Chips & Putts: Rory's Settlement With Horizon Sports Could Be Worth Up To $30M

The IRISH TIMES' Aoife Carr reports Rory McIlroy's case against former management company Horizon Sports Management "has been settled," and the four-time major winner "will pay the firm more than" US$25M and "possibly" up to US$30M, plus costs, as part of the settlement. The agreement was announced in court today, but details of the settlement "were not disclosed." McIlroy "was not in court" today following an appearance yesterday. The dispute "had been expected to have involved arguments over tens of millions in lost commissions and earnings from potentially massive sponsorship deals and wins on the course" (IRISHTIMES.com, 2/4).

IF YOU'RE GONNA PLAY IN TEXAS: GOLFWEEK's Beth Ann Nichols noted the LPGA yesterday announced that nonprofit Volunteers of America "will serve as title sponsor for the North Texas Shootout." The event takes place April 27-May 3 at Las Colinas Country Club in Irving, Texas, "for a third consecutive year" (GOLFWEEK.com, 2/3).

HEARD IT THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE: GOLF DIGEST STIX' Marty Hackel notes Vineyard Vines and apparel brand Chervo "aren't likely to be mistaken for each other, but the two brands share common ground as they make the move into golf." Vineyard Vines is "leaning on the carefree vibe" of Jason Dufner -- and his popular wife, Amanda -- to "reach its new audience." The Dufners "have surprised some with how good they look in the company's bright, bold tops and bottoms." Meanwhile, Chervo shirts "are more expensive but are likely to become more stylish and technically advanced," with endorsers Morgan Hoffmann and Danny Lee (GOLF DIGEST STIX, 2/4 issue).