LIV Golf lead commentator Jerry Foltz has offered his verdict on Justin Thomas’ open letter to the PGA Tour’s members.
With the start of the 2025 PGA Tour season marred by issues, the two-time major winner reached out to his fellow professionals.
Thomas’ letter discussed the way in which the PGA Tour is currently broadcast. The 31-year-old appeared to ask his colleagues to be more open to conducting in-round interviews and offering more media access.
Thomas‘ letter has received a mixed reception, however. Some believe the PGA Tour need to address other glaring issues, such as slow play, field quality, and course difficulty.
Jerry Foltz reacts to Justin Thomas’ PGA Tour letter
Jerry Foltz, the lead commentator for LIV Golf, shared his thoughts on Thomas’ plea to the PGA Tour, saying that he believes it was a smart move for the Louisville-born star.
“I thought it was a fantastic letter. JT is spot on in trying to get his fellow players, the viewer, and the fan a chance to care about them. Because right now, when you watch a telecast and see a bunch of names that the average fan is not that familiar with, it becomes a little tough to care and a little tough to continue watching,” Foltz told the Fairway to Heaven Podcast.
“I think, fortunately, because of the names, we don’t have that dilemma or problem. But because of the access we have to them, we get them inside the ropes and let them know who the people are.
“I think it’s an awesome thing he has done. Let’s see, as independent contractors who are completely solely focused on their careers, let’s see how they play along with it, but at least it’s a first step.”
Do golf fans want more player interviews on the PGA Tour?
It does feel like there are more pressing issues which need to be addressed on the PGA Tour. In-round interviews are great, but increasing the coverage isn’t exactly going to see viewing figures boom.
Currently, looking to strengthen up fields is a must. 18 players have now pulled out of the Farmers Insurance Open in what is another massive blow to the Tour. With the Genesis Invitational being played at Torrey Pines, many players are now focussing their attention elsewhere.
What’s more, slow play was on the agenda at The American Express after Sepp Straka’s group took three-and-a-half hours to complete 11 holes.
Scottie Scheffler’s return at next weekend’s AT&T Pro-Am at Pebble Beach could provide a boost, and Tour officials will hope the event will runs smoothly, which has not been the case so far in the 2025 season.
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