Q&A: Tigers Left Knee Discusses ACL Surgery

(Pocketwiley/Flickr)




IN A BRIEF INTERVIEW, Tigers Left Knee updated ARMCHAIR GOLF after Tigers ACL surgery performed on Tuesday.



Q: Thanks for talking to me again.

LEFT KNEE: Sure, no problem.

Q: First of all, is there anything you would like to say about the U.S. Open?

LEFT KNEE: Not really. I think everybody saw what happened and the end result.

Q: Your toughest tournament?

LEFT KNEE: We went to Torrey to win a trophy. And we did. Im proud of that.

Q: Alright. By the way, Tigers ACL turned down my interview request.

LEFT KNEE: Yeah, it wont talk to the media.

Q: Im a blogger.

LEFT KNEE: I know. Its not you. I dont like to generalize, but ACLs arent a talkative bunch. They can act kind of superior. I dont know why. It's a ligament thing.

Q: I read the statement, but from your perspective how did the ACL fix go?

LEFT KNEE: Fine, really. Rosey is great.

Q: Rosey?

LEFT KNEE: Sorry. Doc Rosenberg. Very capable hands. As you know, Ive seen him a whole lot and just call him Rosey. Sometimes I feel like Ive spent more time in Utah than Karl Malone.

Q: Whats next?

LEFT KNEE: Rest, rehab, trying to avoid Sam when shes holding something she can throw or swing.

Q: And the comeback?

LEFT KNEE: Better than ever. You can count on it.

Q: Are you sure you dont work for IMG?

LEFT KNEE: Huh?

Q: Just kidding. Thanks again.

LEFT KNEE: You got it.

Related:
Tiger's Left Knee Speaks on U.S. Open Prep
Q&A: Tigers Left Knee Carries Weight of Golf World

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tiger Woods has knee surgery; Doc says "very unlikely" to suffer any long term effects

Dr. Thomas Rosenberg and Dr. Vernon J. Cooley performed knee surgery today on Tiger Woods in Park City. Rosenberg said, "There were no surprises during the procedure, and as we have said, with the proper rehabilitation and training, it is highly unlikely that Mr. Woods will have any long-term effects as it relates to his career."

More

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Traveler's Championship online golf game

For you gamers out there, Traveler's Championship has a free online golf game you can play. Click here

If you want to rate the game or post a review, please comment.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

John Coyne Swings a Hickory Wood

(Photo courtesy of John Coyne)

OK, HES NOT WALTER HAGEN. But he did write a golf novel about The Haig called The Caddie Who Played with Hickory.

John Coyne is an accomplished author and golf friend. He sent me the above photo a few weeks ago. In April, we went to the Masters together, a first for both of us.

In case you missed it, my review of Johns hickory book is here.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Stewart Cink Closes Out Travelers Championship

Stewart Cink (Doyle/Flickr)

I CAUGHT THE LAST FEW HOLES of the Travelers Championship in Cromwell, Connecticut. Mainly, I wanted to see if Stewart Cink could get it done on Sunday. As the Golf Channel pointed out, Stewie hasnt had much Sunday success as the 54-hole leader, with just one win in nine tries.

Cink bucked the trend with a final-round 67 and one-shot victory over Tommy Armour III and Hunter Mahan. The last hole, a pretty straightforward par-4, was a bit dicey, though. Stewart blocked his drive way right, and then knocked a wedge to just off the back of the green. He got it up and down for the clinching par.

The win moved Cink to third in the FedEx Cup points race, and hes a lock for the Ryder Cup team. Hes an amazingly candid player who has always struck me as a good guy.

I think many would agree that Stewarts talent could have produced more than five wins. But, unless youre Tiger Woods, winning on the PGA Tour isnt easy. Cink finally broke through after going 97 events since his last title in 2004. Good for him.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tigers are Tough, Especially the Human Kind

A couple of years ago, ESPN's Gene Wojciechowski wrote an article that included a seemingly absurd proclamation that "Tiger Woods is the greatest individual athlete of our time. OK, of all time." After Tiger's unhuman-like performance at the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines, Wojciechowski's statement might be right on the money. Winning the most difficult tournament against the world's best with a torn ACL and a double stress fracture is nothing short of miraculous. Unfortunately, recovering from that injury will cost Woods the rest of the season. It seems that Wojciechowski might be the Carnac the Magnificent of golf with his prescient statement: "Only injury stands between Woods and any record worth owning."

But there are always haters out there who will try to bring you down. Surprisingly, the sharpest barb came from the usually docile Retief Goosen, himself a two-time US Open champion. When asked whether he believed that Woods was faking the extent of his pain, he said: I think so. It just seemed that when he hit a bad shot his knee was in pain and on his good shots he wasnt in pain. You see when he made the putts and he went down on his knees and was shouting, Yeah, his knee wasnt sore. Nobody really knows if he was just showing off or if he was really injured. I believe if he was really injured, he would not have played. Retief later tried to downplay his jealous-tinged remarks saying, I was being light-hearted. No one but Tiger himself knows how badly hurt he was. But if he was really badly hurt, he would have withdrawn, wouldnt he?

Well Retief, maybe your wuss ass would have withdrawn, but Tiger is tough as nails. In addition, you just gave Tiger the extra motivation to crush you every time you set foot on the same course that he does. Get better soon Tiger, and when you get back it will be open season for Goose hunting. He may or may not be the greatest athlete, but Tiger Woods is the greatest competitor!

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[Source: Grouchy Golf Blog]

Is Tiger Woods Already the Greatest?

ARTICLES, POSTS AND COMMENTS that declare Tiger Woods as the greatest golfer of all time are increasing. So heres an informal Friday survey as I wait to board a flight at LAX.

Is Tiger Woods already the greatest? Or does he need to break Jack Nicklaus record for major wins to earn that distinction?

I know what I think, but I want to hear from yall. Give me your take and rationale.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Was Tiger Woods's decision to play in the U.S. Open "idiotic"?

Gwen Knapp is the first journalist to break ranks from the Tiger-fawning press corps and to criticize Tiger Woods for playing in the U.S. Open and jeopardizing his long term prospects. Knapp minces no words. She calls Tiger Woods an "idiot."

Jerry Rice, future Hall of Famer who tore two ligaments in his knee and was never the say, provides some support. "You never really, really get back to 100 percent," Rice said.

Read the full story here

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Will Tiger Woods's ACL and knee surgeries affect his run for 18 or 19 majors?

Tiger Woods got his 14th major this year, well ahead of the pace that Jack Nicklaus had in reaching 18 majors. But time will only tell whether Tiger Woods's gamble will slow down, if not jeopardize, Tiger's quest for setting the record for the most majors.

For this year, it guarantees that Tiger will miss 2 majors, for the first time in his career. However, what's even more scary is the fact that Tiger will have major reconstructive surgery on his torn ACL. A friend I know (who is quite athletic and durable himself) just had one and is experiencing all sorts of complications. Tiger's already had three surgeries on his knee, so, even though they were arthroscopic, they show a chronic problem in Tiger's left knee.

In all the press accounts, the doctors' prognosis for Tiger Woods is guarded -- they say his chances of recovery after major reconstruction on his knee are "very good" after surgery, whatever that means. Notice no one says that he will be back to full strength or better than he was normally. No one says that he should be able to resume the same powerful swing motion as he's been hitting all of his life.

And I haven't even mentioned the 2 stress fractures in Tiger's left tibula, which likely slow down Tiger's rehab after surgery even more.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods Is Badly Hurt

I DIDNT REALIZE I was being prophetic when I wrote this pretend flyer on Monday:

LOST: One-legged golfer, missing at last major. Answers to Tiger. And U.S. Open champion.

I heard the jarring news this afternoon about Tiger Woods regarding the severity of his injuries. As you probably know by now, Tiger will undergo surgery and is out for the remainder of the 2008 season. No British, no PGA, no Ryder Cup. Its a sad day for golf.

Two initial questions come to mind:

1) Given the extent of his injuries and what he endured, where does Tigers U.S. Open victory rank in the history of sports?

2) Just how expensive a victory will it turn out to be?

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tiger Woods admits he's a stubborn ass, day after announcing season ending surgery

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Play Golf, Live Longer

(Glasson/Flickr)

AFTER ALL THE DEPRESSING NEWS about a certain someones knee, I want to lighten it up a bit as we head into the weekend. Spend time with your family and play golf if you can. Both are good for your health.

Following are excerpts from Divot Mix, an e-publication of GCSAA, on the longevity benefits of playing golf.

The death rate for golfers is 40 percent lower than for other people of the same sex, age and socioeconomic status, according to a study in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports. This equates to a five-year increase in life expectancy said the scientists, led by Anders Ahlbom and Bahman Farahmand at the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm.

A round of golf means being outside for four or five hours, walking at a fast pace for about four miles, something which is known to be good for health, said Ahlbom.

(It is for people who actually walk the course. I do.)

People play golf into old age, and there are also positive social and psychological aspects to the game that can be of help.

I was thrilled to play the last two days with my 81-year-old pops, something I rarely get to do since he lives in California and I reside in Virginia.

I fly home tomorrow, but being on the golf course with my dad has been a special treat and has brought back memories of the many enjoyable afternoons we spent together on a golf course.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tiger Woods Is Badly Hurt

I DIDNT REALIZE I was being prophetic when I wrote this pretend flyer on Monday:

LOST: One-legged golfer, missing at last major. Answers to Tiger. And U.S. Open champion.

I heard the jarring news this afternoon about Tiger Woods regarding the severity of his injuries. As you probably know by now, Tiger will undergo surgery and is out for the remainder of the 2008 season. No British, no PGA, no Ryder Cup. Its a sad day for golf.

Two initial questions come to mind:

1) Given the extent of his injuries and what he endured, where does Tigers U.S. Open victory rank in the history of sports?

2) Just how expensive a victory will it turn out to be?

-The Armchair Golfer

Read More...

[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tiger Woods out for rest of 2008 due to ACL in left knee and stress fractures in leg aggravated by US Open

The Golf Blog reported about this story on Tuesday, but then it was only a rumor. Now it's official.

Tiger Woods announced on his website that he will undergo reconstructive surgery on his ACL in his left knee -- the same knee he's already had three surgeries. One site reports that Tiger said he injured the ACL from running several months ago after the British Open last year, but chose not to repair the ACL by surgery. He also has two stress fractures in his left tibia, aggravated by intense rehab and preparation for the U.S. Open. Apparently, they knew about the stress fractures even before the U.S. Open.

Wow. First of all, we obviously wish Tiger Woods a speedy recovery and thank him for all the he gave us last week. Basically, the guy risked further injury to his knee and that, in fact, is exactly what happened. Tiger Woods played against his doctor's recommendations. He did win the U.S. Open, in dramatic fashion. Although I will miss the rest of the 2008 season, Im thrilled with the fact that last week was such a special tournament, Woods said.

But, I ask you dear readers, was it all worth it? Tiger is out for all of 2008 -- no British, no PGA, no Ryder Cup. Is the chance of winning the U.S. Open so much better than the chance of playing in the 2 other majors and the Ryder Cup? TIger must have known that was a possibility, yet he made the decision to play.

PGA Commisssioner Tim Finchem is no doubt going into crisis mode right now. With Tiger Woods for the rest of 2008, what will happen to the PGA's revenues and ratings? The U.S. Open is not even a PGA event, so it probably didn't make Finchem happy to have Woods risk injuring his knee.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods outlasts Rocco Mediate on 19th hole sudden death to close his greatest championship ever

Tiger Woods called it his greatest championship ever. I guess I would have to respectfully disagree. Tiger's entire body of work is filled with masterpieces, and this one is just another compelling chapter written by the greatest golfer to ever play the game. I agree, though, what we just witnessed this past week may have been the most dramatic of all of Tiger's victories.

The drama was intensified by the story--or, rather, stories--that unfolded this U.S. Open Championship. They were all, in a way, improbable. First, there was hometown hero Phil Mickelson playing on his home course looking like he was playing the course for the first time and blundering badly with his strategy, not to mention swing. Improbable, but perhaps understandable given the pressure that Lefty must have felt. The guy withered again under the pressure. Like he said, the last time he quadruple bogeyed 13 was when he was 8 years old! So much for the "dream pairing" of Woods and Mickelson. The USGA should've learned from the debacle at the Ryder Cup!

Tiger Woods, of course, was the exact opposite of Phil: Tiger didn't wither under the pressure, he reveled in it. Pressure is what stokes Tiger's fire. You could visibly see it on his face when he essentially faced elimination on the last hole on Sunday needing to make a 15 footer for birdie to force a playoff and again on Monday, only with a shorter birdie putt. That Tiger was in this position at all was improbable, though, because the guy was coming off knee surgery -- his third on the same knee -- and had not played a tournament in months. Tiger Woods is the only golfer in the world who would be able to pull of something as miraculous as winning a major without having played in months following surgery. I mean, c'mon, most of the players don't even have a realistic chance of winning a major if they are healthy and playing their best.

Finally, the most improbable story this U.S. Open has to be the play of 45-year-old Rocco Mediate, a guy who's won only 5 tourneys on the PGA tour and who is ranked 150 in the world and only made it to the U.S. Open by winning a playoff during a qualifier at Ohio State. If this were a movie, Rocco would be named "Rocky." Rocco played valiantly through 72 holes, almost winning, and then through 18 playoff holes, again almost winning against the best player in the world. But the streak ended for Rocco when he hit a poor drive on the 1st hole of sudden death. Poof, in an instant, Rocco's best -- and perhaps only realistic -- chance to win a major ends. Even before it was over, we were all familiar with the ending. Only a few people have really pushed Tiger to the limit in a major -- Bob May and Chris DiMarco and a young Sergio Garcia -- while most of the previous 13 majors Tiger Woods has won he has done so by imposing his will. (Hal Sutton once outdueled Tiger Woods, but that was at the TPC.) Every major Tiger has won, he's had the lead or share of it going into Sunday. The ending never gets tiresome, though, because how can brilliance ever get boring?

Click here for video of the last playoff hole

Click here for extended highlights of entire playoff

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Will Tiger Woods be retiring for 2008 season to heal knee?

With the U.S. Open only hours over, the LA Times is already speculating that Tiger Woods may call it quits for the rest of the year due to the injury to his right knee. The article also speculates that Tiger might need microfracture surgery to help grow cartilage in his knew, similar to the surgery Greg Oden had last year that put him away for the entire season.

Of course, there's no facts or verification behind this speculation. But Tiger did admit that his doctors advised him that he might be risking further injury by playing this week. Tim Finchem of the PGA might be getting a little nervous.

UPDATE: Tiger Woods did not deny any of these rumors, but he seemed to leave open the possibility that he might shut it down for the year. Watch the video.




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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Will Tiger Woods be retiring for 2008 season to heal knee?

With the U.S. Open only hours over, the LA Times is already speculating that Tiger Woods may call it quits for the rest of the year due to the injury to his right knee. The article also speculates that Tiger might need microfracture surgery to help grow cartilage in his knew, similar to the surgery Greg Oden had last year that put him away for the entire season.

Of course, there's no facts or verification behind this speculation. But Tiger did admit that his doctors advised him that he might be risking further injury by playing this week.

Tim Finchem of the PGA might be getting a little nervous.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

US Open playoff update: Tiger Woods + Rocco Mediate all tied after 14 holes; 4 holes left

Tiger Woods had a 2-shot lead after the turn. Tiger is at even par, Rocco at +2. Rocco is sporting a red Tiger shirt, so is Tiger.

10th hole: Tiger just rolled in par putt from the fringe, again curling in from the side door, barely. Rocco flubbed his chip and then two-putted for bogey. Tiger is now 3-strokes up. Momentum on Woods' side. If Rocco doesn't stop the bleeding, could be over soon.

11th hole: Tiger hits tee shot into bunker on par 3. Rocco stripes one over the flag, to about 20 feet. Tiger bogeys, Rocco pars. Tiger slips back to 2-shots up.

12th hole: Rocco drives into fairway. Tiger drives into bunker. Rocco stripes nice shot onto green. Tiger skies shot out of bunker and yells, "Goddammit." NBC censors. Tiger chips, ends up short. Rocco powers his 15 footer right through break, 5 feet past hole. Mutters to himself and swipes his hand in air in disgust. Tiger misses par putt, ends up 5 feet past hole; Tiger makes it for bogey. Rocco needs to make his par putt to apply pressure on Tiger. Rocco makes par, closing Tiger's lead to just 1-stroke.

13th hole: Both birdie par 5.

14th hole: Tiger lips out birdie putt, settles for par. Rocco chips to 6 inches, taps in for birdie. All tied. 5 holes left.

Sorry, guys, I gotta head out for a conference.

ESPN has a live blog up here.

Also, there's live video coverage on the Web.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods saves magic for last hole with clutch birdie putt to force 18 hole playoff on Monday

What can you say? I mean really, what can you say? We've seen it time and again. When there's a pressure shot, and the tournament is on the line, there is no better "clutch" player than Tiger Woods. Tiger saved his best for last.

Rocco Mediate was sitting pretty in the clubhouse, at -1, with only Lee Westwood and Tiger Woods left on the course, both of whom were at even. Give Rocco some props because that "old" guy played his heart out on Sunday. The only hole left for Westwood and Woods to play was the par-5 18th. Both Westwood and Tiger hit poor drives and were forced to lay up. But Tiger flared his lay-up wide right into the rough and was so visibly displeased by his shot that he slammed his club twice. At this point, Woods looked like things were slipping away. Westwood blasted out of the bunker into the fairway, perfect for the approach. Advantage Westwood. Tiger muscled out of the rough and 15 feet to the right of the cup. Westwood went over the flag, but too long to about 20 feet. Advantage Tiger.

Both needed to sink their birdie putts to tie Rocco. Westwood missed from downhill, leaving only Tiger to putt. It was reminiscent of the 2000 PGA Championship when Tiger needed to birdie the last hole to force a playoff with Bob May.

So what did Tiger do next? You guessed it. He rolled the ball and it barely snuck in the right edge and looped around, but in. Tiger was overjoyed with emotion, shaking his entire body and yelling. Like magic.



Click here for the video of TIger

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods wins on 19th hole sudden death -- why is sudden death fair after not using it before?

I will post more final thoughts later. Here's something to think about: The U.S. Open has an 18-hole playoff system that converts over to sudden death playoff. Why is that system fair? If you think 18 holes is the better, truer test, you shouldn't switch over to sudden death ever. Might go another 9 holes, or another 4 holes or 3 holes, but the switch to sudden death brings right back into play the whole notion that sudden death doesn't really produce the true test of the better golfer -- one bad hole and you're toast. The sudden death killed Rocco's chances, in a way. One bad drive and he's toast. In my book, unfair if you actually buy into the whole 18 hole playoff system (which I'm not sure I do).

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

2008 U.S. Open: The Inevitability of Tiger Woods

(O'Neal/Flickr)

TIGER WOODS CLINCHED his third U.S. Open title today in a 19-hole playoff with journeyman Rocco Mediate. Could we have honestly expected any other result?

Its like watching a movie. You know how its going to end. Well, you think you know. But theres Rocco representing every journeyman who ever dreamed of winning the U.S. Open. And the guy is playing his heart out. And you think maybe this will be the time it slips from Tigers grasp. No one can keep doing this, can they?

Yes, if his name is Tiger Woods.

I didnt see the playoff, but in 10 years Ill probably be telling people I was there. Seriously, I had to drive from L.A. to San Francisco this morning. I couldn't stop thinking about the playoff, though. So I called my dad from Coalinga.

Rocco is hanging tough, he told me. He almost aced the third hole.

In Santa Clara, I called again.

Tiger is hitting the ball in bad spots, but his putter is keeping him in it, 12 putts in 10 holes, he said. Rocco has made up three shots. Theyre tied with four holes to play.

Then I heard the final result I was expecting on the radio news. Tiger won. Of course. Tiger always gets it done. Always.

But Rocco Mediate, in his own way, was just as impressive as Tiger. Let me explain.

Weve come to expect the impossible from Tiger. Eagle the last hole to take the lead. Birdie the last hole to force a playoff. Hit shots everywhere and somehow find a way to win in the most desperate circumstances. Whatever it takes.

But how often have we seen a worthy, head-to-head competitor for Woods in the majors? Hardly ever.

The easygoing Rocco played an amazing tournament and didnt wilt in a toe-to-toe confrontation with the ultimate intimidator. We all knew Rocco was a good guy, but who knew he had so much heart?

I havent had a chance to fully digest this major championship, but it must go down as one of the greatest ever. With the bum knee there was a Hoganesque quality to Tigers long 91-hole march for the U.S. Open trophy.

Tiger will disappear for a while now to rest the left knee and may skip the British. If he does, it may be necessary to post a flyer:

LOST: One-legged golfer, missing at last major. Answers to Tiger. And U.S. Open champion.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Watch the 18 hole playoff at the US Open on the Web - click here

The video apparently will be all online at the U.S. Open site starting at noon ET (9 a.m. PT). It will be hard for the playoff to match the sheer drama that the last 36-holes provided, but I really hope that the playoff comes down to the final 2 holes. There are 2 obvious story lines to watch: (1) Can Rocco Mediate continue to play loose and easy in the spotlight with Tiger Woods, and (2) how long can Tiger Woods play on that left knee and will he risk permanent damage to it? (If this were not the US Open, I doubt you'd even see him on the course with this problem with his knee.)

Good luck to both men -- thanks for providing one of the most memorable U.S. Opens ever. So, dear readers, which ending do you prefer: (1) Cinderella story, qualifier Rocco Mediate becomes oldest U.S. Open winner ever, or (2) coming off of knee surgery and visibly in pain, Tiger Woods wins 14th major of his career in most dramatic fashion?

Click here for the video.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Should the U.S. Open get rid of the 18 hole playoff?

Why does the U.S. Open stick with its 18-hole playoff format? It makes things very anti-climactic and harder for anyone to watch. Dear, readers, do you like this 18-hole playoff system or what?

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods + Lee Westwood both duck hook into the junk on 13

Uh-oh.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

How can you not root for Rocco?

Rocco Mediate is having the most fun of everyone today. He's smiling, talking, and laughing while walking up the fairway. He had to qualify for the US Open this year at the Scarlet Course at Ohio State and only made it in after a playoff.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods saves magic for last hole with clutch birdie putt to force 18 hole playoff on Monday

What can you say? I mean really, what can you say? We've seen it time and again. When there's a pressure shot, and the tournament is on the line, there is no better "clutch" player than Tiger Woods. Tiger saved his best for last.

Rocco Mediate was sitting pretty in the clubhouse, at -1, with only Lee Westwood and Tiger Woods left on the course, both of whom were at even. Give Rocco some props because that "old" guy played his heart out on Sunday. The only hole left for Westwood and Woods to play was the par-5 18th. Both Westwood and Tiger hit poor drives and were forced to lay up. But Tiger flared his lay-up wide left into the rough and was visibly displeased by his shot that he slammed his club twice. Westwood blasted out of the bunker into the fairway, perfect for the approach. Tiger muscled out of the rough and 18 feet to the right of the cup. Westwood went over the flag, but too long to about 20 feet.

Both needed to sink their birdie putts to tie Rocco. Westwood missed, leaving only Tiger to putt. It was reminiscent of the 2000 PGA Championship when Tiger needed to birdie the last hole to force a playoff with Bob May.

So what did Tiger do next? You guessed it. He rolled the ball and it barely snuck in the right edge and looped around, but in. Tiger was overjoyed with emotion, shaking his entire body and yelling. Like magic.



Click here for the video of TIger

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods + Lee Westwood both duck hook into the junk on 13

Uh-oh. Both went with the 3-wood to go for the green in 2, on the par-5 600 yard hole. Tiger just took a penalty stroke and has to sink a long one for par. Talk about brain cramp for both guys who are playing together. Could be pivotal. Tiger's going to make bogey.

Rocco Mediate looks like he will be taking the lead. Rocco would be the oldest player ever to win the U.S. Open. Rocco's at -2, Tiger looks like he will fall back to -1.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

How much of a chance does Rocco Mediate have on Monday?

Rocco Mediate played like a winner on Sunday, with passion, humor, and good charm. He's a very likable guy, and, secretly, I kind of wished that the golfing gods would have let him win this one major in his career. Tiger's got 13 already and will likely win at least 10 more. So why not let Rocco have just one? That one major will cap off Rocco's otherwise middling career.

But, unfortunately, we will have to wait until Monday to see the end of this story. Some guy named Tiger Woods decided to crash the party for Rocco. Rocco played well all week, but he didn't have to play next to Tiger Woods. History has proven that few play well in the same group with Tiger when paired on the last day at a major (although Lee Westwood tied Woods today). Rocco's got the kind of personality, though, that can defuse some of the Tiger intimidation factor. But can Rocco last another 18 against Tiger, going head to head?

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

2008 U.S. Open: Tiger Woods Is the Drama King

I DIDNT SEE IT. Im in California for a family wedding and reception that took place during yesterdays entire third round of the U.S. Open.

So I didnt see the drama of Tiger Woods painful march across Torrey Pines unfold. I didnt see the errant drives and the frequent grimaces. The knee is clearly overstressed. Even the stoic Woods can no longer hide it now.

I didnt see the downhill bomb for an eagle on 13, or the one-hop birdie chip on 17. I missed the final dramatic stroke on 18, another eagle that gave Tiger a one-shot lead heading into todays final round.

What can possibly happen today? What can the gimpy Woods do for an encore? I wouldnt begin to try to guess.

One thing is certain: Ill be watching.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Phil Mickelson hits 9, quadruple bogey on 13th = flubs his way out of US Open

Phil Mickelson, known for the best short game in the game, just flubbed his way out of the U.S. Open. Phil had trouble mastering the false front on the 13th hole and proceeded to hit 4 wedge shots-- yes, you heard that right, 4 wedge shots! -- from 30 or 40 yards because the ball kept coming up short and rolling back.

Wow. Game over.

Was that Butch Harmon running back over to Ernie Els's group?

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

The Tiger Woods Magic Show at the U.S. Open

The morning after, I am still marveling at the performance Tiger Woods put on yesterday. The best description I have is that it was sort of like magic.

Who can believe that, within 1 hour, the same golfer (who was hobbling up the fairway with his driver as a cane) would proceed to eagle 2 holes -- with miraculous bombs of 65 + 35 plus feet, with side winding, downhill breaks of some 10 and 5 feet!! Houdini.

The first eagle came on the same hole that Phil Mickelson took a quadruple bogey and Ernie Els took a bogey.

And then, to top it all off, Tiger throws in a birdie chip in from the rough on 17, which even he admitted he hit too hard and was just lucky to go in on the bounce!

Had Tiger made just 1 of those shots or putts yesterday, it would have been spectacular. The fact that he made all 3 of those incredible shots within the span of about 1 hour is testament to how amazing the guy is. He never ceases to amaze.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods eagles last hole to gain outright lead at -3 -- GAME OVER

Today was the most dramatic and exciting round of golf I have ever seen Tiger Woods play, ever. If you missed it, you missed one for the ages. It was a sheer delight to watch. What made it dramatic was the fact that Tiger Woods was clearly limping, grimacing, and playing in serious pain. After the round he admitted that his knee is feeling worse. Also dramatic were the two huge down hill eagle putts--both with huge breaks, one from 65 feet--that Tiger sunk on the 13th and 18th, as well as the "lucky" chip in on 17, with the ball hopping in the hole on one bounce. The thousands of fans were all going nuts! Electrifying!



Tiger Woods has the flair for the dramatic. Every major he's won, he has had the lead or share of the lead after 54 holes. Well, today, with his eagle putt on 18, Tiger grabbed the outright lead over Lee Westwood at -2.

Game over.

Leaderboard

Full Tiger video highlights here

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods gets really lucky and chips in for birdie on 17, to go -1

Wow. Tiger Woods started spraying shots -- with his knee hurting. On 17, he missed the green and then pitched from the rough off the hill sloping from the green. He hit it too hard and looked nervous for a second -- until the ball bounced once and straight into the cup.

Some guy yelled perfectly, "One time!" before the ball went in.

After the ball dropped in, Tiger Woods smiled widely, knowing that he just got lucky.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Is Tiger Woods risking greater knee injury?

Tiger Woods is now limping and using his driver as a cane. Hopefully the doctors didn't let him come back too soon.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods bombs in long eagle putt on 13 -- gives double fist-pump

Tiger Woods just rolled in a huge bomb from above the hole, with 5 feet of break. After he sunk the putt, Tiger gave a double fist pump several times. Electric! He's now at -1. Rocco Mediate is at -4.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

2008 U.S. Open: Tin Man Tiger Woods Comes Alive

REMEMBER IN THE WIZARD OF OZ when the Tin Man was all rusty and creaky? Then Dorothy squirted him with the oil can and he started moving, smiling and, finally, dancing.

Tiger Woods was the Tin Man today, all rusty and gimpy. Not doing a whole lot, just sort of there.

Then, faster than Dorothy could click her heels, the rust vanished. This Tin Man was draining 20-foot birdies like they were $3 gas. Tiger shot an astonishing 30 on his second nine for a round of 68.

The Tin Man with the creaky left knee is just one shot off the 36-hole lead. Heeeeees back.

Lastly, inspired by The Wizard of Oz and dedicated to Phil Mickelson, I leave you with this:

(To the tune of If I Only Had a Heart)

I would not be just a nothin my head all full of stuffin
My heart all full of pain.
I would dance and be merry, life would be a ding-a-derry,
If I only hit a fairway.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Did Phil Mickelson blunder by going with 5 wedges + no driver?

Phil Mickelson grew up in San Diego and knows Torrey Pines like the back of his hand. But unfortunately, he sits at +4 after 2 days of going with no driver in the bag. Instead, Phil went with 5 wedges and they surely helped him scramble all day. But going with a 3-wood all day appeared to back fire b/c not only did Phil miss the fairway 50% of the time, he also left himself 40 or 50 yards behind Tiger Woods.

I think it's very risky not to carry a driver in the bag. And, seriously, how many wedges do you really need? Just open the club face more. My guess is that Lefty has stick the driver back in the bag today if he wants to make a run.

Dear, readers, what do you think?

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods on fire on Friday 13th: 3-3-3-3-3

It's spine-chilling to watch Tiger Woods go on a run. On the front nine (Tiger's back nine for the day), Tiger Woods just birdied 4 of the first 5 holes. Plus, Tiger had the look of being in a total zone and gave a couple animated fist punches after sinking a few birdies.

Tiger is now -1, and closing in on the leaders Rocco Mediate, Stuart Appleby, and Oliver Wilson at -2.

Phil Mickelson is +2 and having a pretty wild day.

Video highlights here

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

2008 U.S. Open: TV Schedule and Viewing Tips

TWENTY-ONE HOURS of TV coverage are on tap for the U.S. Open. Its ESPN, NBC and ESPN on Thursday and Friday. Its all NBC on the weekend.

Thursday & Friday
10 a.m. - Noon PDT (1 - 3 p.m. EDT) on ESPN
Noon - 2 p.m. PDT (3 - 5 p.m. EDT) on NBC
2 p.m. - 7 p.m. PDT (5 - 10 p.m. EDT) on ESPN

Saturday
1 - 7 p.m. PDT (4 - 10 p.m. EDT) on NBC

Sunday
NOON - 6 p.m. PDT (3 - 9 p.m. EDT) on NBC

Viewing Tips
1. Dont peak too early; its a long, grueling tournament.
2. Stay in the moment.
3. Take it one shot at a time.
4. Eliminate all distractions (work, chores/errands, family members).
5. If you like Johnny Miller, youre golden.
6. If you dislike Johnny Miller, consider the mute button.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Easy Swing Practice Board

Practice makes perfect and this Easy Swing Board will certainly need some practicing! I had a play with a demo board at a Nevada Bob store over the weekend and was thoroughly impressed, if not a little daunted by my swing demons!The basic concept of the swing board is practice practice practice with its adjusting [...]

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[Source: Golf Blog]

2008 U.S. Open: Glam Pairing Injury Update

Adam Scott

At 8:06 a.m. local time, the worlds top three golfers will tee off in the 108th U.S. Open at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, California. That would be Eldrick Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Adam Scott.

And these elite golf warriors are playing hurt.

In case youve just returned from another galaxy, Tiger is recovering from surgery No. 3 on his left knee. Despite more knee speculation than Ping has putters, Woods says hes ready to rumble.

I'm good to go, Tiger said on Tuesday. I plan on playing competitive. Come game time on Thursday I'll be ready.

Not to be outdone, Adam Scott also has an injury. The Australian star broke his right pinkie finger several weeks ago. No worries, mate. Adam is up to this weeks task.

Broken finger wont stop Adam Scott, announced The Sydney Morning Herald. (But hell have to lay off pinkie wrestling for a while.)

And Phil? Hes an inch taller, in case you havent heard. Its all that stretching hes been doing. I know, I know - its not an injury. But the unplanned growth did cause Lefty to go to a 37-inch putter.

How does that factor into Mickelson's game and U.S. Open chances? I havent a clue.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Phil Mickelson press conference U.S Open

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

American Express at US Open

Weve brought back The U.S. Open Experience presented by American Express. The onsite interactive area, open to all attendees, features an array of historic memorabilia from the USGA collection, highlighting a variety of past and upcoming U.S. Open Championship venues and landmark moments in golf history. The U.S. Open Experience presented by American Express also features:

Championship Vision personal multimedia devices powered by WiseDV and Live Leaderboard technology enablers powered by myLEADERBOARD, to track championship play

Fully operational mechanical golfer as used in the USGA Test Center

Official USGA rule quiz

Stations featuring past Championship highlights

The American Express Cardmember Club is a great place to relax and escape the crowded viewing areas at the course. Nestled between the 7th and 8th holes at Torrey Pines Golf Course with patio views of the 7th fairway, the club is fully equipped with American Express concierge staff and food and beverage and open to anyone with a valid American Express Card. The American Express Cardmember Club is open all day from June 9th 15th.

Additionally, American Express is curerntly holding a silent auction in their exclusive Cardmember Club featuring an array of big-ticket items ranging from the shirt off Jim Furyks back (actual game worn Hawke & Co shirt from first round competition on Thursday with signed Ahead hat), to tickets to the American Express skybox at New York City Fashion Week and courtside seats for the final round of the U.S. Open for Tennis in August. The bidding wars have begun!

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods pre-U.S. Open press conference

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Which is the better U.S. Open: Tiger Woods beating Phil Mickelson on the 72nd hole, or vice versa?

OK, the so-called dream pairing of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson tomorrow and Friday at Torrey Pines allows us to "dream" of a head-to-head duel between the two top players in the world.

So, dear reader, which would be the better U.S. Open to watch:
A. Tiger Woods beating Phil Mickelson on the 72nd hole after the two were tied, or
B. Phil Mickelson beating Tiger Woods on the 72nd hole after the two were tied?

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Caesar Featherie -- a golf ball with no dimples

When I opened up the sleeve of Caesar Featherie golf balls, I couldn't believe my eyes. The ball resembles a ping pong ball or a cue ball in pool. Its surface is completely smooth, almost glossy. Someone forgot the dimples, on purpose though!



Here's what the manufacturer Caesar says about the ball:

This ball makes golf more enjoyable for the average player. It keeps the ball on the fairway, out of the rough, because it doesnt hook or slice. It flies straight. Yes, you sacrifice a little distance, but you make more accurate shots.

Off the tee, the best results come with a higher lofting club. The ball will fly a little shorter but run well. Its really great on the fairway within 100 yards of the pin because this ball goes where you want it to go. On the green, the Featherie putts better any ball on the market. For slow swingers, and on Par 3 and short executive courses, it makes golfing more fun.

The Caesar Featherie meets all requirements for a certified USGA ball but its not likely to be used by the short handicap or tournament player. Its designed for the average player, who just wants to go out and have more fun. A sleeve of three balls is $30 at caesargolfcompany.com.

My own view: I only had a chance to hit this ball on two or three holes from the fairway. My sense of the ball is that it may help to keep the ball in play -- because the ball doesn't travel as far. But then you need to figure out how much distance you lose, something I didn't have enough time to do. And you need to play this golf ball on short courses. Whether or not the ball reduces curvature of the shot, I could not tell because I was hitting shorter approach shots. On the putting green, I found the ball rolled fine. It did feel a little heavier off the blade than a regular ball. Anway, I found it fun to hit -- and my playing partners were all amazed by the look of the ball, too!

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

A U.S. Open Player Even Matt Lauer Would Beat

BY NOW YOU'VE SURELY HEARD the results of Matt Lauers trip around Torrey Pines, site of this weeks U.S. Open. The NBC anchor, a single-digit handicapper, shot an even 100 on the brutal setup.

Playing partner Justin Timberlake did slightly better, shooting a 98. And Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, a fine amateur golfer, had an 84.

But wait. Theres a guy who actually played in the U.S. Open that Lauer would have beaten handily. His name was J.D. Tucker, who teed it up in the 1898 U.S. Open. He shot a 157. Yes, you read that correctly. 1-5-7.

J.D. improved by 57 shots in the next round, carding a 100. Then he quietly withdrew.

Fred Herd was the 1898 winner, with rounds of 84, 85, 75 and 84 for 328, a scoring record until the following year when Willie Smith came home in 315 strokes.

-The Armchair Golfer

(Source: The Telegraph)

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

No Happy Meal for Ochoa and Sorenstam

(Yani Tseng)

THE MCDONALD'S LPGA CHAMPIONSHIP had a full menu of golf drama, including a playoff and 19-year-old rookie winner named Yani Tseng, but it was no happy meal for Lorena Ochoa and Annika Sorenstam. Both finished one shot back in a tie for third.

Ochoas bid for the Grand Slam fizzled in the searing Maryland heat due mostly to a balky putter. Sorenstam also struggled on the greens.

It was a strange day, Lorena said. Almost like it wasnt my time.

I am not ashamed. I'm proud of my finish. And I guess, you know, now I move on and continue and try to win the next few tournaments.

I felt good all week, Annika said. I thought this was going to be my week. So close and not being able to finish.

The next major is the U.S. Womens Open in two weeks at Interlachen Country Club in Edina, Minnesota.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Remembering Jim McKay

LEGENDARY SPORTS BROADCASTER Jim McKay died this weekend. He was 86.

Something I didnt know: His real name was James McManus, but he legally changed it after hosting a program a CBS executive dubbed The Real McKay.

Some of us grew up with McKay, who covered virtually every sport, from the Olympic Games to motor racing to golf.

McKay reported the action at the Masters, U.S. Open, British Open and other tournaments during the Palmer and Nicklaus eras when professional golf began to appear on small black-and-white and color screens across America.

His favorite sport? Horse racing. McKay passed away just hours before the running of the Belmont Stakes.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tony Romo shoots 84, Justin Timerberlake 98 on Torry Pines, US Open setup

Torry Pines is not that tough after all. Tony Romo shot a 13-over par, 84, while Justin Timberlake (suffering from allergies) shot a 98. Matt Lauer shot 100. The 10-handicapper John Atkinson shot 114.

These are quite respectable numbers. My friend raised a great point: it's the first time these guys played Torrey Pines, presumably. So you've got to give them some props from posting respectable (meaning not embarrassing) numbers!

Way to go everyone!

More here

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Memphis in the Meantime

Lets go to Memphis in the meantime, baby.
-John Hiatt

This week definitely reminds me of the above lyric from the John Hiatt song.

I admit Im looking ahead with a full shag bag of anticipation to the U.S. Open. Cant wait. I think most golf enthusiasts feel the same way, especially anticipating the pairing of the worlds top three players: Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Adam Scott.

The PGA Tour is in Memphis in the meantime, with a logjam of players at three under. Tough conditions, apparently. Three under after two rounds? In Memphis? Surreal.

In Maryland at the McDonald's LPGA Championship, Lorena Ochoa is bidding for the second leg of the Grand Slam and her third straight major. She has a one-shot lead heading into the third round.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Can Tony Romo (scratch), Justin Timberlake (3), or Matt Lauer (6) break 100 at Torrey Pines?

Tiger Woods laid down the gauntlet, saying "If you're a 10-handicapper, there is no way you're breaking 100 out there. If you played all out on every shot, there is no way.
You just have to be so patient and on top of that you've got to be strong coming out of the rough and you've got to have unbelievable touch on the greens. Most 10-handicappers I know don't have that."

Well, Tony Romo (scratch), Justin Timberlake (3), and Matt Lauer (6) will get their chance (along with a 10 handicapper)at Torrey Pines, with the U.S. Open setup. (More)

Torrey Pines is par 71, 7,643 yards, making it the longest ever in major championship history.

OK, I think it will depend a little on the playing conditions. Let's say that there's no wind at all and it's just a beautiful day. Maybe one of the guys gets lucky? Also, I think it depends on how true the handicaps are. If Romo is really a scratch and Timberlake really a 3, then you would think they both have decent shots at breaking 100, even as tricked up for the U.S. Open. Shooting 100 is 29 strokes over par!

UPDATE: We just found some footage of Timberlake taking practice swings. Decent in the backswing, but the move through the ball and follow through do not look promising in this video.



Matt Lauer has a shot because he actually could sit through this interview with Tom Cruise. Shows that Lauer has patience!



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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Arnold Palmer Center Opens at USGA Headquarters

(Photo: Taylor PR)

TUESDAY WAS THE GRAND OPENING of the USGAs new Arnold Palmer Center for Golf History.

I've received a lot of honors, but this may top them all, Palmer told attendees.

The centerpiece of the new center is the Hall of Champions, which includes all 13 original USGA championship trophies and has the name of each champion inscribed on bronze panels.

The USGA Museum and Archives has worked diligently to preserve the rich traditions and history of the game for more than 70 years, USGA Museum Director Rand Jerris told me last year.

The new Palmer Center will allow us to showcase these artifacts properly for the first time in our history.

If youre in the area (or not), its worth a trip to Far Hills, New Jersey, which is about a J.D. Holmes drive and 9-iron from New York City.

Palmer was also on hand at a nearby Callaway facility (see photo) to promote Callaway Performance Center custom-fitting locations.

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
USGA Arnold Palmer Center interview, Part 1
USGA Arnold Palmer Center interview, Conclusion

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

US Open pairing: Tiger Woods - Phil Mickelson - Adam Scott

The USGA has decided to screw around with the pairings. Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Adam Scott are all playing together -- which ensures that either Woods or Mickelson will not play well, given the "kryptonite" effect and bad mojo the two World's Best players have on each other. What was the USGA thinking? Didn't they see what happened when Hal Sutton put Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson in one group at the Ryder Cup?

At least, the USGA is consistent. It's paired all of the Top 12 players together: (1) Ernie Els, Justin Rose, Geoff Ogilvy, (2) Stewart Cink, Sergio Garcia, and Vijay Singh, and (3) KJ Choi, Jim Furyk, and Steve Stricker.

Already tournament organizers are worried about the traffic gridlock that the Woods-Mickelson pairing might produce in San Diego, where Mickelson grew up and Tiger, of course, is a huge attraction.

More

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

A Fellow Scotsman Defends Colin Montgomerie

MY FRIEND, BRIAN, who supplies photography for this blog, is sticking up for Monty after my post about the most overrated tour players. This is bumped up from the comments section, with Brians permission:

Sorry, I know its not your list but a Scotsman is about to defend another Scotsman!

Colin Montgomerie is not and could never be considered overrated. In fact, I am not sure any of those guys could. Maybe not lived up to their expectations, or, as another said, underachieved. Yes, maybe.

Someone who topped the European Tour eight times cannot be overrated!

What about golfers who have freak wins at majors of whom we hear very little or see winning again consistently at the highest levels? Surely, they are the overrated ones. I can think of Paul Lawrie as an example close to home. I am sure there are other closer to home for you. Ben Curtis, maybe?

Monty was a consistent winner and, yes, never cut it in the United States. But then again he never did a Sergio, or a Rose, or a Parnevik, and moved over and tried to make his living on the PGA Tour. He stayed loyal to the European circuit.

To call him overrated seems typical of the disrespectful attitude towards him from certain parts of the American media and public, who, lets face it, dont like him. Hence the Mrs. Doubtfire tag.

No one needs to remind him he has never won a major. Believe me, he gets reminded about it every day over here. Would he swap his eight European Order of Merits for one U.S. Open and golfing obscurity thereafter? Not sure.

Winning a major does not get you guaranteed respect over here. Who do you think is more respected in golf, Montgomerie or Lawrie?

Ill take that last question. Monty. Its a no brainer.

-The Armchair Golfer

Related:
Will Faldo Pick Montgomerie for Ryder Cup Team?
Colin Montgomerie Is Feeling Old

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Kenny Perry skips qualifying for US Open, making Ryder Cup No.1 priority

Kenny Perry won last week, but decided not to try to qualify for the US Open. He's from Kentucky, doesn't like playing Torrey Pines in San Diego, didn't want to play 36 holes in one day for the qualifier b/c he's getting older, and wants to concentrate instead on making the Ryder Cup to be played this year at Valhalla in Kentucky.

Hmmm...Perry's logic sounded much better before he won the Memorial. Now, he's No. 5 on the points list, so he's a virtual shoe-in to make the team. Why skip out on this country's national championship? I just don't get it.

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tigers Left Knee Speaks on U.S. Open Prep

Tiger's Left Knee at the 2007 Masters.
(Pocketwiley/Flickr)

ARMCHAIR GOLF recently caught up with Tigers Left Knee during a break between practice sessions.

Q: In Mondays conference call, Tiger said, I feel like I'm getting there. Hopefully, it'll be close to 100%. If not, no big deal.

LEFT KNEE: Yeah, I know. I was there.

Q: Is there anything you would like to add?

LEFT KNEE: Nope.

Q: Do you agree with the no big deal part?

LEFT KNEE: Next question, please.

Q: What do you think of Torrey Pines?

LEFT KNEE: Love Torrey. Love it. Tiger and I have played there since he was a tyke. Absolutely gorgeous place. Of course, it looks different to me.

Q: How so?

LEFT KNEE: Im a lot closer to the ground. Its a whole different vantage point.

Q: Got it.

LEFT KNEE: Still, a great place for me. The terrain is not real up and down, so thats good, especially coming off surgery.

Q: Whats your biggest concern going into next week?

LEFT KNEE: I want Tiger to play well, of course. Were so due to win a U.S. Open, and I dont want anyone to think Im holding him back from his goals.

Q: Anything else?

LEFT KNEE: I hope we can stay out of that insane U.S. Open rough. Thats probably my biggest personal fear. I mean, when Tiger goes after it in the rough, hide the women and children.

Q: Does it hurt?

LEFT KNEE: Does Titleist make golf balls?

Q: Understand.

LEFT KNEE: Anyway, maybe Stevie will encourage Tiger to keep the driver in the bag a little more than usual so we can keep our dimpled friend on the short grass most of the time.

Q: How are we on time?

LEFT KNEE: I gotta go. Were working on the short game this afternoon, which I enjoy much more than those 124 M.P.H. swings on the practice tee. Lot less stress on me, if you know what I mean.

Q: Thanks, and best of luck next week.

LEFT KNEE: Yep. Well see what happens.

Related:
Q&A: Tigers Left Knee Carries Weight of the Golf World

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Tiger Woods plays 18 holes at Torrey Pines -- course entirely to himself

Tiger Woods finally played 18 holes of golf after his surgery -- well, 17 holes because Tiger saw a few people around the 18th hole green, so he quickly picked up his ball and dashed off to the parking lot.

And Tiger got to play Torrey Pines all by himself, with his coach Hank Haney and Stevie Williams riding along with him in a cart.

"It went well," Haney said. "He hit the ball really well. It was definitely a positive day. Everything held up good. Obviously, he didn't walk. But he hit the ball really good."

"The greens were so fast," he said. "In the 30 years of being on tour and teaching players, that was the fastest I've ever seen greens this far out. They were putting beautifully."

More and here

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Golf inspired Father's Day gifts from Lamps Plus

Are you like me and get your dad a tie or shirt for your dad each Father's Day? Well, Lamps Plus just sent us some great ideas for golf gifts this year. See the links (no pun intended) below:

33rd Ryder Cup Autographed Golf Collage (visit here)

Golf Bags Bookends (visit here)

Fred Couples Gold Frame Golf Lithograph (visit here)

Oh, by the way, this is just a public service announcement. We don't get a cut of anything and we were not paid anything to write this post. We just think these gifts look pretty cool. Happy Father's Day!

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

Tiger Woods hasn't played 18 holes yet

Hmm...at a press conference yesterday, Tiger Woods revealed that he still hasn't played 18 holes since the surgery. He said he doesn't feel pain. And if he's not 100%, it's not like he hasn't played with injuries in the past.

Does this bode well for the U.S. Open?

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[Source: The Golf Blog]

U.S. Open Homecoming for Pat Perez

WHEW. HE MADE IT.

Last month Pat Perez told ARMCHAIR GOLF, This year its all about the U.S. Open. I have to get in there. Thats the biggest of the bigs for me. Back home in San Diego, thats my main goal in life right now.

When I asked him what it would mean to play the U.S. Open in his hometown, he replied, Everything. Seriously.

There was a catch. Then ranked No. 58 in the world, Double P needed to climb to No. 50 to avoid the perils of sectional qualifying. Despite a strong Colonial and Memorial, Pat only got halfway there, to No. 54.

On Monday Perez teed it up with 140 or so players in the Columbus, Ohio, sectional qualifier to vie for 23 spots. Pat's 71-67-138 made it by a shot.

Now thats pressure, especially for someone who said hed rather qualify to play in the U.S. Open in his hometown than win his first tournament.

Also in through the Columbus qualifier are PGA Tour players Carl Pettersson (medalist), Davis Love, Bart Bryant, Ben Crane, Jesper Parnevik, Rocco Mediate, Chad Campbell, Nick Watney, Dean Wilson, Joe Ogilvie, Robert Garrigus, Steve Marino and Fredrik Jacobson.

Alas, Fred Couples didnt make it.

-The Armchair Golfer

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]

Drugs in Golf

Not so long ago I wrote an article about the accusations made regarding drugs in modern golf. The guys over at Golf Punk have released the following video on the latest developments.embededPlayer(3208, 3530, 275, 218);

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[Source: Golf Blog]

PGA Tour Considering New Slogan

ACCORDING TO SOURCES, the PGA Tour is close to launching a new slogan and accompanying advertising campaign to replace the longstanding, These guys are good.

The current slogan has served us well, a Tour insider said on condition of anonymity. But its time to re-position the product. Were moving on.

What about the brand equity accrued over the years?

Very few of the worlds golfers are televised and collect a million dollars for winning a tournament, he explained. Of course, these guys are good. People get it.

The new slogan process has taken months, beginning with an extensive agency search. The selected firm assembled a large in-house creative team and cadre of freelancers who have brainstormed thousands of possible slogans based on in-depth product and market research.

But at the 11th hour the apparent winner was rejected when it drew a lukewarm response in a series of focus groups.

Its now completely out of the running, said the Tour source about the one-time favorite, These guys are really good.

The new favorite set for approval will take the Tour in a whole new direction and, in effect, re-brand the product. Its the right time, noted the source.

We feel at this juncture its critical to differentiate ourselves from other sports and reaffirm the integrity of our terrific players and great game.

Thats why were truly excited about the launch of These guys are drug-free.

-The Armchair Golfer

(This is an ARMCHAIR GOLF spoof.)

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[Source: ARMCHAIR GOLF BLOG]