Post by : Maya Rahman

Experienced golfer Harris English is open to significant changes intended to improve the PGA Tour in the years ahead. At a press conference preceding the RSM Classic in Georgia, English candidly discussed potential modifications to the tour's schedule, including a prominent proposal that has been circulating. One key idea is to initiate the PGA Tour season after the Super Bowl, which would allow viewers to focus on golf without competing against the NFL playoffs.

While he appreciates the early-season tournaments in Hawaii and on the West Coast, English recognizes the rationale behind tour leaders considering this timing adjustment. His belief is that the objective is to encourage the best players to join forces more frequently, thereby strengthening the overall PGA Tour.

According to English, it's challenging for golf to vie for attention against American football, especially during the NFL playoffs, which attract millions of viewers. By postponing the golf season's start, tournaments could face fewer scheduling obstacles and potentially attract a larger fanbase.

The veteran golfer also emphasized the importance of having a structure that minimizes top players skipping events, which could lead to heightened competition and a more thrilling experience for fans worldwide.

At 36 years old, English has been a part of the PGA Tour since 2012 and acknowledges that the future will present stiffer competition from younger talent. Nevertheless, he is prepared to face these challenges, stating his commitment with a simple mantra: “Whatever it takes is what it takes.”

While he is supportive of the tour's long-term vision, English confessed that he would personally miss the tournaments held early in Hawaii and California due to his strong performances there. However, he accepts the need for adjustments for the betterment of the tour.

English expressed confidence in the guidance of new PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp, who brings over two decades of NFL experience. He believes Rolapp possesses a fresh insight into the dynamics needed for a major sports league to thrive amidst competition.

By 2027, English anticipates a revised PGA Tour calendar where all tournaments would be of equal standing, contrasting with the current blend of top-tier and standard events. He suggested that a schedule comprising 20 to 22 equally significant events would incentivize elite players to attend every tournament, thus enhancing the excitement and fairness of the season.

Despite welcoming change, English hopes that the PGA Tour will continue to support smaller events, especially in the fall. He pointed out that competitions such as the RSM Classic are vital to local communities and present opportunities for fans in less prominent markets to experience outstanding golf.

Many regions in the U.S. seldom host major tournaments, hence the importance of fall events in reaching new audiences. English believes these tournaments should persist, regardless of potential schedule shifts, and hopes the tour administration will secure their place in the new calendar framework.

Expressing his complete trust in the tour's leadership, English is eager to contribute to fostering a more vibrant future for the sport. He believes that despite the challenges that change may bring, the PGA Tour must adapt to remain viable. With fresh concepts, innovative leadership, and player support, English is optimistic that the upcoming years will yield a more thrilling, equitable, and successful PGA Tour for both players and fans.

#Sports News