Introducing The Match IX: Rory McIlroy, Max Homa, Lexi Thompson, and Rose Zhang
Get ready for an electrifying showdown as The Match returns with a thrilling twist. For the very first time, this spectacular made-for-TV event will showcase not only the finest talents from the men’s game but also two exceptional players from women’s golf. Rory McIlroy, Max Homa, Lexi Thompson, and Rose Zhang will engage in a riveting 12-hole match under the captivating glow of night lights. The singular nature of this event makes it even more enticing, as these four incredible golfers will compete against each other in an exhilarating 1 v 1 v 1 v 1 format. There are no teams; it’s every player for themselves. Join us as we delve into all the pertinent details of The Match IX, scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET on Monday.
The Players
Unlike previous editions that featured professional athletes from various sports, this remarkable contest exclusively showcases the prowess of seasoned golfers. Rory McIlroy, a seasoned campaigner in The Match, eagerly anticipates his second appearance. Joining him are three exceptional talents making their thrilling debuts: Max Homa, Lexi Thompson, and Rose Zhang. What sets Zhang apart is her youthful exuberance, as she is just 20 years old when faced with the experience of her more seasoned peers who are 29 years old or older. The inclusion of Zhang and Thompson in this event should come as no surprise, considering their impressive performances in the acclaimed mixed team event, the Grant Thornton Invitational, held in late 2023. The collaboration between the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour in that event laid the foundation for this remarkable clash.
The Venue and Broadcast
This year, The Match IX will be hosted at The Park West Palm Beach, a captivating public track located in the heart of South Florida. Departing from tradition, which has previously seen the event held at exclusive resort courses and private venues, The Park provides a unique and accessible setting for this extraordinary contest. The venue’s Gil Hanse, Jim Wagner, and Dirk Ziff design, renowned for its full-length course, serves as the backdrop for this thrilling spectacle. Broadcasting the much-anticipated event will be TNT, truTV, and HLN, allowing fans worldwide to witness the captivating showdown between these illustrious golfers. Additionally, the B/R Sports Add-On on Max will also be hosting a simulcast of the event, providing enthusiasts with yet another avenue to enjoy the spectacle.
The Format and Stakes
In a departure from the traditional match play format, The Match IX will adopt an electrifying 12-hole, 1 v 1 v 1 v 1 skins format. With each hole, the stakes rise, ensuring an exponential increase in excitement throughout the match. The skin values, generously donated to the First Tee in honor of the victorious player, will escalate as the game progresses:
- Holes 1 thru 4: $100,000 each
- Holes 5 thru 8: $150,000 each
- Holes 9 thru 11: $200,000 each
- Hole 12: $500,000
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Will this year’s edition of The Match include any amateur players?
No, unlike last year’s edition that featured professional athletes from other sports, this year’s match will exclusively showcase accomplished golfers.
Who are the players participating in The Match IX?
This year’s event will witness Rory McIlroy, Max Homa, Lexi Thompson, and Rose Zhang competing against each other in a scintillating 1 v 1 v 1 v 1 format.
Where will The Match IX take place?
The Match IX will be held at The Park West Palm Beach, a remarkable public track in South Florida known for its full-length course.
How can I watch The Match IX?
Tune in to TNT, truTV, or HLN to catch the live broadcast of The Match IX. Additionally, the B/R Sports Add-On on Max will offer a simulcast of the event.
What is the format of The Match IX?
For the first time, The Match IX will adopt a 12-hole, 1 v 1 v 1 v 1 skins format, ensuring escalating excitement and intensifying competition throughout the match.
What is at stake in The Match IX?
The skin values progressively increase as the game unfolds, with the final hole offering a staggering $500,000 donation to the First Tee in the name of the victorious player.


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