The third round of the DP World Tour Championship at the Earth Course could prove career-defining for Tyrrell Hatton.
The Englishman is known for letting his emotions get the better of him, but what happened at the Earth Course on Saturday was unlike anything witnessed before.
Multiple incidents occurred during the LIV man’s one-under 71, which left Hatton three shots back of a three-way tie for the lead.
Initially, Hatton’s frustration was seen on the 4th after he three-putted from inside 12 feet. The 33-year-old then boiled over on the 10th after missing a birdie putt. Speaking on Sky Sports coverage, Dame Laura Davies said Hatton’s reaction was ‘daft’.
Finally, on the par-five 14th, Hatton snapped his club after a poor approach shot. He would subsequently chip in for birdie.
Paul McGinley has insisted Hatton is an entirely different character away from the course and that the three incidents could make a turning point in his career.
Paul McGinley reacts to Tyrrell Hatton incidents at DP World Tour Championship
Speaking during Sky Sports’ post-round coverage, McGinley addressed Hatton’s behaviour.
“I mean, look, Tyrrell isn’t the bad guy who comes across here. All of us who know him behind the scenes know there’s a different Tyrrell. His behaviour is not acceptable from what we’ve seen; there’s no doubt about that, Nick,” McGinley said.
“I think tonight, when he cools down and his team have words with him, there will be a lot of humble pie. He will be really embarrassed today by the way he behaved.”
The Irishman continued: “I think this could be a day where he may realise and say, ‘You know what, now I do have to change; I’ve got to a level where this is not acceptable, and people are not enjoying me when I am out there’.
“He’s got to take advantage of that and have a little bit more respect for the game and his fellow competitors. Imagine his playing partners playing with him and listening to him all the way around. I think Tyrrell will realise it’s time for change, and I hope he does.”
Time for change for Tyrrell Hatton
Andrew Coltart said Hatton plays better when angry, and this could well be the case. But there’s no doubt the Englishman needs to rein in his outbursts.
Hatton, without a doubt, has the game to compete with the best players in the world. In the past two months, he’s shown just how dominant he can be.
But to compete in the biggest events and major championships, keeping his cool in the most pressurised moments is non-negotiable.
It’s hard to imagine Hatton standing a chance at Augusta National if he can’t remain composed coming down the stretch.
Scottie Scheffler, for example, is the prime example of a player who keeps his emotions primarily in check, irrespective of the outcome.
It may sound obvious, but looking to replicate the world number one’s approach would be an intelligent move for Hatton.
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