For over a decade, we’ve known Kevin Kisner as a PGA Tour player. Last week, we saw a different side of him as he made his debut as a broadcaster. Now, at this week’s Sony Open, Kisner is back on the course, showcasing his skills as both a player and an insightful analyst. Despite a challenging opening round of five-over 75, Kisner’s walk-and-talk with the Golf Channel crew during the second round offered a glimpse into his golfing mindset and provided interesting insights.
A Rude Awakening
Kisner, known for his deadpan humor, candidly expressed his surprise at the challenges he faced on the course after his broadcasting stint. Golf, he realized, can be more stressful than calling the action. This revelation struck him during his second round on the second hole, where he hit an impressive approach shot, leaving him with a four-and-a-half-foot putt. However, to his dismay, he missed the putt, leaving him with a three-and-a-half-foot putt, which he also missed. Kisner humorously attributed his struggles to karma, jokingly speculating that Jordan Spieth may have been using a voodoo doll to jinx his putting.
The Unpredictability of Golf
Kisner’s eventful round didn’t end there. At the sixth tee, his driver shaft suddenly snapped in his grip, forcing him to use a replacement driver provided by a brand seeking his feedback. Despite the unexpected challenges and the near certainty of missing the cut, Kisner remained optimistic and focused on improving his game for future tournaments, such as the upcoming American Express.
Insights on Playing Partners
Throughout his walk-and-talk, Kisner shared his observations on his playing partners, Tyrrell Hatton and Gary Woodland. He praised Hatton, expressing his enjoyment of playing with him. As Hatton hit his shot, Kisner confidently predicted its trajectory and proved himself correct. Turning his attention to Woodland, Kisner amusingly criticized his club selection and flight, suggesting that he would have advised him differently if he were his caddie.
Learning from Watching
One of the most intriguing takeaways from Kisner’s broadcasting experience is his realization of the potential benefits of watching early coverage or PGA Tour Live and making note of putts. By actively observing players putt, he believes one can gain valuable insights into the greens and patterns of missed putts. Kisner noted that he noticed players consistently underreading breaks or misjudging distances on certain holes. This raised an interesting question: do professional players watch early coverage to gain an advantage? While there are risks associated with this approach, such as distraction and the potential disruption of one’s own routine, the opportunity to possibly gain an edge in a game where margins are slim is undeniably fascinating.
With a final encouraging remark from coworker Dan Hicks, Kisner concluded his walk-and-talk interview, focusing on finishing strong with a respectable second-round score of 71. His insights and deadpan humor made for an entertaining and informative segment. As Kisner continues to compete in the Sony Open and prepare for future tournaments, it will be interesting to see how his experiences as both a player and a broadcaster shape his game and perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Kevin Kisner’s broadcasting debut?
Kisner recently made his debut as a broadcaster, providing analysis during a PGA Tour event. This marked a departure from his usual role as a player and offered fans a chance to see a different side of him.
How did Kisner feel about his performance as a broadcaster?
Kisner humorously exclaimed that he did not recover from his broadcasting debut, expressing self-deprecating humor and acknowledging his struggles on the course during the Sony Open.
What insights did Kevin Kisner share during his walk-and-talk at the Sony Open?
Kisner offered his perspective on the challenges of playing golf compared to calling the action as a broadcaster. He also provided observations on his playing partners and discussed the potential benefits of watching early coverage to gain insights into greens and missed putts.
What happened to Kisner’s driver during the second round?
Kisner’s driver shaft snapped in his grip during the second round. He had to use a replacement driver provided by a brand seeking his feedback.
What is the significance of Kisner’s mention of karma and voodoo dolls?
Kisner jokingly attributed his missed putts to karma, playfully suggesting that Jordan Spieth may have used a voodoo doll to influence his game.
Why did Kisner suggest watching PGA Tour Live or early coverage to make notes on putts?
Kisner observed common misses and misreads by players during his broadcasting experience. He believes that by paying attention to others’ putts, one can gain valuable insights into greens and potential strategies for improved putting.
What risks are associated with watching early coverage to gain an advantage?**
A: While observing fellow players’ putts may provide helpful information, there are risks involved. Each player has a unique game and reading putts or flighting shots differently. Additionally, course conditions are subject to change, making it challenging to rely solely on others’ performances.
How did Kisner fare in his second round at the Sony Open?
Despite the challenges he faced, Kisner managed to shoot a respectable second-round score of 71. He remained focused on working on his game for future tournaments.
Who provided Kisner with words of encouragement during his walk-and-talk?
Dan Hicks, Kisner’s occasional coworker in broadcasting, offered words of encouragement, reminding Kisner to stay focused and perform well.
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