Ko and Spieth Against the World

January 12, 2014September 13, 2015 / The Grateful Golfer / 5 Comments

Lydia Ko, pictured here after winning the Canadian Women’s Open in Edmonton on Aug. 25, will join the LPGA Tour next year. (Jason Franson/Canadian Press)

Jordan Spieth holds the trophy after winning the John Deere Classic on Sunday at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Ill. (Charlie Neibergall/Associated Press)

The female and male darlings of golf are Lydia Ko and Jordan Speith. Both have fantastic starts to their career and seem to be well on their way to making a name for themselves as professional golfers. Ko just turned pro and has already won an event on the LPGA. Speith is also a one time winner with 2013 rookie of the year honors to boot. Both appear to have focused goals and positive personalities that the golf industry want to leverage.

There is no question the media are going crazy, the golfing world is talking about their successes and the sponsors are circling. But, is this really what golf is about? Don’t get me wrong, golf is a business and there is money to be made; however, at what cost. There are several players who were treated with the same awe and reverence in the past 10 years, but have disappeared completely or failed to meet the huge expectations of being a world ranked golfer. They were discarded like yesterday’s newspaper. Is to be the fate of Lydia Ko and Jordan Speith?

Expectations of professional or amateur golfers can be a positive influence or a destructive power. We do not have to look far to see the fickle nature of the sports media, golfing fans or professional pundits. Examples like Rory McIlroy playing so poorly in 2013 – how many times was he kicked; Tiger Woods stalled at 14 Majors…..stalled at 14 Majors – are you kidding; Phil Mickelson not winning the US Open is tarnishing his greatness … come on; and finally Henrik Stenson touted as one of the greatest golfers never to win a Major…wow! Is there a possibility that the expectations of some of the golfing greats is a little out of whack?

It is important to understand that expectations are relative. At every level, each golfer has expectations (realistic or unrealistic) about their capabilities. Those are easy to accept. What is difficult to swallow are the golfing analysts who pass judgement on players while sitting in their armchair in a climate controlled room. Is it possible, that golf has lost its way and some major re-tuning is required?

Golf is a great sport! We all have expectations, but let us not forget that golf is meant to be enjoyed. Competition is healthy, fun and exciting. However, a ‘win or else’ competition seen at the professional level is not good for the game. What do you think?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

Changing of the Guard or Is It?

January 7, 2014 / The Grateful Golfer / 9 Comments

In every sport, the changing of the old guard to a new group of defenders occurs about every seven to ten years. Age finally catches up to the élite; while continuing to empower the stronger, faster, and hungrier players. Eventually, the young lions surpass their aging heroes and carry the torch forward. The real question in golf is when does this occur?

Who will be on top at the end 2014? Rory, Phil or Tiger?

During the past few years, the world of golf appears to have shifted its focus towards younger players and that 2014 will be the year for major changes in the world rankings. However, pundits who follow golf would agree that this potential shift is not an actual power struggle. It is more like the media creating hype by pitting old bulls like Tiger Woods, Steve Stricker and Phil Mickelson against the young lions like Rory McIlroy, Dustin Johnson, and Keegan Bradley.

The reality of golf at the professional level is that it is all about the hype! It is no different from any other sport; however its slower evolution does restrict the potential for financial gains experienced by teams like Manchester United or the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Golf is starting to generate a world craze and continues to grow in popularity, but the glacial pace can be frustrating. As new emerging players try to break into the ranks of the élite, they will find it extremely difficult to sustain the prowess required to stay at the top because golf is not a sport dominated by youth.

In 2013, there were approximately 160 world events. In 2014, this number is expected to expand as new markets in Asia, specifically China, develop. Of the 2013 events, 19% were won by those in their 20s; 80% were won by those in their 30s; 31% in their 40s and 1% in their 50s. Therefore, professional golfers in their 30s and 40s won 71% of tournaments.

In the PGA last year, the numbers were even higher. Of the top 25 on the money list, 28% were in their 20s, 60% were in their 30s, and 22% were in their 40s. Thus 82% of the top PGA 25 money list were in their 30s and 40s. The percentage of top ten money winners goes even higher!

Lastly, the world rankings demonstrate that the young guns may be stronger than the 2013 numbers demonstrate, but that is largely because players like Rory McIlroy had a great season two years ago and it was carried forward to 2013.

Regardless, the numbers are very consistent. In professional golf, the bulk of the world-class players are in their 30s. The next strongest group are in their 40s. How do you promote golf when the players are mature, focused and generally avoid the spot light off the course? Where players are friends and animosity is rare? Despite recent events, golfers are generally considered gentlemen and conduct themselves accordingly.

Interestingly and to the chagrin of some, the age of the élite players is getting older, not younger. Players like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Steve Stricker have dominated the top of the golfing world for the past 10 years. They move up and down the world rankings, but at the end of each year they are at or near the top! How is this possible? The thought of older players dominating the top of a sport is virtually impossible or is it?

Golf has changed over the past 20 years, but not as the media would suggest. Older players continue to dominate for many reasons and three seem to top the list:

Technology has improved exponentially, thus allowing older players to hit the ball farther without any extra effort;
Players have a greater understanding of a regimented training program. They embrace proper training methods and therefore extend their playing career; and
Their ability to travel the world in hours versus days has improved their quality of life. The ability to move from event to event is grueling, but now they have the ability to travel home faster for that much-needed rest during their golfing season.

The media, promoters and financial investors would like the world to believe that an epic battle is being waged for golfing supremacy and partly they are correct. However, not in the manner that fits the traditional sporting world.

A shift is occurring in golf. More, older players in their 40s are still very competitive, some younger players in their 20s are breaking through, but the bulk of the élite golfers are still in their 30s. The unmentioned shift is the dominance of older players. Golfers between 35-40 years old are more competitive than ever. As the élite players get older and they see not reason to relinquishing their title without a fight. As the world prepares for the upcoming golf season, they should be ready to see the same names at the top of the leader board and not be duped by the media hype hailing for a changing of the guard!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

What Would You Be Thinking?

November 2, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 9 Comments

Dustin Johnson is leading after 54 holes at the World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions at Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai, China. He took the lead from Rory McIlroy after the first round and continues to shoot very well. Reviewing the stats and results, it is interesting to put yourself in Rory McIlory’s shoes. The trend of playing well for a round or two seems to continue and he is slowing starting to fall back from the top of the leader board.

What Would You Be Thinking? Am I “The Shark”, Greg Norman? He won many tournaments but slowly fell from the top of the world rankings by the combination of: players making miracle shots and your mental game slowly fading. (The Shark is one of my favorites)

What Would You Be Thinking? Am I John Daly? The two-time Major winner was a flash in the pan who had the ability to play extremely well for but could not sustain anything substantial to remain on top. Although a fan favorite, winning was sparse, but exciting!

What Would You Be Thinking? Am I Michelle Wie? Someone with unlimited potential to be another top-ranked player but could not sustain the spotlight. Someone who was mismanaged and made many tough financial decisions that in the end will be more detrimental than expected.

What Would You Be Thinking? Oh no, here we go again. This cannot be happening! The negative thoughts start affecting his game and he just cannot seem to get past the recent trends of not playing well for four rounds in a row.

Regardless of what Rory is thinking, he is too good a player not shake off this current funk. He has the skills and drive to play back to the top of the golfing world. He is a young player and with the proper guidance, his mental game will match his skill. When that happens, look out! He will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come!

What Do You Think?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

Where is Rory?

September 2, 2013September 2, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 11 Comments

Rory McIlroy is a fantastic player! He has all the tools to be one of the worlds best for years, however this year he is not living up to expectations. With only one second place finish, it is a far cry from the 4 wins, 2 second place and 1 third place finishes in 2012. Is it a sophomore jinx? Is the competition that much better this year? O has the high-flying Northern Ireland native burned out like a super nova?

Recently, much has been made about McIlroy changing over to Nike. The Bleacher Report suggests that his move has added additional pressure to his game and that he was not quite ready for the stress of the overwhelming expectations. Adding fuel to the fire, McIlroy created controversy by walking off the course just nine holes into his second round of the Honda Classic; this was just one month after signing a reported $20 million a year contract with Nike. So is it the equipment? Short answer – no. The number one player in the world uses Nike and has for years. Is there an adjustment period – probably. However, to blame the equipment entirely for this years woes would be too simplistic.

Many are pointing the finger at McIlroy’s relationship with tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. Some suggest that he is not spending the time focusing on his game. This may be a contributing factor to McIlroy’s challenges on the links, but is it really the factor? The 24-year old golf superstar is allowed to have outside interests and trying to build a relationship with someone does take effort and time. To suggest that he not put in the same effort in his personal life that he puts into his professional life is crazy! He should be having fun and enjoying life like in the video below! Life is about balance and harmony.

Has the stress of being uber-successful finally oozed into every aspect of his life? Being hounded, photographed, scrutinized, and analyzed every waking hour has to take its toll. The parasitic relationship that has evolved between player and fans will definitely sap your mental strength and Rory McIlroy is no different. Many would say that they would love to have his challenges of fame and fortune, but be careful of what you wish for; being under a microscope every waking hour may not be a glorious as you think. Golf is such a mental game and the current challenges faced by McIlroy on and off the course are so encompassing that it is no surprise that something had to give.

Is it McIlroy’s play this year? The Golf Channel recently reported, “The numbers don’t suggest any struggles. He ranks 11th on the PGA Tour with a 301.4 driving distance average; he’s 59th with a 69.52 greens in regulation percentage; he’s 23rd with a birdie average of 3.77. If there’s one interesting note about his ball-striking, it’s this: He hits 56.25 percent of greens in regulation from 125-150 yards; 65.45 percent from 150-175 yards; and 68.35 percent from 175-200 yards. He’s the rare player who seemingly hits his mid-irons closer than his wedges.” It is possible to play well and not score well! Being number four in the world is not all that bad; is it?

So, where is Rory? The Grateful Golfer suggests that he is right where he needs to be! The real challenges with is play and subsequent results stems from unrealistic expectations! The media and fans expect that a player of McIlroy’s calibre be able to play in the top two percent of his profession all the time. Well, not to disappoint everyone, but that is impossible. Rory McIlroy is a fantastic golfer. He is gifted with golfing talents rarely seen in all but a few players. He will regain his form of 2012 and surpass it very soon. There are still opportunities in 2013 for McIlroy to win a tournament or two; it is only September! In 2014, he will have a year under is belt, he will be a year older and wiser, he will have found his groove and returned to the ranks of the golfing elite!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

US Open Day 2

June 14, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 6 Comments

Well the second day of the US Open proven to be interesting. It seems everyone took a few steps backward. This is not surprising given the tough conditions of Merion Golf Club, Ardmore, Pa. The rough is long and the fairways tight…what a great course!

I was particularly impressed with a couple of amateurs; C. Pan and M. Kim, both shot 2 under. How is that for playing under pressure. I hope that the play well for the rest of the weekend. Would the US Open truly be the US Open if an amateur won!

Phil Mickelson finished strong with a birdie on the 18th hole. He made a long putt with authority. Maybe this will be his trigger for success this year. Mickelson has the game to play Merion only if he continues to hit most of the greens in regulation.

Mike Weir, another of my favorites, has a chance to make the cut. As a past Masters Champion, he will have to play tomorrow morning because he finished on the 10th hole. He was a last entry and again, as I love underdogs, it would be great to see Weir do great this year. Weir also has a chance because he is a relatively short hitter, but is accurate and consistent (most of the time).

Lastly, the big three: Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Adam Scott finishing +3, +3 and +7 respectively. They did not play bad or good. They just stayed alive….especially Scott. These three cannot be counted out, however my pick is McIlory. He is ready for a breakout round and tomorrow may be it.

The US Open is a tournament that tests even the most seasoned golfer. It is treacherous rough and greens slicker than your kitchen floor! Tomorrow should prove to exciting as the course will dry out and speed up. I can hardly wait!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!