Today’s a challenging day, and this is a golf course that challenges you in a variety of ways,” said Scottie Scheffler. So, the Genesis Invitational is finally here! But instead of its usual home at Riviera Country Club, the event has been relocated to Torrey Pines due to the devastating California wildfires. Now, if you know anything about Torrey, you know it’s already infamous for its brutal layout. And with Round 1 in the books, the pros are making one thing clear—they’re not exactly thrilled to be back so soon after the Farmers Insurance Open, especially in these conditions.
Sure, everyone understands why the PGA Tour had to move the event. The wildfires left no other choice. But that doesn’t mean the players have to be happy about it—especially when they’re facing some of the toughest conditions of the season.
Brutal conditions turn Round 1 into a survival test
With temperatures in the low 50s, a persistent drizzle, and gusting winds out of the south, golfers were battling more than just the course. Thick rough, swirling winds and rain-soaked fairways turned Torrey Pines into an absolute grind-fest. Even the best in the world struggled to stay afloat.
Collin Morikawa, who carded a 1-over 73, described his round in one word: “Neutral.” The two-time major winner admitted the grind was real but was relieved it didn’t turn into a disaster. Scottie Scheffler acknowledged the difficulties but tried to take the positives from his round. “Weather conditions were changing a bunch, and we dealt with a lot of different elements. Overall, it was a pretty solid day,” added Scheffler. That said, even the world No. 1 admitted it was hard to get into any rhythm. The unpredictable wind made it tough, booing the best shots. Golf writer Dan Rapaport summed up the misery perfectly with his tweet:
Anyone who shoots under par at Torrey today deserves a Nobel. Can’t remember a day I’d rather play golf less, on a certain course, than today at Torrey South.
— Dan Rapaport (@Daniel_Rapaport) February 13, 2025
PGA Tour pro Michael S. Kim, hilariously responded: “Thank you! Let me know if you can send me one.” With only 13 of 72 players managing to shoot under par, Torrey Pines was difficult. While Scottie Scheffler and others were dealing with the cold, wind, and rain, the real heroes of the day might have been the caddies. Carrying bags loaded with rain gear, extra gloves, and hand warmers, they had the added struggle of keeping everything dry and ready for their players.
Patrick Rodgers, who managed to shoot 3-under 69 despite the conditions, had some sympathy for his caddie—but he was also glad he wasn’t in his shoes. “Yeah, I’d much rather be the player than the caddie,” Rodgers admitted. “That bag is weighed down with his stuff and my stuff,” he added. Players were also bundled up in ski-mountain-like gear, hand warmers became essential, and umbrellas were everywhere. But, some players somehow found a way to score. Denny McCarthy, who leads at 4-under, leaned into the challenge, saying: “I came out with the attitude that I was just going to have fun and try to embrace it as much as I could.”
Looking ahead, Round 2 isn’t shaping up to be any friendlier. Temperatures will rise slightly to a high of 61°F (16°C) and a low of 57°F (14°C), but the rain will persist—and the wind will remain steady at 14 km/h. Putting it straight, it’s going to be another grind. Players will have to adjust on the fly to stay in the mix. So, what are they fighting for?
What’s at stake for this event?
Yes, Tiger Woods may have withdrawn, but don’t worry—the field still boasts plenty of star power. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is back, hoping to put together a stronger finish this time around. Rory McIlroy, fresh off his win at Pebble Beach, is in the mix, and defending champ Hideki Matsuyama is looking to bring back his Senrty magic.
But, it’s not just about the trophy, there’s serious money on the line. The Genesis Invitational has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1956, when the total purse was just $40,000. Fast forward to today, and it’s one of the richest events on the PGA Tour, boasting a massive $20 million purse.
The winner will walk away with a cool $4 million, along with a crucial 700 FedEx Cup points boost. Even finishing 50th still nets you $52,000, proving that just making it through the brutal conditions this week is worth something. With big money, crucial FedEx Cup points, and a stacked field, there’s plenty to play for at Torrey Pines—even if the weather is making life miserable.
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