Tyrrell Hatton and Sepp Straka won their respective golf tournaments with impressive performances over the weekend, which bodes well for Europe ahead of the Ryder Cup in September. However, the slow pace of play in these events left a sour taste in the author’s mouth. The final round of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic lasted over 5.5 hours, while The American Express saw groups taking 40 minutes to play just one hole. This sluggish pace of play is not only frustrating but also sets a poor example for the sport.
Despite the players vying for substantial prize money, excessively long rounds are unsustainable. The author points out that a round of golf taking up nearly a quarter of the day, or even half a day when considering limited daylight, is unacceptable. The issue of slow play is not exclusive to these tournaments, as the PGA Tour has faced challenges with rounds taking longer than necessary, even in ideal weather conditions. The introduction of the TGL format, featuring a shot clock element, has shown how golf can be played efficiently.
The author emphasizes the need for action to combat slow play on the professional Tours. Rather than issuing warnings, penalties such as deducting FedEx Cup or Order of Merit points should be implemented to deter slow play. The author suggests that a financial fine would not be effective for players who earn millions, but losing valuable points could have a more significant impact. By holding players accountable for slow play, the sport can address this ongoing issue that deters fans and viewers from engaging with golf.
Although a shot clock may not be a long-term solution to slow play, it has proven effective in some instances, such as the 2018 Shot Clock Masters in Austria. This tournament saw improved scoring averages and faster round times, showcasing the potential benefits of implementing time constraints in golf events. The author believes that penalties for slow play, along with innovative formats like the TGL, could help the Tours address this issue and improve the overall spectator experience.
The lack of action on slow play not only frustrates fans and viewers but also risks driving them away from the sport. With PGA Tour viewership declining and rounds exceeding five hours in duration, the author questions the sustainability of such a slow-paced game. It is crucial for the Tours to address slow play and ensure that golf remains an engaging and enjoyable sport for both players and spectators. By enforcing penalties and promoting efficient play, golf can overcome the challenges posed by slow play and continue to attract a diverse audience.
