Quote from DHOHHI:
I took up golf at age 12 and was playing scratch golf by age 17. I also grew up caddieing at a country club and even caddied in one of the Big 4 events (prior to the tour allowing tour caddies at these events). So I understand golf etiquette. I also grew up in the 70's with Palmer, Nicklaus, Player, Watson, etc. Players back then respected the game. Their emotions were kept more in check.
Today the game has changed. Players act like immature spoiled brats. Profanity abounds. They throw clubs. Not just Tiger but clearly he's under the microscope the most due to his standing in golf.
Tiger has helped the game if you look at it from a financial perspective. You have more golf fans -- no, make that more people at PGA events. Sadly, many don't know a 2 iron from a wedge. Many are there to drink beer, yell "go in the hole" when Tiger tees off on a par 5 and generally show their lack of golf etiquette. But the financial gain for the tour is big. And we'll likely continue to see Tiger fans at events he plays in.
On the flip side Tiger is an embarrassment when he swears and throws clubs. Little kids attending a tournament don't need to see such behavior. It suggests that is acceptable behavior on the course and kids will emulate this. Funny, how Tom Watson didn't blow up last summer when the British Open slipped away from him on the 72nd hole and the eventual playoff.
I get having respect for the game and showing some class but at the end of the day (i hate that saying
) it is VERY competitive and high stakes are involved. Isn't losing your cool just part of sport and competition, at least you know the guy has the fire inside.IDK, I think he certainly needs to cool it on f this and f that but getting pissed in sports is normal.