<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tiger-woods">Tiger Woods</a>, a Masters champion multiple times over, intimately understands the difficulty of the tournament that Rory McIlroy endured so much to win after numerous attempts. Following the final hole, McIlroy received messages from both Woods and Gary Player, two of golf’s titans.



“Welcome to the club <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rory-mcilroy">Rory McIlroy</a> Completing the grand slam at Augusta is something special. Your determination during this round, and this entire journey has shown through, and now you’re a part of history. Proud of you!” Woods penned on his personal X account in tribute to the newly crowned champion.



Gary Player’s message to McIlroy celebrates his historic <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/masters-augusta">Masters</a> victory and completion of the career Grand Slam, emphasizing the rarity and difficulty of this achievement, achieved with perseverance and grit. Player also commends Justin Rose’s sportsmanship while welcoming McIlroy to the exclusive club of Grand Slam winners, acknowledging his class and passion throughout his journey.



<h2>Nicklaus Praises McIlroy’s Masters, Predicts More Win</h2>



Golf icon Jack Nicklaus also joined the chorus of congratulations for Rory McIlroy’s Masters victory. Speaking with CBS, Nicklaus expressed his elation, saying, “I’m so happy for him. I’m delighted for him.” The Golden Bear went on to predict a bright future for McIlroy, adding, “It will take the world off his shoulders and you’re now going to see a lot more of really good golf out of Rory McIlroy.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="603" height="667" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250414_BUS_376208_image-18_c68a7e8a.webp&amp;width=603&amp;height=667" alt="" class="wp-image-376211" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/14080727/image-18.png 603w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/14080727/image-18-271x300.png 271w" sizes="(max-width: 603px) 100vw, 603px"></figure></figure>



<h2>World Leaders, Sporting Icons Join McIlroy Congratulations</h2>



Beyond the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a> world, prominent figures also celebrated Rory McIlroy’s Masters victory. The President of Ireland extended his congratulations on X for McIlroy finally achieving the career Grand Slam. Similarly, the First Minister of Northern Ireland took to her personal X account, hailing his achievement as “making history as the first ever from our island to win the prestigious Green Jacket!”


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67fcfa010c8fd1e7fdf26f8d" data-title="Will Rory be able to win another big tournament in 2025?" data-options="2"></div>


Tennis legend Billie Jean King also joined the chorus of well-wishers. As a former world No. 1, she understands the immense effort behind such moments of glory. Numerous other journalists, athletes, and public figures quickly shared photos and messages for McIlroy.

Golf News: Tiger Woods and Gary Player send messages to Rory McIlroy after Masters win

Golf News: Tiger Woods and Gary Player send messages to Rory McIlroy after Masters win - Bolavip US

Tiger Woods and Gary Player send messages to Rory McIlroy after Masters win

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Justin Rose, a top contender throughout The Masters, entered the Final Round as a favorite. He battled fiercely against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rory-mcilroy">Rory McIlroy</a> in a captivating playoff, but ultimately succumbed to his recurring fear: another defeat in one of the United States’ most prestigious tournaments.



In the aftermath of the gripping contest and the ensuing celebration focused on McIlroy’s triumph, Rose took to his personal X account to send a gracious message. He congratulated the newly crowned <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a> champion, also acknowledging McIlroy’s completion of the career Grand Slam, a feat secured with the Masters victory.



“Congratulations Rory McIlroy on winning the The Masters and completing the Grand Slam.. very cool sharing the green with you in that moment…” Rose wrote in a message that garnered over 18,000 likes on X.



<h2>Rose’s Masters Heartbreak: A History of Near Misses</h2>



Justin Rose has unfortunately faced defeat at The Masters on three occasions, a tournament that has so far eluded his grasp. This latest loss marks his second time falling short in a playoff, this time against a formidable Rory McIlroy who was fiercely pursuing the coveted title.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250414_BUS_376143_GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-1024x576_250a6b42.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="(R-L) Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland embraces Justin Rose of England" class="wp-image-376147" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/13213131/GettyImages-2210133907-Bolavip.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 13: (R-L) Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland embraces Justin Rose of England after the playoff hole during the final round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 13, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Rose’s first Masters setback came in 2015 against Jordan Spieth. He wasn’t alone in his disappointment, sharing the runner-up position with Phil Mickelson. His second Masters defeat occurred in 2017, where he lost in a playoff to Sergio Garcia of Spain.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67fce6560c8fd1e7fdf26f89" data-title="Will Rose ever be able to win the Masters one day?" data-options="2"></div>


<h2>Playoff Struggles Plague Rose on PGA Tour</h2>



Adding to his Masters playoff woes, this loss to McIlroy extends Rose’s disappointing record in PGA Tour events decided by a playoff. He has only one playoff victory, dating back to the 2014 Quicken Loans National. The other four playoff appearances have all ended in defeat, occurring consecutively between 2015 and 2025 (in addition to the two Masters losses, these include the Memorial Tournament and the BMW Championship).

Golf News: Justin Rose sends message to Rory McIlroy after losing The Masters

Golf News: Justin Rose sends message to Rory McIlroy after losing The Masters - Bolavip US

Justin Rose sends message to Rory McIlroy after losing The Masters

The Masters stands as one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, making playoffs a relatively uncommon occurrence. Typically, the sport’s elite secure victory without the need for a tiebreaker. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rory-mcIlroy">Rory McIlroy</a>, on the cusp of claiming the coveted title, will now face Justin Rose in a sudden-death playoff after both finished tied at -11.



The last <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/masters-augusta">Masters</a> to be decided by a playoff was the 2017 edition, eight years prior to the 2025 tournament. Notably, Justin Rose was also a participant in that recent playoff, ultimately falling to Sergio Garcia of Spain. Both players walked away with prizes exceeding a million dollars.



Starting in 2025, this will be the tournament’s most recent playoff—a fresh heartbreak for Rose, who faced a similar fate again. Yet, he remains one of the world’s most formidable golfers.



<h2>How did the playoff happen at the 2025 Masters?</h2>



It came down to Rory McIlroy, who failed to capitalize on an easy shot at the final hole and ended up recording a bogey — the kind of costly mistake that has haunted his career for years. Since 2015, McIlroy has been one of the golfers most plagued by tournament struggles, and it’s continued to stand in the way of him capturing another Grand Slam title.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Capturing the grand slam on the grandest stage! Rory McIlroy has won the Masters 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/dIHYCa9giQ">pic.twitter.com/dIHYCa9giQ</a>— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/1911560901267697754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>How rare are playoffs in the big golf tournaments?</h2>



Playoffs in major <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a> tournaments aren’t extremely rare, but they don’t happen every year either — especially at events like The Masters. Some majors, like the U.S. Open or PGA Championship, are more likely to end in a playoff due to tighter scoring margins and tougher course setups.

Golf News: When was the last playoff at The Masters?

Golf News: When was the last playoff at The Masters? - Bolavip US

When was the last playoff at The Masters?

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rory-mcilroy">Rory McIlroy</a> is one of the favorites to win the 2025 Masters Tournament alongside other golf stars like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-scheffler">Scottie Scheffler</a>, Bryson DeChambeau, and Justin Rose. This year, the Northern Irishman is in great form, already with two victories including The Players.



However, his last win in a Major was over a decade ago in 2014, when he captured both the PGA Championship and The Open in the same season. Since then, the star has been going through a concerning drought.



McIlroy has come close on several occasions, but in clutch moments, Rory has had disappointing finishes. Now, Augusta National could be the perfect place for him to finally find redemption.



<h2>Has Rory McIlroy ever won the Masters Tournament?</h2>



No. Rory McIlroy has not been able to win the Masters Tournament in his career. His best finish was second place in the 2022 edition, when he ended three strokes behind Scottie Scheffler.


 

 


Also, if Rory wins the Masters in 2025, the pride of Northern Ireland would finally complete the career Grand Slam, becoming the sixth player to achieve it alongside Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, and Gary Player.


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Has Rory McIlroy ever won the Masters Tournament? - Bolavip US

Has Rory McIlroy won the Masters Tournament?

Has Rory McIlroy ever won the Masters?

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rory-mcilroy">Rory McIlroy</a> wasn’t going to let two holes in the first round derail his dream of winning the 2025 Masters. Despite two double bogeys on the 15th and 17th at Augusta on Thursday, the Northern Ireland star sent a clear message about his chances of putting on the green jacket after an impressive bounce-back on Friday with a 66.



“I was so frustrated last night because I played so well. I’m proud of myself with how I responded after the finish last night. I had to remind myself that I played really good golf yesterday. I wasn’t going to let two bad holes dictate the narrative for the rest of the week. Once I left the property last night, I just sort of tried to leave what had happened here.”



It’s important to remember that Rory is still in pursuit of the Career Grand Slam, aiming to join an exclusive group of players that includes Jack Nicklaus, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tiger-woods">Tiger Woods</a>, Gary Player, Ben Hogan, and Gene Sarazen.



<h2>Has Rory McIlroy ever won the Masters?</h2>



No. Rory McIlroy has never won the Masters in his career, and it’s the only tournament he needs to complete the Career Grand Slam. The star has already won the U.S. Open, the PGA Championship, and The Open.


 

 


<h2>Who has won a Career Grand Slam in golf?</h2>



Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, Gene Sarazen, and Gary Player are the five players who have achieved the Career Grand Slam. That’s why, if Rory manages to win the Masters, he will attain legendary status in the world of golf.


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“Championship golf can be volatile. This course takes it out of you physically and mentally. I just tried to stay really patient and I feel like the patience got rewarded. If anything, I just backed up the belief that I have in myself and the belief that I’m as resilient as anyone out there. But it’s only halfway. Anything can happen.”

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Rory McIlroy sends clear message about his chances of winning the 2025 Masters - Bolavip US

Rory McIlroy sends clear message about his chances of winning the Masters

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tiger-woods">Tiger Woods</a> is not playing the 2025 Masters Tournament due to a serious Achilles injury. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a> legend confirmed the information on March 11 with a surprising message on social media.



“As I began to ramp up my own training and practice at home, I felt a sharp pain in my left Achilles, which was deemed to be ruptured. Dr. Charlton Stucken of Hospital for Special Surgery in West Palm Beach, Florida performed a minimally-invasive Achilles tendon repair for a ruptured tendon. I am back home now and plan to focus on my recovery and rehab, thank you for all the support.”



Undoubtedly, thousands of fans were hoping to see Tiger at Augusta National competing alongside other stars like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-scheffler">Scottie Scheffler</a>, Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, Xander Schauffele, or Phil Mickelson. However, Woods will have to wait to pursue his sixth green jacket, which would tie the record held by Jack Nicklaus.



<h2>Is Tiger Woods retiring?</h2>



No. Although Tiger Woods is recovering from that injury, the star has not given any indication that he is considering retiring from golf. What is certain is that there is no set date for his possible return yet.


 

 


Woods is 49 years old, and injuries have pushed him to the limit with various knee and back surgeries. Although he participated in TGL this year, his last official appearance was at The Open in July of 2024.


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Months later, Tiger showed signs of a possible comeback by participating in the PNC Championship alongside his son Charlie, finishing in second place in a dramatic finale against Bernhard and Jason Langer.

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Why is Tiger Woods not playing at the 2025 Masters Tournament? - Bolavip US

Why is Tiger Woods not playing at the Masters Tournament?

Angel Cabrera’s life has been nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster. After spending years behind bars, the former U.S. Open and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/the-masters">The Masters</a> champion returns to Augusta, chasing a second green jacket and a shot at redemption.



Cabrera recently claimed victory at the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in Boca Raton, marking his first win on American soil since the 2014 Greenbrier Classic on the PGA Tour. With a score of 205 (-11), the 55-year-old will ride his wave of momentum into The Masters in Augusta, where he’ll vie for a second title at the iconic <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a> venue.



Though his appearance in the prestigious competition has raised several eyebrows among patrons, Angel Cabrera is set to compete in the 2025 Masters for the first time in six years. He’ll be chasing his second win in Augusta, having first donned the green jacket in 2009 and finishing as runner-up in 2013. Cabrera also claimed the U.S. Open title in 2007.



With his recent win in Boca Raton, Cabrera secured a hefty $330,000 award, while becoming the fifth Argentinian to win a Champions Tour competition. “I knew this moment would arrive, but I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly,” Cabrera admitted to the media after his win on April 6, and ahead of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf/golf-majors-explained">first major golf tournament of the year</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250409_BUS_373682_Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-1024x576_58ba7975.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-373738" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09182233/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-looks-on-from-the-fourth-hole-during-the-first-round-of-the-Chubb-Classic.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Angel Cabrera of Argentina looks on from the fourth hole during the first round of the Chubb Classic 2025 at Tiburon Golf Club on February 14, 2025 in Naples, Florida.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Serving time</h2>



Cabrera was sentenced to two and a half years in prison by an Argentinian court after being found guilty of gender-based violence against his ex-wife. Cabrera served from January 2021 until August 2023. In December of that year, he made his long-awaited return to the golf course.


 

 

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“Life has given me a second chance, and I want to enjoy it. I had four or five rough years—everything was going great until then. Now, things will return to how they once were,” Angel Cabrera stated on the eve of The Masters.



<h2>Noise around Cabrera’s invitation</h2>



Due to his personal record, Cabrera’s appearance in The Masters 2025 has made much noise around fans, who aren’t thrilled about the former champion participating in the first major tournament of the year. Cabrera has a different opinion, nevertheless.



“I deserve to be here—I’ve won The Masters. Why shouldn’t I?” Cabrera firmly responded when asked about his return, following the historic Champions Dinner at Augusta. “I respect other people’s views—everyone is entitled to their own opinion.”



Augusta National president Fred Ridley issued a clear statement regarding his stance—and the tournament’s—on the controversy surrounding Cabrera’s participation.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250409_BUS_373682_Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-1024x576_858efd11.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Angel Cabrera of Argentina plays reacts on the seventh hole during the second round of the Chubb Classic 2025 at Tiburon Golf Club on February 15, 2025 in Naples, Florida." class="wp-image-373687" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09171012/Angel-Cabrera-of-Argentina-plays-reacts-on-the-seventh-hole-during-the-second-round-of-the-Chubb-Cla.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Angel Cabrera of Argentina plays reacts on the seventh hole during the second round of the Chubb Classic 2025 at Tiburon Golf Club on February 15, 2025 in Naples, Florida. </figcaption></figure>



“We certainly abhor any form of domestic violence,” Augusta National chairman Ridley stated. “As for Ángel, he has served the sentence imposed by the Argentine courts, and he is a former champion, which is why he was invited.”



Though former champions have an automatic invitation to The Masters, Cabrera was unable to participate in the 2024 edition after being denied a visa, leaving him sidelined from the tournament.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/golf/golf-scoring-explained"></div>


<h3>Feels good to be back</h3>



“I’m very thankful for the warm welcome—people have treated me beautifully. The golf world is very kind,” Cabrera added. “Obviously, I regret the things I’ve done, but that’s all in the past. I’m only looking forward from here. I never believed I wouldn’t return; I just let things flow. I knew I had made mistakes, and I told myself to be patient and not overthink what could happen.”


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f6f4c40c8fd1e7fdf26e49" data-title="Who will win the 2025 Masters in Augusta?" data-options="5"></div>


On April 9, The Masters will tee off with 95 contenders vying for eternal glory in the state of Georgia. Cabrera will be one of the biggest names in a star-studded field filled with hungry golfers, all in pursuit of the green jacket most recently worn by world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.

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He won The Masters and US Open, recently served years in prison and returns to Augusta chasing another title - Bolavip US

In every <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a> tournament, there’s a silent turning point that rarely makes headlines: the cut. It quietly determines who advances and who goes home, reshaping the leaderboard before the weekend even begins.



Famous names fall, underdogs rise and tension builds as the cut looms. It’s a mechanism built to sharpen competition and trim the field—but its inner workings often remain overlooked outside the professional circuit.



More than just a number, the cut marks a line between contention and elimination. Each event handles it differently, yet the impact is always the same. What follows is a closer look at how this crucial moment is decided.



<h2>36-hole cut</h2>



By the end of Friday in a golf tournament, the tone changes. The cheers get quieter, the gallery thins and not because the action has slowed. It’s the cut—an invisible blade that slices the field in half. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250409_BUS_373171_Tiger-Woods-1-1024x576_539fb458.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-373443" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143320/Tiger-Woods-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tiger Woods of the United States reacts on the eighth green during the second round of the 2024 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 12, 2024. (Source: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Known oficialmente as the “36-hole cut”, this moment serves as a turning point, eliminating players who fail to meet a certain score after two rounds of play. The remaining field goes on to compete during the weekend, while those on the wrong side of the line pack their bags early. 



It’s a rule rooted in both tradition and practicality, giving shape and rhythm to the often sprawling structure of a four-day event, according to sources like the official site of PGA of America.



<h2>How it’s calculated</h2>



Although the idea of a cut is universal, the numbers behind it vary depending on the event. In most <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pga-tour">PGA Tour</a> tournaments, the cut is made after 36 holes, with the top 65 players and ties moving forward. 



However, the majors each follow their own model. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/the-masters">The Masters</a> is the most selective, allowing only the top 50 and ties to play the weekend—a change introduced in 2020 when they eliminated the “10-stroke rule.”



The U.S. Open, true to its reputation for being merciless, admits the top 60 and ties, while the PGA Championship and The Open Championship both stick to the top 70 and ties. Each variation carries its own philosophy—some aiming for prestige, others for opportunity.



<h2>Exceptions</h2>



While most tournaments follow a strict numbers game, exceptions exist—and they have, at times, stirred controversy or nostalgia. One of the best-known examples was the now-defunct “10-stroke rule”, once used by The Masters. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250409_BUS_373171_Tiger-Woods-2-2-1024x576_94cb0907.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-373450" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09143532/Tiger-Woods-2-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tiger Woods plays his shot from the bunker on the fourth hole during the final round of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 10, 2022. (Source: David Cannon/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



This rule allowed any player within ten strokes of the leader to make the cut, regardless of their overall position. In theory, it gave greats like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tiger-woods">Tiger Woods</a> or Phil Mickelson the chance to catch fire over the weekend even if they had a rough start. 



But in 2020, The Masters quietly dropped the rule, opting for a more streamlined, performance-based approach. The move was seen by many as a shift toward modernity and a tighter, more elite competition.



<h2>Notable examples</h2>



The cut doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care about legacy, endorsements or previous wins. Tiger Woods learned this in 2022, when he missed the cut at The Open Championship in St. Andrews—a course that had once crowned him a champion. The crowd gave him a hero’s sendoff, but the leaderboard did not. 



Collin Morikawa, then defending champion, suffered the same fate. And more recently, Max Homa’s inconsistency saw him exit early from major tournaments, a humbling reminder of how volatile the game can be. These moments not only shock fans but also reinforce the brutal fairness of golf: no name is too big to fall short.

Golf’s cut rule: How scores determine who stays in the tournament

Understanding the cut: Golf’s midway elimination rule - Bolavip US

How cuts work in golf tournaments

Golf has a language of its own—part poetry, part code. Among its most curious expressions are three winged terms: birdie, eagle and albatross. They’re not wildlife sightings, but they do mark rare moments on the course.



These words pop up in broadcasts, headlines and clubhouse chatter. Yet their true meaning often floats by unnoticed—even for loyal fans who spend every weekend watching putts and drives.



Are they triumphs? Mistakes? Flukes of nature? Behind each term lies a story, a logic, and a tradition passed down more by lore than by definition. Let’s take a closer look at how these birds landed in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a>’s lexicon.



<h2>What is par?</h2>



In golf, everything revolves around one simple word: par. It’s the quiet authority on every scorecard, the invisible benchmark that defines success—or struggle—on each hole. Par represents the number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to take to complete a hole, and by extension, an entire course. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250409_BUS_373126_Scottie-Scheffler-2-1024x576_4cd1e5d3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-373144" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100458/Scottie-Scheffler-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Scottie Scheffler of the United States reacts after making birdie on the 15th hole during the final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational in 2024. (Source: Brennan Asplen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



It’s calculated based on the hole’s length and difficulty, typically ranging from par-3s to par-5s. Hit the number, and you’ve met expectations. Go over, and you’re playing catch-up. Go under, and now you’re in headline territory.



<h2>Below par scores</h2>



Scoring below par is not just desirable—it’s the stuff that separates amateurs from champions. That’s when the sport’s peculiar poetry kicks in. A score of one under par on a hole is called a birdie, a term with roots in early 20th-century American slang, where calling something a “bird” meant it was excellent. 



Do two strokes better than par, and you’ve hit an eagle—a natural evolution in naming, keeping with the avian theme but upping the grandeur. Three strokes under? That’s the holy grail: an albatross. Rare and magnificent, just like the bird it’s named after.



<h2>Rare shots</h2>



But is it an albatross or a double eagle? This is where the game splits hairs—and continents. In the UK and much of Europe, the term “albatross” is widely used and celebrated. Across the Atlantic, American golf culture has leaned toward calling the same feat a “double eagle“.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250409_BUS_373126_Phil-Mickelson-1024x576_a2e6915a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-373146" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/09100615/Phil-Mickelson.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Phil Mickelson jumps in the air after sinking his birdie putt to win the Masters by one shot on the 18th green during the final round of the Masters on April 11, 2004. (Source: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



While technically both mean scoring three under par on a hole, neither is more correct than the other. It’s a regional preference, but both terms underscore just how astonishing the shot is. After all, it’s an achievement that most golfers, even professionals, will go their entire careers without experiencing.



<h2>Double eagle vs. albatross</h2>



The confusion between “albatross” and “double eagle” is one of golf’s great linguistic quirks. Both refer to the same score—three under par on a single hole—but geography tends to decide which term you hear. 



In the United Kingdom and much of the golfing world, “albatross” is the preferred term, evoking rarity and grace. In the United States, “double eagle” is more common, though somewhat mathematically awkward: two under par is an eagle, so three under would technically be a “triple eagle”, if we followed logic. 



But golf rarely bends to logic—it bends to tradition. So while both terms are correct, “albatross” is often considered more elegant and increasingly, more widely accepted, as Golf Compendium reported.

When golfers take flight: The meaning behind birdie, eagle and albatross

How golf scoring works: Par, birdie, bogey and more

Golf’s flying terms explained: Birdie, eagle and the rare albatross - Bolavip US

The handicap has long been <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">golf</a>’s great equalizer. More than just a number, it quietly shapes competition, allowing players of different skill levels to share the same fairway on relatively equal terms.



Born out of necessity and refined over decades, the system blends math and fairness. It influences tournament outcomes, friendly wagers and even a golfer’s sense of progress.



Understanding how a handicap is calculated reveals more than just statistics. It offers a glimpse into the logic behind one of the sport’s most defining—and often misunderstood—tools.



<h2>What’s a handicap?</h2>



At its core, a golf handicap is a numerical measure of a golfer’s potential ability, expressed with one decimal point (e.g., 21.4). It reflects the number of strokes a player is expected to take above or below the course’s par score.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372517_Tiger-Woods-3-1024x576_b1f153a1.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372554" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141313/Tiger-Woods-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tiger Woods of the United States celebrates after sinking his putt on the 18th green to win during the final round of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 14, 2019. (Source: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



A higher handicap indicates a less skilled golfer, allowing more strokes to be subtracted from their actual score to determine their net score. Conversely, a lower handicap signifies a more skilled golfer with fewer strokes deducted.



<h2>Slope and course ratings</h2>



Two critical components in the handicap equation are the Course Rating and Slope Rating. The Course Rating assesses the expected score for a scratch golfer (a player with a handicap of 0) under normal course and weather conditions. For instance, a Course Rating of 72.3 suggests that a scratch golfer would average that score on the course.



The Slope Rating, on the other hand, measures the relative difficulty of a course for bogey golfers (those with an average score of about 90) compared to scratch golfers. A higher Slope Rating indicates a more challenging course for the average golfer.



<h2>World handicap system</h2>



Introduced in 2020, the World Handicap System WHS harmonized six different handicap systems worldwide into a single, standardized model. This integration allows golfers of varying abilities to compete fairly, regardless of location or course.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372517_Tiger-Woods-4-1024x576_30cfc312.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372555" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08141432/Tiger-Woods-4.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tiger Woods of the United States plays his shot from the fourth tee during the second round of the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 07, 2023. (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The WHS calculates a Handicap Index by averaging the best eight scores from a player’s most recent 20 rounds, adjusting for course difficulty and other factors, according to Golf Monthly Magazine and the Maryland State Golf Association.



<h2>Net scoring </h2>



Net scoring utilizes a player’s handicap to adjust their gross score (the actual number of strokes taken), enabling equitable competition among golfers of different skill levels.



By subtracting the handicap from the gross score, the net score reflects performance relative to individual ability. This system ensures that less experienced players have a fair chance against seasoned golfers, fostering inclusivity and spirited competition.

Golf’s great equalizer: How the handicap system levels the playing field

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Golf handicaps explained: The system that keeps the game fair - Bolavip US

If you’ve ever watched golf and heard words like “birdie” or “bogey” thrown around, you’re not alone in wondering what they actually mean. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/golf">Golf</a> has its own quirky language and cracking the code is part of the fun for any fan of the game.



At first glance, golf scoring seems simple: hit the ball, count the strokes. But then comes “par”, “eagle” and even the elusive “albatross”. These terms aren’t just colorful—they’re essential to how the sport is played and understood.



Before you step onto the green—or even just tune in to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/the-masters">the Masters</a>—it helps to know how these scores work. From the satisfaction of a birdie to the frustration of a double bogey, every stroke tells a story.



<h2>Stroke play basics</h2>



Stroke play is the most common scoring format in golf, especially at the professional level. It’s straightforward in theory—every shot counts. The goal is to complete the entire course, typically 18 holes, using the fewest total strokes. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372461_Tiger-Woods-1024x576_8783995b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372487" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132743/Tiger-Woods.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tiger Woods of the U.S. Team hits his tee shot on the 3rd hole during the final day singles matches at The Presidents Cup at The Royal Montreal Golf Club on September 30, 2007. (Source: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Each stroke is recorded, including penalty strokes for hitting out of bounds or into hazards. At the end of the round, the player with the lowest overall score wins. 



This format rewards consistency and mental resilience, as one bad hole can have a ripple effect on your final score. Unlike match play, stroke play is a marathon, not a sprint—and it’s the format used in major tournaments like The Masters or the U.S. Open.



<h2>Par, birdie, eagle</h2>



Golf has a language all its own, and understanding its scoring terms is key to following the action. “Par” is the baseline—it’s the number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to take to finish a hole. 



If you complete a par-4 hole in just three shots, congratulations—you’ve made a “birdie”. Go two strokes under par, and you’ve scored an “eagle,” which is considerably rarer and more difficult. 



These names have curious origins: “birdie” comes from early 20th-century American slang, meaning something excellent, while “eagle” was introduced later to represent a more impressive feat. The more you get familiar with these terms, the more you’ll appreciate the nuance behind every swing.



<h2>Match play vs. stroke play</h2>



While stroke play focuses on the total score over an entire round, match play flips the script. In match play, players compete hole by hole. Winning a hole means you took fewer strokes than your opponent—simple as that. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372461_Jeff-Maggert-1024x576_6e77eb79.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372488" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08132807/Jeff-Maggert.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jeff Maggert of the USA plays out of the third hole bunker as the ball comes back and hits him during the final round of the 2003 Masters Tournament. (Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The player who wins the most holes wins the match, regardless of their overall number of strokes. This format can be thrilling and unpredictable, as a bad hole doesn’t necessarily ruin your chances. It also encourages more aggressive, risk-taking strategies since the penalty of a lost hole doesn’t carry forward. 



This head-to-head style is often used in team events like the Ryder Cup, where the psychological aspect of direct competition becomes just as important as technical skill.



<h2>Scorecards</h2>



At first glance, a golf scorecard might seem like a basic spreadsheet of holes and numbers. Each hole is listed with its par, length (in yards or meters), and handicap rating, which indicates its difficulty relative to the rest of the course. 



This lets players pace themselves, knowing when to take risks and when to play it safe. Scorecards also track your performance hole by hole, helping you spot trends in your game and adjust accordingly. 



Whether you’re a casual weekend player or preparing for tournament play, understanding your scorecard is crucial—it’s the story of your round, written one swing at a time.

Golf scoring terms explained: Par, birdie, eagle and why they matter

Golf scores demystified: What par, birdie and bogey really mean - Bolavip US

Each year, four golf tournaments rise above the rest, shaping careers and defining legacies. Known as “the majors”, they bring together the world’s top players for a test of skill, patience, and poise on the game’s biggest stages.



From the blooming azaleas of Augusta to the gusty coastlines of the UK, each major has its own identity. They don’t just differ in course or country—they tell completely different stories about what it means to master the sport.



Why do these four matter more than hundreds of others played yearly? It’s not just history or prize money—it’s tradition, challenge and global prestige. Let’s break down what makes each major unique, from format quirks to calendar spots.



<h2>The Masters</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372412_Scottie-Scheffler-1024x576_4dc5296f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372416" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08121410/Scottie-Scheffler.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Scottie Scheffler of the United States celebrates on the 18th green after winning the 2024 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 14, 2024. (Source: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/the-masters">The Masters</a> unfolds each April at the immaculate Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, the only major held at a permanent venue. Conceived by Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts in 1934, it marks the ceremonial start of golf’s biggest season. Participation is by invitation only, creating an elite field composed of former champions, top-ranked professionals and recent major winners.



What elevates The Masters is its ritualistic charm. From the ceremonial first tee shots to the Champion’s Dinner and the coveted Green Jacket, every detail contributes to a sense of reverence. Augusta’s setting—with its rolling fairways and blooming azaleas—adds visual drama to the intensity of competition.



The tournament follows a 72-hole stroke play format, with the top 50 and ties advancing after two rounds. Its slick, contoured greens and strategic layout demand creative shot-making and composure, especially under pressure. Though the youngest of the four majors, it carries a mystique that makes it unforgettable.



<h2>PGA Championship</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372412_PGA-Championship-1024x576_c2e61543.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372446" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125217/PGA-Championship.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Champion Brooks Koepka holds The Wanamaker Trophy after the final round of the PGA Championship at Oak Hill Country Club on Sunday, May 21, 2023. (Source: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Unlike its counterparts, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pga-championship">PGA Championship</a> is reserved solely for professional golfers, a fact that defines its character. First held in 1916, it transitioned from match play to stroke play in 1958 and now occupies a prime slot in May. It’s overseen by the PGA of America—not to be confused with the PGA Tour—and consistently features one of the most competitive fields in golf.



This major is widely regarded as a proving ground for modern pros, with entry earned via rankings, recent performance and qualification by club professionals. The tournament’s venues vary each year, offering a mix of traditional layouts and contemporary challenges.



It is known for rewarding aggressive, high-level play while still requiring precision and strategy. Its format is 72-hole stroke play with a cut after 36 holes. Winners often emerge from thrilling final rounds, where shotmaking meets mental resilience. It’s a favorite among players for its balance of prestige and opportunity.



<h2>U.S. Open</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372412_U.S.-Open-Championship-1024x576_793bb4f0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372447" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125235/U.S.-Open-Championship.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Brooks Koepka of the United States celebrates with the U.S. Open Championship trophy after winning the 2018 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on June 17, 2018. (Source: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Renowned as the toughest of the four, the U.S. Open is golf’s ultimate stress test. Organized by the USGA, it takes place in June at a rotating selection of demanding U.S. courses—venues like Winged Foot, Oakmont and Pebble Beach, known for unforgiving setups. Every element, from tight fairways to thick rough and rapid greens, is designed to challenge the limits of the field.



It’s also the most accessible major in terms of qualification. Thousands of professionals and amateurs compete in preliminary rounds, earning the tournament a reputation as golf’s most open crucible. Still, by the weekend, it’s usually the calmest heads and sharpest games that survive.



With a stroke play format over 72 holes and a cut to the top 60 and ties, the U.S. Open demands grit, patience and adaptability. Scoring under par is rarely the norm—often, even level par can lead to victory. The mental toll it takes has become part of its legend, making a win here a true badge of honor.



<h2>The Open Championship</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250408_BUS_372412_The-Open-1024x576_305c83c9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-372448" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/08125248/The-Open.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>A view of the Claret Jug in front of the clubhouse at Royal Liverpool Golf Club on April 19, 2023. (Source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The Open Championship—simply “The Open” to purists—is the oldest of the majors, first staged in 1860 at Prestwick, Scotland. Managed by The R&amp;A, it travels each July to storied coastal courses such as St Andrews, Royal Portrush, and Muirfield. These rugged links terrains are exposed to the elements, giving The Open its distinctive personality.



Wind, firm fairways and pot bunkers demand improvisation and a deep understanding of trajectory and spin. Players must often abandon modern power play in favor of finesse and adaptability. The weather can shift within minutes, turning birdie chances into bogey scrambles.



The competition follows the standard 72-hole stroke play format, with a cut to the top 70 and ties after two rounds. The winner receives the Claret Jug, an enduring symbol of golfing excellence. Above all, The Open honors the origins of the sport—its grassroots spirit, global reach, and unvarnished purity remain at its heart.

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Jim Nantz, a legend of sports journalism, confirmed in an interview with Bunkered magazine that he has already set a date for his retirement. The event he has chosen to say goodbye is the Masters Tournament in Augusta.



“April 14, 2036. That is my scheduled retirement date. It would be a perfect place to walk out (100th edition of Masters). A lot of things have to happen for that to occur. First off, my health would have to hold up. Secondly, CBS and Augusta National would have to want me to come back. But if all the stars aligned, right now, it feels like a pretty good exit point.”



In addition to being one of the leading figures in golf commentary, Nantz has risen to prominence for his work in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>, narrating the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> several times. He also had spectacular moments during March Madness.



<h2>Where and when is the 2025 Masters Tournament?</h2>



The 2025 Masters Tournament will be held at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, from April 10 to April 13. The tournament will follow its traditional schedule, taking place during the first full week of April.


 

 


Undoubtedly, the biggest absence for fans will be Tiger Woods, who just a few days ago confirmed that he suffered an Achilles injury. However, favorites like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy will try to win the famous Green Jacket.


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Jim Nantz confirms retirement decision

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/viktor-hovland">Viktor Hovland</a> wasn’t the favorite to win the Valspar Championship, especially heading into the final round against PGA Tour Top-10 player Justin Thomas. However, with Thomas not playing at his best, the Norwegian golfer capitalized to secure the victory.



After claiming the title, Hovland shared some candid admissions during his post-victory interview with NBC’s Golf Channel. Reflecting on his performance, he remarked, “I hit a lot of disgusting shots,” and admitted, “I’ve got no idea, still kind of sinking in.”



Hovland also revealed that even when Justin Thomas took the lead, he stayed composed under pressure. “J.T. made a birdie on 15 and he was three shots ahead. I still just felt well calm and wasn’t stressing even though I knew I had to make the putt on 14,” he said.



On his triumph, Hovland humorously admitted he didn’t change much in his game to make the cut and eventually win the tournament. “It’s still the same swing…” he commented, adding, “then my iron game, I could still hit good shots but I know there are some bad ones creeping in there. Somehow this week I was able to hit the good shot than I have in recent weeks.”



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Viktor Hovland &apos;did not believe&apos; he could win the Valspar Championship | Golf Channel" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F45ROwk63ws?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<h2>Hovland Knew Winning the Valspar Championship Would Be Tough</h2>



It was a challenging week for Hovland, who acknowledged that he still couldn’t believe he won the trophy. “It’s unbelievable to see that I could win because I honestly did not believe that I could do it this week,” he admitted, referencing his struggle to secure a title since 2023.


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It’s worth noting that the last few months were quite rough for Hovland. Winning the Valspar Championship comes as a relief for him, as he had missed the cut in three consecutive tournaments: the Genesis Invitational, Arnold Palmer Invitational, and Players Championship.



<h2>Hovland’s Next Tournament</h2>



Hovland is expected to participate in The Masters. He earned an invitation to the tournament as one of the two players who finished in the leading four or tied for fourth place at the 2024 PGA Championship.

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Golf News: Viktor Hovland shares humorous insights after Valspar Championship win - Bolavip US

Hovland shares humorous insights after Valspar Championship win

<a href="http://bolavip.com/en/topic/justin-thomas">Justin Thomas</a>, currently ranked No. 10 in the PGA Tour Rankings just below Tommy Fleetwood, recently came up short at the Valspar Championship. He missed the chance to secure nearly $2 million in prize money after losing to Viktor Hovland.



Following the tournament, where Thomas was expected to deliver a more commanding performance, he offered a candid self-critique. Reflecting on his future, he stated, “I just hopefully put myself in the same position in two weeks at Augusta and finish it off better.”



It’s worth noting that Thomas hasn’t won a tournament—at least one of the majors—since 2022. Expectations are high for him to bounce back as one of the favorites in The Masters, scheduled for April 13. However, in last year’s edition, he fell short of expectations.



Thomas didn’t have a losing mindset after being defeated by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/viktor-hovland">Viktor Hovland</a>. He took the opportunity to congratulate the champion with a handshake, saying, “Well done. We’ll see you at Augusta.” Both will be present at The Masters, where Thomas will likely be considered a favorite.



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<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Win No. 7 for Hovland 🏆 Viktor is back in the winner&apos;s circle <a href="https://twitter.com/ValsparChamp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ValsparChamp</a>. <a href="https://t.co/nQiP6s3OIC">pic.twitter.com/nQiP6s3OIC</a>— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/1903930314147148217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Thomas knows there is still plenty to fight for in the PGA Championship</h2>



As a golfer, he showed that he can move forward, and that this defeat was just a setback. Despite losing, he continued signing autographs for the fans. However, he knows it was painful to lose the three-shot lead he had against Hovland.



On the other hand, champion Hovland spoke highly of Thomas, acknowledging that the lead was an important factor in the final round, but it didn’t cause him to lose control against Thomas.

Golf News: Justin Thomas reflects critically on himself after Valspar Championship loss to Viktor Hovland

Golf News: Justin Thomas reflects critically on himself after Valspar Championship loss to Viktor Hovland - Bolavip US

Justin Thomas reflects critically on himself after Valspar Championship loss to Viktor Hovland

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