Top Stories of 2009

I found a great article by Randell Mell, a golf writer, that highlighted the top 10 golf stories of 2009 and what we learned from them. (I've added some personal thoughts about each story) Here is the list starting at #10. If you have any comments about the list, or have a golf related story that you think should make the list let us know.

#10 - Golf named an Olympic sport beginning 2016:
About time. Golf has now entered the global stage.

#9 - The economy's effect on golf:
This shows that even golf isn't recession proof. From courses closing at an alarming rate, to sponsors pulling out of PGA and LPGA events. Want more proof, The LPGA Tour will only feature 24 events next year, down from 34 this year.

#8 - Carolyn Bivens ousted as LPGA commissioner:
Carolyn was run out of town by a player revolt. This goes to show who really runs the tours...the players.

#7 - Phil Mickelson's wife (Amy) and mother (Mary) diagnosed with breast cancer:
Breast Cancer is nearly an epidemic and it doesn't discriminate.

#6 - Lucas Glover beating Mickelson to win US Open:
Phil was without a doubt the sentimental favourite here, playing the way he did after learning just weeks before that wife Amy had breast cancer. I guess Glover isn't the sentimental type.

#5 - Michelle Wie winning first LPGA title:
Her potential and promise were finally realized. I hope you have strong back Michelle, because the LPGA's future is on your shoulders.

#4 - Tiger returns after surgery to win seven times:
There were doubts how he would return after an 8 month layoff. In true Tiger fashion he quickly quieted the naysayers and made me realize he has to be at least 1/3 bionic.

#3 - Y.E. Yang comes from behind to beat Tiger and win the PGA:
This showed everyone that Tiger is at least part mortal. With a lead going into the final round, his name was already engraved on the Wanamaker, until Y.E. had plans of his own. The trophy now reads: Tiger Yang.

#2 - Tom Watson nearly winning the Open:
This showed a new generation that Watson was every bit as good as history says. I would beg to argue that he's a whole lot better.

#1 - The Tiger Woods Scandal:
Enough said.