It’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks for Rick Shiels after his partnership with the LIV Golf League was confirmed.
After teasing fans for several days, Shiels announced that he would attend every LIV Golf event and produce the same YouTube content that the golfing world knows and loves.
The Englishman’s move has faced criticism from his fan base, and he lost over 10,000 subscribers in the 24 hours after his announcement. Regardless, the social media stalwart appears intent on producing next-level content with the PIF-backed golf league.
As well as his ‘Break 75’ and ‘ten shot challenge’, Shiels will host weekly podcasts with some of LIV‘s biggest players – and his first is alongside Paul Casey.
Rick Shiels wants new interview format in professional golf
The 39-year-old also recently made an appearance on the 19th Uncut Podcast – hosted by caddies Billy Foster and Ricci Roberts.
Whilst playing guest, Shiels discussed some of the changes he wants implemented within professional golf, more specifically, what players do with the media immediately after finishing their rounds.
Shiels explained: “Do you know what piece of content I would always love to see. You know, obviously, when players do TV interviews after a round of golf, it’s very PC and media-trained. It’s c***. I would love to see them do a straight down the camera and just be honest. How good would that be!
“It’s not too far off what the DP World Tour have done with that Green Room. But even that is still media. I would love them to literally hold a camera. Think of all the great characters in the world of golf. They have always had that bit of something. Seve, John Daly, they have had something. Now we live in a world where that has to be suppressed, and I hate that.”
Shiels added: “That’s why I think Bryson won this year: because he has allowed people in a bit more and taken off the shackles. I think that’s why golf YouTube has done so well over the last few years. Nobody is watching my golf, and I’m not saying I’m not the most charismatic, but they are watching because it’s real, and you can connect with the fans, and it’s showcasing what’s amazing about golf.
“Sometimes I look at tour pros, and I’m like, you are living the dream! Let’s see that. I want to see you hold a camera at the end, and if you have won, show me you are happy; if you have made a cut, let’s celebrate that, and if you have played c***, I want to see you smash up a hotel room or whatever!”
Rick Shiels’ comments come after Justin Thomas makes PGA Tour plea
Interestingly, Shiels’ comments emerged just weeks after Justin Thomas sent a letter to his PGA Tour colleagues regarding conducting more mid-round interviews.
The two-time major winner suggested that providing broadcasters with more insight will improve the product and, in turn, boost the currently low ratings. Thomas’ close friend Jordan Spieth has said he’s willing to participate in more walk-and-talks on the course during the 2025 season.
But is it what fans actually want?
Golf fans would much rather other glaring issues on the PGA Tour be dealt with. Slow play, field strength and course selection should all be higher on the list of priorities.
Shiels’ idea could actually prove more engaging than players merely talking about the game mid-round. A player’s immediate and honest reaction could provide insight and make the world’s best more relatable.
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