{{ubiquityData.prevArticle.description}}
{{ubiquityData.nextArticle.description}}
In addition to all other general uncertainty this pandemic period has brought us, there's also this: It seems to be pushing the golf world with more haste toward a looming crossroads – a coming shakeup in the balance of power between the globe's dominant professional tours.
Beset by financial woes, the European Tour lacks stability. A more direct connection to the PGA Tour could provide just that. But with a bagful of competing influences to consider, the pathway to change is anything but clear.
What will result is likely some type of a new world order.
Starting with a story from Steve Eubanks and following throughout the pages of this week's edition, GGP measures the present state of play and examines where things could be heading. In general, what began as a hypothetical idea is transforming into something more intense and detailed.
Any number of terms might apply to what's coming – merger, takeover, collaboration or consolidation among them – but John Hopkins reports that it might not be any one of these but rather a little bit of all of them. And underpinning all of the discussions to come is the vexing question: Why does the European Tour not have more money?
Although the drumbeat is picking up toward some version of a combining of the tours, Lewine Mair checks in with Colin Montgomerie and finds his instincts telling him that the European Tour should do what it can to stay standing on its own two feet.
As any planning might come together, the PGA Tour will start from a position of strength, Ron Green Jr. writes. While the European Tour needs some form of consolidation, the PGA Tour can benefit from it.
And as the amateur side of the game continues to reckon with the impact of COVID-19, Jim Nugent speaks with England Golf chief executive officer Jeremy Tomlinson, who says that despite the difficult times, he is struck by his country's enthusiasm and passion for the game.
Also, this week in The Divot, John Steinbreder reflects on an insidious side effect of pandemic-related isolation – our inability to gather socially – and how it has him longing for the camaraderie that comes with a few hours on the fairways.
Sam Dolson
E-MAIL SAM