Joined by tournament host Tiger Woods and Euisun Chung, Manfred Fitzgerald and Erwin Raphael of title sponsor Genesis at The Riviera Country Club, Monahan highlighted several important changes for the tournament moving forward: 

• The Genesis Open will move to invitational qualifying status and reduce its field from 144 players to 120; 
• The champion will receive a three-year PGA TOUR exemption, an increase by one year over the standard winner’s exemption on TOUR; 
• The purse will grow to $9.3 million, among the largest on TOUR and an increase of $1.9 million over the 2019 purse. The winner’s share will be $1.674 million; 
• In collaboration with the tournament’s broadcast partners, recognition of Woods’ vast accomplishments as a player and his philanthropic work through the TGR Foundation will be amplified through the telecasts and promotion of the tournament. 

These elements will put the Genesis Open in select company on TOUR alongside the Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide and the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard. Jack Nicklaus’ Memorial Tournament began awarding a three-year exemption and elevated purse in 2016 and Palmer’s tournament did so the following year. 

“In recognition of Tiger’s place alongside Jack and Arnold as a modern-day golf icon who hosts a home-based PGA TOUR tournament, plus the common thread of doing exceptional philanthropic work through his TGR Foundation, elevating the Genesis Open is an important and deserved step toward further cementing Tiger’s legacy in our sport,” Monahan said. “This announcement comes at a particularly relevant time as Tiger continues to chase history and Sam Snead’s record of 82 PGA TOUR victories. 

“Tiger is fully committed to continuing the growth of all aspects of the tournament, a vision shared by Genesis as the title sponsor,” Monahan added. “We look forward to working with Tiger, TGR Foundation and the team at Genesis to fulfill our common goal.” 

TGR Live became the tournament host organization with TGR Foundation the primary beneficiary in 2017, the same year Genesis took over as title sponsor. 

“I’m honored and grateful that the Genesis Open will receive elevated status and join Arnold’s and Jack’s tournaments,” Woods said. “To be included with two of the greatest golfers of all-time, in my hometown and at an event that benefits my TGR Foundation is something I could never have imagined when I first visited Riviera with my Pop. I would like to personally thank Genesis, the PGA TOUR and all those that made this dream happen.” 

“We are proud of the partnership we’ve had with Tiger Woods, the TGR Foundation and the PGA TOUR thus far and we look forward to elevating the tournament to new heights,” said Chung, Executive Vice Chairman, Hyundai Motor Group. “From the beginning, we have always seen a strong alignment between the sport of golf and the Genesis brand. Both are centered on respect, integrity, mutual admiration and innovation. We look forward to a long-lasting partnership with one of the greatest golfers the world has ever seen, not only for the success of the tournament, but also for the benefit of the communities and individuals we will have the privilege to serve.” 

The newest Genesis product, the G70 luxury sport sedan, has garnered broad acclaim winning several major industry awards including both of the most prestigious - 2019 North American Car of the YearTM and MotorTrend 2019 Car of the Year. The G70 is joined in the brand’s product portfolio by the Genesis G90 and G80 luxury sedans. 

The Genesis Open begins tomorrow with three-time tournament winner Bubba Watson defending his latest title at The Riviera Country Club. 

About the Genesis Open 

The Genesis Open, L.A.’s PGA TOUR event, is bringing the next chapter in championship golf to The Riviera Country Club February 11 – 17, 2019. One of the most historic and longest-running events on the PGA TOUR, the tournament celebrated its 92nd playing in 2018 as Bubba Watson won the event for a third time. With TGR Live serving as the event management company for the Genesis Open, the TGR Foundation is the primary benefiting charity, with proceeds from the event supporting the foundation’s college-access programs in Southern California. The tournament’s title sponsor is Genesis, a global luxury car brand that delivers the highest standards of performance, design and innovation in its vehicles. For more information, visit GenesisOpen.com and follow the tournament on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @GenesisOpen. 

About TGR Live, A Tiger Woods Venture 

For more than 20 years, TGR Live has exclusively organized and managed fundraising events supporting the TGR Foundation. It focuses solely on creating amazing experiences for the foundation’s clients at world-class events. TGR Live provides a variety of services including hospitality management, public relations and marketing, tournament operations, and sponsor sales at PGA TOUR and signature events which benefit the foundation. While many TGR Live events are televised, TGR Live does not provide TV or video production. For more information, visit TGRLive.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @TGRLiveEvents. 

About TGR Foundation, A Tiger Woods Charity 

For more than 20 years, TGR Foundation has worked to create a world where opportunity is universal and potential is limitless. With an unwavering commitment to impact an entire generation, our mission is to empower students to pursue their passions through education. We are pioneers in positive youth development, encouraging self-advocacy skills in young people. Our programs foster a growth mindset, instilling in students the strength and skills to persevere and define their own path. Through our award-winning STEM curricula, college-access programs, digital platforms and educator professional development, TGR Foundation offers underrepresented students the resources and support needed to thrive in school and beyond. For more information, visit TGRFoundation.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

About PGA TOUR 

By showcasing golf’s greatest players, the PGA TOUR engages, inspires and positively impacts our fans, partners and communities worldwide. 

The PGA TOUR co-sanctions more than 130 tournaments on the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions, Web.com Tour, PGA TOUR Latinoamérica, Mackenzie Tour-PGA TOUR Canada and PGA TOUR Series-China. Members on the PGA TOUR represent the world’s best players, hailing from 25 countries (88 members are from outside the United States). Worldwide, PGA TOUR tournaments are broadcast to more than 1 billion households in 226 countries and territories in 23 languages. Virtually all tournaments are organized as non-profit organizations to maximize charitable giving. In 2018, tournaments across all Tours generated a record $190 million for local and national charitable organizations, bringing the all-time total to $2.84 billion. 

The PGA TOUR’s web site is PGATOUR.COM, the No. 1 site in golf, and the organization is headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

PACIFIC PALISADES, Calif., Feb. 11, 2019 — Luxury automotive brand Genesis is partnering with the PGA TOUR, TGR Live and TGR Foundation for the third year in a row to provide a premium experience for golf fans and guests at the Genesis Open. Held February 11-17, 2019 at one of the most iconic golf courses in the world, The Riviera Country Club, the Genesis Open will host one of the strongest fields of world-class PGA TOUR golfers in recent years. 

Reigning 2018 champion Bubba Watson will make his return to defend his title along with other top players that include Dustin Johnson, Justin Thomas, Bryson DeChambeau and tournament host Tiger Woods. Watson’s win in 2018 marked his third at the prestigious Riviera Country Club, following wins in 2014 and 2016. He is only the second golfer to be a three-time winner of the tournament at Riviera, sharing honors with Lloyd Mangrum, who took home the trophy in 1949, 1951 and 1953. 

“We at Genesis couldn’t be more thrilled to be back at one of the preeminent events on the PGA TOUR for a third year in a row,” said Erwin Raphael, Chief Operating Officer, Genesis Motor America. “For nearly a century, The Riviera Country Club has given both legends and rising stars the opportunity to represent the highest standard of performance, a value shared by the Genesis brand as we continue to reshape the definition of luxury. We look forward to celebrating these champions who were Born to Rise and to sharing a premium experience with guests.” 

Guests of the Genesis Open can enjoy numerous activities and public spaces that honor the game of golf while showcasing the Genesis line of award-winning luxury vehicles.

The 2019 Genesis G70 was recently named the 2019 North American Car of the YearTM, one of numerous prestigious awards given to the G70 to-date. Genesis is the youngest brand to earn the North American Car of the YearTM award. 

The Genesis Lounge 

Located in the heart of Riviera, the Genesis Lounge at Hole 14 is a first-class fan lounge open to all guests. With soft seating and unobstructed views from tee to green, the Genesis Lounge is the perfect mix of comfort, luxury, and captivating moments of tournament play. 

Genesis Social Studio 

Also located at Hole 14 at the Genesis Lounge and new this year, Genesis will create a versatile space at the back of the lounge where various experiences and live tapings of social and digital content will take place throughout the week. The new interactive space gives guests a unique chance to see some of their favorite online personalities and influencers in action. 

Genesis Performance Lab 

Fans can learn to putt like the pros at Hole 14’s Genesis Performance Lab. After having their putting stroke captured in front of a TrackMan golf simulator, participants will receive a one-on-one coaching session with a PGA pro based on analysis of the data. 

Mobile Charging Stations and Wi-Fi 

To keep fans connected in real-time, Genesis will provide complimentary mobile charging stations in public hospitality areas and free sponsored Wi-Fi throughout the course. 

Genesis Courtesy Valets 

To bring the benefits of the Genesis Service Valet Experience from city streets to the back nine, the brand will offer golf cart shuttles between the course entrance and the Genesis Lounge at Hole 14. 

Instagram Photo Ops 

Genesis will partner with the tournament to provide guests with opportunities for engaging and eye-catching photos they can share on their personal social media channels. 

Showcase of Luxury Sedans 

2019 Genesis luxury sedans will be displayed throughout the property, including the flagship G90, G80 and the G70, recently named 2019 North American Car of the YearTM. Display locations include the Genesis Entrance Pavilion, the Genesis Lounge at Holes 14 and 16, the Genesis Skybox and the Winner’s Display (at the base of Hole 1 tee). 

Shuttle Service 

Genesis knows that sometimes guests need a lift, so custom Genesis-wrapped shuttles will provide service for the following locations at Riviera: 

• Main entrance concierge tent to Genesis Lounge 
• Uber Lot at Paul Revere Middle School to Main Entrance 

Genesis Celebrates the Sport of Golf and Its Champions 

The Genesis Open further underscores Genesis’ commitment to a sport that rewards individuality and embraces challenge. Genesis was also the official vehicle of the Farmers Insurance Open. As part of these sponsorships, PGA TOUR players will drive Genesis vehicles in two of the first seven PGA TOUR events in 2019. 

The PGA TOUR pros competing in the 2019 Genesis Open will have a chance to win not only the tournament but also a bold expression of performance and luxury. The player with the first hole-in-one in each competition round on Holes 14 and 16 will win a 2019 Genesis G70, as well as one for their caddie. In addition, the winner of the 2019 Genesis Open will receive an all-new 2019 Genesis G70. 

The TGR Foundation continues as the primary charitable beneficiary of the Genesis Open, with proceeds from the event going to support the foundation’s college-access programs in Southern California. Through its award-winning STEM curricula, college-access programs, digital platforms and educator professional development, the TGR Foundation offers underrepresented students the resources and support needed to thrive in school and beyond. 

Genesis is also taking its commitment to supporting the Los Angeles community off the golf course and into the local environment. On the Monday following the tournament, Genesis will host a beach clean-up at Santa Monica State Beach from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, as part of the company’s dedication to environmental sustainability. 

This prestigious golf tournament in the country’s second largest market will be broadcast nationally on CBS and the Golf Channel from February 14 – 17, 2019. Follow the tournament on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get updates and a behind-the-scenes look at the tournament action.

PACIFIC PALISADES, Calif., Feb. 14, 2018 — Luxury automotive brand Genesis is once again partnering with TGR Live and the TGR Foundation to provide golf fans and guests with a premium experience this week during the Genesis Open. Among the most historic and longest-running events on the PGA TOUR, the Genesis Open is held annually at one of the of the world’s best courses - The Riviera Country Club. The signature golf event takes place February 12-18, 2018 and features one of the strongest fields of world-class PGA TOUR golfers.

World No. 1 Dustin Johnson will be back to defend his title, along with some of the world’s top players including Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods, among other top names.

“From the legendary Ben Hogan to the king, Arnold Palmer, through to defending champion Dustin Johnson and the highly anticipated return of Tiger Woods this year, golf’s elite have come together at this revered venue for nearly a century,” said Manfred Fitzgerald, Senior Vice President and Head of Genesis brand. “Golf is built on a foundation of honor and respect and it’s why we feel there is a strong alignment between our brand and this tournament. As a new global luxury automotive brand, we feel compelled to not only honor our drivers, and a sport built on respect, integrity and mutual admiration, but to make a positive difference in the world around us.”

TGR Foundation is the primary benefiting charity with proceeds from the event supporting the foundation’s college-access programs in Southern California.

 Genesis is proud to announce that for this year the brand is also doubling its grant award to the J. Paul Getty Museum Trust, which was the first corporate social responsibility award for the brand last year, to $500,000. Last year’s grant helped create an innovative education initiative to benefit high school students in Los Angeles and surrounding communities. Phase 1 of the Genesis-Getty initiative is an 18-month program designed to enhance learning through a model of See Your World, Share Your World, and Change Your World. Thousands of students from underserved communities and Title 1 schools in the LA area have participated in the program directly and online. This year’s grant will support the initiative as it progresses into Phase II of the Getty Museum’s development of this innovative education initiative.

Throughout the week, guests of the Genesis Open can enjoy a number of different activations and public spaces designed to honor the game of golf while showcasing the Genesis line of luxury vehicles.

The Genesis Lounge

Located in the heart of the Riviera course, the Genesis Lounge at hole 14 is a first-class fan lounge open to all guests. With soft seating and unobstructed views from tee-to- green, the Genesis Lounge is the perfect mix of comfort, luxury, and captivating moments of tournament play.

Genesis Performance Lab

Fans can learn to putt like the pros at the Genesis Performance Lab, also located at hole 14, where guests will have an opportunity to have their putting stroke analyzed by a PGA Professional. Participants will have their putting stroke captured in front of a TrackMan and then receive a one-on-one coaching session with a PGA Pro on the data.

Genesis’ Showcase of Luxury Sedans

There will be several Genesis luxury sedans displayed throughout the property, including at the entrance and at holes 14 and 16. Genesis is also providing complimentary WiFi in select places around the course; The Clubhouse, the Genesis Lounge and The Bluffs hospitality tent.

Genesis’ Commitment to the Golf Landscape

The Genesis Open further solidifies Genesis’ presence in the golf landscape. Genesis was the official vehicle of the CareerBuilder Challenge and the Farmers Insurance Open. As part of these sponsorships, PGA TOUR players were provided with Genesis vehicles in three out of the first seven PGA TOUR events in the 2018 calendar year. Genesis also provided the overall winner of the 2017 Genesis Invitational tournament the opportunity to play in the Genesis Open Official Pro-Am on February 14.

The PGA TOUR pros competing in the 2018 Genesis Open will have their chance to win not only the tournament, but an exciting expression of luxury. The player with the first hole-in-one each competition round on holes 14 and 16, will win a Genesis G80 Sport and their caddie will win a Genesis G80 Sport as well! In addition, the 2018 Genesis Open champion will receive an all-new Genesis G80 Sport.

This prestigious golf event in the country’s second largest market will be broadcast nationally on CBS and the Golf Channel from February 15 – 18, 2018. Follow the tournament on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to get updates and a behind-the- scenes look at the tournament action.

PACIFIC PALISADES, Calif., Feb. 14, 2017 — One of the most prominent events on the PGA TOUR, the renowned Los Angeles stop, will debut a much-anticipated new title sponsor this week at the Genesis Open​. Luxury automotive brand Genesis has partnered with TGR Live and Tiger Woods Foundation to provide golf fans with a premium experience, introducing a new era of Southern California golf. Held at one of the of the world’s best courses—The Riviera Country Club—the Genesis Open, February 13-19, 2017, will feature a world-class field of PGA TOUR golfers.

World number 1 Jason Day highlights the field at Riviera and will be joined by defending champion Bubba Watson and fan favorites Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth, Hideki Matsuyama, Adam Scott, Justin Rose, and Phil Mickelson, among other top names.

“Partnering with a tournament that has seen numerous historic golf moments since its debut in 1926 was an easy decision,” said Erwin Raphael, general manager of Genesis in the U.S. “Golf is built on a foundation of honor and responsibility. That’s why we have such a kinship with the game. Everything we do is designed to honor and respect the people who drive our vehicles and we look forward to introducing our brand to this critically important market and golf fans around the world.”

The Genesis Experience

Throughout the week, Genesis will provide opportunities for players and fans to interact with the vehicles and the brand. Genesis will have a first-class fan lounge on hole 14, along with a Genesis Putting Experience where fans will be given a chance to have their putting stroke analyzed by a PGA professional. Participants can hit a putt and have their stroke videotaped and sent digitally to a PGA Professional who will provide feedback and advice in 5-7 days along with specific improvement drills.

Genesis’ Showcase of Luxury Sedans G90 and G80

In addition to displaying its flagship G90​ and G80​ luxury sedans throughout the tournament at the Genesis Entrance Pavilion, Clubhouse Valet Circle, holes 14 and 16, each player in the field will be given a G90 or a G80 to drive and experience during tournament week. The player with the first hole-in-one each day on holes 14 and 16 will win a Genesis G90 as well as a Genesis G80 for their caddie. The winner of the 2017 Genesis Open will also go home with an all-new G90.

Genesis’ Legacy to the Community

In addition to tournament-related initiatives, the Genesis Open will embrace its long legacy of giving back to the community. The Tiger Woods Foundation is the primary benefiting charity with proceeds from the event supporting the foundation’s college-access programs in Southern California. Additionally, Genesis Motor America will donate a $250,000 grant to the J. Paul Getty Museum Trust. The grant will be used to create a groundbreaking arts enrichment program that provides students with access to the arts through an immersive experience that occurs both in students’ communities and via online platforms. Thousands of high school students from underserved and Title 1 schools in the Los Angeles area are expected to participate in the program at the Getty Center, with potentially hundreds of thousands more joining in the experience online.

Genesis’ Commitment to the Golf Landscape

The Genesis Open further solidifies Genesis’ presence in the golf landscape. Genesis is also the official vehicle of the CareerBuilder Challenge and vehicle partner for the Farmers Insurance Open. As part of these sponsorships, PGA TOUR players were provided with Genesis vehicles in three out of the first seven PGA TOUR events in the 2017 calendar year. Genesis also provided one lucky fan the opportunity to play in the Pro-Ams at the CareerBuilder Challenge, Farmers Insurance Open and the Genesis Open through its Pro-Am sweepstakes​.

The signature golf event happening in the country’s second biggest market, will be broadcast nationally on CBS and Golf Channel from February 16 – 19, 2017. Follow the tournament on Facebook​, Twitter​ and Instagram​​ to get updates and a behind-the-scenes look at the tournament action.

• Genesis announces its first major sports marketing initiative
• Genesis Open will be held February 13-19, 2017 at The Riviera Country Club and broadcast nationally on CBS

LOS ANGELES, June 27, 2016 — One of the most historic and longest-running events on the PGA TOUR starts a new chapter as global luxury car brand Genesis becomes title sponsor of the Genesis Open at The Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, Calif. Together with the Tiger Woods Foundation, the tournament’s host organization, the Genesis Open begins a new era of golf in Southern California, hosting the world’s best professionals and delivering a premium fan experience in the U.S. and worldwide. The 2017 Genesis Open will be held February 13-19 and will be broadcast nationally by CBS.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Genesis as the new title sponsor of one of the most storied tournaments on the PGA TOUR,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. “We have a wonderful 90-year history in Los Angeles and are excited to work with Genesis to build upon this tradition in the coming years.”

“Genesis represents a unique and different approach to automotive luxury and the Genesis Open is an ideal platform to share our vision, dynamic vehicles and personalized ownership experience,” said Erwin Raphael, general manager of the Genesis brand in the U.S. market. “This tournament is one of the most prominent on the PGA TOUR and is played at one of the world’s best courses, so it was a natural fit for our first major sports marketing program.”

Genesis is aligning with one of the longest-running tournaments on the PGA TOUR. It debuted in 1926 at Los Angeles Country Club as the Los Angeles Open. The tournament was staged at various courses throughout the Los Angeles area before permanently settling at The Riviera Country Club in 1973. Known as the site of Jack Nicklaus’ professional debut, Tiger Woods’ first PGA TOUR tournament and with 25 champions in the World Golf Hall of Fame, the course has seen many major moments in golf history. In February, Bubba Watson became the tournament’s 90th champion and a two-time winner at Riviera, having also won in 2014.

“I am excited to be working with Genesis and Riviera to bring the Genesis Open to Los Angeles,” said Tournament Host Tiger Woods. “I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of children in Southern California, where my foundation is based, and am appreciative of the role Genesis will play in this mission.”

With its strong focus on design, the Genesis brand strives to make a positive difference to customers’ lives, one that will provide a new platform for future mobility centered on people. By anticipating human needs at every touch point, Genesis models will embody four key aspects: human-focused innovation, refined and balanced performance, athletic elegance in design and a stress-free customer experience. Following the flagship G90, the brand’s second model G80 and its variant G80 Sport were first unveiled at the beginning of this month in Korea. With the launch of G70 scheduled next year, the Genesis brand’s fascinating product line-up will keep expanding.