Charles Howell III, a former PGA Tour player, is now part of the LIV Golf League. He’s one of 29 LIV players competing in the Hong Kong Open, with a chance to earn a spot at the Masters. The tournament also features other notable LIV players like Talor Gooch, Paul Casey, Graeme McDowell, and Harold Varner III. Howell’s participation in Hong Kong is notable, as he’s been playing exclusively for LIV Golf since joining in July 2022. The Hong Kong Open is one of two remaining chances for LIV players to earn a spot at the Masters, with the other being the Australian Open and the South African Open. The tournament also marks Howell’s first visit to Hong Kong, where he played PGA Tour events in South Korea, Japan, and Shanghai during a five-week tour of Asia with his family.
Charles Howell 3, a master’s contender in Hong Kong. A golfer’s journey to the Masters is a tale of passion and perseverance. Charles Howell 3, a native of Augusta, Georgia, has an unwavering love for the Masters, a tournament that holds a special place in his heart. But this year, his path to Augusta takes an unexpected turn, leading him to the Hong Kong Open. The Hong Kong Open is more than just a golf tournament for Howell. It’s a chance to compete for a master’s invitation and a unique opportunity to explore Asia with his family. After years of primarily playing at home, Howell embarked on a 5-week tour of Asia with his wife and children, creating unforgettable memories. But here’s where it gets controversial. The Hong Kong Open is not just about Howell’s personal journey. It’s a tournament filled with LIIV golf players, including Tyler Gu and Paul Casey, who are all vying for a spot at the Masters. With 33 LIIV players in the field, the Hong Kong Open has become a battleground for golf’s biggest stage. What sets Howell apart is his dedication to LIIV golf. Since joining the Saudi funded league in 2022, he has not competed in any other tour. This week’s tournament is one of the last chances for LIIV players to secure their M’s invitation with only two more opportunities left after this. And this is the part most people miss. The Hong Kong Open is not just about the golf. It’s a showcase of appreciation and gratitude. Michael Brennan, a young golfer on the rise, received an unrestricted sponsor exemption for the Bank of Utah Championship. Brennan, who had previously been denied an exemption, went above and beyond to express his gratitude to the committee. He visited the tournament office multiple times, accompanied by his parents, to personally thank the staff for the opportunity. John Kulba, the tournament director, praised Brennan’s humility and appreciation, saying he came into the office several times, as did his mom and dad, just to say, “Thank you. We were more than happy to help with his launching point.” Brennan’s story is a reminder of the power of gratitude in the golf world. His journey from the PGA Tour Americas to the Cornferryy Tour and now the PGA Tour is a testament to his talent and appreciation for the opportunities presented to him. In other golf news, Billy Horchel, who missed 5 months due to surgery, made a strong comeback at the Bank of Utah Championship. Despite early struggles, he finished the tournament with a tie for 11th, a promising sign for his recovery. The PGA Tour Champions is also expanding, adding two new tournaments to its 2026 schedule. The tour will feature 28 events with a total prize fund exceeding $69 million. Additionally, the Mitsubishi Electric Classic will adopt the Stableford scoring system and the Stiffl Classic will replace Richmond, Virginia as the opening Charles Schwab Cup playoff event. A quick look at some golf tidbits. Ernie El’s will host the Portugal Invitational a week after the senior British Open. Phil Mickelson’s name will be featured under the PGA Tour umbrella with the ATB Classic rotating between Calgary and Edmonton. Rory Mroy plans to start 2026 at the Dubai Invitational on the European Tour. Michael Brennan became the 15th player to get his first PGA Tour victory this year. The indoor TGL league in Florida will host matches during the American Express and Farmers Insurance Open next January. And finally, a fun fact to end on. Rico Hoey achieved an impressive feat playing 19 consecutive parfives with birdie or better from the fourth hole in Japan to the ninth hole in Utah. It’s the longest such streak on the PGA Tour since Shot Link began in 2003. Stay tuned for more golf updates and join the conversation. What are your thoughts on the LIIV golf players presence at the Hong Kong Open? Do you think gratitude plays a significant role in a golfer’s success? Share your opinions in the comments below.
