Gary McCord has established a significant reputation in the golfing world, consistently expressing his viewpoints without reserve. Whether his outspoken nature contributed to his exclusion from Masters broadcasts on CBS or his tenure of over 30 years on the network before his departure in 2019, McCord has consistently articulated his thoughts.
At the age of 71, he devotes his time to playing golf in his residence in Scottsdale, Arizona, engaging in discussions with PGA Tour players regarding the current state of the sport. During a recent appearance on the Subpar podcast, he addressed the numerous challenges and controversies confronting golf’s premier circuit, including LIV, the future of golf on television, and the status of commissioner Jay Monahan.
McCord’s primary concern lies in the uncertainty surrounding the future of professional golf. He characterised the current state of affairs as disorderly, marked by pervasive rumours and a lack of clear direction. In his own words, “I’ve never heard so many rumors back and forth—it’s chaos. Until we get some rudders in the water, and these boats are going toward a certain direction and a unified direction, it’s going to be chaotic.”
Additionally, he raised doubts about the ongoing negotiations between the PGA Tour and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, expressing skepticism about the possibility of reaching an agreement by the December 31 deadline.
Furthermore, he queried the competence of Commissioner Jay Monahan, implying that numerous players lack confidence in his ability to effectively lead the tour.
Looking ahead, McCord predicted the emergence of a pyramid of tours, with the top tier consisting of approximately 75 players competing in major events with the most significant prize purses. He also believes that the team element, despite previous criticism, will play a crucial role in the future of professional golf.
Regarding broadcasting, McCord suggested that networks may shift to remote broadcasts from a studio in the United States, with minimal on-site presence to reduce costs.
When questioned about his future in broadcasting, McCord disclosed his dissatisfaction with the manner in which his tenure at CBS concluded. Despite being offered a lucrative opportunity with Greg Norman and LIV, he ultimately declined, citing his reluctance to engage in extensive travel and the allure of exorbitant compensation.
McCord’s insightful observations provide a window into the current state of professional golf and the potential future of the sport. His perspectives on the challenging landscape of the PGA Tour, the possible shift in broadcasting, and the evolving nature of the professional game shed light on the ongoing changes in the world of golf.