Some of the game's younger players need to do more to try to emulate Phil Mickelson when it comes to engaging with the fans, says golfing great Arnold Palmer.
Article Source: NBC SportsFans need more players like Mickelson: Palmer
Seeded on Wed Sep 1, 2010 5:52 PM EDT (NBC Sports)
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My biggest issue with golf is how stiff most of the players actually are. Woods is a prime example, but hes far from the only offender. How hard is it to interact with the gallery a little, and show some appreciation to the fans who have made you rich? I know they pull that "Don't want to lose focus" crap... but with the choke mentality that has gripped everyone not named Tiger Woods over the last 15 years I don't think lightening up a little is going to hurt anyone.
I disagree with this concept. During a game or round...we should accept that athletes have gotten this far by setting into their methods of focusing and approach to the game. I think its unrealistic to change that when their ultimate goal is to win...which is why we are fans. I think we are just being judgemental and too critical because we just sit in our chairs and pretend we know how they should live their lives and what their true intentions are. That is a very arrogant stance. Now...how an athlete interacts with fans after an tournament or game should be considered. Once the performance is complete, are they willing to talk to the media, directly to fans, do they spend time with those that are not as fortunate as them...I think that is where we can be a bit critical. But even then, they are individuals and should be allowed to act however they feel outside of any contractual agreements.
When's Arnie going to come clean about all the guys in his day who were screwing around on their wives and families. No way no how it wasn't going on back then also. If he denies it he is lying. Just look back to Tony Jacklin and his still teen-aged paramour. She even did a nude layout in a British men's mag and talked of their sex life. You can bet there were others on tour doing the same.
Professional golfers are athletes. They have exceptional eye-hand coordination and a God given talent for hitting a golf ball. Certainly, they can do things with it that most of us can't even comprehend.
With that said, however, they are still only entertainers, just as other professional athletes are. Without a fan base, they and what they do for a living are not very important at all.
One Phil Mickelson is enough.
These guys play the toughest sport on earth at the elite level outdoors in the middle of a big 'ole park with a well-lubricated gallery only feet away. If that's not hard enough, they often have to figuratively "pull a rabbit out of their hats" to keep their rounds together. Do they literally have to do that, too, to keep the gallery entertained? Experiencing superb shotmaking in person is entertaining enough for those who truly appreciate great golf. Let the rest go to the kiddie exhibit and hit the big ball into the velcro pad for giggles.
Phil seems to be a little quicker to give a wink, flash a smile, slap a hand, or toss a ball than some of the other players when he's between the ropes, but he handles autograph signing just like everyone else. He keeps his head down, doesn't speak, and keeps moving as he signs. He knows interacting with the crowd, especially in the late afternoon, is ill-advised.
Golf has had a wacky enough year. I say back off a little with all the criticism, and just let the guys play in peace.