In an exciting development for golf enthusiasts, English golf stars Charley Hull and Justin Rose are set to team up for the Grant Thornton Invitational, a unique mixed team event jointly organized by the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour. This groundbreaking event marks the first time in over two decades that these prestigious tours have come together for such an occasion.
Scheduled to unfold over three thrilling rounds from December 8th to 10th, the tournament boasts a substantial shared purse of $4 million (£3.5 million). The picturesque setting for this epic showdown will be Naples, Florida, known for its beautiful courses and ideal weather conditions.
Joining the star-studded lineup are England's Melissa Reid and Ireland's Leona Maguire, adding to the international flavor of the event. Furthermore, the field will include all five women's major champions from 2023, making this a truly star-studded competition.
Melissa Reid will team up with Russell Henley, while Lucas Glover, another accomplished American golfer, will join forces with Leona Maguire. The tournament will feature a total of 16 mixed pairs, each vying for glory and their share of the substantial prize money.
With 11 major champions in the 32-strong field, the event promises intense competition and the opportunity to witness golfing legends in action. Notably, in addition to Charley Hull and Justin Rose, the Swedish pair of Madelene Sagstrom and Ludvig Aberg will grace the event, having recently contributed to the successful European teams at the Solheim Cup and Ryder Cup earlier in the season.
The significance of the Grant Thornton Invitational extends beyond the competition itself. It harks back to the last mixed team event held by the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour in 1999, the JC Penney Classic, reminding fans of the rarity and excitement surrounding such collaborations. This event is not only a showcase of golfing talent but also a testament to the sport's continuous evolution and innovation.
