English golfer Tyrell Hatton is making headlines for all the wrong reasons at the World Tour Championship in Dubai this weekend. The world No. 18, known for his fiery on-course demeanor, had an epic meltdown during Saturday’s third round that included snapping a club in two, slamming his putter on the green, and audibly cursing after errant shots – behavior that commentators are calling out as a “terrible influence” on young golfers.
Erratic Behavior Overshadows Play
While Hatton started the day just one shot off the lead, his round quickly unraveled as his temper flared. The lowlights included:
- On the 4th hole, lazily tapping a short par putt that lipped out, leading to a careless bogey
- Slamming his putter on the green and cursing after missing a 5-footer on the 11th
- Angrily taking a divot after missing the green on the 8th
- Audibly swearing after his tee shot on 13 settled in the fringe
- Pressing his iron so hard into the ground on 14 that the club shaft snapped in two
It was the broken club that led Sky Sports commentator Ewen Murray to call out Hatton’s conduct. “It’s time for change, I’m afraid,” Murray said. “That’s a terrible influence on the next generation.”
Not the First Outburst for Hatton
This is far from the first time the 33-year-old Hatton has let his emotions boil over on the course. The 6-time European Tour winner has long been known as one of golf’s “bad boys” for his intense demeanor and occasional blow-ups.
“He’s always been a fiery competitor but he’s definitely gotten worse in recent years,” noted a Tour insider who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s like he has no filter or self-control out there sometimes.”
After joining the controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf series earlier this year, Hatton announced he would still play European Tour events as well. But his current antics are an inauspicious start to what could already be an awkward co-existence between the two tours.
Possible Fines and Repercussions
Hatton could be facing fines from the European Tour for his Dubai outburst, but that may be the least of his concerns. In an era where golf icons like Rory McIlroy are speaking out about being positive role models and growing the game, a high-profile star like Hatton losing his cool so flagrantly is a bad look for the sport.
“Golf is already struggling to attract younger players,” said a junior golf program director. “The last thing we need are top pros acting like spoiled brats and sending the message that that kind of behavior is acceptable or normal. Guys like Hatton need to realize a lot of kids look up to them.”
Time for Change?
While no one expects ultra-competitive athletes to be robots, many feel stars with Hatton’s volatility should work on channeling their emotions more productively. Snapping clubs, berating yourself, and cussing up a storm aren’t exactly “grow the game” moves.
With his undeniable talent, Hatton has the ability to be a true superstar and ambassador for golf. But to get there, he’ll need to rein in his temper and be mindful of the example he’s setting. With Dubai serving as a breakout moment in the worst way possible, here’s hoping this controversy proves to be a true wake-up call and catalyst for change. The game deserves better.
