Even as the 2025 PGA Tour season unfolds without its brightest star, Tiger Woods, his legacy continues to cast a long shadow over the golfing world. As the Valspar Championship gets underway, following Rory McIlroy’s triumph at the Players Championship, Woods’ absence is more noticeable than ever. The living legend is still recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon surgery, a result of intensifying his training regimen.
Woods’ absence has been felt at several high-profile tournaments, including the Players Championship and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. At the latter, despite Russell Henley’s impressive victory, the post-tournament discourse was dominated by runner-up Collin Morikawa, who controversially refused to fulfill his media obligations.
Morikawa’s snub of the media has sparked a conversation about the responsibility of golfers towards their fans and the press. In response to the criticism, Morikawa defiantly stated that he doesn’t ‘owe anyone.’ However, his attitude was sharply contrasted with the behavior of Tiger Woods, who is highly regarded for his professional approach towards the media.
Todd Lewis from the Golf Channel, on the Golf Channel Podcast with Rex & Lav, emphasized the importance of Woods’ media etiquette. Lewis praised Woods for understanding his influential position in golf and for always respecting his commitment to fans and the media, regardless of his performance on the course.
The incident with Morikawa is not an isolated one. Last year, Rory McIlroy made headlines for walking away from the press after a disappointing loss at the US Open to Bryson DeChambeau. Similarly, Morikawa found himself in the same boat earlier at Bay Hill, when he spectacularly surrendered a three-shot lead to Henley.
Golf superstars undoubtedly face immense pressure on and off the course. Their high-stakes losses can lead to heartbreak and frustration, making post-match media interactions less appealing. However, as public figures, they have a responsibility to engage with their fans, media, and the next generation of golfers.
In this regard, Woods has been a beacon of professionalism. His consistent engagement with the media, regardless of his on-course performance, sets an example for contemporary players like Morikawa. Just as Woods is praised for his prowess on the greens, he should be recognized for his media professionalism. It’s a lesson that today’s generation of golfers could well learn from the legendary Tiger Woods.