English golfer, former world No. 1, principal PGA/European Tour player
The PGA Tour has detailed a two-tier structure starting in 2028, creating a Championship Series and a Challenger Series, with a Last Chance Series offering three cards. The DP World Tour’s role remains under discussion as talks continue about how it links to the new format. Major past winners will secure longer exemptions, while the pathway for DP World Tour players remains under negotiation.
Europe has named Francesco Molinari as an assistant to Luke Donald for next year’s Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, joining Edoardo after both served as vice-captains in Rome and New York. The move underlines continuity ahead of the centenary edition, with Molinari set to bolster a familiar backroom. In other news, Bob MacIntyre opened strongly at the Travelers Championship.
English hopes of ending the Open drought in England are rising as Fleetwood, Fitzpatrick and other homegrown players pursue glory at Royal Birkdale. The Open is returning to English soil for the first time since 1992, with fans hopeful the home advantage finally translates into a winner.
Padraig Harrington has joined Luke Donald’s Ryder Cup staff as a vice-captain for the 2027 event at Adare Manor, Ireland. He brings European experience and local insight as Europe aims for a third straight victory against the USA.
LIV Golf has announced staff reductions as it seeks a new lead investor to fund a revamped LIV 2.0 after Saudi PIF ends its backing. The move follows the 2026 season’s end and a canceled Detroit finale, with a timetable that hinges on securing capital and obtaining player buy-in.
Europe holds an 8-8 tie with 12 singles remaining after a dramatic Saturday that saw Charley Hull and Lottie Woad struggle, while Jennifer Kupcho delivers decisive plays for the US. Nordqvist’s decision to persist with Hull–Woad is under scrutiny ahead of Sunday’s deciders.
Shane Lowry has won the Irish Open at Doonbeg with a record 23-under total, extending his Open-era lineage and delivering a dominant performance boosted by late birdies. Patrick Reed finishes second, Niemann and Neergaard-Petersen follow, as Lowry cements his place as Ireland’s favourite in a windy, high-profile weekend.
The DP World Tour and major tours have moved key events around the Ryder Cup dates. The Irish Open, French Open and BMW PGA Championship shift to weeks around the Ireland-hosted Ryder Cup, with 2027 schedule featuring 42 events in 24 countries.