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Kitayama captures PGA 3M Open title with big birdie weekend

Kitayama captures PGA 3M Open title with big birdie weekend
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Kurt Kitayama holds up his trophy after winning the 3M Open golf tournament at the Tournament Players Club Son July 27, 2025, in Blaine, Minn. (AP)
Kitayama captures PGA 3M Open title with big birdie weekend
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Kurt Kitayama celebrates with caddie Daniel Kitayama after winning the 3M Open golf tournament. (Imagn Images via Reuters)
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Kitayama captures PGA 3M Open title with big birdie weekend

Kitayama captures PGA 3M Open title with big birdie weekend
  • The 32-year-old American fired a six-under-par 65 to finish 72 holes on 23-under-par 261 at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota
  • He sank 20 birdies in the final two rounds — the most by any PGA Tour winner since 2003

CHICAGO: Kurt Kitayama birdied six of the first eight holes then hung on down the stretch to win the 3M Open on Sunday for his second career US PGA Tour title.
With his older brother Daniel serving as his caddie, the 32-year-old American fired a six-under-par 65 to finish 72 holes on 23-under-par 261 at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota.
That was good enough for a one-stroke victory over countryman Sam Stevens, who had five back-nine birdies to keep the pressure on Kitayama to the finish.
ā€œI feel like the game has been trending and for it to finally pay off now has been awesome,ā€ said Kitayama, who was one off the 72-hole tournament record set by Lee Hodges in 2023.
Kitayama, who fired a career-low 60 on Saturday after fighting to make the cut on Friday, sank 20 birdies in the final two rounds — the most by any PGA Tour winner since 2003.
ā€œOn Friday I was like finding my swing and grinding to make the cut,ā€ Kitayama said. ā€œWent to the range to find something and obviously found something on Saturday and it continued today with that unbelievable start that I had. Just kind of went from there.ā€




Kurt Kitayama hits from the first fairway during the final round of the 3M Open golf tournament at the Tournament Players Club on uly 27, 2025, in Blaine, Minnessota. (AP)

Kitayama also won in 2023 at Bay Hill but this time was even better with his brother as bagman.
ā€œIt’s very special. It has been awesome having him on the bag,ā€ Kitayama said.
Kitayama jumped from 110th to 53rd in the season points chase ahead of next week’s regular-season finale at Greensboro, ensuring his spot among the top 70 in points who advance to next month’s FedEx Cup playoffs.
Kitayama’s stunning start put him on 23-under with a three-stroke lead at the turn.
He birdied first on a putt from just inside six feet, the second on a tap-in after his approach landed inches from the hole and the third on a 22-foot putt.
A tap-in birdie at the fifth, a 10-footer for birdie at six and a four-foot birdie putt completed the early surge.
Kitayama found the deep left rough at 11 and made bogey, but answered with a six-foot birdie putt on 12 and restored his three-shot lead with a tap-in birdie at 14 after dropping his approach two feet from the hole.
Stevens reeled off three birdies in a row to reach 22-under with a birdie putt from just inside five feet at the 16th and Kitayama’s three-putt bogey at the par-three 17th sent the drama to the par-five 18th.
Stevens found the rough on his first three shots but salvaged par to stay one back.
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Adam Svensson fires 60 to set course record at 3M Open

Adam Svensson fires 60 to set course record at 3M Open
Adam Svensson reacts to his eagle putt on the 18th green during the first round of the 3M Open golf tournament on Thursday.
Updated 25 July 2025

Adam Svensson fires 60 to set course record at 3M Open

Adam Svensson fires 60 to set course record at 3M Open
  • Svensson’s uphill eagle attempt from just more than 48 feet hit the flagstick and dropped for an eagle, finishing an 11-under round with matching 30s on both nines
  • He broke the previous course record of 62 originally set by Scott Piercy in 2019, and matched by Sam Stevens’ round that was completed just a few groups ahead of Svensson on Thursday

BLAINE: Adam Svensson of Canada eagled the final hole at TPC Twin Cities to shoot a course-record 60 and take the first-round lead at the 3M Open on Thursday in Blaine, Minnesota

Svensson was already working on a sterling round, with nine birdies and no bogeys through 17 holes. He reached the green at the par-5 18th hole in two shots and had two putts to break the course record.

He only needed one.

Svensson’s uphill eagle attempt from just more than 48 feet hit the flagstick and dropped for an eagle, finishing an 11-under round with matching 30s on both nines.

ā€œI just didn’t want to leave it short,ā€ Svensson said. ā€œIt was carrying a little bit of speed and (caddie Jace Walker) gave me a good line and it just happened to go in.ā€

It was a round few would have predicted. Svensson, who won the 2022 RSM Classic, has plummeted to 234th in the Official World Golf Ranking while missing 11 of his first 21 cuts in 2025. That includes his two most recent starts entering this week and four of his past five.

But Svensson could feel a memorable round incoming after what he described as a great range session before his tee time.

ā€œJust really putted amazing,ā€ Svensson added. ā€œI made a bunch of breakers. It was probably my best putting round I ever had, so I’m pretty happy.ā€

He broke the previous course record of 62 originally set by Scott Piercy in 2019, and matched by Sam Stevens’ round that was completed just a few groups ahead of Svensson on Thursday.

Stevens is tied for second at 9 under with Denmark’s Thorbjorn Olesen.

Stevens was on 59 watch when he reached 10 under through 16 holes. He narrowly missed a birdie putt on the 17th hole and then put his approach on 18 in the water. Stevens had to settle for a 62 after closing with a bogey.

ā€œI had a good drive and I probably made the decision trying to shoot 59 because I was in between — I have a pretty big gap between my 3-iron and my 3-wood, and I hit a terrible shot,ā€ Stevens said. ā€œBut I thought if I hit a 3-wood, it was just going to fly to the back of the green, and I kind of had to hit a 3-iron perfect to even cover the water. But I figured that was my best chance to shoot 59, so I gave it a go.

ā€œDidn’t hit a good shot, but made a nice up-and-down for 6, so I guess that’s a positive. Yeah, not the best way to finish the round, but gave it a crack.ā€

Chris Gotterup continued his hot streak after winning the Genesis Scottish Open and placing third in his debut at the Open Championship. Gotterup fired a bogey-free, 8-under 63 and was tied for fourth with Chad Ramey and Germany’s Matti Schmid.

ā€œSomeone asked me last week if you’ve ever been on a heater, and I said I guess this is kind of my first one,ā€ Gotterup said. ā€œYeah, you know, I’m just going to try to ride it out as long as I can.ā€

Jake Knapp, Chris Kirk, Zac Blair and Brendan Valdes were tied at 7-under 64. Rickie Fowler was among those to shoot a 65, as he turned in a card with six birdies and no bogeys.

ā€œA lot of good swings, a couple loose ones, but I’m definitely happy about (his round),ā€ Fowler said. ā€œObviously, playing fairly easy out there with the soft conditions. Svensson put together a nice round. It was definitely out there, a lot of birdies to be made, but at the same time there’s a few holes that you have to keep your guard up in a way and make sure you execute.ā€

Fowler is searching for a jolt as the regular season winds down, as is Max Homa, a former top-five player in the world currently outside the top 100 in the FedEx Cup standings. Homa opened with a 5-under 66.

Defending champion Jhonattan Vegas of Venezuela posted a 3-under 68, and 2022 champ Tony Finau shot a 2-under 69.


Golf Saudi partners with Five Iron Golf to expand sport across Kingdom

Golf Saudi partners with Five Iron Golf to expand sport across Kingdom
Updated 24 July 2025

Golf Saudi partners with Five Iron Golf to expand sport across Kingdom

Golf Saudi partners with Five Iron Golf to expand sport across Kingdom
  • First Five Iron Golf venue scheduled for 2026 on ground floor of PIF Tower in King Abdullah Financial District
  • Five Iron Golf offers simulators, professional instruction, Callaway club fittings, a global membership program, and full-service hospitality

RIYADH: Golf Saudi has announced a strategic partnership with Five Iron Golf — a global leader in immersive golf experiences — to launch a series of advanced indoor golf venues across ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„.

The collaboration supports Golf Saudi’s mission to broaden community engagement and build a sustainable, inclusive golf ecosystem in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030’s goals for the sports sector.

The first Five Iron Golf venue is scheduled to open in Riyadh in the first quarter of 2026. Located on the ground floor of the iconic PIF Tower in the King Abdullah Financial District — one of the region’s most advanced business hubs — it is set to become one of the world’s most prominent indoor golf destinations, adding a new dimension to ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„’s evolving sports and entertainment landscape.

Spanning approximately 1,500 sq. meters, the venue will combine Five Iron Golf’s signature mix of cutting-edge technology, vibrant hospitality, and immersive design at one of the Kingdom’s most prestigious addresses.

Founded in New York in 2017, Five Iron Golf has grown into a global brand with over 36 sites across 16 US states and five other locations — including Dubai, India, Singapore, and Australia.

The company offers simulators, professional instruction, Callaway club fittings, a global membership program, and full-service hospitality. Backed by strategic investors such as Callaway Golf and Enlightened Hospitality Investment, Five Iron is rapidly expanding through both corporate development and franchising, with over 60 locations in the pipeline.

The partnership aligns with Golf Saudi’s vision to expand the sport’s footprint across the Kingdom by introducing modern, accessible venues that appeal to all demographics — particularly youngsters and women.

Golf Saudi and Five Iron aim to deliver a comprehensive, world-class model that blends technology, hospitality, and education to welcome players of all skill levels.

Noah Alireza, CEO of Golf Saudi, said: ā€œWe’re thrilled to partner with Five Iron Golf to bring one of the world’s most dynamic and inclusive golf experiences to ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„.

ā€œThis collaboration reflects our shared commitment to expanding participation, developing youth talent, and building year-round golf infrastructure. Together, we aim to create a vibrant, accessible golf ecosystem across the Kingdom, in line with Vision 2030.ā€

Jared Solomon, the co-founder and CEO of Five Iron Golf, said: ā€œWe believe Five Iron is more than just a place to hit balls — it’s a cultural experience that has helped shape the modern face of golf. We’re excited to bring our brand, energy, and commitment to inclusivity to ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„.

ā€œAs the Kingdom builds a vibrant golf ecosystem and inspires a new generation of golfers, we’re proud to be part of this momentum and contribute to its broader success story.ā€

Golf Saudi and Five Iron Golf plan to expand the model to additional cities in the future, further accelerating the Kingdom’s golf development and reinforcing its regional leadership in the sport.


Saudi professional golfer Othman Almulla partners with SAL

Saudi professional golfer Othman Almulla partners with SAL
Updated 22 July 2025

Saudi professional golfer Othman Almulla partners with SAL

Saudi professional golfer Othman Almulla partners with SAL
  • Partnership will nurture local talent and advance golf and the Saudi sports sector in general
  • Othman Almulla: I’m honored to have SAL’s support on my journey

JEDDAH: SAL Saudi Logistics Services has entered into a sponsorship agreement with Othman Almulla, the Kingdom’s first professional golfer.

The partnership is intended to nurture local talent and advance golf and the Saudi sports sector in general.

ā€œI’m honored to have SAL’s support on my journey,ā€ Almulla said. ā€œTheir belief in my mission reflects their broader commitment to the development of Saudi sports. Together, we aim not only to compete but to inspire, and I look forward to representing SAL and our Kingdom on the international stage.ā€

Almulla made history as the first professional golfer from ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„ to compete on international circuits, currently participating in events such as the Asian Tour and the Asian Development Tour. His journey in the sport is marked by determination and a strong sense of national pride, resonating with the core values of the sponsorship.

The agreement aims to provide Almulla with the support needed to inspire younger generations of athletes in ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„. Beyond just financial backing, SAL sees this partnership as a way to foster a sense of community and pride in Saudi sports. Almulla’s achievements are not only a source of inspiration but also a representation of what is possible for Saudi youth.

Omar Hariri, CEO of SAL, said: ā€œWe are proud to sponsor an ambitious and inspiring athlete like Othman Almulla, who represents a true model of achievement and excellence. This reflects our belief in the importance of supporting and empowering Saudi talent and contributing to a brighter future for sports in the Kingdom. Through this sponsorship, we also aim to expand our brand visibility both locally and internationally.ā€

With this partnership, SAL joins a group of organizations — such as NEOM and Saudi Aramco — whose support champions Almulla’s journey and helps to elevate ŗ£½ĒÖ±²„’s presence in the global sports arena.


How all 20 LIV Golfers finished at The Open Championship

How all 20 LIV Golfers finished at The Open Championship
Updated 21 July 2025

How all 20 LIV Golfers finished at The Open Championship

How all 20 LIV Golfers finished at The Open Championship

LIV Golf’s major drought will extend into 2026, but the breakaway league did have a surprise top-10 finisher at Royal Portrush for The Open Championship.
A breakdown of how each of the 20 LIV players fared at Royal Portrush.
1. Bryson DeChambeau (-9, T10) DeChambeau leading the LIV pack would not have been a surprise at the start of the week despite his shaky history on links courses. But his rally to a tie for 10th was especially impressive considering his 78 on Thursday left DeChambeau ahead of only seven players in the entire field.

Bryson DeChambeau of the US hits his tee shot on the 1st hole during the second round of the the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland on July 18, 2025. (Reuters)

The two-time US Open champion fired a 65 on Friday to make the cut on the number and then posted 68-64 over the weekend to finish at 9 under. DeChambeau’s 64 on Sunday tied champion Scottie Scheffler (second round) for the low round of the tournament.
2. Tyrrell Hatton (-7, T16) The Englishman played his way onto the first page of the leaderboard through 54 holes, but Hatton’s legendary temper was on full display during a disappointing 72 on Sunday. After battling to stay in contention on the front nine, Hatton went 1 over on the back to slide out of the top-20.

Tyrrell Hatton of England acknowledges the crowd after putting on the 18th green during the final round of the British Open golf championship on July 20, 2025. (AP)

3. Dustin Johnson (-6, T23) There was a D.J. sighting on the weekend of a major for the first time since The Open last year. It didn’t appear the drought was going to be snapped after opening with a 73, but Johnson went 69-67-69 to quietly move his way up the leaderboard.
T4. Sergio Garcia (-3, T34) Desperately trying to regain his form in time to convince European captain Luke Donald to consider him for the Ryder Cup, Garcia also made the cut on the number and then closed with a 68 for his low round of the tournament.

Sergio Garcia of Spain plays his tee shot on 9th hole the during the second round of the British Open golf championship on July 18, 2025. (AP)

T4. Jon Rahm (-3, T34) After solid showings at each of the first three majors of the year, Rahm admitted he just couldn’t find his groove at Royal Portrush. His low round was a 69 on Saturday, and the Spaniard was never a factor this week.
T4. Lee Westwood (-3, T34) The Englishman qualified for The Open for the first time in three years and then made some early noise by going 3 under through his first seven holes of the tournament. Westwood wasn’t able to maintain the momentum for 72 holes and closed with a 73 that included a triple bogey on Sunday.
7. Jason Kokrak (-2, T40) Kokrak hasn’t made many waves with his performance and cruised his way through four rounds at Royal Portrush without breaking 70. But that was good enough for a T40 — the best finish among players who failed to post at least one score in the 60s this week.
8. Henrik Stenson (-1, T45) The 2016 Open champion rebounded from an opening 75 to make the cut on the number. The author of one of the most dramatic finishes in Open history was unable to generate much drama over the weekend this time, closing 69-71.
9. Marc Leishman (E, T52) Leishman book-ended a 73 and a 75 with a pair of 68s. The Australian was never really a threat after going 3 over through his first 12 holes of the event. Leishman did go 4 under over the next 40 holes but was unable to maintain the momentum. Many take shots at LIV’s 54-hole format, and Leishman is one of several who again struggled on Sunday.

Marc Leishman of South Africa acknowledges the crowd after getting a birdie on the 12th green during the second round of the British Open golf championship  on July 18, 2025. (AP)

10. Phil Mickelson (+1, T56) A hole-out as part of an opening 70 was Mickelson’s highlight for the week. He faded with a 72 on Friday that was followed by a 76 on Saturday. Mickelson did rebound for a closing 67 that saw him climb 10 spots on the leaderboard.
11. Dean Burmester (+3, T61) The South African made the cut with a stroke to spare but then tumbled with a 76 on Saturday. After opening the final round with three bogeys through four holes, Burmester did recover to post five birdies en route to a 69.
Missed the cut: Joaquin Niemann (144) Carlos Ortiz (145) Tom McKibbin (145) John Catlin (146) Lucas Herbert (146) Patrick Reed (147) Luis Oosthuizen (148) Brooks Koepka (149) Cam Smith (150)
The 20 LIV Golf players will now have a few days to relax locally before joining their league mates for this week’s LIV Golf IK starting Friday at the JCB Golf & Country Club.
 


Open Championship win ā€˜special feeling’ for dominant Scottie Scheffler

Open Championship win ā€˜special feeling’ for dominant Scottie Scheffler
Updated 20 July 2025

Open Championship win ā€˜special feeling’ for dominant Scottie Scheffler

Open Championship win ā€˜special feeling’ for dominant Scottie Scheffler
  • World number one shot to the top of the leaderboard during his second round on Friday and never looked back

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland: Scottie Scheffler said his first taste of winning the British Open was ā€œspecialā€ after romping to his fourth major title by four shots at Royal Portrush on Sunday.
The world number one shot to the top of the leaderboard during his second round on Friday and never looked back to finish on 17 under par.
ā€œIt’s a pretty special feeling,ā€ Scheffler told Sky Sports. ā€œIt was a battle, but played some really good golf and I’m fortunate to be standing here holding the trophy.ā€
Scheffler is making the extraordinary look serene as he won for the fourth time in his last 11 events.
However, lifting the Claret Jug held a greater significance for the 29-year-old after his memories of waking up early to follow the British Open across the Atlantic Ocean as a child.
ā€œI grew up waking up early to watch this tournament on TV, just hoping and dreaming I would get the chance to come play in this championship,ā€ added Scheffler.
ā€œIt’s pretty cool to be sitting here with the trophy. It’s hard to put into words.ā€
Scheffler birdied three of his first five holes to snuff out any possibility that he would not convert his four-shot overnight lead into victory.
Even an uncharacteristic misjudgment when he failed to get out of a fairway bunker at the eighth, which led to a double bogey, could derail Scheffler’s charge.
ā€œI felt a good amount of peace today. I felt very in control of how I was playing. I was very comfortable with my game,ā€ he added.
ā€œEven after the little hiccup there on the eighth hole, we bounced back really quick with a birdie on nine and got things back in gear pretty quick.
ā€œPlaying this game, it’s a battle within yourself all the time to try and get the most out of your game and yourself. This week, I did a really good job of hanging in there mentally and playing some good golf.ā€