PGA Tour Pro Keith Mitchell’s on-course tantrums are no longer a surprise to the golfing world. His infamous club-smashing antics during the PLAYERS Championship have become a commonplace spectacle, much to the amusement and frustration of golf enthusiasts.
During the second round of the PLAYERS Championship back in 2023, Mitchell found himself facing adverse weather conditions on the par-4 5th hole at TPC Sawgrass. With an impending thunderstorm threatening to suspend the day’s play, Mitchell had the option to delay his game until the following day. Defying the odds, he opted to take his shot, only to watch his ball veer off the fairway and head towards the lake.
In a fit of frustration, Mitchell vented his anger on the pristine turf, gouging out a chunk of the green with his driver. His actions resulted in a 1-over on the hole and a 2-over par 74 for the day, marking one of the most controversial moments in the history of the PLAYERS Championship.
Jumping to March 13, 2025, history seemed to repeat itself at the first round of the PLAYERS Championship. This time, Mitchell was playing the par-5 11th hole at TPC Sawgrass. Following a disappointing second shot, which saw his ball land on the rough, a familiar scene unfolded as Mitchell once again took out his frustration on the fairway.
Mitchell’s conduct on the course has sparked a flurry of reactions, ranging from bemusement to outright condemnation. A video of the incident, tweeted by NUCLR Golf, showed Mitchell’s club smash, prompting a wave of responses from fans expressing their displeasure at his conduct.
It seems that Mitchell has a tumultuous relationship with TPC Sawgrass, with a track record that leaves much to be desired. Out of seven attempts at the PLAYERS Championship, Mitchell has only achieved one top-25 finish in 2022, and despite the infamous incident in 2023, it was his second-best season.
Fans couldn’t help but express their views on Mitchell’s performance. One fan quipped, “It’s too early to be that mad playing golf,” while another sarcastically lamented their $10 bet on Mitchell’s win. Some fans even questioned Mitchell’s approach towards a shot, suggesting that he takes too long to set himself before driving the ball.
Despite the backlash, some fans found Mitchell’s actions relatable, implying that the occasional club smash is part and parcel of the game. However, questions remain about whether Mitchell’s repeated misconduct warrants severe penalties.
As the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: Keith Mitchell’s antics at TPC Sawgrass are a hot topic of conversation in the golfing community. Whether you view his outbursts as passionate expressions of frustration or unacceptable misconduct, his actions continue to fuel discussions and spark debates, keeping the golfing world on its toes.
