AVONDALE, La. — The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is one of the unique events on the PGA Tour. Instead of the usual 72-hole stroke play, players form two-man teams and play best ball and alternative shot formats.
This season, we have several big name pairings including World Nos. 2 and 5, Collin Morikawa and Viktor Hovland, as well as Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay and defending champions Marc Leishman and Cameron Smith.
However, even with this star-studded field, there are countless pairings that would be must-watch TV.
The first on this list would truly be a “we have no clue what’s coming next” team. Will they make bogey from 100 yards in the middle of the fairway? Will they make five birdies in a row? Will they miss the cut?
A true “who could say”.
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Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy shake hands on the first tee during the second round of the 2018 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club. (Photo: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
This would be the most frustrating group to watch while also being the most entertaining. Both can rattle off birdies with the best of them, but both can make bogey from prime position.
But, if all goes well, imagine McIlroy bombing it all over TPC Louisiana while Spieth can hit wedges all day? They might shoot a best-ball 58.
Or 71. Who could know?
Justin Thomas and Tiger Woods wait to hit on the 15th tee during a practice round for the 2020 Masters Tournament. (Photo: Michael Madrid/USA TODAY Sports)
If you want to learn how to hit every shot in golf, this is the group you follow. High cuts, low draws, dead-arm wedges, and everything in between, this pair has it all.
They’re also best buddies, so the comradery would be fantastic.
Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton laugh during a practice round prior to the 43rd Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits. (Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
You couldn’t put a microphone within 100 yards of this pair. No club is safe. One bad shot and you’ll hear a dictionary of curses.
And we’d love every second of it.
They teamed up at Whistling Straits during the 2021 Ryder Cup and eventually halved a match against Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau.
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