Jack Gruber/Imagn
The world of professional golf is in a dangerous spot. Its top players are fractured across two competing leagues. Its television rating are in consistent decline, and it badly lacks star power as move fully out of the Tiger Woods Era.
There are several proposed to solutions to these problems. Some of them, such as regular “elevated” events that draw the world’s top players, are working. While others, such as a merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, are not. But what can current PGA Tour players do to try to reverse the worrisome trend?
Well, two-time major winner Justin Thomas is hoping he can answer that question. Thomas sent out a memo to players recently urging them to be more accessible during TV broadcasts. Gabby Herzig of The Athletic acquired that memo and revealed what exactly Thomas had to say to his fellow players.
“We’re incredibly lucky to have many passionate people tuning in to watch us every week, but let’s be honest—this game can feel a little distant at times,” Thomas stated. “The more I think about it, the more I feel us giving more access and insight can make a WORLD of difference. Things such as pre-round interviews, mid-round interviews, wearing a mic, communication of any equipment/swing changes you’re working on with the broadcasters, etc.”
Now, it’s easy to see why players would be hesitant to do this. Golf is a game that requires immense focus and these players are out there competing for generational wealth at some of these tournaments. But Thomas says he believes the change is necessary if the game wants to continue to thrive in the future.
“Getting the younger age group interested and watching our sport could be a huge difference in our popularity,” he continued. “They love the opportunity to be able to have that connection to us as fans, and it humanizes us.”
Thomas compared his suggestion to in-game interviews with NFL or NBA coaches. He claimed that doing so “really makes the fans feel in our head and there with us.”
Ultimately, it’s not the worst idea. Small things like that do little to affect the actual round, but could certainly enhance a broadcast. Will they “save” the game of golf? Of course not. But if players aren’t willing to adapt, things will not look so rosy for the future of the game.