DORAL, Fla. — Peter Uihlein was a professional golfer who had been playing for over ten years on the PGA Tour. He decided to contact Greg Norman. Uihlein was a winner, but he made a good living. For a professional, ultra-competitive athlete, frustration set in.
Uihlein stated that “in reality, I wish I had played better” about the past four seasons. “I don’t deny that.”
The conversation continued with LIV Golf’s face.
Uihlein, a Florida resident who has lived in Jupiter for over ten years, said that it was not an easy decision to pursue LIV Golf. It was also not about the money. LIV Golf offered Uihlein the chance to break the mold — “I have always done things differently” — and revitalize his career.
Chelsea Uihlein is Peter’s wife. She said that golf had become boring for many of the men and that they are now able to enjoy the team and the atmosphere.
After turning professional in 2011, Uihlein, now 33, earned just over $4 million on PGA Tour. This was in 126 tournaments.
He joined LIV in January and has participated in seven 54-hole events, including this week’s finale at Trump National Doral. He has earned more than $11.3million, $7.3million in prize money, and a $4million bonus for finishing third in individual points standings.
Uihlein stated that he didn’t receive the $100 million, or the $50 million rumors. “So I knew I had to play well in order to make that amount of money. It’s been a blessing to be able do that.
The decision was difficult. Uihlein was able to understand the reactions to his signing his name to a league funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. This country has atrocious human rights violations.
Americans do ‘a lot of business’ with Saudi Arabia
He said, “There is criticism to it, and that’s fine. Everyone’s entitled to their opinion.” The reality is that we Americans do a lot with Saudi Arabia.
Peter warned Chelsea that there would be backlash. But criticism is part and parcel of the gig. Uihlein was No. The Official World Golf Ranking ranked Uihlein 311
He said, “If you ask social media, then I’ve been terrible player.”
It was all worth it for so many reasons.
He wasn’t achieving his full potential on PGA Tour. It was very difficult and it was extremely risky. But I believe it was the right choice,” Chelsea stated Friday, as Peter prepared to face James Piot in a head-to-head match. Uihlein won 5, and 3.
Uihlein could not have planned the season better. His game is at its best in years, and he loves the team aspect. His team was his favorite.
Uihlein is a Smash player, who is captained and managed by Brooks Koepka. Uihlein and Koepka have been friends for 16 years. They shared a house when Uihlein moved to Jupiter. Uihlein plays out of Medalist. He was born in Massachusetts, and attended high school in Bradenton.
Koepka, who defected from LIV, was named team captain. He surrounded himself by familiarity, selecting Uihlein, Chase, and Jason Kokrak.
Koepka described Uihlein as “a friend for many years…and obviously grew closer and closer to him,” It’s great to see him play well and return to the capabilities that I know he can do.
Smash won Friday’s battle against Niblicks on Blue Monster to win, which allowed them to reach Saturday’s semifinals.
Brooks loses, but Koepka’s team moves on
Two of the three head to head matches were won by Smash, the other being lost by Brooks Koepka, who was easily handled and won by Harold Varner III, 4, and 3.
LIV’s season finale has eight teams remaining. The champion will be crowned Sunday. Each team is guaranteed to split at least $3,000,000 The $16 million goes to the winning team.
Uihlein stated that she loves the team events. There’s interaction, but you’re doing your thing. You are out competing, trying to beat the other person.
Brooks Koepka and Uihlein were tied for the individual lead at the 54th hole of the LIV Saudi Arabia event. The $4 million individual prize for first place was at stake. Brooks called Kokrak, Chase Koepka over after they hit their tee shots. Brooks asked the team where they were standing.
Brooks and Uihlein realized they had a lead of five to six shots and were guaranteed the $3,000,000 first-place prize money.
They went to a playoff which Koepka won. Uihlein was forced to accept the $2.125million runner-up check.
Uihlein was asked about the changes in his game. He spoke of adjustments to his swing and working with Jason Baile at Jupiter Hills.
Then, there was this:
He said, “The other half of it is that I’m happier.” That could be a part of it. I feel better. I feel freer, I feel happier. This is my first year of guaranteed playing time for the next or subsequent year. This is the first time I have ever experienced this in my entire career. It’s possible that there’s another reason, but I have never had that experience.”
