Loren Roberts, Henrik Stenson: New studs emerging to challenge golf's status quo

Only a few demented souls like myself probably witnessed the arrival of 2 new superstars on their respective tours this past weekend. Of course, I’m not talking about Tiger, for God’s sake - his dominance is clearly established. In the case of the PGA Tour, I just hope that the rest of the pack can summon enough good play to challenge Tiger in the Majors. I realize it’s early in the year but how in the world did he manage to hit it all over the yard, putt like crap and still win? C’mon guys, pick up the pace! We can’t depend on Nationwide Tour grads to provide the bulk of the resistance to Tiger’s record-setting ambition.

My new main man Loren Roberts just finished the Hawaiian sweep by winning the latest Senior tournament with his D game. Was there any doubt that he would make that 9 foot eagle putt at the last? The rest of the Seniors better hope that Roberts decides to play less than the 18 or so times he currently has on his schedule. Funny thing was, during the telecast, Hale Irwin said he couldn’t see anybody winning more than 3-4 times in a year because of the increasing depth of the fields. He was partly right in that assessment - the quality of the newcomers is increasing but I think his competitive ego was trying to block out just how good of a Senior player that Roberts will be.

Over on the European Tour, Henrik Stenson is putting himself in position to be the next big thing coming out of the Old Country. After narrowly losing to an inspired performance from Chris DiMarco the previous week, he impressively beat an excellent field this week. Young, powerful and movie-star handsome, this Swede has all the game needed, as well as the inner toughness to be a champion. Look for him to be a part of the story in at least one of this year’s Majors. And the Americans will no doubt have their hands full with him come September in the Ryder Cup.