The inaugural Black Desert Championship begins in the next couple of days. And with it, we will see several amazing golfers performing at their highest level. The Utah-based tournament has put in its best efforts to rope in all its local pros such as Mike Weir to participate in the contest. However, one name that will be sorely missed during this event will be Tony Finau.

You must be wondering, What would make Finau reject participating in the debut of his hometown tournament? Well, the reason behind it is valid and one that all of us would understand. Tony Finau, the world no. 24, is also the assistant coach for the Thanksgiving Point All-Stars. What are the Thanksgiving Point All-Stars, and why did Finau choose it over the Black Desert Championship? Let’s find out.

Commitments beyond personal achievements

The Thanksgiving Point All-Stars is a team in the PGA Junior League event that will feature some of the best under-13 talent in golf. As head coach, the team has Tele Wightman and also includes Nicklaus Miller, grandson of Hall of Famer Johnny Miller.

But the main reason why Finau is committed to contributing to the team is because of his son. You see, Jraice, Tony Finau’s 12-year-old son is a member of the team too. The team has qualified for the finals and is now an inch closer to winning the tournament.

Jraice Finau and his team will be heading towards Frisco, Texas. They will be competing with 11 other teams in the National Car Rental PGA Jr. League Championship at the Fields Ranch West from October 10th to 13th. That is the same schedule as the Black Desert Championship, which will be 1,157.8 miles away.

Speaking to Golfweek 2 weeks ago, Finau said, “It was a tough decision, but it really wasn’t a decision at all. I’m committed to being a coach, and I’ve got to help coach the team.” It has since been very clear what his plans were.

Just like any parent, Finau also wants to accompany his son during what could possibly be a life-changing event for his son when he lifts the title. This also goes to show that Finau is interested in coaching; just as a parent or legitimately, only Finau can clear it up! Hence, the tournament must go on without one of its favorites. So what can we expect to witness at this new $7.5 million PGA Tour event taking place at one of the most dangerous venues as one would say?

Who will play in the Black Desert Championship 2024?

The tournament will still be a star-studded affair with the likes of Beau Hossler, Keith Mitchell, and Lucas Glover participating. You may have witnessed them playing at the Sanderson. We also saw how dominating Beau Hossler and Keith Mitchell can be after their Sanderson Farms Championship performance. Both of them were neck-and-neck until the penultimate day of the tournament before Kevin Yu eventually captured the title.

With no signs of Keith Yu in the Black Desert Championship, we are sure Hossler and Mitchell could potentially carry forward their momentum and try to achieve glory this time around. They will also be accompanied by 131 other pros who will all be fighting to bag the title at the PGA Tour Fall event.

The Black Desert Championship 2024 will start on October 10th and we are eager to see who wins. Who are you supporting this time around? Let us know in the comments section.