The spectators at TPC Sawgrass were left astonished by an incident that occurred during the third round of THE PLAYERS Championship. Max Homa‘s approach to the 14th hole took an unexpected trajectory and hit the tree. However, one spectator was standing dangerously close to the golfer, and the ball headed directly towards them.
Spectators are struck by golf balls at tournaments nearly every week, which is why they are advised to take a few steps back. Fortunately, no one was injured as the ball hit the tree, as Homa revealed in a later interview. However, if such incidents persist, it’s only a matter of time before someone gets hurt.
I’ll never understand why people stand this close to professional golferspic.twitter.com/ATP3lRPwMg
— Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) March 17, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
During the post-match interview, Homa mentioned “I asked them to back up, and they backed up normal 3-4 steps” when questioned about the incident. While PGA Tour professionals are undoubtedly among the best players, even they might occasionally miss their shots and Homa “was trying to go much higher than that” while making that shot.
Max Homa on nearly hitting a fan on 14 yesterday at TPC Sawgrass
(apologies for the shaking i had way too much coffee today) pic.twitter.com/cfqUGBwSyp
— Christopher Powers (@CPowers14) March 17, 2024
At one point during the post-match interview, even the pro was rendered speechless, with the disappointment of the incident evident on the pro’s face. Such incidents are not uncommon in golf tournaments; nevertheless, it is upon spectators to ensure they maintain a safe distance while observing the game.
The response of fans to the Max Homa incident
From the video, it’s evident how close the spectators were, there is also unpredictability when ball might go off the track.
He's literally standing right in front of him and the golfer is under a tree. What did he think would happen?
— Anthony Russo (@Anthony_Russo97) March 17, 2024
For the safety of spectators, there should be certain restrictions in place, as this fan is pointing out exactly that.
Yea, that’s ridiculous… but why are they even allowed to stand so close?
— Abu (@AbuAlmas0) March 17, 2024
A fan indicated that the golfer was concentrating on his viewing area and that no one should be standing too close to the golfer.
The golfer hit his ball into the viewing area. He's the trespasser.
— Ed (@EdwardM26438068) March 17, 2024
This fan believes that even pros might miss their shots occasionally.
It’s not like that golfer never makes a mistake!
— joan o'reilly (@joan8904) March 17, 2024
This fan is upset about the fact that the spectator was already instructed to stand back but they didn’t.
They told them to stand back, but Florida Man whined about his rights being taken away and Gov Ron allowed this to happen.
— Evan Links (@EvanLinks) March 17, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Standing behind the golfer is fine, but standing directly in front of them could result in someone getting hit.
I get standing behind the golfer. But to have the confidence to stand directly in front of the line of the shot is a special kind of stupid.
— Fountain City Breaks (@FountainCityWax) March 17, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Anything can happen if you’re hit by spinning golf balls, but fortunately, spectators remained unharmed. Nonetheless, this incident also serves as an example for the future.
Read More: Who Is Max Homa’s Wife Lacey Croom?: All You Need to Know About Their Relationship