you probably guess, belongs to Tiger Woods, who once went 52 rounds without shooting over par. Crazy.

On the bright side for Rahm, thanks to a clutch seven-foot par putt on 18, he’ll get to play the weekend. Unlike the next guy . . .

Dustin Johnson’s weird week

Although not technically the betting favorite entering this week (that would be Rahm), Johnson was certainly a favorite among fantasy experts, and for good reason. The two-time major champ has a sparkling record at Riviera with 10 top-10s in 14 starts, highlighted by a win and two runner-ups. But he was the most surprising player to miss the cut—especially when you consider how well he played during his Friday back nine.

Ben Jared

Johnson closed with a bogey-free 31, capped by a birdie on his final hole. But it proved to be too little too late. His undoing? A 40 on his front nine, including a double bogey on the par-3 16th. Oh, and a 73 on Thursday that also featured a double bogey on No. 10.

And all of this amid speculation that Johnson could join the Saudi-backed Super Golf League. Although he was able to avoid the media this week, he was unable to overcome a sloppy short game that cost him more than three shots over two rounds.

It’s been a slow start to the season for Johnson, who has only played in three events with a T-25 at Torrey Pines his best result. If he is thinking about leaving the PGA Tour, that can’t be helping his bargaining power.

Jordan Spieth’s (latest) wild ride

One guy who was using his short game to make up strokes on the field was Jordan Spieth. Shocking, we know.

The three-time major champ flashed some magic on the back nine, beginning with this chip-in eagle on No. 11:

But then he managed four consecutive up-and-down pars on 12-15, three of which only required tap-in putts. And despite only hitting 11 greens in regulation and losing strokes on the greens, including a three-putt on No. 18, Spieth shot 67 and is T-4 heading into the weekend.

In other words, he’s just where he wants to be. Ready to make another Saturday charge—just this time at a place with no dangerous cliffs.

This article originally appeared on Golf Digest.

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How to control your anger on the golf course

Golf is a game of precision, patience—and sometimes, pure frustration. Here’s how to manage your emotions when the pressure builds, and what we can all learn from high-profile blowups like Adam Hadwin’s sprinkler-smashing moment.

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Golf and Anger: A Tough Combo on the Course

Golf is often praised as a game of mental toughness. Yet even the most seasoned professionals are not immune to letting emotions get the best of them. Just ask Adam Hadwin, who, during the 2025 Valspar Championship, made headlines after smashing a sprinkler head in frustration during his round at Innisbrook.

The moment—caught on camera—spread quickly across social media, sparking debates around sportsmanship, mental health, and the psychological toll of high-pressure competition. But while it’s easy to point fingers, the truth is: golf is hard. And controlling anger on the golf course is a skill many of us are still trying to master.

Why Golf Makes Us So Angry

Let’s be honest—golf can feel cruel. One minute you’re striping drives down the fairway, and the next, you’re chipping back and forth across a green like you’ve never held a club before. It’s a game that challenges both your skill and your patience.

The mental pressure in golf is unique:

  • You’re often alone with your thoughts.
  • There’s time to stew between shots.
  • Every swing carries weight, especially in competition.
  • And most golfers are their own worst critics.

For pros like Hadwin, there’s the added layer of TV cameras, fans, sponsors, and expectations. But even for weekend warriors, the emotional stakes feel real.

The Consequences of Losing Control

Lashing out in anger might feel good in the moment—but it rarely helps your game. In fact, it often leads to a downward spiral:

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  • Loss of focus
  • Tension in the swing
  • Poor decision-making
  • Embarrassment or regret afterward

Hadwin’s sprinkler moment is a prime example of how pressure can boil over—even for seasoned tour pros. But it’s also a reminder that anger, if left unchecked, can sabotage your performance and your reputation.

How to Manage Anger on the Golf Course

So what can you do when the frustration starts to build? Here are proven anger management tips for golfers that can help you stay calm, focused, and in control.

1. Recognize the Warning Signs

Before you snap, your body often sends subtle signals—tight chest, clenched jaw, shallow breathing. Learn to recognize these cues so you can catch yourself early.

2. Have a Reset Routine

Pros like Jon Rahm and Collin Morikawa use breathing exercises, grounding techniques, or visual routines between shots. Try:

  • Taking a deep breath through your nose and exhaling slowly.
  • Looking at the treetops or sky for a few seconds to reset your focus.
  • Repeating a calming phrase like “next shot” or “stay loose.”

3. Walk It Off

Walking between shots gives you a chance to cool down—literally and mentally. Use that time to reset and detach emotionally from the last swing.

4. Use Humor or Self-Talk

Sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine. Making a light comment or reminding yourself it’s just a game can diffuse tension and help you stay grounded.

5. Set Process Goals, Not Outcome Goals

Instead of obsessing over score, focus on things you can control—like tempo, alignment, or course management. This shift in mindset can reduce frustration when things don’t go perfectly.

6. Keep Perspective

Ask yourself: “Will I remember this shot a week from now?” If not, it’s probably not worth the outburst. Golf is a lifelong game—one bad hole doesn’t define you.

Golf Is an Emotional Game—But It’s Also a Teacher

Every round presents an opportunity—not just to shoot a lower score, but to practice patience, resilience, and grace under pressure. Yes, moments like Adam Hadwin’s sprinkler smash are dramatic. But they’re also human.

The key isn’t to avoid frustration altogether—it’s learning how to respond to it.

So next time you chunk a wedge or lip out a birdie putt, take a breath. Channel your inner pro—not the angry one—and move on to the next shot with purpose.

Because in golf, as in life, how you handle the tough moments says more than any scorecard ever could.

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What’s Your Style? 100 Years of Golf Fashion

Dress to score!

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Golf attire has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, evolving from formal, restrictive clothing to today’s stylish, performance-oriented apparel.

Before 1920

Originating in the cold, windy landscapes of Scotland, early golfers dressed primarily for warmth and protection. Typical attire included full tweed suits, often accompanied by waistcoats and neckties. Knickers, resembling knee breeches, were common, paired with high socks and sturdy leather shoes. Hats varied from pork-pie styles to wide-brimmed designs. While functional against harsh weather, this layered clothing restricted movement, impacting players’ swings.

1920s – 1960s

As golf gained popularity in the United States, attire began to reflect contemporary fashion trends. The 1920s introduced plus-fours—knickers extending four inches below the knee—paired with two-toned shirts and, occasionally, ties. In cooler conditions, players opted for knitted wool cardigans or Norfolk jackets. The 1930s saw a shift to lighter fabrics, with short-sleeved knitted shirts and slacks becoming common. Outerwear like the Eisenhower jacket and cardigan sweaters with bell-shaped sleeves allowed greater freedom of movement. Footwear evolved to feature sturdy leather shoes with spikes, enhancing grip on the course.

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1960s – 2000

The 1960s marked a departure from muted tones, embracing vibrant colors such as greens, blues, and reds. Bold tops contrasted with lighter trousers or shorts, reflecting the era’s fashion sensibilities. Public figures like President John F. Kennedy popularized “Go to Hell” pants—colorful, shorter trousers in eye-catching hues. Recognizing the growing market, brands like FootJoy, Adidas, Nike, Polo Golf Ralph Lauren, and Ashworth launched dedicated golf apparel lines. However, endorsements by celebrity players remained understated during this period.

Since 2000

By the late 1990s, golf had cemented its status among top U.S. sports, leading to lucrative endorsements and a surge in golf club memberships. The game’s evolving dynamics emphasized athleticism, precision, and speed, necessitating advancements in attire. Lightweight, comfortable, and elegant clothing became the norm. Colorful, collared cotton T-shirts paired with tan or khaki shorts or trousers dominated the fairways. Headwear transitioned to pork-pie shapes and baseball caps, while footwear saw a shift from traditional leather to sporty designs from brands like Nike and Adidas.

After 2010

The past decade has witnessed a significant shift in golf fashion, influenced by broader cultural trends and technological advancements. The rise of athleisure blurred the lines between sportswear and casual wear, leading to the incorporation of jogger-style pants, hoodies, and stretchy, moisture-wicking materials in golf attire. Brands like Lululemon and Under Armour introduced high-performance golf wear suitable both on and off the course. Collaborations with streetwear labels injected a youthful energy into the sport, attracting a new generation of players. Additionally, sustainability became a focal point, with companies like Reflo producing apparel from recycled materials, reflecting a growing environmental consciousness among consumers. citeturn0search26

This evolution of golf attire mirrors the sport’s journey from its traditional roots to a modern, inclusive game that embraces both style and functionality.

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The Great Golf Thaw or How I Emerged From Hibernation

Spring is finally here, and after months of golf withdrawal, it’s time to shake off the rust and embrace the glorious return to the course!

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Well, fellow frostbitten golfers, we did it. We survived. Read my last article. The brutal winter storms, the months of indoor putting drills, the soul-crushing agony of watching tournament replays instead of actually playing—we’ve endured it all. And now, like a long-lost Pro V1 finally found in the rough, we emerge from the icy grip of winter, ready to reclaim our place on the golf course.

Spring is here. The fairways are thawing, the greens are almost puttable, and for the first time in months, your golf clubs are seeing sunlight instead of just gathering dust in the garage. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves—returning to the course after a long winter is a journey, one filled with hope, horror, and a whole lot of rust to shake off.

Step One: The Reunion (and the Lies We Tell Ourselves)

The moment you open your golf bag for the first time since December is emotional. It’s like seeing an old friend after years apart, except this friend has been through a rough patch—probably still covered in last season’s mud, with a faint odor of stale beer and regret. You whisper sweet nothings to your 7-iron, reassuring it that this year will be different.

And then, the self-deception begins.

“This is the year I fix my swing.”
“I’m going to take my time on the greens.”
“I won’t buy new clubs to solve my problems.”

Lies. All lies. But they feel good, so we roll with them.

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Step Two: The First Round Back (a.k.a. The Humbling)

Ah, that first round of the season. You arrive at the course feeling like a golfer reborn, visions of smooth swings and perfect tempo dancing in your head. And then… reality strikes.

Your first tee shot? A low screamer that barely clears the forward tees.
Your second shot? A chunked iron that travels six feet.
Your third shot? A desperate attempt to remember how golf works.

By the back nine, you accept your fate: golf is hard, and winter made it harder. But hey, at least you’re out here, breathing in fresh air instead of screaming at your TV over a missed putt on The Golf Channel.

Step Three: Spring Course Conditions (a.k.a. Golf, But Swampier)

Spring golf is not for the faint of heart. The grass is patchy, the fairways are damp, and every bunker feels more like a quicksand trap. Your ball might plug so deep in the fairway that you need a search-and-rescue mission just to find it. And don’t even get me started on the greens—putting on spring grass is like rolling a marble across shag carpet.

And yet, we persevere. Why? Because the alternative is waiting another month, and that’s simply unacceptable. So we slip, we slide, we take relief from whatever casual water situation is happening in the fairway, and we celebrate the simple fact that we are golfing once again.

Step Four: The Delusional Season Goals Begin

With spring’s arrival comes the most dangerous part of the golf season: optimism. Suddenly, every golfer is convinced that this is their year.

“I’m finally going to break 80.”
“I’ll practice every week.”
“I’m getting a lesson to fix my slice.”

Of course, within weeks, we’ll be back to our usual antics—binge-watching golf tips instead of practicing, blaming our putter instead of our stroke, and deciding that a $600 driver is the real key to improvement. But until then, we dream big.

Step Five: The Pure Joy of Golf’s Return

Despite the struggles, the rust, and the inevitable reality check that winter stole whatever shred of talent we had left, nothing compares to that first round back. The feeling of walking the fairway, of nailing a solid iron shot, of draining a putt (even if it’s for double bogey)—these are the moments that make the long, cold months worth it.

So dust off those clubs, book that first tee time, and embrace the chaos of early spring golf. You may not break 80, you may not even break 100, but one thing’s for sure: it’s better than being stuck inside dreaming about it.

Welcome back to the course, friends. Let’s make this season one to remember. (Or at the very least, one to survive.)

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