Collin Morikawa is under fire for refusing media interviews after losses, stating earlier this season that he “didn’t owe anyone anything.”
Rory McIlroy defended Morikawa, saying players should have the freedom to opt out of media duties unless the PGA TOUR mandates otherwise.
Critics like Alex Myers (Golf Digest) and Todd Lewis (Golf Channel) argue that part of being a pro includes facing the media, especially after bad rounds.
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Tiger Woods is used as a gold standard: even during personal and professional low points, he still showed up and answered questions.
The discussion contrasts today’s evolving athlete-media relationship with the expectations and traditions of golf’s past.
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Quick Opinion/Commentary:
> “I get why Collin Morikawa might want to skip media duties after a tough loss—no one wants to rehash mistakes while emotions are raw. But golf isn’t just about swinging a club. It’s also about being an ambassador of the sport. Tiger Woods did it. Phil Mickelson did it after Winged Foot. Facing the press shows character, especially in defeat. I respect McIlroy for backing a fellow pro, but the best of the best don’t just shine when they’re winning—they show up even when it hurts. That’s what makes legends.”