Robert MacIntyre had a frustrating experience with a drone during the final round of the RBC Canadian Open in Hamilton, Ontario. The drone, operated by CBS Sports, began bothering him on the fifth hole when the crowd went silent. MacIntyre, visibly annoyed, asked for the drone to be removed but it kept reappearing throughout his round. His caddie, Dougie, mentioned that the drone was distracting and affecting MacIntyre’s concentration.
The situation escalated when MacIntyre called over a rules official to address the issue at the ninth fairway. He expressed his frustration with the drone, stating that it was too close, annoying him, and putting him off his game. Despite the distraction, MacIntyre managed to focus and went on to win his first Tour title.
MacIntyre’s father, Dougie, mentioned that his son tends to get grumpy when things bother him, which can impact his game. However, he was able to stay focused and overcome the drone’s disruption to secure the victory. The incident highlights the challenges that professional golfers face in maintaining their concentration and composure during tournaments, especially when unexpected distractions arise.
The CBS Sports drone involved in the incident is a part of the coverage provided during golf tournaments. While drones offer unique perspectives and angles for viewers, their presence on the course can sometimes interfere with the players’ performance. The debate over the use of drones in sports broadcasting continues, with considerations for both enhancing the viewer experience and minimizing disruptions to the athletes competing.
The incident at the RBC Canadian Open sheds light on the importance of maintaining a distraction-free environment for players competing at the highest level of professional golf. Organizations and broadcasters may need to reevaluate their use of drones and other technology to ensure they do not negatively impact the performance of the athletes. Finding a balance between capturing compelling footage and respecting the players’ need for focus and concentration is crucial in delivering quality sports coverage.
In conclusion, Robert MacIntyre’s experience with the drone at the RBC Canadian Open serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by golfers in staying focused amid distractions. The incident showcases the impact that external factors can have on a player’s performance and the need for a supportive and conducive environment for optimal competition. Moving forward, it is essential for stakeholders in the golf industry to address such issues and prioritize the well-being and performance of the athletes in order to maintain the integrity and competitiveness of the sport.

