If you’re serious about improving your golf game, setting clear targets is the key to success. That’s why VPAR Premium’s Profile Goals app feature is designed to keep you accountable and motivated every time you step onto the course. By setting personal objectives for the season, you’ll have a clear roadmap to push your game further than ever before.
Set Your Targets, Track Your Progress
With Profile Goals, you can set and monitor four key performance targets:
Handicap Target
Dreaming of getting your handicap into single digits? Or perhaps breaking 20 for the first time? Whatever your goal, setting a Handicap Target helps you stay focused on every round, ensuring you’re making the right improvements to lower your golf score over time.
Low Gross Score Target
There’s nothing quite like that personal best feeling. Set a Low Gross Score Target and chase that career-best round. Whether it’s breaking 80, 90, or 100, this goal keeps you striving to fine-tune your game and achieve your best golf score yet.
Rounds Played This Month Target
Consistency is key in golf. By setting a Rounds Played This Month Target, you create a routine and make sure you’re getting enough reps in to improve. Whether it’s four rounds or ten, having a goal keeps you committed to playing regularly.
Rounds Played This Year Target
Long-term progress comes from staying dedicated throughout the entire season. Your Rounds Played This Year Target helps you stay accountable for your overall commitment to golf. More rounds mean more experience, and more experience leads to better performance!
The Power of Staying Accountable
The Profile Goals app feature isn’t just about numbers—it’s about keeping you engaged, motivated, and continuously improving. Every time you play, you’ll have a purpose, knowing that each round contributes to your overall targets.
No more aimless rounds. No more drifting through the season without direction. With Profile Goals in VPAR Premium, you’ll push your game to levels you didn’t think were possible.
Set your goals today and start playing with purpose!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
Jake Knapp was the 15th player to shoot a sub-60 round in PGA TOUR history yesterday. Had he made his eagle putt on the 18th hole, he would have become the second player to shoot a 58 on the PGA TOUR, following Jim Furyk, who did so in 2016 at the Travelers Championship. Below, I’m going to highlight six of these sub-60 rounds and break down how they were achieved.
Jim Furyk
Course: TPC River Highlands
Event: Travelers Championship 2016
Par: 70
Score: 58
Out: 27
In: 31
Eagles: 1
Birdies: 10
Bogeys: 0
Notes: Furyk made seven consecutive birdies on 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. He also shot a 59 at the 2013 BMW Championship!
Jake Knapp
Course: PGA National Resort (The Champion Course)
Event: Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches 2025
Par: 71
Score: 59
Out: 29
In: 30
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 12
Bogeys: 0
Notes: Knapp had an 18-foot putt for eagle on the 18th hole to tie the PGA TOUR scoring record of 58, however, he left it on the low side and tapped it in for birdie.
Scottie Scheffler
Course: TPC Boston
Event: THE NORTHERN TRUST 2020
Par: 71
Score: 59
Out: 30
In: 29
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 12
Bogeys: 0
Notes: He became the second player to shoot a 59 in the FedEx Cup Playoffs. He finished T4, 13 shots behind the winner, Dustin Johnson.
Adam Hadwin
Course: La Quinta CC
Event: 2017 CareerBuilder Challenge
Par: 72
Score: 59
Out: 29
In: 30
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 13
Bogeys: 0
Notes: He carded six consecutive birdies on the front nine and five more in a row on the back nine, finishing with a score of -13!
Justin Thomas
Course: Waialae CC
Event: 2017 Sony Open
Par: 70
Score: 59
Out: 29
In: 30
Eagles: 2
Birdies: 8
Bogeys: 1
Notes: He ended up winning the Sony Open by seven shots. He is one of three people in TOUR history to have shot a sub-60 score with a bogey.
Kevin Chappell
Course: Old White TPC
Event: 2019 A Military Tribute at The Greenbrier
Par: 70
Score: 59
Out: 28
In: 31
Eagles: 0
Birdies: 11
Bogeys: 0
Notes: After starting the day with a par on Hole 10, he made nine consecutive birdies!
Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.
A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes. Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland. Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.
Golf is always better with more friends, and with VPAR Premium’s Multi Tee Time feature, you can take your games to the next level. Whether you’re organizing a friendly competition or setting up a larger tournament, this feature allows you to add more than two tee times to your game, giving you the flexibility to include more players and create an unforgettable round.
What is the Multi Tee Time Feature?
Traditionally, playing with a group meant sticking to a single tee time or managing just one extra group. But with Multi Tee Times in VPAR Premium, you can seamlessly add multiple tee times, ensuring that everyone can be part of the same game, no matter how big your squad is.
This means you’re no longer limited to just a handful of players. Now, you can build a proper mini-tournament with your golf buddies, tracking every shot, score, and leaderboard update in real time through the VPAR app.
Why It’s a Game-Changer
Bigger Groups, More Fun – Expand your game beyond the usual foursome and include more players, making your rounds even more competitive and social.
Perfect for Tournaments – Whether it’s a casual weekend showdown or a structured event, the Multi Tee Time feature lets you easily manage multiple groups without the hassle of separate scorekeeping.
Live Leaderboards – Keep up with the action across all groups as scores update instantly, keeping the competition tight and engaging.
Seamless Organization – Say goodbye to confusing scorecards and missed updates. VPAR keeps everything in sync so you can focus on your game.
How to Use It
Create a New Game in VPAR Premium.
Select Multi Tee Times when setting up your round.
Add Additional Tee Times to include more groups.
Invite Your Friends and assign them to their respective tee times.
Play & Compete while tracking live leaderboards in the app.
With the Multi Tee Time feature, you’re no longer restricted by limited spots. Build your dream golf day, invite as many friends as you want, and enjoy the game like never before.
Ready to experience golf without limits? Upgrade to VPAR Premium today and start hosting bigger, better tournaments with ease!
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!)
If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Ludvig Åberg is the ideal modern-day golfer. He’s athletic, hits the ball long, straight, and doesn’t get fazed by the big occasions. He made his debut at Augusta National in 2024. And he did not disappoint, finishing solo second, which didn’t come as a surprise to me.
His game is perfectly suited to the course layout. And I don’t think there’s a better match-up to the course other than the reigning champion, Scottie Scheffler. He has won there twice in the past three years.
The main strength of his game is off the tee, where he ranked fifth last year at The Masters, according to Data Golf. However, the stat that caught my eye the most was that he was ranked first in strokes gained Putting. Arguably the most tested element of your game at Augusta.
The greens are huge, undulating, and absolutely rapid. So, to be ranked first in the field in your debut Masters is an eye-catching achievement. It suggests that he must feel comfortable with the pace of the greens, despite his limited experience. At Augusta National, combining a long, straight driver with someone who can precisely judge the greens is a match made in heaven.
Last week, he recorded his second PGA Tour win at The Genesis Invitational, held at Torrey Pines. I’ll be keeping a close eye on his performances over the next few events. I think he’ll be going into The Masters just behind Scottie Scheffler in the favourites market, maybe even as the favourite if he wins a tournament like The Players beforehand.
Joaquín Niemann
In 2022, Joaquín Niemann made the move to LIV Golf, but his decision was different from most players. He was a young player trending towards the top of his game. To be fair to him, his stock has risen since his move to LIV. He has won five times on three different tours worldwide since joining LIV. Also, he has gone out of his way to earn crucial world ranking points to qualify for all the major championships. Unlike other players on the LIV circuit.
For the second consecutive year, Niemann has received an invite to play in The Masters. This proves he has a real hunger to win major championships.
One of my starting points when looking for potential winners at Augusta National is players’ records at Riviera Country Club, where the Genesis Invitational is usually held. The similarities between the two venues, in terms of champions, are striking. Since 2000, winners at Riviera CC have included Mike Weir (back-to-back in 2003 and 2004), Adam Scott (2005 and 2020), Phil Mickelson (back-to-back in 2008 and 2009), Bubba Watson (2014, 2016, and 2018), Dustin Johnson (2017), Jon Rahm (2023), and Hideki Matsuyama (2024). All of these players are Masters champions.
This ties back to Niemann, who, in 2022, claimed a wire-to-wire win at the Genesis Invitational in a very strong field. He set the tournament scoring record through 36 holes and held on to claim his second PGA Tour victory. While his Masters record doesn’t yet boast much, he has made the cut four years in a row and has been trending in the right direction.
Personally, I believe his game has risen to a new level in the past year, evidenced by his recent win in front of 100,000 fans at LIV Adelaide. He’s definitely worth keeping an eye on in the coming months, especially with a chip on his shoulder.
Tyrrell Hatton
Tyrrell Hatton is a player known for winning big events. He has won five Rolex Series events on the DP World Tour, three Alfred Dunhill Links Championships at St Andrews, the Arnold Palmer Invitational on the PGA Tour, and two Ryder Cups. That’s a very good career to date. However, he does not have the best major record. I think this will be Tyrrell’s year to really cement himself alongside the world’s best players and compete to win a major championship.
With Tyrrell’s links record, some would say his best chance to win a major would be The Open. But I see him as someone whose game should match up well with the test at Augusta National. With a T9 finish in 2024, his best finish at The Masters, I feel he could go one step further this year. He has a naturally high ball flight with his irons, which will aid his approach play when landing on the firm greens. Also, he has one of the best short games in the world. He was ranked fourth in Strokes Gained Around the Green and tenth in Tee to Green in last year’s tournament.
I don’t see a career where Tyrrell Hatton doesn’t end up winning a major championship. So, will he follow the likes of fellow Englishmen Nick Faldo and Danny Willett by winning a green jacket?
Russel Henley
Russell Henley is a very consistent player on the PGA Tour. He has won four times and doesn’t have many weaknesses in his game, other than driving distance. Henley ranked ninth in driving accuracy in 2024, hitting 69.49% of fairways, and he is also a very good wedge player.
He suits shorter courses, however, his major record has been excellent over the last few years, with a T4 in The Masters and a T14 in the U.S. Open in 2023, as well as a T7 in the U.S. Open and a solo 5th in The Open Championship in 2024. That’s a steady record, and I think he has a good chance of a top-ten finish at The Masters, especially if his putter starts heating up like it can in the lead-up to April.
Brooks Koepka
Brooks Koepka has long been considered one of the most formidable competitors in major championships. Known for his calmness under pressure, Koepka has earned a reputation for delivering his best golf when it matters most, often using events before the majors as preparation for the big one.
Whatever his form is statistically beforehand, it’s almost irrelevant to how he turns it on when major season arrives. He is a five-time major champion and has made it clear that he judges his career on how many majors he can tick off.
Augusta National is a course where he has shown glimpses of brilliance, but he has also shown inconsistency. In 2019, he finished T2; in 2020, he finished T7; and in 2023, T2. He has proven that he has both the game and the mindset to win The Masters. I’m sure he’ll be in contention again going into the final round in the near future. He needs to win The Masters to get one step closer to the Grand Slam.
It will be interesting to keep an eye on Brooks’ form on the LIV Tour over the next few months to see how he’s preparing, but don’t be fooled if he’s not performing. His mind switches when the big tournaments come around!
Will Zalatoris
2024 was a tough season for Will Zalatoris after being sidelined for much of the year due to injury. However, he is back for 2025 and stronger than ever. He added 20 pounds of muscle in the offseason. Zalatoris’ major record is very impressive, especially at The Masters. In 2020, he finished T6 at the U.S. Open.
In 2021, he finished solo second in The Masters on debut, T8 in the PGA Championship, and, most impressively, in 2022, he finished T6 in The Masters, solo second in the PGA Championship, and T2 in the U.S. Open. Last year, he also finished T9 at The Masters. He has a solid record at Riviera as well, which correlates well with Augusta National, as mentioned in the case of Joaquín Niemann.
To have a solo second, T6, and T9 in your first three Masters appearances is a record that deserves more recognition. His major resume is near immaculate. One of those results will surely turn into a major win very soon. He will likely be viewed as an outsider in the betting market this year. This makes his value even greater. I’ll be keeping an eye on his progress on the PGA Tour leading up to The Masters. I believe history will repeat itself.
Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.
A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes. Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland. Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.
After an 18-year partnership that began when he turned professional in 2007, two-time major golf champion and LIV golfer Dustin Johnson and equipment manufacturer TaylorMade have parted ways. This split marked the end of a collaboration that saw Johnson rise to the top of the golfing world. He secured 24 PGA Tour victories, including the 2016 U.S. Open and the 2020 Masters.
Johnson’s association with TaylorMade commenced immediately after his professional debut, with contract extensions in 2016 and 2021. Throughout his career, he was a prominent figure in TaylorMade’s marketing campaigns. Often seen wielding their latest drivers and golf equipment. However, during the recent LIV Golf season opener in Riyadh, Johnson was observed without the TaylorMade logo on his visor. Instead he was donning the emblem of his 4Aces LIV franchise.
This development raises questions about the evolving dynamics between professional golfers and equipment manufacturers. Especially in the context of emerging tours like LIV Golf. With Johnson now an equipment free agent, the industry will keenly observe his next move. Maybe he’ll align with a new brand, a new golf collaboration or opts for independence in his equipment choices.
The conclusion of this long-standing partnership signifies a shift in LIV golfer Dustin Johnson’s professional journey. Also, it reflects broader changes in the golf industry’s endorsement landscape. As players explore new opportunities and tours, traditional alliances between athletes and equipment brands may continue to evolve. This may be a new era in professional golf.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Rory Mcllroy has had one of the most decorated careers in golf. But despite his numerous wins, there’s still that one thing eluding him: a major victory since 2014. Yet, as we look ahead to 2025, there’s a strong case to be made that this could finally be the year Rory adds another major to his golf player resume. Let’s break down why everything is aligning for him.
We’ve seen Rory Mcllroy go through ups and downs in terms of his swing over the years. But it’s clear that his golf game has found a new rhythm since the start of 2025. His ball striking, particularly with the driver, has been as good as it ever has been. Rory’s been hitting the ball with incredible distance and accuracy. And when he’s dialled in off the tee, like he showed at Pebble Beach, he’s nearly impossible to beat. His ability to keep the ball in play, combined with his power, means he has the tools to take on any course this year.
The New Generation of Golfers
One of the interesting things about Rory Mcllroy’s career is that while he’s been one of the top golf players in the world for over a decade, he’s now facing a new generation of golfers who are hungry for their own victories. That competitive edge might just be the spark he needs. With golf players like Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, and Ludvig Åberg coming into their own, Rory could tap into that extra drive. With that he can show the younger crowd that he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
Course Familiarity
Rory has always excelled on certain golf courses, and many of the upcoming major venues are places where he’s had success before. With courses like Quail Hollow and Royal Portrush on the schedule, Rory knows how to navigate himself around these courses. Also, he has a history of performing well on them. His past success at these venues provides him with confidence. He knows how to tackle these major championship setups.
A Desire to Cement His Legacy
At this stage in his career, Rory isn’t just looking to win for the sake of winning. He’s chasing something much bigger. It’s the chance to solidify his place in the history books as one of the game’s all-time greats. This hunger could fuel his performance in 2025.
No Pressure—Just Golf
Rory’s also been talking about how he’s been focusing on enjoying the golf game again, and that mindset shift could be huge for him. Golf, especially at the highest level, can be exhausting mentally, and sometimes he has been caught up in the pressure of winning another major. By embracing the joy of the game, Rory might be able to approach the majors with a fresh, relaxed perspective that allows him to perform at his best.
Here’s hoping that 2025 will be Rory Mcllroy’s year to take home another piece of golfing history!
Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.
A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes. Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland. Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.
Ollie Schniederjans’ recent victory at the International Series India, held at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram, marks a significant milestone in his professional golf career. This triumph is particularly noteworthy considering the challenges he has faced over the past few years.
The Injury and Recovery
In early 2022, Schniederjans underwent surgery on his left hip, followed by a procedure on his right hip three months later. These surgeries necessitated a substantial period away from the sport, during which he did not hit a single shot for seven months. This hiatus allowed him to reflect on his game and reignite his passion for golf.
The Road to Redemption
After his recovery, Schniederjans made a notable return to competitive play. He secured a top-five finish at the 2024 LIV Golf Promotions event. This earned him a full card for the 2025 Asian Tour. But also status as a reserve player for the LIV Golf League’s upcoming season.
The Victory at DLF Golf and Country Club
At the International Series India, Schniederjans delivered an impressive performance, finishing with a 10-under-par 278. This score placed him four strokes ahead of reigning U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau, who made a valiant effort with a final-round 65 but couldn’t overcome the deficit.
Significance of the Win
This victory is monumental for Schniederjans. It not only signifies his return to form but also highlights his resilience and determination to overcome adversity. Defeating a player of DeChambeau’s caliber underscores Schniederjans’ capability to compete at the highest levels of professional golf.
Looking Ahead
With this win, Ollie Schniederjans has reestablished himself as a formidable presence in the golfing world. His journey serves as an inspiration to athletes facing similar challenges. He’s demonstrating that with perseverance and dedication, a return to peak performance is achievable.
As the 2025 season progresses, the golfing community will undoubtedly keep a keen eye on Schniederjans’ performances. They’re anticipating further successes in his rejuvenated career.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
In a stellar performance at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Rory McIlroy clinched his 27th PGA Tour title. It marks his first victory of the year. McIlroy delivered a final-round 6-under-par 66, bringing his tournament total to 21-under 267. Altogether, he secured a two-stroke lead over fellow Irishman Shane Lowry.
Starting the final day at Pebble Beach one shot behind leader Sepp Straka, McIlroy showcased exceptional skill and composure. His round featured three birdies and a remarkable eagle on the 14th hole. This propelled him into the lead. Besides, he maintained momentum with a birdie on the 15th, effectively sealing his victory.
Shane Lowry made a commendable effort. As a result, he finished at 19-under, but it wasn’t enough to surpass McIlroy’s impressive performance. This win not only adds another prestigious title to McIlroy’s illustrious career. But also sets a promising tone for his 2025 season. Reflecting on his achievement, McIlroy expressed his admiration for Pebble Beach. He referred to it as “one of the cathedrals of golf.”
The victory at Pebble Beach earned McIlroy a $3.6 million prize from the tournament’s $20 million purse. Basically, underscoring the significance of this accomplishment.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
In a sport defined by precision, strategy, and the occasional jaw-dropping miracle shot, golf’s allure lies in its rhythm. Yet, in recent years, a growing concern has cast a shadow over the PGA Tour: slow play. For avid fans and casual viewers alike, the painstaking pace of some rounds has become a glaring issue, impacting the sport’s watchability and, in turn, its viewing ratings.
The Nature of the Problem
Slow play is not a new phenomenon in golf. It has long been a talking point among players, analysts, and fans. However, with the advent of faster-paced sports entertainment options and dwindling attention spans, its consequences are now more pronounced than ever. Watching a golfer take several minutes to read a putt or debate club selection can test the patience of even the most dedicated viewers.
The average round on the PGA Tour takes about 4.5 to 5 hours to complete, with some groups exceeding this window. While professionals argue that meticulous preparation is necessary for optimal performance, the prolonged downtime between shots can disrupt the viewing experience. Unlike other sports where action is continuous, golf already struggles to maintain momentum, making slow play an even greater obstacle.
The Impact on Viewing Ratings
The ripple effects of slow play on viewing ratings are hard to ignore. Television broadcasts often try to compensate by cutting between groups, showing highlights, or incorporating commentary. However, these measures can only do so much when the pace of play grinds to a halt.
In today’s media landscape, where viewers have endless entertainment options at their fingertips, retaining audience attention is a Herculean task. A sluggish round of golf is unlikely to compete with the fast-paced drama of football, basketball, or even eSports. Data has shown a correlation between slower rounds and declining ratings. Especially during a tournament where marquee players are not in contention.
Viewer Frustration and Its Consequences
Fans have been vocal about their frustrations with slow play. Social media platforms often erupt with criticism during particularly drawn-out rounds, with some viewers abandoning broadcasts altogether. The issue is especially pronounced during major championships, where heightened stakes can lead to even more deliberation from players.
This frustration is not just anecdotal. Surveys conducted by golf organizations have highlighted slow play as one of the primary deterrents for fans considering attending tournaments. Even for watching them on television. When viewers disengage, sponsors and advertisers take notice, creating a domino effect that can harm the sport’s financial ecosystem.
The Players’ Perspective
To be fair, players are not oblivious to the criticism. Many have voiced their own concerns about slow play, with some advocating for stricter enforcement of pace-of-play rules. The PGA Tour has implemented measures such as timing players and issuing penalties for excessive delays, but these rules are rarely enforced with the rigor needed to enact meaningful change.
Moreover, the competitive nature of professional golf often incentivizes players to take their time. When every shot can mean the difference between a paycheck and going home empty-handed, it’s no surprise that some players err on the side of caution. Balancing this reality with the need for a faster pace is a challenge the PGA Tour must address.
Solutions to the Problem
Several potential solutions could help mitigate the impact of slow play on viewing ratings:
Stricter Enforcement of Pace-of-Play Rules: The PGA Tour could adopt a zero-tolerance policy for excessive delays. Penalties will be applied consistently regardless of a player’s stature.
Shot Clocks: Introducing shot clocks, similar to those used in basketball or tennis, could add an element of urgency to the game. Trials in amateur and exhibition events have shown promising results.
Smarter Broadcast Strategies: Networks could explore innovative ways to keep viewers engaged during downtime, such as enhanced analytics, player interviews, or interactive fan experiences.
Cultural Shift Among Players: Encouraging players to prioritize pace without compromising their performance will require a concerted effort from coaches, caddies, and the Tour itself.
Conclusion
Slow play is more than just an annoyance; it’s a barrier to golf’s growth in an increasingly competitive entertainment market. The PGA Tour must recognize the urgency of this issue and take decisive action to ensure that the sport remains engaging for both its loyal fanbase and potential new audiences.
In a world that demands instant gratification, golf’s timeless charm lies in its deliberate nature. But there is a fine line between deliberate and tedious, and crossing it could cost the sport its relevance. By addressing slow play head-on, the PGA Tour has an opportunity to reinvigorate its broadcasts. Thus securing its place in the hearts of viewers for generations to come.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly secured another victory in the Senior Club Championship at his Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida. According to sources, Trump claimed the title with an impressive round of 68.
This recent win adds to Trump’s history of club golf championship claims, particularly at courses bearing his name. In the past, he has asserted victories in various club championships. Although some of these claims have been met with skepticism. For instance, in 2019, reports highlighted that of the 18 club championships Trump claimed to have won, several were senior or super senior titles. And some were contested under unconventional circumstances.
Trump’s passion for golf is well-documented. The sport played a significant role during and after his presidency. His courses have hosted numerous events, and he has often been seen playing rounds with celebrities, politicians, and professional golfers. Notably, Trump’s golfing activities have sometimes sparked controversy. Especially concerning the accuracy of his reported scores and the frequency of his games during his presidential tenure.
The recent championship win comes amid a backdrop of Trump’s continued influence in both political and social spheres. His presence in Palm Beach remains prominent, with Mar-a-Lago serving as a hub for political gatherings and social events. Local residents have noted the impact of his activities on the community. From increased security measures to the influx of high-profile visitors.
Takeaway
Trump’s latest golfing achievement was celebrated by his supporters. But, it also rekindles discussions about his golfing record and the veracity of his claims. As with many aspects of his public life, opinions remain divided, reflecting the broader polarization surrounding his persona.
Niall Ashworth is VPAR’s Business Development Manager.
A golf industry stalwart, Niall has spent the majority of his career helping Corporates and Charities take their guests Golf Day experience to the next level having run 1,000+ events in countries around the World. Niall attended Nottingham Trent University, where he studied Business and Sport, before working at the Rugby World Cup in 2015. He spends any free time he has on the fairways of Worplesdon Golf Club in Surrey trying to maintain his 6.1 Handicap Index! His three favourite Golf Courses are Clearwater Bay in Hong Kong, Torrey Pines in San Diego and Trump International in Scotland. With special mentions to Sentosa and Kingsbarns! He uses a Taylormade M4 Driver & Fairway Woods, Titleist T100 irons, Titleist Vokey Wedges and a Bettinardi Arm-Lock putter with a Left Dash ProV1 Golf Ball (not that it matters!) If you have any feature requests or golf news that you’d like Niall to review please contact him @vpargolf across socials!
