Golf-on-TV has become slow and out of step with the culture’s need for speed. Major League Baseball has made changes to improve game pace, but golf has not followed suit. The players on TV should have a club in hand at all times and be ready to play while their partners are playing. Dottie Pepper recently called for more respect for the game, fellow competitors, fans, and broadcasters. Golf is not meant to be an all-day activity, and slow play is disrespectful to the game’s traditions and those involved.
Pepper’s commentary on live TV highlighted the need for a new focus on respect in the pace of play issue. She emphasized the importance of considering others while playing golf and the need for improvement. The increasing duration of golf rounds is driving fans away and creating a sense of urgency. Revolutionary changes are needed to maintain interest in the sport and prevent high priest status players on TV from losing credibility. Major League Baseball’s success in reducing game time serves as a model for how golf can improve.
Golf-on-TV impacts the younger generation of players who take cues from the professionals they watch. Self-absorbed actions like removing gloves or taking too long to line up putts are draining the game of its energy. The best golfers in the world can easily play a shot in under 40 seconds, suggesting a shot clock is necessary to enforce pace. Players should have a plan and club ready before the previous player’s shot comes to rest and caddies should be required to walk directly to the player’s ball to maintain speed.
Golf legends like Bobby Jones did not view golf as an all-day activity, and the game was better for it. Looking back on the traditions of the game can provide insight on how to improve pace and respect for golf. Dottie Pepper’s call for more respect in the game’s pace is a reminder of the values that golf instills in players. By embracing changes for faster play and a renewed focus on respect, golf can regain its appeal and stay relevant in a fast-paced world. The future of golf lies in adapting to modern challenges while honoring its rich history.
