Justin Thomas Opens Up on PGA Tour Reform Letter: 'I Just Want It to Get Better'
Justin Thomas recently penned an influential letter to the PGA Tour addressing media access and broadcast improvements. Speaking at Pebble Beach after maintaining nine days of silence, Thomas explained the motivation behind his message.
The letter, co-authored with Max Homa through their roles on the PGA Tour's subcommittee for tournaments, fans and sponsors, aimed to enhance the Tour's relationship with its revenue-generating partners. Thomas emphasized the need for better player involvement in broadcasts and more efficient media interactions.
"We felt like it meant a lot more coming from players, or a player, than the staff," Thomas explained. "The Tour just needs a lot more coming from us."
Key points from Thomas's explanation:
- The letter was refined with PGA Tour executive team input but maintained its original substance
- Focus on improving broadcast engagement and player accessibility
- Emphasis on efficient media interactions during warm-ups and practice
- Recognition of the need for long-term improvements in golf entertainment
Thomas, now a player-owner following the Strategic Sports Group's $1.5 billion investment, sees this initiative as crucial for the sport's future. "We have to be a little selfless and think to the future," he stated, acknowledging that meaningful change takes time.
The Tour has responded by announcing potential changes based on a 50,000-person "Fan Forward" survey, including:
- Possible Tour Championship format changes
- Testing rangefinders during competition
- Broadcast modifications based on fan feedback
Thomas's motivation stems from a desire for accountability: "I can't b**ch about it if I won't do anything about it," he explained, emphasizing the importance of taking action rather than just discussing problems.
The initiative comes amid broader discussions about golf's entertainment value and TV ratings, with industry leaders, including CBS Sports chairman David Berson, supporting Thomas's approach to improving the sport's broadcast appeal.