Most of the golfers were in the clubhouse when a lively debate began around them, with topics ranging from rules disputes to the most petty squabbles. It is up to each individual to weigh in on such matters, but it is often difficult to resist the urge to settle the debate with one’s nuanced and well-researched opinion.
After hearing some of these conversations on the 19th hole, we decided to highlight 15 things golfers disagree on…
Disabilities
In every golf social group there will always be a player called ‘the bandit’. The nickname may have stuck after a series of lucrative performances in your friendly cash games, only to be followed by a series of performances in the Monthly medal this saw them support the rest of the peloton – by some margin!
You may even recognize a player like this in your own group, but ask yourself if he has an official disability Are they really “bandits”? If a player regularly puts down a card, he may simply be playing his best trump card when the chips run out.
Tiger Woods
The 15-time major champion divides opinion among golfers. He’s had controversies in his personal life, but he’s passionate Tiger Woods fans can put that aside and focus on his accomplishments on the course, while others can’t.
Some people think he spends too much time in front of the television, even though he plays. a very reduced schedule in recent yearswhile some will sit for five hours happily watching his every move and reminiscing about the good old days.
Rakes – Inside or outside?
Or even half in, half out? This is a question that has no real answer. Ask a greenkeeper from one club and they’ll tell you what’s best, but ask one from another club and they might tell you something completely different.
Leave the rake outside the bunker This creates a chance that your ball will rest against it, or worse, that cannons will oppose it, but leave it in the sand and you produce a similar conundrum – plus the shaft will be all sandy!
Tiger or Jack
The standard GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) debate rages over Woods and Nicklaus, with compelling arguments in favor of both. Both are certainly the greatest golfers of the last 50 years, but who is better?
Firstly, Tiger has more PGA Tour titles, but on the other hand, Jack has more Majors.
Dress codes
Here we go, it’s juicy. Few things divide golfers’ opinions more than dress codes.
Collared shirts? Jeans at the clubhouse? Length and color of the socks! Golf dress code is controversial and contrasting in all the different clubs around the world. Some see it as an exclusive and “stifling” part of our game that turns off newcomers, while others say it is a key golf tradition that must continue.
Links or inner courtyards
Course links are widely considered superior, if you look at the Monthly ranking of the Golf Top 100and were the original form of the game. However, there are many who will compete for a day in the heather and pines at Sunningdale cannot be exceeded.
As with many controversial issues in golf, it comes down to preference, but perhaps we should play as much as possible just to be sure… you know, in the name of research!
Pace of play
Pace of play has been the subject of much debate in recent years, from amateur to professional play. Some golfers like to run and get on with their day, while others prefer to take a more leisurely approach and take their time.
It’s not always the players’ faultas many other factors influence the pace of play. There is also the issue of skill levels, with some new players struggling to enjoy and improve their golf due to pressure from an angry group behind them tapping their watches as a sign of disapproval.
This can be frustrating when the group in front is not playing with appropriate urgencyor not allow groups to playbut clearly there needs to be a balance, because golf is for everyone and we should strive to find a balance.
Give me
Putter length? Putter grip length? 6 inches? Generous on the front nine, then nothing on the back? Everyone has a different perspective on gift giving, and some are more generous than others. As long as you are consistent and in agreement, it can surely only help the pace of play.
LIVGolf
Since its inaugural season in 2022, LIVGolf has been one of the most controversial topics in sports.
Some players and fans welcomed the tour with open arms, clearly embracing its differences and unique approach. On the other hand, its introduction fragmented the game and led to the disappearance of the top talents we love to watch every week.
While the future of world golf seems quite uncertain, amid discussions about mergers and partnershipsit will be interesting to see how long this debate rages.
Ball in a divot
You hit your drive directly in the middle of the fairway and guess what, it’s only I ended up in a divot! That’s not fair, is it? Well, according to the rules of golf, that’s fair, because the principle of the game is that you play your ball where it lies…
Golf prices
Many players will feel this golf club membership or green fee rates offer pretty decent value for money, especially when you consider how much a high-end bike or new fishing boat costs.
Golf can be affordable anywhere in the country, and like anything, some areas are more expensive than others. Another financial element that divides the game is the price of the material.
You may sometimes hear the remark: “In my day, a driver only cost £200”, but these days materials, research, design and other aspects have driven up prices. The question remains: is it worth it?
Carrying bag or trolley
Look around the golf course and you’ll see mostly tram users, so maybe this is less divisive than we thought. However, many enjoy carrying their golf bag and having the freedom of being able to step over the “No Trolleys” rope and place your bag on the tees or wherever you want.
Masters or The Open
Sit back, sip a cold beer and enjoy the Augusta’s beautifully manicured fairways plus legendary drama as the golf season begins.
You can also immerse yourself in the world’s oldest golf tournament, played on some of the best links courses on planet Earth, as players battle to make their way. face the elements in search of the legendary Claret Pitcher and title of champion golfer of the year.
SO, Mastery Or Openwhat is better?
Sausage or bacon baps
There are a few questions here. Do you go for bacon or sausage? And do you consume before, during the transition or after the tour? People can get really upset about this and don’t even get me started.
In my opinion, the answer to all of the above is… yes! Bacon and sausages all around.
Pint or hot drink before the tour?
You can’t eat your breakfast sandwich without something to accompany it. Some golfers enjoy pre-rounds of tea or coffee, as it is a crucial part of their golf warm-upand others like to go further and gain a little liquid courage before facing the balcony at the first tee.
Let us know about other topics golfers disagree on and your thoughts on those listed above on our social media channels.
For all the latest golf news, check out the Golf Monthly website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.