5 Expectations for the 2009 PGA Tour Season

The 2009 PGA Tour golf season is finally here and with the new year, we can expect a very exciting season. The 2008 season had a few strange occurrences from losing Tiger Woods for most of the season to a disappointing FedEx Cup Playoff finish. With Tiger recovering from knee surgery, we golf supporters were able to see golf in a very different perspective. It was interesting to see players have their chance to shine in the spotlight. Tiger is definitely the best thing to happen to the sport of golf; he single handily brought the game to its apex. Golf was losing popularity, but with a player as skilled as Tiger, the world had to follow. The sport is now gaining more followers and players than ever before, and yes golf is "cool" now; Who would have thought?

With Tiger out of the way, we saw young golfers such as Anthony Kim rise to the occasion and try to steal the huge $10 million bonus. Padraig Harrington, the poster boy of Ireland, was able to take home the last two majors of the season, but not the FedEx Cup. No, that was taken by none other than a 45 year old Fijian named Vijay Singh.

So what can we expect in '09?

5. Phil Struggles

Phil Mickelson has been one of the game's elite players in the last decade, but he is struggling. He is simply not a "closer." When it comes down to the wire, Phil chokes; he misses three foot puts when they really count and makes too many mental errors (see 2006 Winged Foot). Phil will win a few tournaments, but certainly not a major.

4. Major Winners

Here are the 2009 PGA Tour Major projections:

Masters: Sergio Garcia (yes I said it)
U.S. Open: Tiger Woods
The Open: Anthony Kim
PGA: Tiger Woods

3. Sergio Wins a Major!

Sergio has blown majors and any golf follower knows that. Why do I make this bold projection? Sergio showed his maturity in 2008 and with a solid putting game, he will finally finish off a big one!

2. Anthony Kim's Rise to Fame

Anthony Kim is the most promising young golfer in the sport since Tiger. His strength and pinpoint accuracy will allow him to take home a major championship. His ball-striking is simply spectacular and the best thing about him; he is only getting better!

1. Tiger's Resurgance

Tiger Woods is the best golfer of all time, but many people are wondering how he will return from knee surgery. I know he will come back stronger than ever because that is just who he is. He achieves the impossible ('08 U.S. Open) and makes shots every golfer dreams about. Tiger's mental strength is mind-boggling and his drive to win is second to none, so why doubt him?