World Golf Final 2012: Tee Times, Date and Preview

Golf fans are in for a treat this week with the Turkish Airlines World Golf Final.

Unlike most tournaments that are watered down with weaker competition to fill the field, this match play event features only eight of the best players in the world.

Four of the top five players in the world rankings are included in this high-paying event, and only Charl Schwartzel is outside of the top 20. 

Many of these players will carry over the energy from the Ryder Cup, and it will lead to some exciting head-to-head matches. Hopefully, the championship will include the Tiger Woods-Rory McIlroy matchup everyone has been anxiously waiting for.

Where: Antalya Golf Club, Belek Antalya, Turkey

When: October 9 - October 12

Total Prize Money: $5.2 million

Field: Tiger Woods, Charl Schwartzel, Lee Westwood, Rory Mcllroy, Hunter Mahan, Matt Kuchar, Justin Rose, Webb Simpson

Tournament Schedule

October 8	3 p.m. ET	Practice Day
October 9	5:30 - 6 a.m. ET	Tee times
October 10	2:30 - 3 a.m. ET	Tee times
October 10	7 - 7:30 a.m. ET	Tee times
October 11	2:00 - 2:10 a.m. ET	Semifinals
October 12	2.30 a.m. ET	Final

Golfers to Watch

Tiger Woods

The most popular golfer in the world continued his struggles in match play at the Ryder Cup. Although he was second in the money list this year, he was unable to win a single match in the tournament between the United States and Europe.

Steve Stricker did not provide much help as Woods' teammate, but this time the superstar is on his own.

He should be able to have a solid run if he can get more consistent on the greens.

Rory McIlroy

The No. 1 golfer in the world is getting used to winning. Before helping lead team Europe to an amazing last-day comeback in the Ryder Cup, he personally won three of the last five tournaments he entered. 

McIlroy had 11 straight rounds in the 60s until Sunday of the Tour Championship, and he should continue this level of dominance into the World Golf Final.

Lee Westwood

Westwood did not fare well in the foursome rounds at the Ryder Cup. He lost both rounds in the alternate shot format, but was 2-0 when able to use his own ball. This includes a late singles win over Matt Kuchar, who is also in this field.

The English golfer rarely blows anyone away with his play, but he can perform well enough to stay in front in this type of event.

Predicted Winner: Rory McIlroy

No one in the world is playing better than McIlroy. This will not change this week as the youngster once again destroys his competition.

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