Just a few days ago, PGA Tour senior vice president of rules and competitions Gary Young revealed that the tour is taking steps to address the long-standing issue of slow play. “We’re committed to improving the pace of play,” Young said. One of the key changes is the introduction of reduced field sizes, which will help reduce congestion on the course and allow for faster play and is said to take effect from the 2026 season.
However, not everyone in the golf community is on board with the idea of reducing field sizes as the right solution. Lucas Glover, a veteran PGA Tour player, recently expressed his skepticism about the plan. “Don’t cut fields because it’s a pace of play issue,” Glover said. He estimated that the number of slow players has grown significantly since he started on tour, from a handful to around 50. This is why he believes that the tour should focus on addressing the root cause of slow play rather than reducing field sizes.
So, in the latest episode of GOLF’s Subpar on Apple Podcast, another PGA Tour pro Ryan Palmer shared his thoughts on the biggest issues facing the PGA Tour, particularly the Tour’s solution for slow play. When asked where he stands on the current landscape of professional golf, Palmer admits he’s curious to see how things play out, particularly with the LIV Golf and PGA Tour situation.
Further, Palmer also commented on the PGA Tour’s decision to feature smaller fields, comprising the elite 100 players. Interestingly, he’s been a long-time advocate for reducing the number of players with tour cards, which can be concerning for younger players in terms of access and opportunities. However, he did shed light as to why he believes that to be so. “I’ll start with the state of the tour with what we are doing and where we are headed with the smaller fields. I’ve said it for five or seven years now, I’ve always been in favor of cutting cards. I always thought there were too many players with access; too many players with cards and not enough access”, he said.
Palmer clarified that it wasn’t just about reducing field sizes, but about “cutting cards.” He explained that the Tour went from 125 cards to only 100, and also reduced the number of Korn Ferry Tour (KFT) cards available. Additionally, Monday qualifiers will no longer be an option. Palmer recalls how frustrating it is to see talented young golfers earn their tour cards only to struggle to get into top tournaments. He believes this isn’t what the game is about and hopes for a more inclusive and supportive environment for all players. “You’re telling a young kid, here’s your dream that just came true yet you may not get into Honda or Mexico now, to me that’s not what this game is about”, he continued.
Jul 8, 2023; Silvis, Illinois, USA; Lucas Glover talks with his caddie, Don Cooper, on the 2nd tee during the third round of the John Deere Classic golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Other PGA Tour players have also expressed similar thoughts on what’s to come and well, the debate is certainly interesting.
‘A lot tougher’, Brian Harman expresses his thoughts on PGA Tour changes
Brian Harman shared his thoughts on the PGA Tour’s recently announced changes, which include field size adjustments and tweaks to the FedExCup points structure. The changes, at the core, aim to deliver a stronger and more competitive field in the PGA Tour. So, Harman, who was part of the Player Advisory Council (PAC) discussions, emphasized the complexity of these changes. He noted that the discussions were ongoing for a while, keeping in mind the goal — to create a better product for fans, players, and partners. According to Harman, the changes will result in a more condensed season, which could impact the way that players approach the tour.
Additionally, Harman also highlighted the benefits of smaller field sizes by citing the logistical challenges that come with large fields. “So for me, the smaller fields… I feel as though when we get into some of these 156-man fields, you can look at the parking lot out here, there’s nowhere to park and this is two golf courses, thank goodness,” he said. “But 156 on one golf course, it’s hard to navigate a practice round, it’s hard to navigate where to get food. I mean, logistically it just makes it a lot, a lot tougher.” So, what Harman believes is that smaller fields of 144 or 120 players will provide a better experience for players, making it easier for them to prepare and compete. Well, that’s what Harman thinks but what are your thoughts? Do you agree with the golfer? Let us know in the comment section below!
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