Justin Thomas has asked his fellow players to be more accessible to the media with rights to the PGA Tour during broadcasts, citing the need to “better connect with fans”.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have many passionate people tuning in every week, but let’s be honest: this game can be a bit distant at times,” Thomas wrote in a letter sent to other PGA Tour golfers.
The letter, obtained and published on Tuesday by The Athletic, lists several suggestions from Thomas, a member of the 16-player PGA Tour advisory council. The two-time Majors winner cited studies showing that “on-course personality is the factor that most interests young fans (aged 18 to 34),” and added that “getting the younger age group interested and watching our sport could make a big difference in our popularity.”
Thomas mentioned broadcasts of other sports that include live interviews with players and coaches during the game, something that is also already done in the PGA Tour. He also listed “pre-round interviews, mid-round interviews, wearing a microphone, communicating any equipment or swing changes you are working on” as possible ideas for players to help the media in golf broadcasts.
“I know stepping out of our comfort zone is not always easy,” Thomas said. “Believe me, in the past, I have been the first to say ‘no’ before even being asked for things. I have had no interest when someone has asked me for a mid-round interview or suggested trying something new. But I also know how much fans love those moments: hearing our thought processes in decision-making, conversations with our caddies, our reactions to shots, and understanding the highs and lows of competing at the highest level. … Even though we might (at least I believe) think it’s not that important or interesting, our fans do.”
Thomas emphasised that “he is not asking anyone to be who they are not or to change anything in their routine,” but simply to “be open to possibilities and changes,” suggesting that rights-holding broadcasters have already proposed some things for this year and are preparing the ground.
“The more we work with NBC/CBS/ESPN, the more they should be able to work with us,” he said. “I’m sure many of us think the broadcasts can be better, so let’s help them do it.”