The Game of Golf is in Good Hands
Golf has been in a weird spot for the last few years. Nobody has forgotten that the PGA Tour was fractured by LIV. Greg Norman and the Saudi’s threw boat loads of cash to steal some of the biggest names in golf. Hopefully you’re also not overlooking the Tuesday night virtual matches (haha what?) that started a few weeks back – the TGL founded by Tiger and Rory.
PGA Tour vs. LIV
I want to preface my next point by saying I am for the PGA Tour. I’m enamored by the history and legacy around the 4 majors. I root for the storylines of Rory and Jordan as they try to complete the career grand slam. I teared up as Tiger embraced his son after winning the 2019 Masters in the very spot he embraced his dad 22 years prior at his first Masters victory.
LIV golf does not offer these storylines, yet. Nothing that new can. Full transparency though: I have been to a LIV event. I had a great time. Honestly, I’d go again. The experience is totally different than a TOUR event. Not better, just different. You could’ve predicted that between the music, the shotgun start, and the team atmosphere.
Here’s what matters though: there were a TON of raving golf fans at that LIV event. Are these fans new to the game of golf? Maybe some of them. Were they like me and are just golf sickos? I’m sure several were.
LIV Nashville 2024
Golf has not lost its luster. It has evolved. Heck, it has grown. Golf had a record setting year last year in the US for rounds played. While TV viewership might be suffering (I blame so many things for this), golf is in a good spot.
PGA Show 2025
I spent the last week travelling to Orlando for PGA Show which happens to be the largest global gathering for golf business. I have seen this event from both sides. Once as a general attendee and now as part of a team inside a booth (I do affiliate marketing for my good friends at Strokes Gained hydration).
Golf has a ton raving fans. Did I say that earlier? I met golfers, directors, professionals, and merchandisers from all over the world last week. People were representing LA Golf Club and Atlanta Drive (TGL), others were wearing Majestiks shirts and Ripper GC socks (LIV).
People are obsessed with golf. People want to play better golf. They are looking for any edge they can get their hands on. That’s why rounds were at an all-time high last year and that’s why the PGA Show is at its peak, too.
Vendors and manufacturers arrive in Orlando to show off the latest technology and advancements in equipment, swing aids, and fitness. Directors are looking for new amenities to offer their members and teaching pro’s search for things to help their clients score better.
The Golf Fitness Industry
This is what excites me. People are now emphasizing fitness and nutrition to get better at golf. I mentioned this in a previous blog (linked below) but Tiger broke barriers in the golf fitness world followed by more with Rory, Brooks, and Bryson. There is no shortage of “8-week strength programs” or “4-week mobility programs” that are devoted to your game.
At the show, I met heavy hitters in the golf fitness industry including Cody Wescott (Lift Heavy Swing Fast), Michael Dennington (DRVN), and Sheldon Roberts. Obviously standing next to giants in the industry I felt invisible, but every single one of those guys offered advice. They shared their journey. They shared what helped them be successful in this space. They want to see others succeed with them.
We live in a capitalist market, but golf almost behaves differently. The business of golf wants to elevate the game and wants you to succeed. That involves promoting each other, sharing social media, and recommending resources and connections. Despite the negativity surrounding the professional side, the game of golf is safe. We’re heading into new waters where health and wellness is emphasized, technology continues to innovate, and the community supports each other.
As we head deeper into 2025, I encourage you to use those resources around you. The golf community wants to see you succeed and play golf for a lifetime. Now is the perfect time to start that fitness routine, play in that tournament, or join that club.
Do you want to improve your fitness journey but don’t know where to start? We offer free phone consultations, always.
PGA Show 2025 - Myself, Fatima Fernandez Cano (LPGA Tour), Travis Key (Founder - Strokes Gained)
