Tony Finau withdrew from yet another tournament, this time from the Grant Thorton Invitational in Florida.
A knee injury is the main reason for his absence, although Finau was supposed to play in a pair with the best female golfer in the world, Nelly Korda. Although there were indications that the 34-year-old will return soon, it is obvious that the American is still not ready. Playing with Nelly last year was an unforgettable experience for him. The experienced golfer was hoping for the same this time, but an obstacle in the form of an injury ruined his plans.
Finau apologized to the great golfer, grateful for her support. His priority is recovery and returning to golf courses as soon as possible. The popular golfer did not forget to thank Grant Thornton for their support. Finau emphasized diversity in the golf world, believing that the PGA Tour and LPGA should be united and play such events more often.
“I am disappointed to withdraw from the Grant Thornton Invitational as I continue to recover from my knee injury,” Finau said.
“Playing with Nelly in 2023 was one of the highlights of my year. I look forward to cheering her on this week and am thankful for her support and understanding as I work on getting fully healthy.
I’m grateful to my partner Grant Thornton for their support and for diversifying our game by bringing the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour together in Naples. I look forward to returning to competition in the new year.”
The 34-year-old was the main topic in the media 10 days ago after he decided to withdraw from the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. Golf fans immediately reacted furiously, believing that such an absence indicates his joining LIV Golf. Considering the large number of rumors, Tony had to deny such rumors via social media.
He stressed that these were false rumors, happy playing on the PGA Tour, and looking forward to the next challenges. Golf fans are quite cautious and outraged by previous experiences when individuals similarly joined LIV Golf.
“They’re not true,” Finau said.
“I’m more than happy where I’m at on the PGA Tour and looking forward to 2025. When I tee it up in Maui, it will all go away, so, I don’t worry about it one bit.”
The Hero World Challenge was hosted by Tiger Woods. Finau contacted Tiger on purpose, telling him that he would be absent. The legendary Tiger had nothing against it. In fact, Woods pointed out that he would have offered him the same advice.
Things went so far that even his wife decided to react via social media. In one of the videos, she said that her life is already complicated, so she doesn’t need drama like this. Tony Finau can also be seen in the video, smiling, sending an interesting message: “Hello Drama!”
Tony Finau and his wife© tonyfinaugolf / Instagram / Fair Use
LIV Golf created a huge stir on the golf scene. A small thing is enough to cause panic among the fans, and for rumors to start circulating in the media. Finau was the target this time, and the question is who will be next. The only way to resolve such issues is by reaching a final agreement between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. Such a scenario is difficult to expect after everything, but it is hoped that there may be changes in the golf scene.
LIV Golf manager: “My phone’s been ringing nonstop”
This is the period of the year when LIV Golf managers will monitor the situation and make interesting moves. LIV Golf GM stressed a few weeks ago that he constantly has offers from managers who want to solve the future of their players. LIV Golf is a great destination for many, especially considering the financial aspect of the game. This is the primary reason why such an option is exciting for many, even golfers who have yet to set foot on the professional trails.
LIV Golf GM admitted that his phone is constantly ringing. Naturally, most people ask questions about who are the players who offer themselves to this Tour.
Among the fans, the opinion is that LIV spoils the game and destroys the tradition and prestige of this sport. Despite everything, some secretly want to come to this Tour.
“My phone’s been ringing nonstop basically since right before Dallas and things are starting to happen from either player directly or agents calling exploring and wanting to look at the possibility of coming on [LIV team],” the general manager said.
Finau probably won’t be part of this Tour, but it seems he’s someone who wants unification on the golf scene.
Tennis World USA