Whether Tiger is competing or not, he’s still the biggest player in the world.
As much as I love Phil, he’s still a distant second. Tiger has the ability to move the needle in golf more than any other player.
Ever since he burst onto the scene in the late 90s, it’s been Tiger mania ever since. Rightfully so, the guy has won 15 majors and 82 wins. Not to mention, overcoming so many injuries it’s hard to remember them all at this point.
In early 2021, the PGA Tour revealed something new – the PIP (Player Impact Program).
Let’s review…
Player Impact Program
The PIP is a $40 million dollar fund created for a few reasons.
First, to grow the game and reward the players that help that growth. But another reason is to fend off the new Premier Golf League which is causing havoc for the PGA Tour.
The PIP will award 10 players the $40 million dollars based on their “Impact Score.” The top player gets $8 million!
So how do they decide who gets paid?
It’s based on a variety of factors including digital footprint, Nielsen brand rating, search volume, Q rating, social media, and other factors. It’s kind of a black box as no one knows the exact recipe, but these are some of the most important factors.
Predicting the PIP
Notice that winning championships or lowest scoring average has nothing to do with the algorithm. That’s where Tiger comes in.
Despite not hitting a competitive shot in 2021 due to his gruesome automobile accident, he’s still very much a part of the race.
In fact, analysts predict him to win it all. And those estimates were before he broke the internet with his first golf swing since the accident.
Plus, his appearance at the 2021 Hero World Challenge (his event) and hitting balls at the range, the Tiger hype level just hit record highs. Now, he’s even playing in the 2021 PNC Championship, which is sure to increase his chances of winning even more.
Not to mention, he’s the most searched PGA Tour player and has a massive social media following. Needless to say, things are looking good for Tiger to cash in on another 8 million to add to his massive net worth.
Other top contenders include Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Jordan Speith, Phil Mickelson, and others.
Why Tiger Should Win the PIP
Honestly, he deserves every penny from the new PIP system, even if he isn’t playing.
What he has done for the game of golf is immeasurable. He’s done something that no other athlete will be able to do again for their respective sport.
PGA Tour stars know it too. Phil Mickelson often says how grateful he is for Tiger and the opportunities that he’s brought with his astonishing career.
The big cat brought more sponsors, more endorsement/business opportunities, and significantly higher purses for every field. There’s no doubt Tiger will get some of that PIP money, how much remains to be seen.
Do you think Tiger should win the PIP?
Let us know in the comments below!
Written by Michael Leonard
