Adam Svensson of Canada plays a shot from a bunker on the ninth hole during the first round of the Black Desert Championship 2024 (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)
"Friday Fore-cast" prepares you for golf's major tours heading into the weekend. PGA Professional Brendon Elliott, a three-decade industry veteran, provides his insights for RG. In this installment: Black Desert Championship Shines In Debut, Svensson's Late Surge Impresses in France, Strong Start for Sei Young Kim in Shanghai.
The Black Desert Championship: Reviving Golf in Utah with Electrifying Performances
After being absent for some time, the PGA TOUR has made a triumphant return to Utah with the inaugural Black Desert Championship. The Black Desert Resort Golf Course, set in the stunning desert landscape, has become the focal point of golf this week. This return is not just another event on the calendar but a significant moment for Utah, reigniting the state's historical ties to professional golf, which were last prominent in the early 1960s. This new championship not only promises to boost local tourism but also showcases Utah as a formidable host for renowned global golf events.
Adam Svensson's Dazzling Performance
Canadian golfer Adam Svensson is, without question, the star of the Black Desert Championship's opening round. Svensson electrified the fans by matching a career-best with a stunning round of 60, setting the pace and seizing the early lead. Svensson has already proven to be a steadfast competitor on the PGA TOUR and knows how to capitalize on opportunities as they come his way, as we saw at the 2022 RSM Classic, his first win on the PGA TOUR. His potential to clinch victory this week is indeed there, but plenty of competition is nipping at his heels with three rounds to go.
Ben Kohles' Remarkable Ace
An unexpected yet thrilling highlight came from Ben Kohles, who delivered an unforgettable moment on the short 17t with an ace, adding an exciting note to the tournament's opening round. With his ace, Kohles has become part of this tournament's folklore, carding the events first of what could be many hole-in-ones on the courses next to the last hole.
The Anticipation and Excitement
As the Black Desert Championship unfolds into the weekend, this inaugural event in the FedExCup Fall series stands to be one to look forward to each year. This tournament blazes a trail for future events in Utah through the marvelous design the Black Desert Resort golf course presents with the gorgeous desert backdrop that only this part of the country can provide. This event is a testament to the growing love for golf in regions it once sparsely occupied.
The chapters of this championship are still being written, and what transpires over the coming days is yet to be determined. Could it be Adam Svensson maintaining his early dominance, other contenders stepping up, or more electrifying moments like Ben Kohles' ace? We will have to watch and see. One thing is clear: the Black Desert Championship has firmly positioned itself as a fantastic addition to the PGA TOUR's Fall season, promising a future bright with potential and excitement in the heart of Utah's desert.
Svensson's Late Surge and Impressive Performances Highlights FedEx Open de France First Round
The FedEx Open de France has long been celebrated for its thrilling showcase of some of the best players from the DP World Tour. After one round, this year's event has been no exception, as Jesper Svensson demonstrated his ability to play on the big stage in the first round at Le Golf National.
Jesper Svensson's Late Surge
Svensson, hailing from Sweden, made a remarkable late-day ascent up to the top of the leaderboard on the opening day, securing a share of the lead alongside Thorbjørn Olesen and Joe Dean, finishing at six under par. His rally included four consecutive birdies on holes 14, 15, 16, and 17. His performance down the stretch on Thursday was a remarkable display of the Swede's talent and ability, much like he demonstrated in March of this year when he claimed his first European Tour win at the Porsche Singapore Classic.
Impressive Performances Across the Board
English golfer Joe Dean continued his remarkable run following his stellar finish at the Acciona Open de España. Dean's unblemished round, highlighted by two birdies in his final four holes, further cemented his status as a player to watch. Meanwhile, Thorbjørn Olesen displayed his formidable prowess with a series of birdies early in his round, which helped push him into a tie for the lead at six under.
Amateur sensation Lev Grinberg also caught the attention of fans with a series of strategic birdies, reflecting the promising emerging talent in golf around the globe. The Ukrainian teen's impressive performance is a testament to the sport's growth and broadening appeal at an international level.
Late last night, I had the opportunity to connect with Lev via Instagram DM, where many his age communicate, and ask him some questions prior to his second round today in France.
What's your reaction to your first round?
"I enjoyed my round yesterday; I had a lot of fun and plenty of adrenaline going yesterday. I played with two outstanding professionals and tried to learn from them. Both were very friendly and supportive. The course was very wet after raining all night and during the round. Greenkeepers did a great job to make it possible to play."
How have you been playing coming into this event?
"I haven't played competitive golf since the US Amateur back in August; I've just been practicing a lot. Coming into the FedEx Open de France, I felt very much at ease, focused and self-confident."
What are your expectations for the rest of the week?
"I don't have any expectations for the rest of the week and will go step by step, trying to be patient."
What are your impressions of Le Golf National? How many times have you played it in the past, and how's it playing so far this week?
"Golf National Albatross is an amazing course, one of the best I have ever played. I have played it twice in the tournaments - WATC in 2022 and Faldo Elite Series in 2023. Both times, I played quite solidly. These days, thanks to the French Golf Federation, I practice at the National Performance Center, located at the Golf National, and we play the course almost every week. Unfortunately, due to the construction work which will start on Monday next week, the Golf National and practice facilities will be closed for at least the next year and a half."
Challenges and Triumphs on a Renowned Course
Le Golf National never seems to disappoint. From hosting the Ryder Cup to this year's Olympic Games, it's a fantastic test of golf for the best in the world. The soft conditions on Thursday presented a blend of opportunities and tests for the field, requiring them to adapt and capitalize on birdie chances while navigating the tricky fairways and greens.
Prospects and Anticipation
As players like Svensson, Dean, and Olesen positioned themselves well after the first round, there is a long way to go. Names like Nicolai Højgaard, Justin Rose, and Dylan Frittelli are all lurking. With 54 holes to go, plenty of golf is yet to play.
Strong Start for Sei Young Kim, Celine Boutier, and Leona Maguire at Buick LPGA Shanghai
Sei Young Kim Grabs Early Lead
Sei Young Kim dominated the first day at the Buick LPGA Shanghai, taking the lead amidst a competitive field. Marking her presence with consistent play, Kim swiftly moved up the leaderboard, finishing the day as the early leader. Her performance was highlighted by several birdies, establishing her as a formidable contender for the tournament. Her focused approach provided a solid platform in the opening round, setting a high bar for others to follow.
Celine Boutier in the Hunt
Celine Boutier continued to build her winning momentum following a recent victory on the Ladies European Tour. Stepping onto the course confidently, Boutier made a strong case for herself on the leaderboard. Her accurate shots and steady putting kept her within reach of the top positions. The momentum from her recent win fueled her performance, making her one of the standout players of the day. Boutier's focused approach suggests she is poised to make significant moves in the subsequent rounds.
Leona Maguire's Solid Start
Leona Maguire's debut playing in the Buick LPGA Shanghai was equally noteworthy. She demonstrated meticulous preparation, which paid off with effective strategy and discipline throughout the day. Maguire managed to navigate the course with precision, and her play reflected her thoughtful planning and execution. As a new face in this tournament, her presence adds an intriguing element to the event.
With Three Rounds To Play, Anything Can Still Happen
While the leaderboard is packed, these three storylines illustrate a few of the first round's standout performances. Sei Young Kim set the pace, Celine Boutier's form, fresh off a victory, brought her into early contention, and Leona Maguire's tournament debut in Shanghai impressed.
Looking ahead, the drama that will surely unfold over the next three days on the leaderboard promises excitement—the first day at Buick LPGA Shanghai offered a glimpse into the skilled tournament field, with each player bringing their own unique strengths to the course. The groundwork has been laid, but with several days of play remaining, the Buick LPGA Shanghai remains wide open, inviting players to seize their moments on the course as they come.
Brendon Elliott, a distinguished PGA Professional, is best known for his dedication to the growth and development of junior golf. With nearly three decades of experience, Elliott has been recognized multiple times as one of the best instructors, both regionally and nationally.
Elliott's crowning achievement was being named the 2017 PGA of America National Youth Player Development Award Winner, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication. He is the founder of Little Linksters, an award-winning youth golf academy and nonprofit that works with kids of all abilities to help them develop a passion for golf. His innovative teaching methods and love for the game have made significant impacts on students and the broader golfing community.
Additionally, Brendon, a Golf Writers Association of America member, has become a renowned freelance golf writer, further solidifying his position as a top professional in the industry.
