John Daly and his Loudmouth Golf Apparel wardrobe will be coming to Hazeltine National Golf Club for the 91st PGA Championship Aug. 13-16.
Daly, the popular and often troubled two-time major winner, sent his entry form last Thursday, a PGA of America spokesman said Wednesday. Daly is exempt as a past champion.
Last December, the PGA Tour suspended Daly for six months for unprofessional conduct. He went to the European Tour, had lap-band surgery to lose 40 pounds and started wearing some, well, Loudmouth Golf Apparel.
Daly returned to the PGA Tour two weeks ago at the St. Jude Classic. He finished tied for 64th at 1 over par.
The 43-year-old is expected to play in next month's British Open. He's exempt as a former champion (1995). Daly played the 2002 PGA Championship at Hazeltine and missed the cut.
Exempt players have until July 7 to send their entry forms. After July 7, the PGA of America will consider more players for special exemptions. Tom Lehman and David Duval are two players who should receive strong consideration.
MARK CRAIG
• Kenny Perry shot a 61 to tie the course record and take a two-shot lead after the first round of the Travelers Championship. Perry, who has finished in the top 10 seven times at this tournament, shot a 29 on the front nine and had no bogeys. Charles Warren and Paul Goydos each shot a 7-under 63 to tie for second place.