Tiger’s impact, historic Riviera make Genesis Invitational elite despite PGA Tour’s elevated event status
The Genesis Invitational is one of the best stops on the PGA Tour.
Wrapping up the West Coast Swing, the Genesis will play as an elevated event this year with a purse of $20 million dollars.
Money is certainly motivation but this tournament was already a favorite amongst players thanks to the golf course and tournament host.
Played at iconic and historic Riviera Country Club in the Pacific Palisades, the timeless design is a fair and true test that challenges the world's best.
Not to mention, Los Angeles normally offers perfect weather and beautiful views.
How good is this place, huh? Iconic, historic, fun. What a treat to be here for @thegenesisinv Media Day. pic.twitter.com/4upv9DNa8f
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) January 23, 2023
And then there's the Tiger effect.
Tiger Woods, arguably the greatest golfer of all time with 82 PGA Tour wins and 15 major championships, is the host of this tournament.
"It would be extremely cool, especially with the atmosphere here at 18 whenever those final groups come in. You know everyone is surrounded on the hill and obviously if you won the event, yeah, that would definitely mean something," said Cameron Champ on potentially winning the tournament in front of Tiger Woods.
But as many know, Tiger has positively impacted lives beyond the game of golf, mainly through his foundation which prides themselves on being "champions for youth."
"Think about Tiger and everything he's done inside the ropes and outside the ropes of course with his foundation. The legacy he's continuing to write in this game is so special and now you see the winners on the PGA TOUR and the fellow competitors and the influence he's had on their career and their journey is really pretty special," said Genesis Invitational tournament director Mike Antolini.
As mentioned Monday, I had the privilege of playing famed Riviera for Media Day. I also got to talk with @PGATOUR player Cam Champ and @thegenesisinv tournament director Mike Antonlini, both of whom lauded tournament host @TigerWoods for his impact on the game of golf and life. pic.twitter.com/C9ilqwH2R0
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) January 26, 2023
So this is a tournament that has a "major" feel and promises to be one of the best weeks of the season on the PGA Tour.
It's also worth nothing that Charlie Byrd received the Charlie Sifford exemption this year. This is awarded annually since 2009 and represents the advancement of diversity in the game of golf.
Marcus has shown resiliency and perseverance in pursuit of a professional playing career. These are qualities that remind me of Charlie and his journey. I look forward to watching Marcus compete at Riviera.https://t.co/9rsNJPwh5h
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) January 23, 2023
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