The PGA Tour is actively working to enhance the connection between fans and star players, with Max Homa and Wyndham Clark taking center stage as part of the ESPN broadcast for the Masters Par 3 contest. This contest, a highlight on the golf calendar, showcases players and their families in a more relaxed setting, offering entertainment before the intense competition of The Masters begins the following day.
In an ESPN announcement, it was revealed that former U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark and six-time PGA Tour winner Max Homa will join the broadcast team as analysts, alternating with lead announcer Scott Van Pelt. Additionally, this year marks the first time the entire event will be available for streaming on ESPN+ and Disney+.
ESPN’s live coverage of the fun and popular Masters Par 3 Contest at Augusta National Golf Club is changing and expanding for this year’s event, and for the first time, two current players will be part of the coverage as analysts.
Golfers Wyndham Clark and Max Homa are joining ESPN’s commentary team for the Wednesday, April 9, event and will work with lead announcer Scott Van Pelt at separate times during the four-hour presentation.
“We look forward to having Wyndham and Max as part of our coverage of the Masters Par 3 Contest,” said Mike McQuade, ESPN Executive Vice President of Sports Production. “Having them interact with Scott Van Pelt in the booth and share their perspectives will enhance the viewing experience for sports fans during this exciting event.”
The PGA Tour understands the necessity for its star players to engage more with the public and display their personalities. Justin Thomas recently encouraged fellow players to become more approachable and friendly with broadcasters and media, thereby fostering a better connection with fans. Although having Wyndham Clark and Max Homa as guest analysts won’t instantly transform the landscape, it’s certainly a step in the right direction, especially compared to instances like Collin Morikawa skipping press conferences.
It’s also noteworthy that both Wyndham Clark and Max Homa were part of the successful TGL season on ESPN, which just concluded this week. This sim golf league focused on players showcasing their personalities, making it engaging and popular. If TGL serves as a springboard for players to seize more opportunities like participating in the Masters Par 3 contest and beyond, it would be a significant win for golf now and in the future.
