HOT
1. Lee Westwood. Yes, it's a flawed metric, and yes, he's been a non-factor for months, but No. 1 is No. 1 and Westwood has had long run of good play to earn the top spot in the World Ranking. Now let's see how long he can hold on to it.
2. HSBC Champions. It's a monster field and I am definitely ready for a little starpower. The Fall Series has been a fun diversion but I miss the big boys.
3. G-Mac.Another win cements Graeme McDowell's standing as golf's player of the year ... unless Kaymer wins the HSBC!
4. The Internet. Without Twitter or YouTube we'd all still think Stewart Cink and Ben Crane are boring.
5. NYC. Don't look now, but Na Yeon Choi has turned into a winning machine and is threatening to become the fifth LPGA player to reach No. 1 in the World Ranking this year. With a cool nickname and a personality as flashy as her game, NYC is one Korean with whom American fans should connect.
NOT
1. Monty. The Year of the Rules Cock-Up continues as Colin Montgomerie missed out on a chance for $1.28 million after committing a violation at an otherwise meaningless exhibition in China. When did Lisa Pavin begin working as a rules official?
2. Tiger. He lost his No. 1 spot and even Rajon Rondo used a Woods likeness as a jokey Halloween costume. It's hard to remember that less than a year ago Tiger was among the most revered men on the planet.
3. Turning Stone Championship. A popular, well-run event bites the dust after only four years. This is likely a sign of things to come once the new TV contract kicks in.
4. James Hahn. The Nationwider played paper-rock-scissors with his caddie to determine whether or not to go for a par-5 during the third round of the Tour Championship. Hahn lost, was compelled to go for it and promptly dumped his 3-wood in the water. I'm all for eccentricity, but this just seems stupid.
5. Annika. Not only did Lorena get a fat check in China she's going to tee it up for real at her eponymous tournament next week (on a sponsor's exemption!). Your move, Sorenstam.
KC's Espinoza reflects on his World Cup experienceMickelson, Westwood paired at HSBC Champions
