EMPTY: PGA TOUR To Continue With Limited Or No Fans

Over the last few days, the reality of the coronavirus becoming a true pandemic in the country has become more and more clear. With that in mind, many sports organizations are taking steps to limit the spread of the disease, golf being one of them.

After many rumors, the PGA TOUR finally came out with a statement today. According to Jay Monahan, Commissioner of the PGA TOUR, all events are set to be played as normal. The only difference is that there will be no fans or spectators, outside of essential personnel, allowed on the course during the events. This ruling is set to start with the remainder of the PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass this weekend.

Statement from PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan: pic.twitter.com/Ilh5hRNNGd

— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) March 12, 2020

From the commissioner himself, “…At this point in time, PGA TOUR events — across all Tours – will currently proceed as scheduled, but will do so without fans. This policy starts at THE PLAYERS Championship tomorrow (Friday) and continues through the Valero Texas Open. It’s important to note, that could change, but for the time being, this decision allows the PGA TOUR, our fans, and constituents to plan, prepare and respond as events develop.” On top of the limited fan interaction with the PGA TOUR, Monahan also concluded that due to the difficulties of international travel due with the travel bans, the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship will be postponed until the outbreak is better contained. As of now, there are no other events that have been brought up as possibilities to shut down and it looks like the show will go on.

Just got a text from an Augusta National member: “I believe the tournament will be played. Discussions are ongoing. Limiting patrons seems likely. Might be none at all. Closing practice rounds, canceling the Par-3…everything is on the table. Expect an announcement next week.”

— Alan Shipnuck (@AlanShipnuck) March 12, 2020

One of the biggest concerns for the golf world is if The Masters will be played, and if so, will there be any fans? Alan Shipnuck stated on Twitter today that he’s hearing from sources that the first major of the year is expected to go on as planned but there could be limited fans, no fans, and possible cancellations of practice rounds and the Par-3 contest. Golf Digest is also reporting that they are hearing the same thing with a decision to come in a few days.

It’s good to see the PGA TOUR on the side of caution in this situation, but they are also setting up a nightmare scenario where they would have to refund tickets bought for these events over the next month or so. With that in mind, this appears to be the best decision the PGA TOUR could have made and hopefully, there will be further updates in the upcoming days. Stay tuned!

Cover Image Via Twitter