Wolff's Struggles Continue

Pro golf’s desperation to lower its viewing demo means some young talents are going to be pushed to grow up fast and come under excessive scrutiny before they might be ready.

No case should be seen as more acute or troubling as Matthew Wolff’s 2021 struggles so soon after near-wins in 2020 majors.

The people who’ve steered him to live in new places and sign up for the stock Tour life should be questioning their judgement. Particularly given that Wolff is a good-natured chap increasingly showing outward signs of general misery.

This time it was the Zurich Classic alongside partner Collin Morikawa. GolfDigest.com’s Brian Wacker documents the latest rough week in a season that’s seen the former NCAA champion battle injury, post two WD’s, a missed cut and a Masters DQ for signing an incorrect card.

There’s also the element adjusting to a lonely life in the lonely world of professional golf. In college, there are myriad support systems for a player. On tour, it’s ultimately every man for himself, no matter the friendships. Some struggle with that transition more than others.

“It’s a different world to travel on your own,” Morikawa said. “Yeah, you have an agent, but you’re out there by yourself in a hotel room. You can’t prep for that. There’s a certain age where some people are more mature than others. I wouldn’t blame it on young age—he’s won and proven he can do it—but he just has to find that little thing in his swing and get over that hurdle.”