Last weekend brought some truly entertaining golf, capped off by the crowning of not one, but two unexpected — and well-deserved — champions. That’s right, two winners in a single tournament.
Once a year, the game’s top players team up with a partner and take on TPC Louisiana in Avondale for the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
The tournament still attracts some big names, even though the prize money is only about half of what the pros usually take home.
The annual big tournament in New Orleans was just another second-tier stop on the tour — until 2017, when they changed the format to teams of two, playing fourball (best ball) on the first and third days, and foursomes (alternate shot) on the second and final days.
This simple change drew players and crowds, raring to see the game’s best in a more relaxed and entertaining atmosphere.
After an epic Masters week and a legendary win by Rory McIlroy, his first tournament back was at last week’s Zurich Classic.
Together with Shane Lowry, his fellow Irishman and childhood friend, Rory chose to defend their 2024 win.
With a whirlwind of emotions and probable shock after finally achieving the career grand slam, Rory and Shane still had New Orleans on their minds.
In an interview, Shane Lowry admitted that he was unsure if Rory would still play the Zurich, knowing that the Masters win was life-changing and might alter McIlroy’s plans.
To his surprise, Rory immediately agreed — and was eager to defend their 2024 title. It was a smart move for Rory.
After an incredible win and all the celebrations that followed the Masters, it was the perfect time to come back and play with less pressure — just a week to reset, refocus, and find the rhythm again.
And that’s what happened at TPC Louisiana. While the Irish duo came in as favorites to contend and defend their title, there wasn’t any real pressure. It felt more like a relaxed round with a friend — just go out, have fun, and see how low they could score.
It wasn’t all Rory and Shane all week though. The Zurich Classic provided some surprises all week. First-round leaders, rookies Isaiah Salinda and Kevin Velo came out with a bang, shooting an unconscious 58 at TPC Avondale in best ball.
Scores in the 50s are usually reserved for casual scrambles, so the opening 58 by Salinda and Velo was truly impressive — especially given how young and inexperienced they are.
As expected, the week featured some fantastic golf and low scores, particularly on fourball days. What made it even more special was that the eventual champions were both first-time winners, adding an extra layer of excitement to the week.
Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin emerged as champions of the Zurich Classic. The two have been friends for years, having played together as juniors in North Carolina while growing up.
They’ve been friends for years, having played together as juniors in North Carolina while growing up.
For both of them to play on the PGA Tour and win together must feel pretty incredible.
The win comes on the heels of a heartbreaking playoff loss last week at Harbortown for Andrew Novak. He missed a makeable putt to win on the 72nd hole and then lost on the first playoff hole to Justin Thomas.
He didn’t need to wait long for redemption though.
Team golf is more novelty than the norm.
For us amateurs here in the Philippines, we only get to experience partnering up during the big club invitationals. But unless you’re a member or invited as a guest partner, then almost all other tournaments are played individually.
But in pro golf, apart from the Ryder Cup and President’s Cup, we rarely see golfers pairing up. It’s a shame, as team golf seems to be a hit with viewers and the pros themselves.
With the tour schedule being so focused on individual play throughout the year, it wouldn’t hurt to have more team formats. I mean, if even newly crowned Masters and Grand Slam champion Rory thought the Zurich Classic was worth playing, it’s safe to say other pros probably welcome the change of pace, too.
It’s something both pros and fans genuinely enjoy. Team golf offers a refreshing break from the usual grind and can help fill the lull between majors and other big tournaments.
I’d even go as far as suggesting a team event during the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Team golf is fun golf — so why not have more of it?