AVONDALE, La. (AP) Zurich Classic organizers say world No. 1 player Jason Day and fifth-ranked Rickie Fowler will be among defending champion Justin Rose's challengers in this year's PGA Tour stop in New Orleans.
Rose, who joined the tournament's opening media event by video conference from his home in the Bahamas, says players are becoming increasingly comfortable with the Pete Dye-designed course at the TPC Louisiana and that the $7 million purse makes it very attractive.
Rose, ranked eighth worldwide, says players also seem more willing to break out of their normal routine to enjoy the festivities in New Orleans.
Tournament producer Steve Worthy says many top players have told him they intend to play in New Orleans, but some want to wait until after the Masters before firming up their commitments.
