PGA Tour called out for ‘lying’ after copying LIV Golf innovation

At the recent Travelers Championship, the PGA Tour unveiled a new technology that promised to revolutionize the viewing experience for golf fans. This innovation, known as drone tracer technology, provides detailed information on each shot, including speed, distance, and apex. However, the PGA Tour’s claim that this was a groundbreaking introduction to television coverage was quickly challenged by many fans.

Golf enthusiasts were quick to point out that the technology was not as novel as the PGA Tour suggested. In fact, LIV Golf, a rival tour funded by Saudi Arabia, had already debuted similar drone tracer technology back in October 2023 at Trump National Doral. This technology has since been a staple in LIV Golf broadcasts, allowing viewers to closely follow every shot in high detail.

The discrepancy led to some backlash on social media, where fans expressed their frustration with the PGA Tour’s claim. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, “Imagine saying this lie knowing the truth and how easy it is to disprove. LIV did this nine months ago, there is nothing wrong with innovation and copying it. Just don’t lie!” Others echoed this sentiment, pointing out the similarities between the PGA Tour’s latest tech and what LIV Golf has been using for nearly a year.
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The PGA Tour showcased its new drone tracer technology during CBS’s broadcast, with Tom Kim’s shot being used as a prime example. Despite Kim’s impressive performance, which saw him finish as the runner-up to Scottie Scheffler, who claimed the $3.6 million (£2.8m) top prize, the focus remained on the contentious technology claim.

Meanwhile, LIV Golf continued to utilize its established drone tracer technology during its event in Nashville over the same weekend. However, not all players are fond of the drones. Jon Rahm, a recent high-profile acquisition by LIV Golf, expressed his frustration when a drone distracted him mid-swing, causing him to hit the ball into the water. Rahm’s visible anger highlighted the potential downsides of using drones in live sports coverage. “Every tournament. It’s f*****g incredible,” Rahm fumed. “Right on my backswing. These f*****g drones every time.”

The PGA Tour’s adoption of drone technology is seen by many as part of a broader strategy to compete with LIV Golf. This includes implementing no-cut ‘designated’ events with larger prize funds to retain top talent. However, the criticism from fans over the perceived lack of honesty regarding the drone tracer technology has been a significant point of contention.

The Travelers Championship’s debut of the technology is just the latest example of the PGA Tour seemingly taking cues from its upstart competitor. While the technology itself has been well-received for enhancing the viewing experience, the controversy surrounding its originality continues to ruffle feathers among the golfing community.