‘A Bit of Distraction’: Paul Azinger Hits at a Latest Broadcasting Initiative After Rory McIlroy’s Epic Fail

Golfers always try to perform well on the course. However, there is always a constant pressure on the players. While the pressure from the spectators is evident, pressure from the broadcasting system is always neglected. Cameras, microphones and other equipment are always pointing towards the players, and they add to the stress in the atmosphere.

However, after all this advancement in technology more and more equipment are getting added to the game. While these new broadcasting systems make the game more advanced and more interesting to watch, it also adds to the stress on the player. Similar is the case with the idea of putting up mics on the players for better studio interaction with them.

Mic ends up as a distraction for Rory McIlroy

Paul Azinger and two of his colleagues had just spent a few minutes talking with a mic’d-up Rory McIlroy at the Austin Country Club, during Saturday’s play at the WGC-Match Play. McIlroy was asked a lot of questions during the play. He was questioned about his par-5 approach by announcer Dan Hicks. Azinger inquired about match play par-5 strategy. Curt Byrum, an analyst, inquired about his driver’s new, shorter shaft.

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McIlroy took off his AirPods as he prepared to take his second shot. Azinger saw it all and said, “Yeah, I think putting the ear pods in can be a bit of a distraction. That’s always the challenge for the guys that have agreed to do that.”

Nearly 10 seconds later McIlroy took his shot which only missed. McIlroy ended up directing his shot towards a fan tent and nearly 30 yards left of the hole. McIlroy was clearly annoyed by his shot. Azinger then took a hit at the ear pods and said, “Again, sometimes it can be a little bit of a distraction, and he’s in trouble now”.

Is the new mic idea a problem?

While it is clearly evident that all the questions from the studio surely put some extra pressure on the 33-year-old superstar. However, if they a distraction for McIlroy, that remains unclear. Even if it the AirPods ended up distracting McIlroy, he cannot blame anyone but himself for it as he agreed to wear it.

Since the Farmers Insurance Open in January, one or two players have been wearing the mics per tournament. The move has been generally backed, and the players are not surprised in wearing it. While supporting it McIlroy said that he would certainly be open to it.

Do you really blame ear pods for McIlroy mishit? Do let us know in the comments below.

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