{"id":344013,"date":"2025-12-12T21:53:19","date_gmt":"2025-12-12T21:53:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/344013\/"},"modified":"2025-12-12T21:53:19","modified_gmt":"2025-12-12T21:53:19","slug":"grant-thornton-invitational-returns-to-tiburon-golf-club-in-naples","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/344013\/","title":{"rendered":"Grant Thornton Invitational Returns to Tibur\u00f3n Golf Club in Naples"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>\t\t\t\t<img width=\"780\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2251605819-e1765572078497.jpg\" class=\"attachment-featured-image size-featured-image wp-post-image\" alt=\"Tiburon Golf Club\"   decoding=\"async\" fetchpriority=\"high\"\/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGetty\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n<p>A general view of the fourth hole tee boxes from the third hole green during the first round of the Grant Thornton Invitational 2025 at Tiburon Golf Club on December 12.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"786\">As golf fans and pros <a href=\"https:\/\/heavy.com\/sports\/golf\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">turn their eyes toward Southwest Florida<\/a> this December, one name stands out among the region\u2019s celebrated courses: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiburonnaples.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Tibur\u00f3n Golf Club<\/a>, a championship facility that has become a fixture on both the PGA and LPGA tours. Known for its world-class layout, luxury setting, and deep competitive history, Tibur\u00f3n is set to host the 2025 Grant Thornton Invitational.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"788\" data-end=\"1248\">Located in beautiful Naples, Florida, <a href=\"https:\/\/naplesgolfguy.com\/golf-communities\/tiburon-golf-club\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Tibur\u00f3n Golf Club<\/a> is anchored by two exceptional 18-hole golf courses,\u00a0The Gold and The Black,\u00a0both <a href=\"https:\/\/shark.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">designed by golf legend<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pgatour.com\/player\/01876\/greg-norman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Greg Norman<\/a>, twice winner of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theopen.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">The Open Championship<\/a>.\u00a0Stretching over 36 holes of golf woven into Florida\u2019s coastal terrain, the club represents a blend of championship challenge and resort allure that draws avid golfers from across the country.<\/p>\n<p>Championship Courses Designed by a Legend<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1303\" data-end=\"1585\">One of the defining features of Tibur\u00f3n Golf Club is its pedigree of design. Norman, who held the world\u2019s No. 1 ranking and won multiple major championships during his playing career, translated his vision into both of Tibur\u00f3n\u2019s courses.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1587\" data-end=\"2141\">The Gold Course, which opened in 1998, is the club\u2019s signature layout. It plays as long as 7,382 yards from the championship tees and is a par-72 test of precision and strategy. The course\u2019s design emphasizes smooth turf, strategic bunkering, and subtle use of Florida\u2019s natural topography, combining both challenge and beauty.\u00a0The fairways are generous, but defended by coquina shell waste areas and stacked sod wall bunkers, offering risk-reward decisions at every turn.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2143\" data-end=\"2442\">Just a few years later, the Black Course opened in 2001, adding a complementary test of golf for players of all levels. Also a par-72, it stretches to nearly 7,000 yards and emphasizes varied shot-making, elevation changes, and natural landscape features.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2444\" data-end=\"2627\">Both courses are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usga.org\/content\/usga\/home-page\/course-care\/usga-sustainability\/audubon-cooperative-sanctuary-program.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries<\/a>, recognizing their commitment to environmental stewardship and habitat preservation.<\/p>\n<p>A Tour-Level Legacy and Major Event Host<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2681\" data-end=\"3192\">Tibur\u00f3n\u2019s reputation extends far beyond practice rounds and member play; it has a rich history with professional golf. The club\u2019s Gold Course was for many years home to the PGA Tour\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pgatour.com\/tournaments\/2023\/qbe-shootout\/R2023058\/overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">QBE Shootout<\/a>, an unofficial team event played each December. Though that event concluded in 2022, Tibur\u00f3n transitioned seamlessly into hosting what has become one of the most talked-about postseason events: the <a href=\"https:\/\/grantthorntoninvitational.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Grant Thornton Invitational<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3194\" data-end=\"3574\">Now in its third year, the Grant Thornton Invitational <a href=\"https:\/\/www.naplesnews.com\/story\/sports\/golf\/2025\/12\/08\/grant-thornton-lpga-pga-field-includes-lydia-ko-nelly-korda-jason-day\/87548654007\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">brings 16 mixed teams<\/a>, each featuring one PGA Tour and one LPGA Tour player. The tournament\u2019s creative formats include scrambles, foursomes, and modified four-ball, making it a fresh and engaging spectacle for both golfers and casual fans.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3576\" data-end=\"3975\">Past editions of the event have featured major stars such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lpga.com\/athletes\/nelly-korda\/98350\/overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Nelly Korda<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lpga.com\/athletes\/lexi-thompson\/98184\/overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Lexi Thompson<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pgatour.com\/player\/29725\/tony-finau\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Tony Finau<\/a>, and defending champions <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pgatour.com\/player\/47420\/jake-knapp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Jake Knapp<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lpga.com\/athletes\/patty-tavatanakit\/98501\/overview\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Patty Tavatanakit<\/a>. With 12 of the world\u2019s top 50 female golfers and multiple top-50 men competing, the Invitational reinforces Tibur\u00f3n\u2019s position as a premier tournament venue.<\/p>\n<p>Luxury, Amenities, and Lifestyle<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4047\" data-end=\"4379\">Situated adjacent to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ritzcarlton.com\/en\/hotels\/rswgr-the-ritz-carlton-naples-tiburon\/overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort<\/a>, Naples, the club is part of a broader Naples community that blends upscale living with world-class leisure amenities.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4381\" data-end=\"4744\">The club\u2019s Mediterranean-style clubhouse spans 27,000 square feet, featuring multiple dining rooms, private member locker areas, lounges, and a top-tier golf shop. Members and guests also benefit from access to the Ritz-Carlton\u2019s spa, tennis facilities, and resort-level services.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4746\" data-end=\"5174\">Membership at Tibur\u00f3n provides additional perks, including concierge services, advanced tee-time access, and social privileges that extend across the community and into Naples\u2019 vibrant culture.\u00a0Whether playing a competitive round, practicing on state-of-the-art facilities, or enjoying a post-game meal with views of Florida\u2019s famed sunsets, Tibur\u00f3n offers an immersive golf lifestyle.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"4746\" data-end=\"5174\">It\u2019s also committed to developing players at every level through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiburonnaples.com\/tiburon-golf-academy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Tibur\u00f3n Golf Academy<\/a>. The Academy offers customized instruction, performance analysis, and state-of-the-art training tools designed to help golfers improve all aspects of their game. From detailed swing biomechanics and short-game precision work to on-course strategy sessions, the program blends cutting-edge technology with expert coaching. Whether a weekend player looking to shave strokes or a competitive amateur striving for higher achievement, the Academy reinforces Tibur\u00f3n\u2019s reputation not only as a championship venue but as a hub for golf education and improvement.<\/p>\n<p>When to Watch the Grant Thornton Invitational<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"696\" data-end=\"742\">According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.naplesnews.com\/story\/sports\/golf\/2025\/12\/08\/grant-thornton-lpga-pga-field-includes-lydia-ko-nelly-korda-jason-day\/87548654007\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener external nofollow\">Naples Daily News<\/a>, here is the official schedule for the tournament:<\/p>\n<p>Format of Play<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"477\" data-end=\"620\">Friday (Round 1): Scramble<br data-start=\"507\" data-end=\"510\"\/>Teams attack the course aggressively, selecting the best shot on each stroke to generate low opening scores.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"624\" data-end=\"795\">Saturday (Round 2): Alternate Shot<br data-start=\"662\" data-end=\"665\"\/>Precision and communication take center stage as partners alternate shots on the same ball, placing added pressure on execution.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"799\" data-end=\"986\">Sunday (Round 3): Modified Four-Ball<br data-start=\"839\" data-end=\"842\"\/>Both players compete individually on each hole, with the team\u2019s best score counting toward the total, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"988\" data-end=\"1153\">The Gold Course will play at 7,382 yards for the men and 6,595 yards for the women, creating a balanced test that rewards accuracy, creativity, and teamwork.<\/p>\n<p>Tee Times<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1201\" data-end=\"1316\">All teams will tee off from the first hole, beginning at 9 a.m., featuring a lineup packed with star power:<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1320\" data-end=\"1385\">9:00 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Angel Yin \/ Tom Hoge; Maja Stark \/ Neal Shipley<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1388\" data-end=\"1466\">9:15 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Megan Khang \/ Keith Mitchell; Lauren Coughlin \/ Andrew Novak<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1469\" data-end=\"1539\">9:30 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Rose Zhang \/ Michael Kim; Jessica Korda \/ Bud Cauley<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1621\">9:45 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Andrea Lee \/ Billy Horschel; Jennifer Kupcho \/ Chris Gotterup<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1624\" data-end=\"1701\">10:00 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Lottie Woad \/ Luke Clanton; Charley Hull \/ Michael Brennan<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1704\" data-end=\"1785\">10:15 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Nelly Korda \/ Denny McCarthy; Brooke Henderson \/ Corey Conners<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1788\" data-end=\"1859\">10:30 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Lilia Vu \/ Tony Finau; Lexi Thompson \/ Wyndham Clark<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1862\" data-end=\"1933\">10:45 a.m.\u00a0\u2013 Lydia Ko \/ Jason Day; Patty Tavatanakit \/ Jake Knapp<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Getty A general view of the fourth hole tee boxes from the third hole green during the first&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":344014,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[566],"tags":[64,63,755,85],"class_list":{"0":"post-344013","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-golf","8":"tag-au","9":"tag-australia","10":"tag-golf","11":"tag-sports"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/344013","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=344013"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/344013\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/344014"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=344013"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=344013"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=344013"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}