Barry Plummer: The day that rocked the world of the golf
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan addresses the media during a press conference prior to the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 22, 2022 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Well… that was unexpected. The sheer enormity of today’s news regarding the PGA Tour merger with long-standing nemesis LIV Golf is further amplified by the astonishment and disbelief of players, journalists, personalities and practically everyone in the world of golf.
After hearing the news, and processing the ludicrousness of what I had just heard, I did what any rational person would do… head straight to Twitter. It was at that point I realised my evening would take an unexpected turn. The light entertainment offered by the scale and spectrum of opinions on my feed allowed me to accept my fate - find a comfortable position, make a brew and take in the aftermath as the biggest golf news story in recent memory unfolds in front of me.
After slipping into a few rabbit holes of player comments and reaction, paired with some tongue in cheek goading from a certain recent major champion, I felt it my duty to bring you some of the very best reactions to what would belatedly turn out to be golf’s longest day.
Collin Morikawa
On occasion, you get a moment of relatability from professional golfers that makes you realise they aren’t that different to us. Today was one of those moments, as the former PGA and Open Champion appeared to find out about the news at pretty much the same time as I did. I feel you, Collin.
Brooks Koepka
Speaking of PGA Champions, let’s move swiftly to the current title holder. Koepka took to Twitter in the aftermath of the news breaking to play a rather well-timed, four word jab at LIV-opposed broadcaster Brandel Chamblee, who criticised Koepka for his switch. That tweet turned out to be his second major victory in as many months.
Max Homa
Max Homa is my hero. There, I have said it. His Twitter game is strong and he has not disappointed with his latest take on the hottest issue of the day. Never change, Max.
And finally… spare a thought for our fellow media colleagues who have just had their evening plans postponed.
Georgie Bingham
Our very own Georgie Bingham made sense of the ominous cloud cast over the game we love by taking a firm position that many can relate too. “Golf just pissed on its own shoes” might be my favourite line of 2023.
Dan Rapaport
You can’t watch the ‘Full Swing’ documentary on Netflix without falling in love with Dan Rapaport, and after the news broke earlier today I imagine he will now be a very busy man this evening. While I would love to have his level of access to the tour and its members, I don’t envy that this particular bombshell dropped in the week of his wedding! Give a moment's thought to his Fiancé Emma - many happy returns.
