Collin Morikawa faced criticism from veteran golfer Rocco Mediate after choosing not to speak with media following his loss at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Morikawa held the lead with three holes remaining before Russell Henley's eagle on the 16th secured the victory.


At The Players Championship press conference days later, Morikawa defended his decision, stating he was "heated" and "pissed" after the loss and didn't want to interact with anyone. He explained feeling drained after a full day that included pre-round preparation.

Mediate strongly criticized Morikawa's response on SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio, calling it "selfish garbage." He recalled advice from Arnold Palmer about the importance of facing the media after both victories and defeats.

"Mr. Palmer told me one thing that stuck with me. [He said,] 'You know what, Roc, it's real easy to go in and talk to somebody when you won or when you've played well, but can you do it when you don't? That's the key,'" Mediate shared.

Mediate emphasized that professional golfers have a responsibility to the media and fans, directly contradicting Morikawa's statement that he doesn't "owe anyone anything." He suggested that Palmer himself would have strongly disapproved of Morikawa's behavior.

The six-time PGA Tour winner also shared another lesson from Palmer about treating fans with respect: "If they are dumb enough to come out and watch you play golf, you better give them something for their money... Look at them. Say hello. What's going on? Talk to them. I don't care where you are. Say hi. Just give them something."

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