Five Clubs

The countdown continues. The 154th Open Championship begins Thursday at Royal Birkdale, and today on 5 Clubs, Gary Williams gets you ready for golf's oldest major.

Today's show includes:

A complete field breakdown and picks for the 154th Open, from Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood to Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick, Ludvig Åberg, JJ Spaun, Patrick Reed and Wyndham Clark

Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy on the difference between technical process and artistic performance, with a look back at Tiger Woods' 2000 Open at St Andrews

Gabby Herzig of The Athletic joins to break d...

The countdown continues. The 154th Open Championship begins Thursday at Royal Birkdale, and today on 5 Clubs, Gary Williams gets you ready for golf's oldest major.

Today's show includes:

- A complete preview of Royal Birkdale and the biggest course changes since 2017

- Jordan Spieth reflects on his Open Championship victory and whether he can reach that level again

- Rory McIlroy's pursuit of another Claret Jug after completing the career Grand Slam

- Tim Barter joins live from Royal Birkdale to break down course strategy, conditions...

The final men's major of the year is here.

Gary Williams kicks off Open Championship week with a special two-hour edition of 5 Clubs, previewing the 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. From the course setup and historic champions to the biggest storylines entering the week, this show gets you ready for one of golf's greatest championships.

In this episode:

- Royal Birkdale preview and what makes the course such a true Open test

- Tom Kim captures the Genesis Scottish Open and enters the week...

The Wednesday edition of 5 Clubs gets you ready for a loaded week of golf across the globe. Gary Williams previews the Genesis Scottish Open, a star-studded field at Renaissance Club, and the final tune-up before The Open Championship.

Mel Reid joins the show to break down the Amundi Evian Championship, why the course has been a difficult fit for Nelly Korda, the evolution of women’s majors, and which players could contend in France.

Emilia Doran checks in between competitive rounds at the Western Amateur to discuss balancing elite am...

The road to links golf is here. On today’s episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams gets set for a huge stretch in the golf calendar with the Genesis Scottish Open, The Open Championship on the horizon, and another major week in the women’s game at the Amundi Evian Championship.

Gary is joined in studio by Ron Green Jr. of Global Golf Post to discuss the magic of golf in Scotland, the future of PGA TOUR and DP World Tour co-sanctioned events, the global schedule, and the upcoming Open Championship.

Fo...

Chris Gotterup continues his incredible run with another PGA TOUR victory at the John Deere Classic — and Gary Williams breaks down why his ability to close on Sundays has him among golf’s elite winners.

On today’s episode of 5 Clubs, Gary is joined by Golf Digest’s Shane Ryan for a wide-ranging conversation on Rory McIlroy’s relationship with the PGA TOUR, Brian Rolapp’s vision for the future, signature events, the upcoming changes to the TOUR schedule, and where professional golf is headed.

Gary also dives into:

- Chris...

The John Deere Classic takes center stage on this episode of 5 Clubs as Gary Williams welcomes Jay Bilas and rising amateur star Ryder Cowan.

Fresh off earning co-low amateur honors at the U.S. Open, Ryder Cowan joins us from Ireland ahead of the Arnold Palmer Cup to discuss his breakthrough at Shinnecock Hills, competing against the world's best, watching Rory McIlroy practice, and what he's learned from one of the biggest weeks of his career.

Then Jay Bilas stops by the studio before heading to the American Century...

Viktor Hovland is back in the winner's circle after an emotional playoff victory over Scottie Scheffler, and Gary Williams explains why Hovland's relentless pursuit of improvement makes him one of golf's most compelling players.

Also on today's show:

- Gary's thoughts on Hovland's comeback victory and the pursuit of perfection

- Scottie Scheffler's incredible 2026 consistency despite another runner-up finish

- Josh Carpenter (Sports Business Journal) joins Gary in studio to discuss the PGA TOUR's proposed Championship Series, media rights, sponsorship demand, TV ratings, LIV Golf, and what comes...

A rare Monday morning playoff headlines today's episode of 5 Clubs as Scottie Scheffler and Viktor Hovland battle for the Travelers Championship in sudden death.

Gary Williams breaks down how both players reached the playoff, why Hovland's resurgence could be one of the biggest stories of the season, and what another close finish means for Scheffler as he continues one of the most remarkable stretches of consistency in modern golf.

Joining the show:

Ryan Lavner (Golf Channel)

Bob Harig (The Daily Drive)

The PGA TOUR has taken its most significant step toward restructuring in years. On today's episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams breaks down the two-series model officially unveiled by CEO Brian Rolapp at TPC River Highlands, what it means for players, sponsors, and the future of professional golf, and what critical details are still missing from the picture.

Joining Gary:

Ryan Lavner (GolfChannel.com / Golf Channel Podcast with Rex & Lav) live from the Travelers Championship to discuss the hardline promotion and relegation structure, what the top 90 cutline means for players like Adam Scott, the Challenger Series...

The PGA TOUR appears poised for its most significant transformation in decades.

On today’s episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams breaks down the anticipated changes being announced by new PGA TOUR CEO Brian Rolapp and what they could mean for the future of professional golf. From meritocracy, cuts, field sizes, sponsor exemptions, promotion and relegation, and the possibility of match play in the postseason, the discussion centers on how the TOUR can evolve while preserving its core identity.

Joining Gary:

Rex Hoggard (Golf Channel) from the Travelers Ch...

Wyndham Clark is a two-time U.S. Open champion.

On today's episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams breaks down Clark's wire-to-wire victory at Shinnecock Hills, the challenging environment he faced throughout the final round, and how he managed to outlast the field to claim his second U.S. Open title.

Joining Gary is Brendan Porath of Fried Egg Golf to discuss:

- Wyndham Clark's championship performance

- Scottie Scheffler's pursuit and what kept him from making a serious Sunday charge

- The atmosphere and...

The 126th U.S. Open Championship is here, and 5 Clubs is kicking off one of the biggest weeks in golf.

Gary Williams previews the challenge awaiting the world's best players at legendary Shinnecock Hills, a venue that has hosted U.S. Opens across three different centuries. Hear analysis on Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm, Patrick Reed, Brooks Koepka, and other contenders heading into championship week.

Special guests include:

- Todd Lewis from Shinnecock Hills

- Ben Crenshaw on the restoration and history of Shinnecock<...

On this episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams is joined by Mel Reid to break down Nelly Korda’s victory at the U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera Country Club. Reid shares her perspective from Golf Channel’s Live From coverage, discusses the key moments that defined Korda’s week, and explains why this version of Nelly may be the most dangerous yet. They also discuss Charlie Hull’s charge, Allison Lee’s impressive performance, and what could be ahead as the LPGA major season continues.

Later, Justin Leonard joins the show following the announcement...

Gary Williams recaps one of the most compelling days in golf as U.S. Open Final Qualifying—better known as "Golf's Longest Day"—comes to a close with players from around the world punching their tickets to next week's U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. From established PGA TOUR veterans to rising amateur stars, Gary breaks down the stories, performances and emotions that make qualifying one of the most unique days in sports.

Then, longtime Golf Channel host Rich Lerner joins the show to discuss his new book, Aren't You That Golf Guy? Rich shar...

Gary Williams dedicates this special edition of 5 Clubs to one of the most unique and compelling days in golf: U.S. Open Final Qualifying. With more than 700 players competing across North America for a place in the field at Shinnecock Hills, Gary recaps weekend winners including J.T. Poston and Nelly Korda before diving into the stories, pressure and opportunity that define "Golf's Longest Day."

Brentley Romine, Golf Channel reporter and college golf insider, joins from the Palm Beach Gardens qualifying site to discuss several of the top young players in the field, including...

Gary Williams opens the show by previewing a massive week in golf, with the U.S. Women's Open making its Riviera debut and the Memorial Tournament celebrating its 50th edition. Gary discusses Nelly Korda's pursuit of another major championship, the significance of Riviera hosting the game's biggest women's event, and shares thoughts from Jack Nicklaus on the PGA TOUR schedule, course setup challenges, and the evolving state of professional golf.

Bob Harig, longtime golf journalist and author of Tiger vs. Jack: Golf's Great Debate, joins Gary to discuss the enduring comparison between Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus...

Gary Williams opens the show with a passionate reflection on the importance of storytelling in golf following the end of Sports Illustrated’s dedicated golf coverage. He discusses the role legendary writers have played in shaping the game’s biggest moments, from Amen Corner to major championship history, and why the human element remains at the heart of great sports journalism. Gary also previews the Memorial Tournament, highlights NCAA Men’s Golf Championship action, and shares thoughts on some of the game’s brightest young stars.

Brendon de Jonge, former PGA TOUR player and SiriusXM host, joins Gary to...

Gary Williams opens the week by recapping Russell Henley’s victory at Colonial, where the six-time PGA TOUR winner delivered a clutch finish to earn another trophy and continue one of the steadiest careers in professional golf. Gary also looks ahead to a busy stretch on the golf calendar, including the Memorial Tournament, the U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera Country Club, and a dramatic final day at the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship.

Zach Johnson, 12-time PGA TOUR winner and two-time major champion, joins alongside Stewart Cink to discuss their impressive starts on PGA...

Gary Williams opens the show by diving into the current PGA TOUR landscape as the FedEx Cup standings begin to take shape, highlighting who looks locked into East Lake, who still has work to do, and what the future structure of professional golf could look like. Gary also reacts to the latest Sports Emmy results, discusses the growing conversation around “track one” and “track two” PGA TOUR events, and previews the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial.

Josh Carpenter, senior writer for Sports Business Journal, joins Gary to break down the reported PGA TOUR schedule changes...

Gary Williams opens this edition of 5 Clubs by reflecting on Colonial Country Club’s historic place on the PGA TOUR as the tournament celebrates its 80th consecutive year at the same venue. Gary discusses the importance of tradition, the value of iconic venues on the PGA TOUR schedule, and why players — not markets — ultimately drive the success of events. He also previews the NCAA Women’s Golf Championship match play portion, highlights Texas star Farah O’Keefe winning the individual title, and shares thoughts on the future of college golf and player development.

Julie Elion, per...

Gary Williams opens this Memorial Day edition of 5 Clubs by reflecting on the meaning of the holiday and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. He then dives into Wyndham Clark’s remarkable final-round 60 at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson, the mental reset that helped fuel his comeback victory, and why the win could mark a major turning point after a difficult stretch in Clark’s career. Gary also discusses Scottie Scheffler’s continued consistency, the changing dynamics of PGA TOUR venues, and the rise of young talent like Blades Brown.

Steve Sands, longtime Golf C...

On this edition of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams dives into a chaotic week in professional golf, breaking down the massive financial and business reporting surrounding the future of LIV Golf. Williams addresses a provocative Bloomberg News report regarding a potential end-of-year bankruptcy filing for the league, discussing what that could mean for high-profile player contracts and the ongoing conversation about potential pathways for players to return to the PGA TOUR. After updating the weekly "Club 5" player power rankings following the latest major championship action, he previews the upcoming U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills and looks ahead to the CJ...

Gary Williams opens this episode of 5 Clubs by breaking down the value and intrigue surrounding Jordan Spieth as he continues searching for a return to contention on the PGA TOUR. Gary reflects on Spieth’s evolution from major champion to one of golf’s most compelling week-to-week storylines, while also examining the significance of Aaron Rai winning the PGA Championship and what it says about depth across professional golf. Gary also previews the new “Ask Rory” GolfPass series featuring back-to-back Masters champion Rory McIlroy and shares behind-the-scenes insight into Rory’s unforgettable shot on the 15th hole at Augusta National.<...

Gary Williams breaks down Aaron Rai’s breakthrough win at the PGA Championship, a performance that showcased elite ball striking, composure under pressure, and one of the best closing stretches of the season. Gary also examines Rory McIlroy’s missed opportunity after winning The Masters, Jon Rahm’s continued resurgence in major championships, Scottie Scheffler’s short-putting concerns, and why the PGA of America may have delivered one of the most debated and compelling major setups in recent memory.

Brendan Porath, co-founder of Fried Egg Golf, joins 5 Clubs to unpack the biggest moments from the PGA...

Gary Williams opens this PGA Championship week edition of 5 Clubs by breaking down the biggest storylines heading into the 108th PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club outside Philadelphia. Gary discusses the rise of Kristoffer Reitan after his breakthrough win at the Truist Championship, the growing depth of talent across professional golf, and why this PGA Championship may once again feature the deepest field in the game. He also dives into Rory McIlroy’s form after The Masters, Scottie Scheffler’s continued dominance, the challenge of Aronimink, and why Philadelphia’s rich golf history makes it a perfect stage for a majo...

Gary Williams opens this edition of 5 Clubs from Quail Hollow Club with a deep look at the Truist Championship, highlighting firm and fast course conditions, the strategic challenge facing players, and the broader significance of the event’s return to Charlotte. He also reflects on the unveiling of Charlie Sifford’s statue and what it represents for the game’s history, while diving into the evolving landscape of professional golf, including Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau’s latest comments and what they signal about the ongoing tension between LIV Golf and the PGA TOUR.

Bill Rog...

Gary Williams sets the stage from Quail Hollow Club ahead of the Truist Championship, highlighting the evolution of this PGA TOUR stop into a premier Signature Series event. He reflects on the course’s history, Rory McIlroy’s dominance at the venue, and the broader storylines shaping the current PGA TOUR season—from competitive parity to the importance of elite fields and championship venues. The conversation also touches on course conditions, including drought challenges in the Southeast, and how Quail Hollow continues to test the best players in the world.

Michael Kim, PGA TOUR winner...

Gary Williams opens the show by recapping a packed week across the professional game, highlighted by Cameron Young’s wire-to-wire victory at the Cadillac Championship and the evolving mindset that’s fueling his rise. Gary dives into the importance of “acceptance” in golf and how Young’s composure and improved all-around game are turning potential into wins. He also reflects on Nelly Korda’s continued dominance on the LPGA, her historic start to the season, and what it means for the women’s game, while setting the stage for a big week at Quail Hollow as Rory McIlroy returns to a venue tha...

Gary Williams opens the show with strong opinions on U.S. Open local qualifying, addressing the growing issue of influencers capturing content during competition and why it disrupts the integrity of the game. He also reflects on the nostalgic return to Doral, the significance of Oakland Hills’ restored clubhouse, and what these moments mean for golf’s history and future.

George Savaricas, Golf Channel host and reporter, joins from Doral to break down the current PGA TOUR season at the halfway point. He discusses early Player of the Year candidates like Matt Fitzpatrick and Rory...

Gary Williams opens with a wide-ranging look at the Ryder Cup captaincy decision, reacting to Jim Furyk’s return and the criticism surrounding it. He frames Furyk as a “piñata” for fans and media while defending the broader system the United States has built since 2014, arguing that context, road losses, roster construction, and generational transitions matter more than simple results. Gary also touches on Nelly Korda’s win, the evolving PGA TOUR schedule, and growing concerns around LIV Golf’s stability and its impact on players and competition rhythms.

Brendon de Jonge, co-host of The Wagy...

Gary Williams opens the show by breaking down a packed week in golf, highlighted by the Zurich Classic of New Orleans win from Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick and a dominant major performance from Nelly Korda at The Chevron Championship. Gary reflects on Korda’s return to world No. 1, what makes a true star in the sport, and how performance and personality combine to elevate players on the biggest stages.

Charles Barkley, basketball hall of famer and avid golfer, joins the show to share his journey through one of golf’s most infamous swing struggles and...

Gary Williams opens the show by looking ahead to the Chevron Championship and discussing the challenge of building new traditions at Memorial Park while honoring the event’s history. He also unveils the latest Club 5 rankings following The Masters and the RBC Heritage, with Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Matt Fitzpatrick, Collin Morikawa, and Cameron Young all making moves. Gary also previews the Zurich Classic and shares why the team event remains one of the most relatable weeks on the PGA TOUR schedule.

Paige Mackenzie, Golf Channel analyst and former LPGA player, joins Gary to pr...

Gary Williams opens the show by discussing the ambitious redevelopment of Cobbs Creek and why the project could become one of the most important public golf facilities in the country. He then shifts to the first women’s major of the year, examining the current state of the LPGA, the value of star power versus depth, and why this week at Memorial Park Golf Course could be a major moment for the women’s game.

Josh Carpenter joins Gary to discuss his report that the PGA TOUR is moving away from Hawaii to begin the...

Gary Williams opens the show by breaking down a dramatic finish at the RBC Heritage, where Matt Fitzpatrick outlasted Scottie Scheffler in a playoff for his second win of the season. Gary explains why Fitzpatrick’s renewed iron play, confidence, and competitive edge have elevated him into the conversation as one of the five best players in the world. He also looks at Scheffler’s relentless consistency, the latest winners from around the game, and the growing uncertainty surrounding LIV Golf.

Ryan French joins the show to discuss the report he broke regarding LIV Golf...

On this episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams opens the show by breaking down the latest FedEx Cup standings, players off to slow starts in 2026, and unveiling the newest Club 5 Rankings following Rory McIlroy’s victory at The Masters. Gary also reacts to the latest LIV Golf rumors and previews a busy stretch on the PGA TOUR beginning with the RBC Heritage.

Former PGA TOUR winner & Golf Channel Analyst, Arron Oberholser, joins Gary first from Harbour Town. Oberholser, who spent the week covering The Masters for Golf Channel, shares his biggest takeaways from Rory McIlroy’s wi...

Could Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler become golf’s next great rivalry?

On this episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams examines the growing battle between the two biggest stars in golf after Rory McIlroy’s second straight Masters victory. Rory and Scottie have now combined to win four of the last five major championships, and with Scottie one major away from the career Grand Slam, Gary looks at whether this matchup could follow in the footsteps of Arnold Palmer vs. Jack Nicklaus or Tiger Woods vs. Phil Mickelson.

The show also...

On this episode of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams reacts to Rory McIlroy winning back-to-back Masters titles and examines what it means for his place in golf history. Rory now joins Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods as the only players in the modern era to win consecutive Masters tournaments.

Gary breaks down Rory’s performance at Augusta National, why this victory showed more grit than ever before, and how his short game and mental approach have evolved. Plus, a look at Scottie Scheffler’s runner-up finish, the rest of the Masters leaderboard, and what...

On this Masters Monday edition of 5 Clubs, Gary Williams is joined by Jaime Diaz, Senior Golf Writer for Golf Digest. Jaime looks at where Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and the rest of this generation stack up historically, why this decade of Masters Champions could become one of the greatest ever, and what another major would mean for Rory’s legacy at Augusta National.

Two-Time Masters Champion Ben Crenshaw joins the show to share his memories of Augusta National, what makes the course so special, and why the short game and putting continue to...

Gary Williams opens this episode of 5 Clubs with an emotional discussion on Tiger Woods announcing that he is stepping away from golf to focus on his health and recovery. Gary reflects on Tiger’s statement, what it means for the game, and why this moment is bigger than golf.

Then, The Athletic’s Gabby Herzig joins the show to preview the 2026 Masters. Gabby explains why Rory McIlroy’s relationship with Augusta National has completely changed after finally winning the Masters, how his mindset differs from previous years, and whether he is ready to defend his Gr...