PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — Jason Day has experienced a significant shift this year, partly attributed to re-engaging with his longtime coach and mentor, Colin Swatton. Despite parting ways seven years ago, Day recognized the need for professional guidance and reached out to Swatton through messages and calls. This reunion has proven beneficial for Day, who felt grateful Swatton could accommodate him despite his commitments.
Day admitted, “I had zero idea what was going on,” reflecting on his recent performances, including a strong showing at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, marred only by a late double-bogey that saw him tied for eighth. “Even though I know a good chunk of swing stuff, it’s nice to have someone kind of standing over your shoulder,” Day explained. Although they hadn’t met in person until the lead-up to Bay Hill, focusing on biomechanics and putting, their deep history together offers Day a supportive team environment as he aims for success on the course.
In another notable development, Karl Vilips’ recent victory at the Puerto Rico Open prompted a surprising voicemail from golf legend Tiger Woods. Initially unaware of the caller’s identity, Vilips quickly realized he was speaking to Woods. Beyond their shared Stanford legacy, Vilips is the only golfer aside from Woods to sport the new Sun Day Red brand, launched by Tiger just a year ago. “I think it shows me that there’s a reason why they chose me to rep their brand,” Vilips reflected.
Meanwhile, Ludvig Aberg embraces a different approach, focusing more on playing than lengthy practice sessions. Growing up, Aberg preferred active play over traditional practice, helping him develop a quick decision-making process on the course. “When I played, I didn’t want to be the guy that people were waiting for,” he shared, highlighting his distaste for slow play and emphasis on maintaining a good pace. His swift approach doesn’t come without adjustments as he joins slower-paced PGA circuits, yet his decisive play remains unchanged.
As the Masters approaches, world rankings gain greater importance, with the top 50 after upcoming tournaments securing a spot. Daniel Berger’s consistent performance has improved his ranking significantly, landing him in the 42nd spot. Michael Kim has also shown impressive consistency, climbing from 155th last year to 52nd, even humorously noting his current ranking dominance over former world number one Jon Rahm.
For Rory McIlroy, recent equipment changes provided valuable lessons. After experimenting with new clubs at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and reverting to his old ones in the final round, McIlroy resolves to trust what feels comfortable, emphasizing the need to test new equipment thoroughly under competitive conditions.
Next month, professional golf will return to the Los Angeles area with the JM Eagle LA Championship, hosted at El Caballero Country Club. In a gesture towards wildfire relief, the sponsoring company, based in Los Angeles, has already pledged significant donations to support firefighters and rebuild communities. Those affected locally will have access to complimentary tickets, along with first responders and military personnel. The 144-player field will also receive free lodging and transport, ensuring a warm welcome in the tournament’s second year.
In other golf news, Steve Timms will conclude his 25-year leadership of the Houston Golf Association, having significantly impacted junior golf programs. The RSM Classic has extended its title sponsorship through 2028, while Laura Frick has been appointed championship director for the 2026 KPMG Women’s PGA at Hazeltine. Russell Henley’s recent victory at Bay Hill propelled him into the top 10 in the world rankings for the first time.
Some interesting statistics reveal Collin Morikawa earned $2.2 million as a runner-up at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, surpassing earnings from either of his major wins in 2020 and 2021.
In conclusion, Justin Thomas expresses exhaustion over the ongoing discord between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, as he heads into another tournament with unresolved tension lingering.
