Rocket Mortgage Classic returns to showcase golf's rising stars
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Rickie Fowler tees off at last year's Rocket Mortgage Classic. Photo: Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images
Some of the world's best golfers are in town this week for the Rocket Mortgage Classic at the Detroit Golf Club.
Why it matters: Now in its sixth year, the annual PGA Tour event has become integral to the city's diverse sports scene.
- Defending champion Rickie Fowler is back and he's joined by an intriguing field of rising stars, which the Rocket Mortgage Classic has become known for showcasing.
Flashback: Billionaire businessman Dan Gilbert is credited with bringing the PGA Tour to Detroit for the first time in 2019.
Between the lines: This year's tournament lacks some star power. Many elite players are taking the week off after the U.S. Open two weeks ago followed by last week's Travelers Championship — the last of the tour's big-money "signature events."
Yes, but: Fans can watch some of golf's most exciting young players, including:
- Akshay Bhatia, 22, who won earlier this season and last week went toe-to-toe with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.
- Will Zalatoris, an elite ball striker who has finished second in three majors.
- Miles Russell, a 15-year-old high school freshman from Florida who's making his PGA Tour debut.
- Ohio State grad Neal Shipley, who just turned pro after finishing this year's Masters and U.S. Open as the low amateur.
State of play: The four-day tournament is Thursday through Sunday. Daily tickets are available starting at $75. Parking is extra.
- Kids 15 and younger get in free with a ticketed adult. Active and retired military also get free admission.
💠Joe's thought bubble: Ticket prices are higher than I expected, but golf provides an underrated fan experience.
- Watching an elite athlete (yes, golf is a sport!) smash a ball more than 300 yards is a unique thrill.
- If that's not your thing, you can grab a drink, wander the scenic golf course and people watch.
Go deeper: This guide from the Detroit News has tips on the best viewing areas, getting autographs and visiting the merch tent.