In a new series with Golf Australia chief executive James Sutherland, our readers get clarity on golf’s most pertinent issues
Golf Australia has a focus on elite amateurs and developing new talent, but why are there not as many guys playing on the PGA Tour? Especially considering our women’s contingent on the LPGA Tour is as strong as it’s ever been. – John S, Mornington, VIC
There are obviously a lot of factors to consider when discussing Australian representation across the various men’s and women’s tours around the world. To answer broadly the question of our PGA Tour contingent, it is important to remember four of our best men, who have been PGA Tour players, are now playing the LIV Golf League. Also worth reminding: it is very difficult to attain, and maintain, a spot on any of the world tours.
Despite all this, our strategic partner, the PGA of Australia, are doing a great deal to provide more pathways through the DP World Tour to the PGA Tour starting with the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia, but for us at Golf Australia our work is in the elite amateur space.
Our High Performance team works with players to not only represent their country proudly in individual and team events around the world, but also to prepare them for the next step in their career when transitioning into the play-for-pay ranks.
This work is highlighted by the Golf Australia Rookie Program, which supports our people to not only be golfers who inspire us with their play, but more specifically to survive and thrive in the cut-throat world of professional golf so they can eventually compete for majors and gold medals.
Of course, our work has purpose and proven success, but as a proud sporting nation that has always punched above its weight on the global stage, we always seek more.
Although our numbers might not be as high specifically on the PGA Tour and there is no doubt the global golf tours ecosystem is currently experiencing change, we have had two winners already this year, and as you mention, our LPGA Tour contingent has never been stronger, and we have representation on every tour around the world.
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In the current global environment, how confident are you that the Australian Opens can be successful and attract players when there are so many tournaments around the world and a competitive sponsorship market? – John D, Sydney, NSW
Although Golf Australia has a broad remit and role, we know the Australian Opens attract significant interest and questions, which reminds us of the high esteem they are held in.
Successfully conducting the now re-separated men’s and women’s events is obviously a responsibility we take very seriously, and like everyone in the sport we want to see them not only produce great entertainment but run successfully. To achieve that, a number of key elements drive the current strategy, while the increasing strength and schedule of the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and WPGA Tour of Australasia, which sanction the Australian Opens, shows there is an appetite for top-level golf.
In my time in golf, we have made what some consider drastic steps with the Australian Open, including the mixed format, but all have been made to deliver the best possible product for all stakeholders, and that includes our partners and the tournament’s viability.
Separating the events after extensive stakeholder consultation, co-sanctioning of the men’s event by the DP World Tour, playing events on the country’s best courses and enhancing the experience of fans, players and partners are just some of the steps to deliver successful tournaments.
This isn’t going to be an overnight success, but a better tournament experience, great venues and opportunities, as well as forming part of a great Summer of Golf lead by the PGA of Australia on its tours, including their highly successful BMW Australian PGA Championship and the new Australian WPGA Championship. By working together with the both the men’s and women’s Australian Open to sit back-to-back with its PGA Championship equivalent, we have a better chance of attracting our top Australians and other players, as well as commercial partners.
Got something you want to ask the boss of Golf Australia? E-mail your question(s) to [email protected]