[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] World No. 1 Jon Rahm (Spain, photo) has sparked controversy by expressing dissatisfaction with the course setup on the PGA Tour.
On the 25th (Korean time), social media platform 'Flushing It' released a video showing Rahm muttering "Damn course setup, this is just a putting contest" as he left the course right after the second round of the American Express. The video was filmed by a gallery member using a mobile phone. Golf.com in the U.S. commented that "it is unusual for a player to react harshly to course setup," adding that "Rahm felt this tournament did not sufficiently reflect the long game index."
It is interesting that Rahm's recent three wins?the U.S. Open, BMW Championship, and Memorial Tournament?were all on difficult courses. The American Express rotates among three courses during the first three rounds: PGA West Stadium Course (par 72, 7,113 yards), Nicklaus Tournament Course (par 72, 7,159 yards), and La Quinta (par 72, 7,060 yards), with the winner decided on the final day back at the Stadium Course. Notably, Rahm scored only 2-under par on the relatively easier Nicklaus Tournament Course on the second day.
Tyrrell Hatton (England) targeted the 18th hole (par 5, 664 yards) after finishing tied for 6th at the DP World Tour (European Tour) 'Rolex Series Round 1' Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship held at Yas Links Abu Dhabi (par 72, 7,425 yards) in the United Arab Emirates on the night of the 23rd. He harshly criticized it as "the dumbest hole in the world," saying "even with a long drive, there are still 290 yards left to the green." In fact, his title defense was hindered by a double bogey in the second round and a quadruple bogey in the third round on this hole.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
