The LPGA "plans to follow the PGA Tour's lead with a new team competition" in the same vein as the Zurich Classic, according to GOLFWEEK's Forecaddie. A new blue-chip sponsor will "host the full-field event, which likely will have a similar format" to the Zurich. It would be held "next summer in Michigan," where "sister acts should be among the favorites." The LPGA boosts several sibling pairs, including Jessica and Nelly Korda and Ariya and Moriya Jutanugarn (GOLFWEEK.com, 4/30).
UP FOR DEBATE? Golf Channel’s Tim Rosaforte noted a case could be made that the LPGA has had a better season so far than the PGA Tour due to the "drawing power" of winners like Lydia Ko, Michelle Wie and Inbee Park. LPGA Commissioner Mike Whan likely would "take this year any year for the entire year, and they've only played 10 LPGA events to this point.” But not everyone is willing to take that step, with Golf Channel’s Matt Adams saying, "As much as I respect what's happening in the LPGA, right now I give the edge to the PGA Tour.” Adams listed off some tournament winners so far, such as Justin Thomas, Justin Rose, Dustin Johnson, Jason Day, Phil Mickelson, Rory McIlroy and Patrick Reed. He added, "And you have Tiger back in the mix." Golf Channel's Tripp Isenhour gives the nod to the PGA Tour "because of three words: Tiger and Phil." This has been an "inspired year" for Mickelson, as he has "won and played fantastic." Meanwhile, Woods has "exceeded everyone's expectations” with his return to the Tour (“Golf Central,” Golf Channel, 4/30).
