The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has been in full swing, featuring thrilling performances from top golfers like Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth, and Rory McIlroy as they make their 2025 PGA Tour debuts. The tournament has already provided unforgettable moments, including two hole-in-ones from McIlroy and Shane Lowry. However, one of the most talked-about moments from Day 2 involved an unintentional mistake by a tournament volunteer.
While introducing Hideki Matsuyama on the tee, the volunteer mispronounced his name, calling him “Hideki Matsu-moola.” The slip was met with laughter from the Japanese golfer, who took it in stride. The crowd also joined in, making it a lighthearted moment. The volunteer quickly apologized upon realizing the mistake, but the online reaction was not as forgiving.
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On social media, reactions varied. Some fans were upset, criticizing the lack of professionalism and questioning why volunteers announcing player names weren’t better prepared. Others defended the volunteer, arguing that it was an honest mistake. Some pointed out that the PGA Tour provides pronunciation guides before events, suggesting that a quick review could have prevented the error.
One comment bluntly called the mistake “pathetic,” while another questioned why the Tour didn’t ensure that volunteers were knowledgeable about the players. Others emphasized Matsuyama’s accomplishments, noting that he is a Masters champion and not an obscure or unfamiliar figure in golf.
Despite the criticism, many appreciated Matsuyama’s reaction, with one fan remarking that he showed grace by laughing it off. Some even joked about the incident, comparing it to Starbucks employees notoriously misspelling names on coffee orders. Others humorously suggested that “MATSUMOOLA” should be printed on a caddy bib for the next event.
🚨⛳️🗣️ PGA Tour pronunciation guide
(📸: @Mike_kim714) pic.twitter.com/QVQ4etCcPF
— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) January 27, 2025
Though the moment sparked debate, it ultimately became a humorous and memorable part of the tournament.