Home/Golf

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

After its official entry into the professional arena, LIV Golf has been able to accumulate many positive outcomes. From its successful first year to its players being welcomed to play in the majors, and now the most recent $3 billion merger, the new series has certainly seen a lot of success. However, the recent LIV event in Spain has added a dent to the league’s image.

The Saudi-backed league suffered its very first internal dispute post its Andalucía event. And at the center of the controversy is none other than Brooks Koepka and his Smash GC teammate. As their feud rages on, more revelations come to light, and as per the latest, it seems like the captain’s harsh words have left a deep impact on his teammate!

Brooks Koepka leaves his Smash GC teammate heartbroken with his insult

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Given that LIV Golf hasn’t been around for a long time, one of the most prominent features of this league has been its united team-oriented format. However, the recent clashes between Brooks Koepka and Matthew Wolff have shadowed this public image and brought forth LIV’s first dispute.

Recently, through media outlets, it has produced more overt controversy. Following his captain’s comments, Wolff informed Sports Illustrated that it has been “heartbreaking” to hear through the news that his team leader has given up on him. “It’s not what a team member looks to hear from its leader, and I think we all know these comments should have been handled much differently,” he added, per the Golf Channel.

It was beyond disappointing for Wolff to come across Koepka’s statement. Just days ago, post-LIV Golf Andalucía, the 2023 PGA Championship winner said, “I’ve basically given up on him—a lot of talent, but I mean the talent’s wasted.” Keopka also added that when one quits on a round, they give up, and that doesn’t count as competition, pointing to his fellow teammate’s withdrawal at the DC event.

USA Today via Reuters

As unfortunate as the past few games have been for Wolff, things were not always like this. He started his 2023 season with an exceptional display of skills, finishing three times in the top 10. However, in came the Australian venue, and out went the golfer’s form! He finished T44 at LIV Adelaide. And it all stems from the recent struggles he’s been facing!

Matthew Wolff aims to conquer his difficulties and succeed

Per Matthew Wolff’s statement, he had entered Smash GC with an optimistic approach, hoping to learn from the likes of the 5-time major winner; however, his mental health battle has drained the energy from him. In accordance with this, Wolff said, “I feel I have let myself down and even others in our new team environment. This has been quite difficult for me,” accepting the toll competitive golf can take on any professional.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Read More: Why Brooks Koepka is the Greatest Golfer of This Generation

Back in 2021, post-pandemic, the golfer had also come across similar issues. But he was able to make a comeback through the LIV Golf series. This time, as well, the former PGA Tour winner seemed determined to overcome the looming shadows of his mental health problems. But there seems to be a visible contradiction in his statements.

via Reuters

He believed that he had been trying to improve his game and working on his mental health as well. Concerning the same, Wolff admitted that he is aiming for a “BIGGER” win in life. Moreover, he trusted Brooks Koepka when it came to wanting the best for his team. His recent saddening statement, however, did not reflect that sentiment.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

This Story | After a Successful LIV Golf Adelaide, $400M Worth CEO Greg Norman Set to Return to Australia With Another Big Announcement