My 3 Key Takeaways from the Players Championship!
The Players Championship offers Millions of Storylines!
Like most of you still recovering from the Players Championship hangover, I spent time Tuesday thinking about each twist and turn of the tournament. Obviously, the weather dominated the headlines, but many details emerged out of nowhere. Justine Reed prowled around the property in her cheetah print coat. Kevin Kisner switched caddies during the final round. And Daniel Berger was anything but straight vibin’ late in the mix. I realize I am leaving out so much content, but I shoot for 600 words so hear me out. With everything going on, my three key takeaways from this past week include Cameron Smith the killer, Anirban Lahiri the not so hometown hero, and the Golden Man. Here’s why!
Cameron Smith Putts His Way to Winning the Players Championship!
Most importantly, Cameron Smith reeled in the biggest fish of his career taking home the Players. The Aussie cashed the first-place check of 3.6 million dollars and did so with his family right by his side. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Smith had been unable to see his parents and sister for 2.5 years. With open arms, they hugged their champ after he putted out on 18. Speaking of putting, Smith averaged 10.5 one-putts per round. Smith drained everything he looked at as he went on to gain 11.5 strokes putting versus the field. A complete flat stick assassin performance. However, Cameron Smith will be remembered for the knock-down nine-iron he hit into 17 green on Monday, not Sunday. With the final round pin location about 5 paces away from the water, Smith threw his dart in between the stick and the hazard! TPC Sawgrass lost their minds. On Twitter, people posted about how big Cameron Smith’s golf balls are! Unbelievable performance!
Anirban Lahiri's Solo Second Performance at the Players Championship!
Finishing second on the scoreboard and maybe first in our hearts, Anirban Lahiri put together four splendid rounds. The 34-year-old journeyman from India, came into the Players Championship as the 322nd ranked player in the world. After his solo-second result, Lahiri finds himself within the world's top 100 ranked golfers. Oh, and 2.2 million dollars richer. Even though his Monday outfit was an utter disgrace, Lahiri’s iron play catapulted him forward this week. He ranked 4th in the field in strokes-gained-approach and remained solid even as mother nature reared her ugly head. Lahiri fired at the pin on 17 on Monday and made birdie to maintain the pressure on Cam Smith. In my opinion, this shot summed up Anirban’s week. He will be remembered for his grit, determination, and never backing down. After making a par on the 72nd hole, Anirban took the time to congratulate Smith on his tremendous victory. With such class, golf fans will never forget Anirban Lahiri’s showing this week!
NBC Sports Surprising Superstar at the Players Championship!
Coming in from left field to round out my key takeaways, we have the mixed reality superstar of Gold Man. The golden figure, who typically rests atop the Player's trophy, acted like a complete menace at TPC Sawgrass. NBC showed clips of the mixed reality phenom hitting shots onto the 17th green. Apparently, Gold Man never misses the island. Perhaps, Patton Kizzire and Scottie Scheffler should ask Gold Man for some tips on how to safely keep the ball dry on that daunting par 3. Furthermore, Gold Man reenacted the “Better Than Most” serpentine-like putt from Tiger Woods in 2001. Asked to watch the clip, Woods awkwardly laughed as a mixed-reality amalgam recreated one of his most famous moments. Personally, Gold Man strangely complemented the 2022 Players. The tournament experienced such interesting setbacks and storylines. Why not incorporate Gold Man among the list of x-factors?
Moving Toward The Spring Fling Of The PGA Tour
Nevertheless, the 2022 Players Championship glued our eyes to our television screens. I enjoyed the chaos as much as the next guy, however, I wish other key figures had been there to add even more spice! With Bryson nursing his injuries, viewers were not able to enjoy his circus performances on a course that begs players to entertain the crowd. Phil Mickelson, who remains MIA, hits riskier shots than any player I know. Add torrential conditions and long days, Phil would have given Gold Man a run for his money! Hopefully, the upcoming events stay on course weather-wise with exciting storylines popping up like UseGolfFacts on Twitter! Cheers!
As a freelance writer, Taylor McCutcheon will focus on golf adjacent, cultural content in the world of golf. Welcome Taylor to the team and help spread the word by sharing his content.
***Taylor's opinions and commentary are his own and do not necessarily represent the Tour Junkies as a whole.