REED’S MASTER PLAN & THE PLAYERS CIVIL WAR - February 10th, 2026

We break down Patrick Reed’s strategic victory in Qatar, Elvis Smylie’s historic OWGR breakthrough at LIV Riyadh, and the escalating war of words regarding The Players Championship.REED’S ROAD BACKPatrick Reed is officially plotting his return to the PGA Tour, using a final-round 70 to win the Qatar Masters. By leading the Race to Dubai, he has essentially locked up his 2027 PGA Tour card via the DP World Tour pathway.Reed on his ambition: "I want to be the second American after Morikawa to win that title."It’s a calculated, strategic exit from LIV Golf that creates a blueprint for reintegration.HISTORY IN RIYADHRookie Elvis Smylie shocked the field at LIV Riyadh, firing a -24 to edge out Jon Rahm by a single stroke. Crucially, this was the first LIV event to award OWGR points, instantly changing the stakes for the breakaway tour.The win rocketed Smylie to 77th in the world, cracking open a potential door to The Masters.A massive validation for the rookie, proving he can close against giants like Rahm while capitalizing on the new ranking system.PROMISES KEPT & TWITTER WARSChris Gotterup fulfilled a promise to his girlfriend, Samantha Mueller, by securing a dramatic victory. Meanwhile, a "civil war" erupted over The Players Championship, with Phil Mickelson shutting down Brandel Chamblee’s claim that it’s the "hardest major."Mickelson’s blunt tweet on The Players: "I've won it. It's not."Coach Joe Mayo’s unconventional advice to Gotterup paved the way: "Stay away from golf instructors."Quick HitsRoger Maltbie returns to the booth at Pebble Beach • Jackson Koivun breaks Tiger Woods’ 36-hole scoring record (-20) • TGL Preview: The Bay benches stars for rookies against LAGC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.