At Glance
‣ The Zurich Classic of New Orleans at TPC Louisiana is unique as the only team event on the US circuit’s calendar, attracting a star-studded lineup including past winners like Jon Rahm and Ryan Palmer, Marc Leishman and Cameron Smith, and Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele.
‣ Rory McIlroy is making his debut at the event, partnering with his good friend and Ryder Cup teammate Shane Lowry, showcasing the importance of chemistry and friendship in forming a competitive team.
‣ The event features a mix of intriguing pairings, from brothers Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick aiming to improve on their previous performance, to the family team of Eric Cole and Russ Cochran, and the Hojgaard twins looking to boost their seasons, highlighting the diverse and compelling storylines that team events can offer.
GOLF.com
This week, the PGA Tour’s rhythm is gonna shift. We’re talking about the Zurich Classic of New Orleans at TPC Louisiana, where 80 teams are throwing down. It’s the only duo gig on the US circuit’s calendar. And oh boy, the lineup for the 2024 edition is like the who’s who of golf.
Since 2017, when it turned into a team event, big names like Jon Rahm and Ryan Palmer, Marc Leishman with Cameron Smith, and the dynamic duo of Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele have all snagged the title. So, who’s next to etch their names into this prestigious list? The entry list is juicy with intriguing pairings, and we’ve zeroed in on six standout teams.
First up, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry. Rory’s making his debut here, teaming up with his Ryder Cup buddy and fellow Irishman, Shane Lowry. They go way back, all the way to their amateur days, promising a formidable partnership. This event might just be the laid-back vibe McIlroy needs to fine-tune his game before the PGA Championship at Valhalla next month.
How did this pairing happen? Over a “really drunken lunch” post-Ryder Cup, as McIlroy spilled to GOLF.com. “You wanna play the Zurich together?” he asked Lowry. And just like that, they were in. For all the latest tour news, Golf Monthly’s newsletter is the way to go, packed with reviews, guides, and expert insights.
Then there are the Fitzpatrick brothers, Matt and Alex, from England. Last year, they were in the hunt until a Sunday stumble. They’re looking to bounce back, with Matt riding a wave of top-30 finishes into this event. They’re ones to watch, for sure.
Eric Cole and Russ Cochran might not grab your attention at first glance. But dig a little deeper, and there’s a heartwarming story. Cochran, a PGA Tour vet and dad to Cole’s regular caddie, makes this team a family affair.
The Hojgaard twins are also hitting Louisiana. Nicolai had a moment in the sun at The Masters, while Rasmus has been making waves on the DP World Tour. This event could be the boost the 23-year-olds need for the rest of their seasons.
Francesco Molinari and Luke Donald are another pair to keep an eye on. Despite recent struggles, including Donald’s missed cuts and Molinari’s ranking slide, never count out a surprise turnaround.
And of course, Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele. With their track record and recent form, they’re expected to be in the mix come Sunday. Cantlay’s fresh off a top finish at the RBC Heritage, and Schauffele just nailed a top spot at The Masters.
So, there you have it. The Zurich Classic is shaping up to be a showdown worth watching. With these teams and more, it’s anyone’s game.
