Disney should be a doozy!
After firing a three-under 67 to put him in a tie for second at the midway mark of The McGladrey Classic, Webb Simpson confirmed he’ll play next week’s season-ending event, the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Classic. Simpson’s announcement followed shortly after world No. 1 Luke Donal committed to the Disney to take on Webb for the PGA Tour Money Title. Oh yeah, it’s on! — both guys are ready to throw down.
When Simpson entered the McGladrey last week with the hopes of earning just over $68,000 to dethrone Donald, who has the opportunity to become the first player to win the Money Title on both the PGA Tour and European Tour, he already knew he would commit to the Disney — though he didn’t want to show his hand to Luke yet.
“I thought Luke was going to definitely play,” said Simpson in his post-round presser. “I think he’s kind of thinking the same thing I’m thinking, that if one of us was going to play, the other one really needed to. It’s going to be fun. I’m sure ‑‑ he’s one of those competitive guys on the Tour, and so I’m sure he’s going to come guns loaded and he’s going to play great like he has all year.”
Exactly. I don’t understand why there was ever a doubt that Luke would just practically let Webb dethrone him on the Money List. I know Luke’s wife Diane is pregnant and they’re expecting their second child in a few weeks, but it shouldn’t conflict with the Disney. Worst case scenario: Diane goes into labor early, Luke drops out or maybe he stays depending on the situation.
I just figured he wouldn’t give up the unique chance to become the first player to win both money titles. “Firsts” are cool because you’re making history and who doesn’t want to make history? Which is pretty much what Luke tweeted Friday afternoon.
Luke also added “#bringiton.” Well, Webb is ready to rumble.
“(Luke’s putt on 18 at the Tour Championship) just kind of turned around our schedules a little bit. But you know, it is fun. It’ll be nice to go down there. It’s an interesting dynamic. We’re not used to this. I’m sure there will be a lot of head‑to‑head talks, and I’m sure they’ll think about pairing us together first two rounds.
“So a lot is going to happen next week, and a lot can happen this weekend. Like I said, the last couple days in here, I’m just going to try and win the golf tournament. If I can play well this weekend, even if I don’t win, a great chunk will be added to the Money List.”
Webb vs. Luke isn’t exactly Tiger vs. Phil, but hey, it adds another element of excitement to the event. I’m a huge geek and more interested in the guys who are in do-or-die mode and on the money list bubble.
Then there’s the argument that Luke and Webb are being selfish and taking away spots from players who are playing for their jobs. Well, yes, two guys will be bumped out and that sucks, but that’s the way it goes. Those unlucky individuals probably could have capitalized on plenty of opportunities throughout the season. Not to sound insensitive because I sympathize and think it’s somewhat annoying this totally intense duel for the Money List title was started (though I’ve warmed up to it), but guys, play better!
Anyway, I’ll bet money on the Tour putting Webb and Luke in the same group for the first two rounds. Maybe (and hopefully) they’ll be paired on Sunday, too.
#TeamLuke
(AP Photo/Stephen Morton)
What happened to journalists at least faking impartiality?
#surprisedatwebbhate
“Then there’s the argument that Luke and Webb are being selfish and taking away spots from players who are playing for their jobs.”
Surely there’s nobody out there foolish enough, not to mention dumb enough, to make that argument?
With all the thumping I have a hard time getting behind Webb but for some odd reason I am pulling for him in this pursuit.
My bet is Webb ends up #1.
Is there any chance they might get paired together for the first two rounds at least? That would be cool.
I never thought I would be excited about watching two unexciting players going at it, but I am now. I think Webb will get it but I want Luke to win just because he’s a short hitter. To be a short hitter and accomplish what he accomplishes in today’s bomber game is just inspiring.
I agree with JayR’s point about getting excited to see these 2 challenge for the money title. This, to me, has been far more exciting than the Cup. Between the money title and guys trying to lock up top 125, next week will be very interesting
My money is on Webb because homie JC is going to be in the house.
Funny how the pros, historically, don’t talk a lot about the money list and how important it is to them. Perhaps they figure it’s bad form in these economic times to cry over not making that extra million this year.
But, Web Simpson has broken the silence and spoken out loud how important it is to him to make MORE than the $5.7 million he’s already made (not counting his “unofficial FedEx cash). No doubt he also realizes that the HUGE (read: Mickelson/Woods) cash is in endorsements. Ironic, that it’s the outspoken Christian who has been honest enough to voice his desire for money, Money, and MORE MONEY!
With regards to the money title he’s in luck because Jesus will be on his side against Luke Donald. If he were fighting the money battle against Aaron Baddeley Jesus would have a tough decision to make.
Looks like the Good Lord picked Ben Crane over Webb today. Too bad for Webb.
I don’t really see this being about the cash as much as it is about the honor of leading the tour in a vital category. Players are measured by how much money they make, why knock anyone (even a GASP! devout Christian) for going after Number 1. We knock players for being comfortable making a living without winning majors etc, and now we slam them for admitting that they would really like to finish on top of the heap.
Good for both of them for playing. They aren’t at all being selfish for playing and taking spots. I do feel bad for the players that don’t have the opportunity to improve their place on the money list next week…but it isn’t on Webb or Luke to give up a spot in the field that they have EARNED.
Jesus Christ, what the hell happened?
I’m not knocking Webb for going after the money title. I just think it’s funny that HE seems to think that God gives a rat’s patootie whether he makes $5 million or $6 million.
If there is a God that deigns to meddle in the affairs of humans, and if that God is expending energy helping Simpson to line his pockets, then I’d like to point out to he, she or it that there are a BILLION of us in imminent danger of starvation!
Jesus told Michelle Bachmann and Rick Perry to run for president, Bush to invade Iraq, why not tell Webb to get more money? I mean, what else is he gonna do? Play catch with Allah?
Not the extra cash so much as it is the FIVE YEAR EXEMPTION that goes to the leading money winner.
I call BS on that “I want the 5 year exemption” justification because:
a) WS already has a 3-year exemption
b) WS is shaping up to be one of the best young golfers on tour and his confidence level must be soaring. It’s hard to imagine he has the mindset that he’s going to be struggling to keep his tour card in the short term.
c) If his play takes such a nose-dive that he can’t keep his tour card, then being allowed to play in an event even though you’re most likely going to miss the cut is sort of a hollow victory.