IRVING — The third annual Invited Celebrity Classic at Las Colinas Country Club tees off this weekend as former Dallas Cowboy Tony Romo attempts to defend his title.
Known as one of the most avid golfers among professional athletes, the former quarterback turned NFL broadcaster has played in the tournament each year since its inception and looks forward to defending his crown as the event continues to gain recognition across the sports world.
“This event is getting to be one of those where you just put it on the calendar and book it,” Romo said as he met with the media on Thursday before teeing off for the first round. “You know it even before it starts, and I think that’s a testament to everybody who runs this tournament because it’s so well done, and you have so many fans and people who get excited about it. It’s just a really enjoyable experience.”
As Romo tries to repeat as champion on the amateur side of the Pro-Am, he is well aware of the improving tournament field, which includes former golfers Annika Sorenstam and Blair O’Neal, as well as many other notable athletes from the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and other celebrities from television.
“The talent has gotten so much better since it first started,” Romo added. “There are the usual suspects, but I think now you’ve got eight, 10, 12 guys who can consistently win and have a good weekend. … I think that’s good for the game. … This feels like a major.”
Sorenstam has also played in the tournament each year and shared what she likes about playing in the event, which pairs PGA TOUR Champions players with celebrity participants.
“It’s great to be back,” she told the media after her round on Thursday. “I’m always grateful for the invite. It’s a fun event in a lot of different ways. I enjoy playing with the celebrities. I enjoy playing with the Champions and just being here in Dallas.”
The 2024 Invited Celebrity Classic officially teed off on Thursday and continues all weekend. Romo is paired with Justin Leonard, and Sorenstam is playing with Scott Dunlap.
