By Chris Harris Contributor
Updated 8/22/23 9:47am ET
Golf and gambling have always been intertwined. In fact, ‘handicap’ is a term commonly used in both parlances. But we have now seen a potential tipping point that disrupted the professional ranks and fostered memories of Happy Gilmore.
A three-dollar wager by intoxicated fans interrupted play of a PGA event this past weekend. The spectators heckled Max Homa and Chris Kirk on the 17th green, essentially screaming during their backswing. This caused a tense back-and-forth between Homa and the guilty party, which resulted in the former having both spectators removed from the course without any real drama.
While this wager was not placed through a legal sportsbook operator, it does spark a wider discussion on whether live betting at golf events should be promoted less or policed more.
The main differentiator is the sport’s decorum. Spectators keep their voices down until a player hits a shot, thereby creating an opportunity for a bettor. A basketball fan screaming during a free throw has no impact but in golf, one yell can change the outcome of a single wager. For now, this is an isolated incident but Tour officials are likely considering all options.
Let’s contemplate this hypothetical situation:
Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth approach the 18th hole in a tied match. As Mcllroy tees off, a bettor of Spieth shrieks during McIlroy’s downswing. The ball sails out of bounds and Spieth ends up winning the hole – and the tournament. Yes, the spectator was kicked out. But he won his bet, was not arrested and went home happy as a net result.
As mentioned, this is hypothetical — for now. Last weekend is just the first of what could be many incidents that will unfold in due time. So what can be done?
In short, almost nothing. There is already security lining every hole and green, and as Homa pointed out in his post-round interview, the worst they can do is kick the hecklers out for violating the prompts to remain quiet while players address the ball. A significant fine and repeated warnings on the tickets, at the venue’s entrances and all across the grandstands are ideal places to start. Another common recommendation is a lifelong ban, although in rotating competitions like the PGA Tour, that would be challenging to implement.
The PGA Tour has never been comfortable with change. The LIV Tour disrupted things with create a fun and festive environment. Music blasted from speakers, shotgun starts, live concerts, and skydivers combined to create an environment that the Braided Belt Posse (PGA Tour Fans) hated. The other thing that happened is that live betting on golf is a new development, and the incident that occurred at the BMW Championship this past weekend will likely become more and more common.
Judge Elihu Smails of ‘Caddyshack’ lore reminded us that gambling is illegal at Bushwood Country Club. Will that now be commonplace on the PGA Tour?
Photo credits: Shutterstock
