Tiger vs Phil – The Match

It’s been announced, a once bitter rivalry between two Golfing greats will now be resolved amidst smiles in Las Vegas during thanksgiving. Tiger vs Phil, ‘The Match’ has been billed as a way to grow the game of Golf during a slow period. Am I the only though who thinks, that on the evidence presented so far, this is more a way of lining some pockets of promoters and agents?

There is no doubt that Tiger has single handedly changed the commercial fortunes of many associated with Golf. His recent resurgence, has not only grown viewing figures again but created a new buzz around the fairways. I am his biggest fan, what Tiger can do on the Golf course is beyond belief sometimes. From what I have read thus far though, if it is true that the aim is to grow the game of golf, surely there is a better way.

Getting the most Exposure possible?

My first issue surrounds the fact that this match up will be aired on Pay Per View. If you really want to get Golf to the masses, make it free to watch for everyone. I am sure it could have been aired across a social channel, there would still have been many revenue streams available but the advertisers would pay not the viewer.

It will also be played at US prime time, last time I looked Golf was thriving in the States. If you really wanted to grow the game, why Vegas, it feels a bit like a circus. The match up may be 15 years too late but there is no doubt that Tiger can still draw many eyeballs.

This portrayed war of words between the two of them is nonsense however. The days of ignoring each other at Ryder Cups has long gone. To say there will be ‘banter’ between the two of them on the course is laughable, Peter Alliss has been more entertaining on his twitter recently.

Surely a Charity Element Involved

At first I thought they were putting up their own money. I thought great, the winner will surely pass on some of those winnings to charitable causes. Everyone will be a winner from the event itself and we will all celebrate pushing the boundaries. Alas no, its a prizepool and there has been no mention of any charities thus far. An alternative could even be giving money back to grass roots in the game and growth in poorer countries.

Just over a month earlier you have the greatest spectacle in sport being played. Twenty-four of the Worlds best golfers, slinging their guns over three days for the love of the game. No money involved, its not on pay per view and it produces some of the most edge of the seat sport you will ever find.

A New Legend Required

I am sure people will pay to watch it, agents and hangers on will make their money. For me its a massive opportunity lost. It also tells the story of how Golf needs a new Woods, to appeal to the next generation of Golfers.

The European Tour is experimenting with different formats and Golf Clubs are becoming deserted. Golf installed discipline, respect, self control in me when I was young. It would be great to see the game grow again, it needs to change its approach though. I just hope this fanfare turns out to be good for the game and not detrimental.

For all of Tigers off course exploits, you cannot fault his Golfing record, I just hope this event is remembered for the right reasons and doesn’t devalue all of his achievements.