The golf world has been stunned by the announced merger between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, but Golfshake's Kieran Clark explains why we should have all really seen this incredible twist coming.

Twilight golf is more than just a fun concept that we all should really embrace - it can offer significant benefits for those who wish to play the best courses for less money. We have taken a look around the most acclaimed courses across the UK to pick out ten of the very finest that offer twilight rates in 2023, something that could help you experience some truly unforgettable layouts.

Considering there are 21 courses seemingly flowing simultaneously along the coastline within reach of Edinburgh, many naturally consider East Lothian to be the undisputed golf coast of Scotland. But is it, really? Golfshake's Kieran Clark believes that Ayrshire holds a stake to be declared Scotland's Golf Coast.

Golf prides itself on respecting tradition, but this week represents a distinct shift in progress as the Chevron Championship, the year's first major in the women's game, showcases its new home at the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at The Club at Carlton Woods in the Greater Houston area.

For many golfers, the season never really stops, that desire to improve and remain active is unshakable. However, there is no doubt that a significant number of the Golfshake Community bide their time through winter and wait for the perfect opportunity to play - but when exactly is that, what truly signals the start of the golf season?

The Masters holds a special place in the hearts of golfers because we return to the same venue. Even if we have never been there, we all feel like we know and understand Augusta National as we have seen all the shots and can recognise the breaks on the greens. Golfshake's Kieran Clark ranks his favourite holes to watch each year.

Being the first men's major of the season and returning to the same venue each spring, the Masters draws anticipation unlike any other event in golf. The iconography of Augusta National and the rich history of the tournament is more than enough of a story when springtime comes around, but this year, there are specific talking points that make this 87th edition so intriguing.

Last week's announced proposal of The R&A and USGA to introduce a rolled back tournament ball for elite competitions from January 2026 has ushered in a fierce level of entrenched debate. Golfshake's Kieran Clark explains why he believes the controversial measure is necessary and desirable.

The 2023 LIV Golf League continues with its second stop of the year at The Gallery Golf Club near Tucson, Arizona. It's an immaculately presented venue that is home to a pair of highly regarded modern courses; the North and the South; with the latter being the stage for this weekend's event.

The PLAYERS Championship is not only one of golf's biggest and most iconic events, it's also among the sport's greatest spectator experiences. Fans travel to TPC Sawgrass each year to sample the atmospheric setting of the Stadium Course, especially the dramatic amphitheatre that surrounds the famous par-3 17th hole.

There is much uncertainty surrounding the ongoing cost of living crisis, which has seen a dramatic rise in energy costs, food prices, and an increase in other expenses. Just how could this impact your golf? That was among the concerns that we saw raised by the many respondents to the recent Golfshake Survey, who have questions and worries regarding the state of their club membership and wider green fee costs.

Golfers have to face whatever Mother Nature can hurl towards them. These scenarios only enhance the challenge of golf, adding to the variables that make it such a fascinating test of both character and execution. However, sometimes the weather can make even the most determined of golfers feel a little dispirited.

Pete Dye's Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass has often divided opinion, but one key characteristic that can be strongly held in support of the layout's quality is the variety of winners that have triumphed in The Players Championship. Here are some outside bets who could make a tilt at lifting this prestigious trophy in 2023.

The Players Championship is the PGA Tour's marquee event and TPC Sawgrass, which has now long settled into its role as one of the game's most iconic stages, presents a fittingly compelling test for many of the world's best golfers. Who shall be etching their name on the prestigious trophy? Here are six potential contenders to watch out for.

When you ask people to identify the hardest golf course they have played; their answers are unique and personal to them. You also have to consider a variety of factors such as the weather of that day and the standard of golfer they are. That was a discovery we made after presenting that question to our team of Golfshake Ambassadors.

It's undoubtedly the topic that has overshadowed professional golf for the past year, it has driven bitter wedges between Ryder Cup icons and seen recent major champions tumble down the world rankings, but as it enters its crucial second season, what exactly do fans of the sport REALLY think about LIV Golf?

Winning majors is the ultimate, but just being part of them is noteworthy too. We have taken a look at the champions who have appeared in the most majors through the generations; some of them spanning over half a century, underlining the unique longevity that golf provides, but also their rich and lasting standing in the game.

Everyone has a unique story in this game, but what are the golf courses that have defined it? Could it be the course where you started, somewhere you were a member of for many years, the place you're at now, or a course that you unforgettably visited. What are the courses that made you the golfer you are today?

It doesn't always seem obvious, but playing golf in the winter does have its upsides and can offer some truly wonderful experiences, but on the flip side, you can encounter some horrible weather and situations at this time of year. The Golfshake Ambassadors have reflected on the common reality of the situation for those of us battling the elements in the UK.

What are some of the best experiences you have had playing golf in winter, was it a particular course, a great round or shot, which memories stand out? That was the question we posed to our team of Golfshake Ambassadors, looking to find a positive spin on playing the game at this time of year.

On Sunday, 29th January, two-time major champion Jack Burke Jr turns 100. Winner of both the Masters and PGA Championship in 1956, the longevity of this World Golf of Fame member got us thinking about the oldest professional major champions alive today, with 24 men and women who etched their name in history currently in their 80s and 90s.

January can be a difficult time for many of us, post-Christmas, and faced with the prospect of riding through the crux of winter, but we are here to offer a little bit of respite from that gloom, a welcome tonic of optimism, as there are several reasons for us golfers to feel uplifted - even if that might not seem obvious at the moment!

The Royal & Ancient Clubhouse in St Andrews is unquestionably one of the most iconic landmarks in golf, most visibly showcased during this summer's 150th Open Championship. However, the famous building is undergoing something of a makeover, which shall transform its facilities internally, but has for the time being made its storied setting less photogenic.

On Sunday, 63-year-old Fred Couples produced a stunning final round of 60 to win the SAS Championship. He not only beat his age by three strokes, the former world number one shot the lowest winning round in the history of the Champions Tour.

The atmospheric town of St Andrews and its public golf courses stand as a glowing beacon that draw legions of visitors each year from across the planet. But for thousands of extremely fortunate golfers, they are more or less able to call it their very own Home of Golf, courtesy of possessing a Links Ticket. But what exactly is the Links Ticket - and how do you go about securing one for yourself?

Boasting a field that includes Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Matt Fitzpatrick, this year's BMW PGA Championship was already blockbuster enough. Throw in the added dynamic of the start of Ryder Cup qualification AND the inclusion of 18 LIV Golf players and you have a powder keg of storylines. However, at the heart of it all is a prestigious title with a rich history. We have picked out a range of potential contenders at Wentworth.

What makes a golf hole memorable? Some would say it's the difficulty, the examination it provides, while others always remember the setting itself, the views that surround it. For many enthusiasts, anything 'quirky' or unique stands out. To learn more about the things that resonate with people, earlier this year, we surveyed the Golfshake Community and asked everyday golfers to pick out some of the best holes they have played.

Championships don't come much bigger than the AIG Women's Open and courses much finer than the magnificent links of Muirfield, establishing the final major of this year as the perfect marriage between event and venue. It's time for the women to write their own story on Scotland's Golf Coast - and here are some names for you to watch.

Everyday golfers themselves - as evidenced by old reviews submitted into the Golfshake Course Section - haven't always felt particularly welcome at Muirfield, but that is now changing, as more recent ratings have been simply glowing. What has never been in dispute is the outstanding links itself, and we defer to members of the Golfshake Community who have described the brilliant design of this renowned course.

St Andrews delivered an Open for the ages. Golfshake Digital Editor Kieran Clark is a resident of the famous town and he shares his perspective of the week, the long journey that led to the staging of this historic championship, the scenes he witnessed during it, and the wistfulness now that it has become a memory.

The dust continues to settle after a momentous 150th Open Championship, but now it's time for the senior equivalent, which is being played within the grandeur of the Gleneagles Hotel and its acclaimed Kings Course. Who could be the champion this weekend? Here are some potential contenders.

The major season continues on the LPGA and Ladies European Tour at The Evian Championship. But who should you be following this week? From major contenders to rising amateur stars, here are some names to keep an eye on during the coming days in France.

Ahead of the 150th Open, when the eyes of the world shall fall upon St Andrews, its historic streets have been enhanced by the introduction of a fabulous collaboration between Callaway Golf and the St Andrews Links Trust. The Big Bag Trail features ten tour bag sized public artwork sculptures that were designed by local school pupils and that now decorate locations throughout the famed town.

99 of the top 100 players on the LPGA’s Official Money List have assembled at Congressional Country Club for a Women's PGA Championship that is already the biggest yet.

This year's KPMG Women's PGA Championship is already the most lucrative in history after organisers revealed that the prize fund had doubled from last year to a princely $9,000,000 this week. This has all understandably elevated the prestige - and we take a look at some possible contenders to keep an eye on.

The US Open can always be relied upon to offer a delectable slice of drama with the occasional seasoning of madness, but it all contributes to an event that is arguably the toughest of them all to win. It can be an acquired taste, but we certainly love the US Open - and here's why.

From its earliest beginnings, the US Open has long been defined by the brutal examination that it presents to the world's most skilled golfers. But what have been the toughest editions of the event? Well, it's rare to find one that hasn't been difficult, but there are some through the generations that were strikingly testing for a variety of reasons.

Now for its 77th edition, the US Women's Open returns to Pine Needles in North Carolina, a classic Donald Ross design that has previously staged the event three times. Yuka Saso is here to defend her trophy against icons of the past and present, with Annika Sorenstam, Michelle Wie West and a returning Nelly Korda part of the field.

The US Women's Open returns to North Carolina's Pine Needles for its 77th edition, showcasing a magnificent Donald Ross creation. Here are just eight players you should be paying attention to - for a variety of reasons - as we arrive at the oldest major in the women's game.

The PGA Championship might be the fourth major in terms of prestige and anticipation, but that doesn't mean it's a bad event and it is considerably better than some would credit it as being. While it lacks the iconography of the Masters, the history of the Open and the stature of the US Open, it makes up for that in other areas, as we explain why the PGA is truly golf's underrated major.

Five golfers have won all four of golf's professional men's major titles; Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Ben Hogan, Gary Player and Gene Sarazen. But who could be the next to complete that accomplishment? Realistically, the next career grand slam golfer - if there is to be one - will come from these six players.

96 of the world's top 100 golfers are playing in this year's PGA Championship at Southern Hills, one of America's truly quintessential venues that should offer a formidable challenge to the game's best. However, should an outsider emerge from the pack, we have identified five potential candidates for who that could be.

The 86th Masters Tournament sees the full capacity of spectators returning to Augusta National. But what's going to happen? Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook has challenged Editor Kieran Clark to a battle of wits, a contest of predictions, to see who can most accurately project what we're about to see at the 2022 Masters.

Ahead of the year's first major at the Chevron Championship, most eyes will be on Jin Young Ko to see whether her extraordinary form can be translated into another crowning moment for the 26-year-old who has produced a staggering sequence of results and statistics in recent seasons.

Mission Hills makes its final appearance as a major venue on the LPGA Tour at the Chevron Championship, bringing to a close an iconic story that has spanned 50 years. We pick out just six contenders who we believe will have a strong week in California.

It's the end of a storied era as the Dinah Shore Tournament Course at Mission Hills takes one final bow as host of the first major championship of the season. And most eyes will be on the incredible Jin Young Ko, the 2019 champion, who has produced a staggering run of relentless form.

15-time major champion Tiger Woods is among the latest figures to join the World Golf Hall of Fame, but who should be in that hasn't yet been recognised? We have picked out several golfers who are deserving of the recognition that the Hall provides.

The Masters is golf's most coveted invitation, but it's hard to come by. Ahead of the 2022 Masters - the 86th Tournament - we take a closer look at just some players who are yet to secure their invite to make that iconic drive down Magnolia Lane.

With so many impressive players on tour, not everyone can win, but there are several notable figures who really could do with a victory in 2022. We take a closer look at stars who didn't win last year - but who we'd love to see triumph once again.

It has been confirmed that two-time Masters champion Tom Watson will join Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player as an honorary starter beginning with this April's tournament at Augusta National. But who could we see standing on that first tee in the future? We take a look at the likeliest candidates.

Golfers are generally a hardy bunch, willing to face the elements and make the best of whatever challenges nature has presented them, something that is especially the case during the depths of winter. However, everyone has their limit - even the hardiest of hardy golfers.

That's the tantalising beauty of golf, it makes dreamers of us all, but often those fantasies do come true. We can all relate to tales of the career, lifetime shot, that moment of perfection that will remain at the forefront of your mind forever. Spreading word out to the Golfshake Team of Staff & Ambassadors, we wanted to hear about The Golf Shots You Never Forget. 

Making a birdie is a beautiful thing for any golfer, representing that brief moment when we feel like a tour player, having successfully navigated a hole under par, courtesy of shots or a putt that would grace any major championship. This year's Golfshake #BirdieClub got us thinking about the magic of birdies and how memorable they can be.

Television has immortalised many of the greatest moments in sport, creating timeless highlights that can be viewed forever. But what of those pieces of magic that weren't captured on film? We have looked back at just some of the greatest shots played that we never had the chance to see.

Everyone is different, and all golfers will have horror stories of being paired with someone whose behaviour cast a shadow over the round, but there are key traits which stand out and make even the least successful days a rewarding one. Golfshake's Kieran Clark shares his thoughts on the specific attributes needed to be the best possible fellow golfer.

Following Europe's crushing loss at Whistling Straits, attention has already turned to the 2023 Ryder Cup in Italy. It won't be long until the next captains are revealed, and there isn't a shortage of candidates. We take a closer look at some of the potential captains we could see leading their teams in Rome.

The importance of a Ryder Cup captain has long been debated, but one area where the role has undeniable influence comes when he selects his wildcard picks for the matches. But which wildcard picks have been the most decisive? We have gone through the records and identified some of the most impactful additions that made all the difference to their team.

Hosting a Ryder Cup is prestigious and big-business, with considerations given to the ability each venue has to accommodate the infrastructure required. That would rule out many potential hosts, but let's dream for a moment, and consider where you would most love to see a Ryder Cup played at, no matter how unrealistic that prospect would be. 

Everyone has their own tale to share about how they first connected with golf. For many, it began in childhood and became a lifelong passion, while for others it was a relationship that flourished later in life. Member of the Golfshake Community, Robin Baldwin is one of those who have shown that an older(er) dog can learn new tricks by recently making golf part of his life and he has described his meaningful journey through the game thus far.

The stage is set at iconic Wentworth as the crowds return to the BMW PGA Championship, which is set to be a significant week, as Ryder Cup dreams will be made with a prestigious title on the line. But who should we be looking out to contend in Surrey? We have taken a glance through the field and identified key names who could make the headlines on Sunday.

Through the decades, Wentworth has been synonymous with the best of European golf, the champions who have defined it, and the greats who inspired the masses. We take a look back at the most successful winners of the PGA and World Match Play - the Wentworth Legends.

Catriona Matthew is back to lead Europe on away soil at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio, which presents an even greater challenge against a United States team determined to regain the trophy. Europe's blowout triumph in Colorado in 2013 remains their only win in America, but there are reasons to feel optimistic that the Scot's 12 players could pull off a relative upset in the heartlands of the US.

The Women's Open was first played in 1976 and for over two decades became a hugely popular event, but there is no question that the championship was elevated by its designated major status from the LPGA Tour in 2001. We take a look back at the past 20 years and identify just some of the moments that come to mind when we think of the Women's Open.

It has been a significant year for the majors in the women's game, a captivating schedule that concludes with the AIG Women's Open at the legendary Carnoustie. But who will thrive in the challenge? We take a closer look at several of the key favourites to watch this week.

Fresh off a thrilling victory on Sunday at the Meijer LPGA Classic, Nelly Korda heads to Atlanta Athletic Club in search of her first major title at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship, where recent headlines makers Yuka Saso and Patty Tavatanakit will be among those seeking further success.

Everyone knows that Jack Nicklaus won 18 major titles, with Tiger Woods on 15. We know that Nick Faldo is on six and that Rory McIlroy has four. But who has the most runner-up finishes in the four events that have now long been considered the majors in golf? We take a look at 20 figures who have been second at least five times in the biggest championships.

The Olympic Club in San Francisco reaches another milestone in its lengthy history when it hosts the 2021 US Women's Open. We take a look back at the five men's US Opens that have been hosted at this brutally challenging venue.

For its 76th edition, the US Women's Open heads to revered Olympic Club. Fittingly for this championship, the Lake Course at the San Francisco venue is among the most challenging in the United States. A-Lim Kim will defend the title against a list of challengers that includes Inbee Park, Lydia Ko, Jin Young Ko, Brooke Henderson and the Korda Sisters.

Winning one major is a dream, winning multiple majors is a legacy, but winning all four of them is something truly historic. The Career Grand Slam places a golfer into a unique bracket. It's a complicated topic to view historically, but viewed through the modern, accepted view, it remains an elite five, with several iconic names having come up just short of claiming all four.

For decades a match play event, the PGA switched to stroke play in 1958, with many a career having been defined by the championship. Anyone who wins the PGA has a treasured place in history, but claiming it more than once is something truly special. We take a look at those figures who have won the PGA Championship on multiple occasions - the Greatest in History.

For most people, a conventional round of golf will consist of 18 holes, it's perceived to be the norm, but that certainly isn't a universal standard and variety can easily be found on your doorstep. Across the UK & Ireland, approximately 25% of courses offer nine holes, providing a complete experience that may represent the future of the game.

In a career that has been spent setting benchmarks in the game, Sandy Lyle will once again make history at the Masters on Thursday, when he tees off for the 40th time, becoming the first European golfer to reach that milestone number of appearances.

Considering the elite and limited field, it's hard to identify genuine outsiders at the Masters, but looking at those players ranked outside the top 25 in the world, here are some names who could make their presence felt on Sunday at Augusta National.

The Masters is a storybook of a major championship. Each of the 88 players in the field this week have either previously written their own memorable chapter at Augusta National or have arrived with the intention of doing so, and there are a handful of possibilities that capture the imagination ahead.

This year's Masters is hotly anticipated with a variety of compelling storylines in play, but what do we think is going to happen down Magnolia Lane? Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook takes on Golfshake Editor Kieran Clark in a foolish contest of making predictions.

The first major on the golf calendar is here, with the best players in the women's game once again gathered at Mission Hills Country Club for the 50th playing of the tournament now entitled the ANA Inspiration. And former champion Inbee Park, one of the all-time greats, returns in ominous form, having just secured a dominant victory on Sunday at the Kia Classic.

As the nation reflects on the first anniversary since lockdown was introduced across the United Kingdom, a moment that instantly changed lives, where the once seemingly abnormal has become normal, Golfshake Ambassador Matt Holbrook is just one of many golfers who have deeply missed the game. Reflecting on the past 12 months, Matt looks back at his life as a golfer in lockdown.

The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass has been the iconic home of The Players Championship since 1982, but what is it like to play, especially for an average golfer? Golfshake Ambassador Andy Picken had the opportunity to experience this famous layour for himself in 2018. Three years on, he has reflected on that magical day.

The Ryder Cup has developed into a seismic sporting event, one that draws the eyes of millions. That scrutiny brings added focus onto those chosen to captain Europe and the United States. But there are only so many Ryder Cups and more than enough candidates, an oversubscription of talent that has seen numerous storied names being passed over for the role. We have picked out 16 notable golfers - eight Europeans, eight Americans - who never became a Ryder Cup captain.

This year's Masters is set for a contest between the likes of Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Justin Thomas and Jon Rahm, the tournament favourites, while eyes will also be on Rory McIlroy and defending champion Tiger Woods. However, looking beyond the world's top 20 players, we have picked out six names who could upset the odds and triumphantly place their arms inside that iconic Green Jacket on Sunday.

Augusta National has been the stage for many crowning achievements and unforgettable moments, but it's also the site of crushed dreams, shattered hopes, and squandered potential. We take a look at those players who never won the Masters, but who consistently played well and contended.

Everyone dreams of getting off to a fast start on the golf course. However, it so often doesn't turn out that way, which makes it especially memorable when it actually does. We take a look at some of the best starts to a round in golf - and also share our own moments of front-nine glory.

The Women's PGA Championship this week provides a true major test at the immaculately presented Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania, but who will triumph on this challenging layout? We take a closer look at six names who could be a factor on the leaderboard.

The likes of Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm and Collin Morikawa are among the favourites at the US Open, but that doesn't mean we couldn't see an outsider surprise them. Looking at players currently placed outside the top 50 in the Official World Golf Ranking, here are some of those possible contenders.

Many keen golfers realise that the best kept secret in golf is that the autumn is an underrated time of the year. Whether it be the magical colours, those crisp morning conditions, or the more relaxed pace, it may even be the finest season to play. We asked the Golfshake Ambassadors to share their thoughts on playing golf during autumn.

The LPGA Tour is staging its rescheduled ANA Inspiration at Missions Hills in California, typically the first big event of the season. There are some notable absentees, but there remains formidable group of leading contenders in search of major glory in the sweltering heat of the desert. We take a look at ten players who could be right there on Sunday.

The 102nd PGA Championship at Harding Park will be a unique major, but there is an opportunity for someone to become part of history, joining the list of storied names on the Wanamaker Trophy. Who is most likely to snatch the crown from Brooks Koepka? We take a look at some key stars to look out for at the PGA.

There are players who are drifting under the radar at Harding Park, with attention fixed on the likes of Brooks Koepka, Justin Thomas and Bryson DeChambeau, but we look at six nams who may surprise them and feature on the leaderboard at the PGA Championship.

Televised golf has progressed dramatically since it first emerged in the 1950s, but one thing that has not changed is the need for voices to enhance the pictures, those who add knowledge, insight and humour to proceedings. Everyone has their favourite TV golf commentators, so we have shared ours.

Golf is a game that has traditionally been passed down generations, most often by fathers to their children. For the vast majority of players on the PGA and European Tours, their introduction to golf came through their dad. And in several cases, both the father and son were truly exceptional players. We take a closer look at some of the Greatest Father & Son Combinations in Golf.

The radical physical transformation of Bryson DeChambeau has drawn scrutiny during the PGA Tour's return, but while it's true to say that more golfers these days have shed the beer belly in favour of a six-pack, it's not like fitness and athleticism are entirely new concepts. We take a look at some of the pioneers, including golf's original muscle man, Frank Stranahan.

Golf is best shared with others, but during this age of social distancing, many golfers have found themselves introduced to the joys of single golf. The social element is an integral element behind the appeal of the game, but Golfshake's Kieran Clark explains why there is much to be said for stepping onto the first tee alone with your thoughts.

The historic town of St Andrews is widely known as the spiritual home of golf, but many won't have realised just how alive the Old Course is at sunrise. From the queues of golfers hoping to play, the tourists seeking a photo opportunity, and the squad of greenkeepers working hard, it's a buzzing hub of activity. Golfshake's Kieran Clark wanted to see this spectacle for himself, discovering the magic of early mornings at the Old Course.

This should have been Masters week, but for some notable names, they hadn't qualified for the tournament anyway. With the field for the new November date now set, we take a look at those players who won't be competing at Augusta National this year.

Not since the darkness of war in 1945 has the Champion Golfer of the Year not been crowned in golf's oldest major, but the R&A has now confirmed that The Open Championship in 2020 has been cancelled, setting the schedule back by 12 months.

Beginning what was scheduled to be the week of The Masters, it's been a significant day of news in golf, as the various governing bodies and organisations have revealed a newly revised plan of dates for this season's majors. 

You can find golf courses in the unlikeliest of places, including volcanoes, airports and prisons. Within the UK, locations are less dramatic, but King James VI Golf Club is one that stands unique, situated on an inland river island that cannot be accessed by car. Golfshake's Kieran Clark explains more about this unusual setup.

The Masters has become one of the world's most recognisable sporting events, defining generations of golf greats, but which of these memorable tournaments stand out from the rest? We have gone through the history of the Masters, picking out two editions from each decade that best tell its story.

When did you last play a course that had a honesty box? Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on this traditional system of honour that is still widely seen across many golf courses in rural Scotland, where rather than having a professional or member of staff to welcome you, a sign will encourage visiting golfers to deposit their green fee through a latch or directly into a box.

Mickey Wright, winner of 13 major championships and 82 titles on the LPGA Tour, has died at the age of 85. We take a look back at the remarkable career of a players who stands regarded as being the finest female golfer in history.

Tour players are hitting the ball further than before, but is that the same for the average golfer? It has been hot topic of discussion since the R&A published their Distance Insights Project Report, and we have studied data to see just how far everyday golfers are driving across a range of handicap categories.

Rory McIlroy returns as world number one, eight years on from when he first reached that status, and a decade since he broke into the top ten. We take a look through his career journey in the World Ranking, including the many ups and downs, but reflecting his brilliant consistency.

Each year, the Waste Mangement Phoenix Open draws a staggering number of people to TPC Scottsdale, a record 719,179 for the week in 2018. But how does this compare to other events in the game? We take a look at the biggest crowds in golf history.

On Sunday at the Dubai Desert Classic, Sweden's Sebastian Soderberg astonishingly completed his final round in just 96 minutes, having ran between shots, a time that the European Tour has now reported to be a record. We took a look back at previous blink and you'll miss it rounds.

The Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus remains the ultimate benchmark for golf's emerging champions. Now 80, we felt it was a timely moment to pick out 80 Facts & Stats that underline the greatness of a career that rewrote the history books.

There are 180 holes that comprise the Open Championship rotation, but which are the most difficult for average golfers? Looking at a decade of statistics from the Golfshake Score Tracker, we have been able to identify some of the most testing holes based on the scorecards of Golfshake Members.

The Dubai Desert Classic is among the European Tour's most iconic stops. Ahead of the event, we have taken a closer look at several of the likely contenders, noting their pre-tournament thoughts.

The 2019 Golfshake Survey has found that the vast majority of golfers still believe that slow play is a major issue for the game. But what can be done about it, both on tour and at club level, and how could that help you to get round the course faster? We take a look a the key factors and initiatives to find an answer.

Golf will survive, but how can it thrive in the new decade? Golfshake's Kieran Clark has identified things that he would like to see happen and change in the game that he believes will benefit the sport during the coming ten years.

Tiger Woods, Rory Mcllroy, and Brooks Koepka were the stars of this year. However, behind them, there have been many tales of growth and decline. Emerging stars made a name for themselves with the future to come, but for others, there are deep questions to answer going into the new decade.

Scotland has a "new" golf course - sort of - but only for 48 hours. Celebrating St Andrew's Day, the legendary Old Course at St Andrews is being played in reverse for two days, transporting those lucky golfers who secured a tee time back centuries to an earlier era in the development of the venerable Fife links.

The 2020 Ryder Cup us now under a year away, but who could make their debuts for Padraig Harrington's Europe? Golfshake's Kieran Clark has picked out some potential contenders to secure a place on the team at Whistling Straits.

An impressive field has gathered in Scotland, but who is going to succeed Lucas Bjerregaard as champion of the Dunhill Links? Here are some names to look out for this week under the grey skies of the Home of Golf.

Should you leave the pin in the hole when putting? That is a question that golfers have been asking themselves since January. We polled and gathered the views of regular golfers to see what impact - either positive or negative - the new rule has made.

Switching the date of the BMW PGA Championship has only benefited British golf fans, who will see the strongest gathering of the game's best that has been assembled for many a year. But who is going to add their name to the prestigious list of winners at Wentworth? Here are five to watch out for.

Located in the heart of Scotland, the tranquil and beautiful landscape of Perthshire is home to many of the most scenic, enjoyable, and affordable courses in Britain. We take a closer look at what you can experience in this magnificent part of the world.

We have taken a look at each of the Great Britain & Ireland venues that have hosted the Walker Cup, drawing on their Golfshake Rating left by the reviews of everyday golfers to celebrate the courses that have their own piece of history with the biennial contest.

Throughout the history of the game, the greatest players have been united by their immense ability and considerable success, but it may come as a surprise when you look closer and notice how many were born in the same year. Here are some of the most notable examples.

Located just a couple of miles from the historic town of St Andrews, the Fairmont is a popular gateway to experiencing this iconic corner of Scotland. We take a look at just some reasons why this hotel is special and how it may be the resort that you have been looking for.

How many bogeys or worse do you make during the average round? We analysed 100,000 scores tracked on Golfshake to identify the number of disasters that golfers across each handicap category have on their card.

It has been decades since there has been a true rivalry in golf, but Brooks Koepka and Rory McIlroy has the potential to be the duel to define a generation. Golfshake's Kieran Clark why this is exactly what the game has been waiting for.

Ireland continues to unearth major champions and England boasts its most impressive group of players in a generation, but Scottish golfers are making a quietly resurgent progression through the game. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks at the growing strength of players from the Home of Golf.

This week, Michelle Liu, is competing in the LPGA Tour's Canadan Open at the tender age of just 12 years, nine months and six days, while 15-year-old Pia Babnik is making her LET debut at the Czech Open. These remarkable stories got us thinking of past examples of youngsters playing on tour.

The senior tours can present a highly lucrative second career to players who turn 50, but the next generation of names who are set become eligible for the circuit could make for fascinating and exciting viewing. 

Strokes Gained Putting is a useful method to determine the consistent success of a golfer on the greens. We have looked at the existing statistical data that goes back to 2004 on the PGA Tour to see which players are the best performers with the putter in hand.

Despite being two years away, anticipation is already rising for the 150th Open at St Andrews in 2021. This milestone edition of the game's original major at the Home of Golf is an unmissable event, with Golfbreaks.com unveiling attractive packages to ensure that you can experience the dramatic setting of the Old Course with the iconic Claret Jug on the line.

St Andrews Links comprises of 117 holes split across seven public golf courses, including the legendary Old, challenging Jubilee, and spectacular Castle. But which holes are the most difficult? We have delved into the Golfshake Score Tracker to identify the 18 hardest at the Home of Golf.

Known for hosting the Open Championship eight times, that status only scratches the surface at Carnoustie Golf Links, a destination that should be on the list for everyone seeking a memorable and rewarding experience. Here are just some reasons why.

There was a minor shockwave pulsating through the hills of Perthshire  European captain Catriona Matthew revealed that Solheim Cup stalwart Suzann Pettersen was one of four wildcard picks at Gleneagles, completing the continental side for next month's contest against the United States

How good are you on the greens? We have taken a closer look at putting stats on the PGA, European, LPGA and Champions Tours, comparing with the tracking data of regular golfers on Golfshake, to see how each group matches up across various levels.

Known as the 'Smiling Cinderella' back home, Japan's Hinako Shibuno produced the most stunning of fairytales to birdie the final hole and win the Women's British Open at Woburn.

From legendary championship links courses to heathland classics and resort gems, the Women's British Open has been played at a rich variety of venues. We take a closer look at each of them, including the unique Golfshake reviews.

144 players are in the field at the Women's British Open with many notable names hitting their peak in time for the championship. We have picked out five that you should pay attention to this week at Woburn.

The Women's British Open returns to Woburn's acclaimed Marquees' Course for an 11th occasion, marking a fresh new era for the championship in its 43rd year under the banner of AIG, following a successful tenure with Ricoh, concluding a hectic season of majors in golf. 

Who is the greatest links golfer in history? Harry Vardon, James Braid, John Henry Taylor, Peter Thomson and Tom Watson all won at least five Open Championships. But Golfshake's Kieran Clark believes that Jack Nicklaus has a claim to have been the best on the British seaside.

Can you remember the first golf club that you used? Maybe you still have them hidden away somewhere. We have spent time digging through ours garages and attics to find some nostalgic classics!

Former champion David Duval made headlines on Thursday at Royal Portrush by shooting 91 in The Open, including a 14 on one hole. Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the highs and lows of Duval's career, remembering him at his peak, stating that the former number one deserves more sympathy than ridicule.

Since it began, the Open Championship has been an indelible part of the ancient game. Reflecting on that rich history, it's fascinating to see all that has come before. What are the greatest Championships? Golfshake's Kieran Clark has gone through all 147 of them - picking out two from each decade - that best tell the continuing story of the Open.

It's the venues that have continually made the Scottish Open an indelible part of the European Tour calender, despite the event's various incarnations. We take a closer look at each of them, including the unique Golfshake reviews.

If you find awkward or seemingly impossible positions on the golf course, it's on you, and the responsibility of escaping rests on your shoulders. Although that can be more difficult in some spots than others. Here are several key shots that we won't relish playing, but live safe in the knowledge that fate will ask us to.

This year's Scottish Open has drawn an impressive field at The Renaissance Club in East Lothian, but who is going to be successful in this Rolex Series event? Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks beyond the marquee names, picking out five players that could have a memorable week.

Open Regional Qualifying takes place over 13 venues across the British Isles. Playing in Regional Qualifying is a potential opportunity of a lifetime, but it's also the chance to play on some revered courses. We have taken a closer look at each of the regional venues used in 2019, including the unique Golfshake reviews.

During its lengthy connection with major golf, Hazeltine National has crowned many a seemingly unlikely breakthrough winner, from Sandra Spuzich at the 1966 U.S Women's Open to Rich Beem and Y.E. Yang, but Hannah Green's emotional and brilliant triumph in the Women's PGA Championship may have been the most unexpected of them all. 

This month, Golfshake is handing three keen golfers the enviable opportunity to participate in an Odyssey Golf Experience, consisting of a putter custom fitting, a masterclass on the greens, and the chance to play two renowned golf courses.

Hazeltine National Golf Club has played host to many of the game's most prestigious events, from the Ryder Cup to the PGA Championship and U.S. Open, with a new chapter being etched this week in Minnesota as the Women's PGA Championship comes to town. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks ahead to the third women's major of the season.

Taking stats from rounds tracked by mid-handicap golfers, we have found the toughest holes within the Golfshake Database. There is no obviously no exact way to determine the challenge of a hole, but these pose a significant level of toughness to the average player, revealing the average score relative to par.

Thousands of golfers use the Golfshake Score Tracker, providing us with a vast library of statistics. We have analysed former World Golf Championship and British Masters venue, The Grove, looking at how our members have played this popular layout, ranking the holes in difficulty, including average scores and number of putts.

Thousands of golfers use the Golfshake Score Tracker, providing us with a vast library of statistics. We have analysed the 2020 Open Championship venue, Royal St George's, looking at how our members have played this historic layout, ranking the holes in difficulty, including average scores.

Attention has rightly been placed upon two-time defending Brooks Koepka, who is seeking history, former winner Dustin Johnson, the great Tiger Woods, returning to the site of his most dominant triumph, and the in-form Rory McIlroy. However, beyond the favourites, who could secure the title and join the legends of Pebble? 

Dreams do come true for Graeme McDowell, whose eighth-place finish in the Canadian Open was enough to secure a place in July's Open Championship at his hometown course of Royal Portrush. Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the continuing resurgence of the Northern Irishman.

Last week, Lexi Thompson was a joint-runner up behind Jeongeun Lee6 in the US. Women's Open, but seven days later the roles were reversed, with the American holing a 20-foot putt for eagle on the last to secure her 11th LPGA Tour victory. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks back on a dramatic finish.

Thousands of golfers use the Golfshake Score Tracker, providing us with a vast library of statistics. We have focused on the former Ryder Cup venue, the Twenty Course at Celtic Manor, among the most acclaimed venues in the UK, looking at how our members have played this layout, ranking the holes in difficulty, including average scores and number of putts.

The U.S. Women's Open is the oldest and arguably most prestigious of the LPGA Tour's major championships. Golfshake's Kieran Clark takes a closer look at the potential contenders for this significant title and record prize fund.

Thousands of golfers use the Golfshake Score Tracker, providing us with a vast library of statistics. We have focused on the revered Open Championship venue, Royal Birkdale, for many the best in England, looking at how our members have played this famous layout, ranking the holes in difficulty, including average scores.

Thousands of golfers use the Golfshake Score Tracker, providing us with a vast library of statistics. We have focused on the Brabazon Course at The Belfry, looking at how our members have played this venerable layout, ranking the holes in difficulty, including average scores and number of putts.

With such an impressive field at the PGA Championship, it's hard to identify genuine outside contenders, but we have decided to pick out a group - all ranked outside the Top 20 in the World Rankings - who may just be in with a chance on Sunday.

Thousands of golfers use the Golfshake Score Tracker, providing us with a vast library of statistics. We have focused on the Old Course at St Andrews, looking at how our members have played this venerable layout, ranking the holes in difficulty, including average scores and number of putts.

Following months of doubt, it has been reported that Rory McIlroy has taken up membership of the European Tour, and will make appearances on the circuit this season, including in Scotland, Switzerland, and the BMW PGA at Wentworth.

Following our statistical look at the most challenging greens in the UK, we delved into the Golfshake Score Tracker to identify courses that our golfers have recorded the fewest average putts.

Delving into detailed statistics taken over a three year period from the Golfshake Score Tracker, we have identified 50 courses across the country that present the most challenging greens in the UK. 

South Carolina is widely regarded as a paradise for golfers, including exceptional resorts like Hilton Head and Kiawah Island. Winning the Up & Down to South Carolina Challenge on Golfshake, Sam Ruddle reflects on his experience in the state, the courses he played and the accommodation, showcasing why it's such a renowned destination.

Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the remarkable journey of Tiger Woods, the spectacular rises and dramatic falls, all of which have culminated in his breathtaking triumph on Sunday at the Masters.

Former Masters champion, Ian Woosnam quietly brought his career at Augusta to an end on Friday. Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the Welshman's achievements, and how the storied time of Europe's Big Five is reaching its conclusion.

You may not play Augusta National in your lifetime, but there are many other Alister MacKenzie courses in the UK and Ireland, including Alwoodley and Lahinch. We have brought them all together into one helpful guide.

To capture a little bit of the special imagination that people have with Augusta, we asked members of the Golfshake team, including several of our ambassadors, to delve back into their memories and recall some of the tournaments, shots, and triumphs that have defined their lifetime of watching the Masters.

Considering the exclusive and limited nature of the field, there aren't many genuine outsiders at the Masters, but we have picked out eight names who could surprise the big favourites this week at Augusta National.

Ko Jin-young won the ANA Inspiration to become the first major champion of 2019, joining a rich group of players from South Korea who have tasted success in the biggest events. Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on an emotional triumph at Mission Hills in California.

It's time for the year's first major championship, the ANA Inspiration. Golfshake's Kieran Clark takes a closer look at the event from Mission Hills in California, picking out some of the main contenders to keep an eye on throughout the week.

Paul Casey is certainly ready for Augusta after successfully defending the Valspar Championship on the PGA Tour, while Australia's Scott Hend won in Malaysia following a tournament finish that was scarecly believable. Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the weekend's action.

The Players Championship is one of the year's highlights, a strong field on what has become an iconic golf course, but identifying potential winners at Sawgrass is a challenge. Golfshake's Kieran Clark picks out ten names - some obvious, others less so - to keep an eye on this week.

GOLFTV may threaten Sky Sports Golf in future, but for now the satellite broadcaster has regained its grip on the game's most prestigious events, following the announcement that all four men's majors will be shown in 2019.

There so many tournaments on TV, but some do stand out from the crowd for a variety of reasons. Excluding the Majors and World Golf Championships, Golfshake’s Kieran Clark has picked out ten tournaments from the game’s most lucrative tour that he always looks forward to.

We recently caught up with golf professional and YouTube personality Rick Shiels to hear about his experience being a judge on Driver vs Driver, his thoughts on the winning Cortex design, and what he learned from being part of a large scale television production with a unique insight behind driver manufacturing.

David Law's victory in Australia was a rare bright moment for Scottish golfers, but could it just be the start of more to come? Golfshake's Kieran Clark believes that a fresh generation of players provide reason to feel optimistic.

To mark this 30th anniversary year for the tournament, we have reflected back on the 1996 triumph of Colin Montgomerie, who produced what is perhaps the most famous and memorable shot in the history of the Dubai Desert Classic.

Last year, we took keen Golfshake Member Shaun Morgan to experience a Custom Fitting with PING, a process that he hadn't undergone in a decade of playing golf. Months later, we have reconnected with Shaun to discover what difference being fitted for a new set of clubs has made to his game.

We have looked through the latest Official World Golf Ranking – 16th December – and compared it to the final list of 2017 to pick out some of the most notable players who have ascended and slumped throughout this year.

The story of 14-year-old Chinese golfer Kuang Yang qualifying for the Volvo China Open has rekindled memories of past teenagers who emerged onto the professional stage at a remarkably young age. We take a look back at some of the most notable examples of kids playing on tour.

Christmas lights have been switched in high streets across the country, but that hasn't curbed the weekly anthology of professional golf, with a series of events concluding during the weekend. From the World Cup of Golf in Australia, the European Tour season-opener in Hong Kong, the LET finale in Spain, and yes, 'The Match' between Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, there was surprisingly a lot going on.

Through a record number of appearances and leading points total, Dame Laura Davies already holds an indelible place within the history of the Solheim Cup, a legacy that will continue next year with the news that European captain Catriona Matthew has named the English golf icon as her third vice-captain for the 2019 matches.

There was a mixture of joy and relief for 27 players who survived the gruelling examination of Qualifying School to claim their cards on the European Tour for next season. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks at some of the names who made it through, and notable ones who didn't and now face a different path for 2019.

Four years ago, Oliver Wilson produced one of the unlikeliest professional victories in recent memory by securing the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews when ranked 792nd in the world. Now, he is on the road to complete another remarkable career resurgence after claiming his second Challenge Tour victory of the season in Ireland.

The Alfred Dunhill Links is played across a formidable trio of layouts; the Old Course at St Andrews, the Championship Course at Carnoustie, and Kingsbarns Golf Links.Golfshake’s Kieran Clark has drawn from the three courses – picking six holes from each – to create the Ultimate Dunhill Links Course.

That widely quoted adage states that if there's "nae wind, nae rain, it's nae golf". We had the breeze during the opening round of the Dunhill Links across St Andrews, Kingsbarns and Carnoustie, showcasing the challenge of seaside golf as it was intended to be.

Ryder Cup players Tommy Fleetwood, Brooks Koepka, Tony Finau, and defending champion Tyrrell Hatton are the marquee names competing in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship from St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns, and they are all excited about the week ahead at the Home of Golf.

History was made on Friday at the Portugal Masters as England's Oli Fisher shot the first 59 on the European Tour. Golfshake Member Neal Gladwin has been enjoying a magical week as Dom Pedro's Social Media Reporter, and he was able to witness the historic moment in person. We caught up with him to discover what it was like.

The 2018 Ryder Cup at Le Golf National is merely weeks away, and the teams are taking shape, with the eight automatic qualifiers for the US confirmed, and the race nearly over for Europe, attention will soon turn to the wild card picks. Golfshake's Kieran Clark takes a look at where everyone stands.

Attention has been understandably fixed on eventual victor Brooks Koepka and the thrilling resurgent performance of Tiger Woods, but former world number one Adam Scott enjoyed a welcome renaissance of his own at the PGA Championship, contending throughout on Sunday as he looked to add the year's final major to his Masters title of 2013. 

Tiger Woods electrified the huge crowds at Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis with a resurgent and thrilling Sunday charge at the Wanamaker Trophy in the PGA Championship. We relive the sights and sounds from a sensory experience.

We have decided to take a look further down the field - at players with odds at or greater than 100/1 - to identify a potential surprise champion who could emerge through the pack and surprise the fancied runners at the PGA Championship.

The WGC Bridgestone Invitational is being held at Firestone Country Club for a final time, with eight-time winner Tiger Woods part of the field. We take a look back at his victories at the venue dating back to 1999.

The Canadian Open was Dustin Johnson's 19th on the PGA Tour, placing him with exulted company. The world number one has achieved much to date, perhaps more than most realise. We look at where his record to date stands with the biggest names.

Miguel Angel Jimenez held his nerve to fend off the formidable challenge of Bernhard Langer to secure a one-shot victory in an engrossing Senior Open Championship from the legendary Old Course at St Andrews.

The Old Course at St Andrews is renowned for its bunkers, many of which are named and have their own piece of history within the game. Golfshake's Kieran Clark shares just a few of the most notable on this historic layout.

Tom Watson may be fast approaching his 69th birthday, but the legendary American believes that he could contend at this year's Senior Open Championship at St Andrews, relishing the prospect on returning to the Old Course.

Golfshake's Kieran Clark is a resident of St Andrews and has played the legendary Old Course many times. He loves layout, but has decided to pick out six of the holes that he considers to be his favourites of the bunch.

Bernhard Langer is the defending Senior Open champion at St Andrews, but he faces a formidable challenge from legendary names and many of the most successful players on the over-50s circuit. Winning here is a rare and golden opportunity, a prospect that has drawn the best. Here are five of the most likely contenders.

38 Ryder Cup players, 20 major champions, and 23 senior major champions have gathered in Fife to claim their own piece of history on the most grand of stages at the Senior Open. Record crowds are expected to descend upon St Andrews, and here are some of the most notable groupings that they will be following on Thursday and Friday. 

This year's Senior Open at St Andrews has drawn a spectacular field packed with legends and many of the most successful players on the over-50s circuit. Take a look through some of the best known names who are competing at the Home of Golf.

Legends have descended upon the Old Course at St. Andrews for the Senior Open, which promises to be the biggest and most significant in the history of the event. Record crowds expected to watch many of the most famous names in the game seeking to achieve a rare victory at the spiritual Home of Golf.

Host of the 2018 Open Championship, Carnoustie Golf Links is one of the great venues of Scottish and British golf. Here is our full guide and review to the Championship Course, including the history, experience and course.

Following an enthralling Open at Carnoustie, attention now turns to the year's final men's major, the PGA Championship, but for golf fans across the UK & Ireland, they will have to rely on following online coverage of the 100th edition from Bellerive, as ELEVEN SPORTS have secured live and exclusive rights to the event. 

Francesco Molinari produced a complete display to triumph in the Open at Carnoustie, an journey that began over two decades ago in front of the TV. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks back at the Italian's odyssey to become Champion Golfer of the Year.

1985 champion Sandy Lyle has completed his 43rd and likely final Open Championship. Golfshake's Kieran Clark pays tribute to this legend of the game, who remains Britain's most understated golf trailblazer.

Following major controversy at the U.S. Open, Phil Mickelson has apologised days later in a text message sent to an exclusive mailing list of reporters and writers.

Golf is mourning the loss of Peter Thomson, the legendary Australian who passed away on Wednesday in Melbourne at the age of 88. Five-times Champion Golfer of the Year. Golfshake's Kieran Clark remembers Golf's Gentleman Champion.

The 123rd Amateur Championship is contested at Royal Aberdeen and Murcar Links in the North East of Scotland, making their debuts on the rotation. Naturally, the Amateur has graced many of the finest stages in the British Isles, and we take a close look at those revered venues. 

This year's beautifully fearsome US Open venue Shinnecock Hills is a notoriously private golf club in a famously exclusive part of Long Island, New York, but there are several courses on the rotation of America's National Championship that are easily accessible for golfers looking to walk in the footsteps of history. 

It's hard to look beyond the favourites at the US Open, but we have picked out five golfers who are moving somewhat under the radar with the bookmakers. These potential winners are all at least 60/1 on the latest betting and may spring a surprise on Sunday.

The US Open, Open and PGA Championships are coming up this summer, and there are five main contenders who are looking to each achieve something historic. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks at those golfers who are looking to complete sporting immortality.

The 73rd U.S. Women's Open had appeared to be a procession of brilliance from Ariya Jutanugarn, who was seven shots clear of the field during the final round at Shoal Creek, only to collapse down the stretch, before rebounding from that with a thrilling victory in a playoff over Hyo Joo Kim to win the oldest and most lucrative major on the LPGA Tour.

It was billed as a "Big Announcement" and Thomas Bjorn delivered on that promise with the unveiling of four new Vice Captains for the Ryder Cup. The European Captain presented veterans Luke Donald, Lee Westwood, Padraig Harrington and Graeme McDowell as his new supporting team, joining Robert Karlsson who had been announced last year.

Reigning Open champion, Jordan Spieth made his debut on the PGA Tour aged 16 at the Byron Nelson in 2010. Contending that week, and leaving a major impression, Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the beginning of Spieth's legend.

Among many achievements, Sandy Lyle was the first European and remains the only British golfer to have won The Players Championship TPC Sawgrass. Golfshake's Kieran Clark reflects on the legacy of the Shropshire Scot who conquered the golf world.

It was a 21st birthday to celebrate, as Lydia Ko carried on the positive vibes of that milestone to secure her first victory on the LPGA Tour since 2016 at the Mediheal Championship in California.

He may have come up agonisingly short of winning, but this Masters Sunday could prove to be a landmark date in the career of Rickie Fowler. Golfshake's Kieran Clark explains why the American is now ready to secure a major victory.

With considerable attention placed upon the likes of Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, we have taken a look further down the pecking order to identify several more unfancied names who could usurp those above and secure that legendary Green Jacket.

Dating back around 150 years, the Tom Morris Golf Shop was the oldest in the world and stood as a timeless landmark in St. Andrews. But now, it has been controversially replaced by a store that sells Open Championship merchandise, removing the famous name and history from its walls.

If you're looking for some golf content to watch during these winter nights, 50 Years of the Masters can sensationally be seen on YouTube. 150 hours of content. Golfshake's Kieran Clark picks 10 Favourites to start watching.

Dame Laura Davies is deservedly regarded as being among the finest golfers that Britain has produced, and it was thrilling to watch her recapture that form at the Founders Cup, where she was battling to become the oldest winner on the LPGA Tour.

Golfers are immortalised and defined by their success in major championships, the events with the strongest fields and most historical significance. We look back at the most prolific major champions in the history of women's golf.

It had been nearly five years since he brilliantly secured the Claret Jug at Muirfield, but Phil Mickelson's thrilling victory in the WGC Mexico Championship may signal a winning renaissance for the five-time major champion.

Augusta National looks set to undergo major changes for the first time in a decade, with preliminary site plans filed with local authorities noting a possible lengthening of the fifth hole at the iconic home of the Masters Tournament.

It's been the worst kept secret in golf for years, but the R&A has officially announced that The Open Championship will return to the legendary Old Course at St. Andrews for the 150th playing of golf's oldest major in 2021. 

Ted Potter Jr. produced a marvellous round of golf to see off world number one Dustin Johnson and secure his second PGA Tour victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, while Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat defeated home favourite James Nitties 2 and 1 in the final of the uniquely formatted ISPS Handa Super 6 Perth in Australia.

Making golf more inclusive and accessible. Golfshake's Kieran Clark spoke with England Golf's Disability Manager, Jamie Blair, to hear about the incredible work being done to introduce more people with disabilities and impairments to the game, and the positive difference it can make.

Pine Valley is the Holy Grail for many golfers, but is largely unseen. However, that has now changed, thanks to this extraordinary drone footage taken by Golf Digest. Looking through all 18 holes, the spectacular bunkering and sheer scale of the property is evident.

Following consultation with a comprehensive working group, The R&A and USGA have announced an updated set of protocols for video review in tournaments when applying the Rules of Golf, effectively closing the window on viewers calling in to report potential infractions that they have spotted on television.

Does your golf club have a defibrillator on site? It could make a difference and save lives. New research by St John Ambulance has discovered that potentially seven out of 10 people who suffer a cardiac arrest could survive if they are treated by a defibrillator within the first five minutes.

Following recent and successful tradition, Justin Rose has been named as British Masters host for 2018, with the prestigious event moving to the superb Walton Health in Surrey. The highly regarded venue – widely remembered for welcoming the Ryder Cup in 1981 – has also been used for the European Open, Senior Open Championship, and has been the U.S. Open qualifying site since 2005.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that Sky Sports' deal to showcase all four days of the Masters Tournament had ended without a renewal being immediately apparent. However, months down the line, that Sky is on the verge of agreeing a new contract with Augusta National officials.

Tiger Woods largely impressed - and surprised - during his return to golf at the Hero World Challenge. Reflecting on previous comebacks, Golfshake's Kieran Clark believes this latest one feels significantly different and may suggest a glorious final chapter for the 14-time major champion.

Majors and Tour Championships are great TV, but surely the purest exhibition of pressure within golf comes at the Final Stage of Qualifying School, the six-round gauntlet that whittles down hundreds of hopefuls into a select few who ensure themselves of status on the European Tour.

The European Tour season comes to its natural conclusion this week as Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose and Sergio Garcia battle for the Race to Dubai and Harry Vardon Trophy. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks back at the history of the Order of Merit, and reflects on its significance.

Nine months after withdrawing from the Dubai Desert Classic, Tiger Woods has announced that he will be making his latest comeback to professional golf at next month’s Hero World Challenge.

It's been a decade since Paul Casey last represented Europe in the Ryder Cup, but the Englishman looks set to end that long-standing hiatus after confirming that he will take up membership on the European Tour in 2018, opening the door to become part of Thomas Bjorn's team for the showpiece at Le Golf National next year. 

You have probably seen the hilarious video from the European Tour that challenged Edoardo Molinari to make a hole-in-one with 500 golf balls. It got us thinking about the averages and odds of making a hole-in-one and how they relate to regular golfers. Delving into the Golfshake Score Tracker stats from this summer - in which tens of thousands regularly record their rounds - we have drawn up statistical conclusions as to how likely you are of achieving that most magical of shots

 Next year's Shot Clock Masters in Austria on the European Tour will be the first official tournament to use a shot clock on every shot as the circuit looks to combat the increasingly lengthy time it is taking for the top professionals to complete 18 holes.

Jordan Spieth’s dramatic Open Championship victory in July will live long in the memory, and it has been permanently immortalised at Royal Birkdale after the young American donated his Titleist 718 T-MB 3-Iron that helped to carry the Texan to success over Matt Kuchar and secure the Claret Jug.

Rory McIlroy completed a disappointing season at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, but as Kieran Clark writes, the Northern Irishman is now looking forward to gearing himself up for a major 2018, targeting several lofty objectives next year and throughout the rest of his career.

The Old Course at St. Andrews is the most revered and hallowed of grounds. It's most accessible of the big-name destinations to play, even though it’s undeniably the most popular. There are several available routes onto that landmark first tee, and we’ve brought them together for you.

Having bowed out from competitive golf last year, Nick Dougherty tells Golfshake's Kieran Clark about his love for working at Sky Sports Golf, and is ambition to help share the game widely and raise awareness of the benefits that it can make to the lives of people in need.

New father Tommy Fleetwood steps back into the competitive environment of the European Tour at his favourite destination on the circuit, as he looks to extend his lead at the summit of the Race to Dubai after enjoying a sparkling season to date.

Rory McIlroy is bringing down the curtain on his 2017 season this week at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, and he’s enjoying a long overdue return to the showpiece event at the Home of Golf that saw him secure his tour card as a fledgling professional a decade ago.

The European Tour season has several considerably important weeks to come, but that hasn’t stopped the game’s most international and diverse circuit from unveiling its full 2018 schedule, which includes new events, revised dates, and innovative formats.

Rory McIlroy is already looking forward to a required period of respite from the game as he builds towards better things in 2018, with his fortnightly UK season-ending sojourn beginning in earnest this week at the eagerly anticipated British Masters from Close House in Newcastle.

In just the latest example of golf's regularly baffling rules tripping up an unsuspecting player, Matthew Southgate - the popular Englishman who is attempting to secure a PGA Tour card - found himself the victim of a four-shot penalty following a bizarre incident that saw his ball struck by a leaf as he attempted to hole a putt.

Justin Thomas completed a sensational and already lucrative season by unlocking the $10m cash box of the FedEx Cup after pipping Jordan Spieth in the rankings, as fellow young American Xander Schauffele won the Tour Championship to secure his second victory on the PGA Tour.

Scotland’s very own Catriona Matthew has been unveiled as Europe’s Solheim Cup captain for the 2019 edition at Gleneagles. The 48-year-old, a widely respected veteran of nine matches, was unquestionably the natural choice to lead the home team in Perthshire, taking on the honourable position just 80 miles from her residence of North Berwick.

This month's British Masters presented by Sky Sports was already set to be a major highlight on the calendar, but anticipation will only increase over the coming week in the north-east of England with the news that Rory McIlroy has confirmed his participation in the event at Close House, which is to be hosted by Lee Westwood.

Sweden’s Anna Nordqvist secured her second major title at the weather-shortened Evian Championship, overcoming the largely unheralded American Brittany Altomare in a playoff.

Australia’s Marc Leishman completed an impressive wire-to-wire victory in the BMW Championship to banish the memories of a disappointing loss in his previous event to secure a third victory on the PGA Tour and move into one of the coveted top five positions on the FedEx Cup standings before the season-ending Tour Championship.

When it comes to the constantly evolving landscape of professional golf, we’re always looking out for emerging talent and potential stars jostling for position under the radar. Min Kyu Kim plays on the EuroPro Tour - and won three times in August. He is only 16 and possesses an incredible golf swing.

Stacy Lewis picked up her first LPGA Tour victory in three years at the Portland Classic, but that fact was overshadowed by the American’s remarkable gesture of donating her entire prize money – all $195,000 of it – to the relief fund for victims of Storm Harvey in her hometown of Houston.

Tiger Woods looks set to step back into the public environment of competitive golf next month at the Presidents Cup in New Jersey, when he is expected to serve as one of Steve Stricker's assistant captains for the United States team.

Rory McIlroy has confirmed that his 2017 season will conclude earlier than originally planned, with the Northern Irishman set to pass on competing in the European Tour’s Race to Dubai finale later in the autumn.

When you consider the enthusiasm created by the Solheim Cup - and indeed the Ryder Cup - why doesn't golf have more team match play events. Golfshake's Kieran Clark believes we should seek to push the format throughout the game.

English pair Melissa Reid and Charley Hull will spearhead Europe’s bid to reclaim the Solheim Cup today in Des Moines, Iowa. Captain Annika Sorenstam outlined her pairings for the always crucial Friday morning foursomes, with America’s maestro Juli Inkster opting for the formidable duo of Cristie Kerr and world number two Lexi Thompson

Two years on from that dramatic and controversial finish in Germany, the Solheim Cup is back. We take a closer look at both teams - led by Juli Inkster and Annika Sorenstam - and see who the key players could be this week for the United States and Europe.

Son and Grandson of PGA Professionals, Justin Thomas' dramatic major victory at the PGA Championship was the perfect stage and moment for the 24-year-old to achieve his huge breakthrough. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks at why it was an extra special achievement for the American.

Following the completion of the 99th PGA Championship at Quail Hollow - a venue where he had previously been dominant - four-time major champion Rory McIlroy stated that he may be required to miss the remainder of this season as he seeks to fully recover from a rib injury that has blighted his year, leading him to only competing in 13 tournament this year. 

Jordan Spieth has the opportunity to make history and complete the Career Grand Slam at Quail Hollow this week. Rory McIlroy just needs the Masters to join the most exclusive of golf clubs. Who will get there first? Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks at the race to sporting immortality.

Rory McIlroy is excited about the prospect of this week's PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, one of his favourite venues. The Northern Irishman is looking for his first major in years, and this is the timely stage for him to succeed.

In-Kyung Kim banished the horrors of squandering a major chance at the ANA Inspiration five years ago to produce a two-shot victory in the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Kingsbarns, despite the best efforts of England’s Jodi Ewart Shadoff who was simply brilliant in the rain.

South Korea’s In-Kyung Kim will take a commanding six-shot lead into the final day of the Ricoh Women’s British Open following an impressively metronomic and controlled exhibition on Saturday, after a superb bogey-free round of 66 on a changeable afternoon of weather on the East Neuk of Fife at the stunning Kingsbarns Golf Links.

World number one Dustin Johnson is renowned as being one of the games' biggest hitters, but his effort on the lengthy 16th hole during the first round of the WGC Bridgstone Invitational at Firestone caught attention as he smashed the record books to strike the longest drive on the PGA Tour in four years with a tee shot of 439 yards. 

Georgia Hall tops what has been a memorable two days for English golf at the Women’s British Open, holding the clubhouse lead after her second round at Kingsbarns. The 21-year-old from Bournemouth has long been touted as a potential star in the game, and we’re seeing evidence of that with a sparkling performance thus far in the East Neuk of Fife.

The Cross of Saint George featured prominently on the leaderboards at Kingsbarns throughout a memorable opening day for the English at the Ricoh Women’s British Open, with Jodi Ewart Shadoff, Mel Reid, Charley Hull, Georgia Hall and the legendary Dame Laura Davies all in early contention.

Armed with highly lofted woods, a relaxed mind, and recovered body, Michelle Wie produced a masterful display of low scoring on a receptive morning at Kingsbarns to lead the Ricoh Women's British Open after shooting an eight-under round of 64.

Rory McIlroy caused a stir on Monday when it was reported that he had parted ways with long-time caddie J.P. Fitzgerland. Ahead of the WGC Bridgestone Invitational, the Northern Irishman commented on that split and the reasons behind it.

It’s been eight years since Catriona Matthew won the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Royal Lytham & St. Annes. This week at Kingsbarns, the likes of Charley Hull, Jodie Ewart Shadoff and Georgia Hall are hoping to secure a home victory.

Lexi Thompson is hoping the vast local experience of her Scottish caddie will prove invaluable as she looks to secure a second major title at the 41st Ricoh Women’s British Open at Kingsbarns.

The majestic Kingsbarns Golf Links is tasting major championship golf for the first time this week as host of the 41st Ricoh Women’s British Open, and the field has been universal in their praise for a course that promises to be the perfect stage for the best female golfers in the world.

Dame Laura Davies secured her place in the Women's British Open for a record 37th occasion following a dramatic day of final qualifying at the Castle Course, St. Andrews. The 1986 champion survived a remarkable 14-player playoff, with 11 remaining places available into the season's final major at the spectacular Kingsbarns Golf Links

Four-time major champion Rory McIlroy has reportedly sacked long-time caddie JP Fitzgerald after nine years together on tour. According to Reuters, the 28-year-old will have a new man on the bag this week at the WGC Bridgestone Invitational in Akron, Ohio, before the US PGA Championship at one of the Northern Irishman's most favoured venues, Quail Hollow.

Following the confirmation that the US PGA Championship - the year's final men's major - is to be shown live on the BBC, Sky Sports is facing an additional blow to its newly launched golf channel with the revelation that the broadcaster has thus far failed to agree a contract renewal to present the Masters Tournament from Augusta National. 

In shock news for Sky Sports subscribers, it was revealed that the year's fourth major - the PGA Championship - will be televised on the BBC. We canvassed the opinions of golf viewers, and it's fair to say that the response has been mixed.

Jordan Spieth cemented his place alongside the legends of golf on an unforgettable Sunday at Royal Birkdale. Golfshake's Kieran Clark looks at what makes the young American so special and why we should marvel at his talents.

Defending Open champion Henrik Stenson experienced a shock on Thursday after his opening round at Royal Birkdale, discovering that his rented home for the week had been burgled, with personal items and his clothing being stolen during the afternoon when the house was empty.

Last year, Ian Poulter was nursing a foot injury while providing a touch of commentary at Royal Troon for Sky Sports. However, 12 months on, the 41-year-old is back feeling rejuvenated and is in contention for his first major title following an opening-round of 67 at Royal Birkdale.

Rory McIlroy overcame a horror start to the 146th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale with a thrilling back-nine to keep his hopes of securing the Claret Jug for a second time just about alive.

Following the shock revelation that Sky Sports had failed to agree a new contract with the PGA of America to show the final major of the year, the BBC has fended off the likes of BT Sport and Twitter to secure a contract that will see next month's PGA Championship air live on public television

To mark this week's Scottish Open from Ayrshire's Dundonald Links, we asked you on Twitter and Facebook to send us your best photos taken when playing golf in Scotland. The response surpassed all expectations, with dozens of you taking the opportunity to share images from across the spectacular nation, from the Highlands to St. Andrews and East Lothian, the likes of Muirfield and Carnoustie to the Isle of Arran and Perthshire. 

This week's Scottish Open venue Dundonald Links is set to be widely showcased the world, and it will be the first time seeing the course for many people. Take a look around all 18 holes of the layout that will challenge the likes of Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson and Rickie Fowler.

We now see holes measuring over 600 yards regularly in major championships, but there are several closer to home in the UK that regular golfers can experience for themselves. Take a look through some of the most eye-watering holes in Britain.

They were the most enduring of partnerships, defying the often precarious and short-lived dynamic between player and caddie, but it has been confirmed that Phil Mickelson and long-term companion on tour Jim "Bones" Mackay have parted company after 25 years. 

From the peaks of Aviemore to the highs of Erin Hills, Sunday in Wisconsin was the major culmination in what has been a unique career progression for Brooks Koepka, whose professional life began on Europe’s uncompromising second circuit, before impressively ascending through the ranks to the upper echelons of the game within four years. Challenge Tour to the U.S. Open.

Ahead of Father's Day, we take a look through some of the most famous and successful Father-Son combinations in golf. From Old and Young Tom Morris to Davis and Dru Love, there many examples of sons following their dads into the game.

Four-time major champion Rory McIlroy has dismisses critics of the thick, fescue rough that has been widely documented at this weeks U.S. Open, after the USGA had decided to cut back much of the long grass on four holes at Erin Hills.

Renowned as the most unrelentingly punishing test in the game, we take a look back through the archives to discover which U.S. Open have been the most difficult and resulted in the highest scores.

Rory McIlroy returns from injury at the US Open this week, and has been quick to praise the contentious venue Erin Hills, which has drawn a wide variety of responses. However, the 2011 champion is viewing the challenge positively.

This year's US Open venue Erin Hills has drawn a wide range of responses, with its significant fescue rough grabbing most attention. Kevin Na demonstrated just how unplayable this long grass will be, likely reducing the game's best players into hackers should they miss a fairway.

It's been a frustrating season for Rory McIlroy to date, having missed significant periods of the year through injury, but the four-time major champion has confirmed his return at next week's U.S. Open at Erin Hills, after spending a fortnight at the stunning Quinta do Lago Resort in Portugal.

Three-time major champion Padraig Harrington has withdrawn from this week's FedEx St. Jude Classic after suffering a bizzare injury, after being struck on the elbow by an amateur golfer he was coaching in a session. 

Kieran Clark recently sat down at the Dunhill Links with golf correspondent John Huggan to discuss all things golf.

Kieran Clark interviews wildlife filmmaker Bertie Allison about his film project which looks at the work of the Golf Environment Organisation focusing on Blairgowrie Golf Club and the St. Andrews Links showing how golf and nature can thrive together.

Kieran Clark caught up with Kevin Markham author of 'Hooked' - an Amateur's guide to the golf courses of Ireland, to chat about his travels and experiences playing around Ireland, discuss his story, his two books, and to provide a useful introduction for any potential visitors to the island.

Ten years ago, Jack Nicklaus crossed the Swilcan Bridge for the final time in competition and now, a decade on from Jack’s day, it is Tom Watson’s turn. After 40 years and five victories, the 144th Open Championship will be the last one of Watson’s incredible career.

Winning the Open Championship at St. Andrews. It is one of the great and most notable feats in sport. The chance for indelible greatness only comes round once every five years, when the very best players in the world are presented with that enticing opportunity to be triumphant in golf’s oldest major championship on the game’s most historic course.

For years, Rickie Fowler has spoken of his love and appreciation for the original form of the sport. At the magnificent Gullane Golf Club, the Scottish Open would be the event where that reverence and positivity had finally converted itself into a victory.

Kieran Clark looks at the recent performances of Graeme McDowell. In 2015, McDowell has competed in 15 events around the world where he's struggled to find any form or any kind of tangible success but that may be set to change.

Day 3 wrap up from the AAM Scottish opne.  Grit and determination required in the third round, as the previously benign links began to show its teeth.

The United States Open has long established a fearsome reputation as being routinely the most brutally difficult of golf’s four grand slam championships.

How do we attract more kids to the game? It is arguably the most important question to be answered in golf. Kieran Clark interviews PGA Pro Allan Knox and finds out what they have been doing at King James VI.

The surprise revelation that Davis Love III – who captained the US Team in 2012 – is to return in the role next year at Hazeltine was met with a whole variety of responses on social media on Monday evening.

Kieran Clark looks back over the life and golfing times of one the greats of the game. Billy Casper passed away last week leaving a behind a career that may may have been one of the most underated of all time. 

We take a look at 10 of the best courses that Scotland has to offer for under £50. There are some amazing courses in the list including the Kyle Phillips designed Dundonald Links. 

The Long Drivers European Tour is the only circuit of its kind in the world, and it returns for a third season in 2015. The game’s biggest hitters will compete in events across Europe this year, with two-time champion Joe Miller looking to secure a third consecutive Long Driving title.

Here are ten courses that cost no more than £100 that would enhance anyone’s golfing résumé. And don’t say it too loudly, but you may find that one or two of them are that little bit better than their pricier cousins.