$60 Million Playoffs In A Time Of Pandemic: How Will Money Talk Fly With Fans?

That’s the question I can’t get past after reading John Hawkins’ Morning Read rant about the $60 million “playoffs” forging ahead this week with the same purse and winner’s total ($15 million).

While we can all snicker at forced talk of seedings and birdie putts that move someone up five spots, on Thursday, with a stroke play reset before East Lake, I’m struggling to see how even the most rabid capitalist feels good watching players compete before the full $60 million with pandemic-induced 10% unemployment.

Shoot, the money wasn’t even enthralling fans when times were good. And that’s why Morning Read’s John Hawkins wonders out loud and in great detail if this year’s FedExCup playoffs—starting Thursday—will hurt the Tour’s mostly successful “return”.

Public perception is important, but it doesn’t pay the bills and it sure as hell doesn’t cover the $1.35 million awarded to Daniel Berger for his victory at Colonial.

Call them money-grubbers. Question their collective conscience. But don’t ever forget that the folks who run the most powerful organization in pro golf are overseeing a mighty empire at which the top priority is to serve its players. Always has been, always will be. That’s not going to change just because Aunt Gladys is now pumping her gas with a facial covering.

Perhaps, but hopefully money talk will be emphasized and at the minimum, some players pledge to do offer some of their winnings to a noble cause or two. We’re glad to have the game showing it can function in these bizarre times, up to a point.