On Thursday, during the first round of the Open Championship in Scotland, a remark made by an announcer on Peacock’s featured group coverage sparked outrage among golf fans in the U.S.
While Tiger Woods struggled in his opening round, commentator Mark Roe made an unfounded accusation, suggesting that Woods was using painkillers to manage his numerous injuries. Roe cited the look in Woods’ eyes as his evidence, stating, “You look at the eyes, you’ve got to think that a lot of painkillers are being taken to cope with the pain.”
This comment struck a nerve, particularly given Woods’ past battles with addiction, including painkillers. Many fans considered Roe’s statement both uncalled for and unprofessional.
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The backlash on social media was swift, with golf fans expressing their anger and disappointment at Roe’s comment. Despite an early birdie that put him under par, Woods struggled throughout his round, sitting at six-over par through 14 holes.
As the first round continued, all eyes remained on Woods to see how he would finish.