In 1996, what began as a comedic portrayal of an unconventional golf swing in Happy Gilmore has since become an intriguing technique in professional golf. The famous “Happy Gilmore” swing, inspired by Adam Sandler’s fictional character, has found an unexpected advocate in three-time major champion Padraig Harrington. Unlike many who attempted it for fun, Harrington incorporated the running swing into his training routine, demonstrating that even unconventional methods can offer real benefits.
The Lasting Influence of Happy Gilmore in Golf
The impact of Happy Gilmore has extended beyond just entertainment, influencing players at the highest levels of the sport. John Peterson once used the running swing to open his round at the 2017 CIMB Classic, while major champions like Phil Mickelson and Jordan Spieth have tested it during practice. This unorthodox technique has cemented itself as a part of golf culture, proving that Hollywood’s take on the sport can leave a lasting mark.
View this post on Instagram
Now, excitement is growing with the announcement of Happy Gilmore 2. Netflix recently released a behind-the-scenes teaser for the upcoming sequel, featuring some of golf’s biggest stars. Brooks Koepka, Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau, Justin Thomas, and Will Zalatoris all appeared in the teaser, wearing the iconic gold “Tour Championship” jacket—a nod to the original film’s climactic trophy.
The Sequel’s Impact on Golf’s Popularity
The involvement of current PGA Tour stars is more than just a marketing strategy. Former world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler shared his excitement, recalling memories from the first film, while McIlroy expressed his amazement at being part of the project. Their participation signals a unique fusion of pop culture and professional golf at a time when the sport is actively seeking to engage a wider audience.
Netflix’s move to expand its golf-related content follows the success of its documentary series Full Swing. Even Ben Stiller, reprising his role as orderly Hal, playfully referenced the show in a conversation with Justin Thomas, initially praising it before jokingly calling it “awful.” This lighthearted exchange reflects how golf’s presence in mainstream media is evolving.
Fan Reactions and Cultural Impact
The announcement of Happy Gilmore 2 has generated significant enthusiasm among golf fans, many of whom fondly remember the original film’s most memorable scenes. Some referenced classic lines, such as “9th green at 9!?” and “Gold jacket, green jacket… who gives a s***,” showing how the movie’s humor has become deeply embedded in golf culture.
Fans have also expressed anticipation for a release date, with many demanding more details. While Netflix has yet to confirm an exact premiere, Adam Sandler has hinted at a likely July 2025 release.
A Potential Boost for the PGA Tour
In light of ongoing challenges in professional golf, including the rivalry between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, some fans see Happy Gilmore 2 as a potential way to attract new audiences. One user humorously pointed out Brooks Koepka’s presence in the teaser, joking that an intern might get fired for including a LIV Golf player in the promotional material. Others have suggested that the film could revitalize interest in the PGA Tour, with one fan claiming, “Sandler single-handedly going to save PGA’s relevance and get new fans, lol.”
By blending Hollywood comedy with real-world professional golf, Happy Gilmore 2 has the potential to create a unique crossover moment for the sport. Whether it bridges the gap between traditional golf and modern entertainment remains to be seen, but the overwhelming fan excitement suggests that it could be one of the most culturally significant golf films of all time.