Tony Finau told he has made a mistake ahead of the Zurich Classic which he may really ‘regret’ at the end of the season

Add as preferred source on Google

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans may not be one of the flagship events on the PGA Tour when it comes to prestige, but it is most definitely one of the most unique tournaments on the calendar.

Of course, many eyes will be on Rory McIlroy this week. McIlroy is making his first appearance since winning The Masters, while he is one of the players looking to defend his title at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

McIlroy made the decision to play alongside Shane Lowry for the first time last year. And it proved to be an inspired decision – unlike deciding to do karaoke – as the pair won in a playoff.

They will be hoping to defend their title this week at TPC Louisiana. Meanwhile, Collin Morikawa and Wyndham Clark are amongst those who will also be involved with their respective partners.

Tony Finau told he has made a mistake ahead of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans

However, a number of the other big names are taking the week off ahead of a congested period in the schedule. Major championship season is underway, and the PGA Championship is rapidly approaching on the horizon.

There is a great opportunity to secure a big win. And with that, there is some dismay that some notable names have decided to not play in the tournament.

Speaking on Fried Egg Golf, Joseph LaManga believes that someone like Tony Finau could really rue not playing given how he has started the season.

“I’m telling you, that’s one of my biggest notes for this – where’s Tony Finau, and I’m serious. He should be playing in this,” he said.

“He’s having a bad year, he’s 46th in the FedEx Cup, he may not be in the top 50 at the end of this year. Fits this place well, if he got a decent partner and teed it up, that could be the difference at the end of the year in having status in the signature events or not. A lot of guys are going to look back on this and regret not playing it.”

How Tony Finau has performed on the PGA Tour in 2025

There is going to be greater pressure on those further down the standings because of the number of cards which are going to be taken away after this year.

And even those like Finau who probably have little to worry about in terms of keeping their cards will feel some urgency because of those who are making a charge from further back.

Finau finished fifth at the Genesis Invitational, but that is his only top 10 of the season to date. And it is slightly alarming that he has missed the cut at both The Players Championship and The Masters.

It is also troubling that no part of his game is looking particularly strong right now. His best position in the strokes gained rankings is 40th for off the tee. He is outside the top 100 around the green and on the putting surface.

And with the likes of Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler amongst those relying on invites to the signature events this year, there really is no reason for most players to assume that they will definitely do enough to make the top 50.