Rory McIlroy feels golf's appeal diminished by ‘too many' events
As well as the Saudi-funded breakaway LIV Golf circuit, the influence of YouTube golf continues to rise.
McIlroy himself helped set up the indoor Tomorrow Golf League alongside Tiger Woods, in which the action is played out on two highly sophisticated golf simulators.
The early call from @McIlroyRory 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/teMXLHg1Hw
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) January 29, 2025
World number three McIlroy will be back out on the course for his 2025 PGA Tour season debut at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in Pebble Beach, but accepts there now are plenty of other ways for fans to get their golf fix.
'I think it already has been diminished,' McIlroy said.
'I can see when the golf consumer might get a little fatigued of everything that's sort of available to them.
'So to scale it back a little bit and maybe have a little more scarcity in some of the stuff that we do, like the NFL, I think might not be a bad thing. I think 47 or 50 tournaments a year is definitely too many.'
It's @JupiterLinksGC!
What. A. Night. pic.twitter.com/8s3zrt4N0h
— TGL (@TGL) January 28, 2025
McIlroy, though, does not feel the sport should stray too far from its core values.
'There is a lot of things about golf that are very different than other sports, but I think that is what makes it unique,' McIlroy told a press conference.
'I don't think we should try to dumb down golf to appeal to more people. Golf is golf at the end of the day. It has been this way for hundreds of years.
'I really like the way golf is and I think a lot of other people do too, but I still understand the critiques of how the entertainment product could get better.'
McIlroy added: 'First and foremost we are professional golfers – we want to go out there and shoot the best score possible that we can and try to beat each other.
'Hopefully people find that entertaining, and if not, then I don't know what to tell them.'
Scottie Scheffler is, meanwhile, set to return from the freak hand injury which delayed the start of his 2025 campaign.
The world number one was making ravioli on Christmas Day when the wine glass he was using to shape the pasta shattered and cut his hand, with the injury requiring surgery.
#1 is here.
Scottie Scheffler 🔥 pic.twitter.com/fZsGLlOCYo
— AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (@attproam) January 29, 2025
Scheffler subsequently missed The Sentry and The American Express, but insists he is fully fit for his return in California.
'It's one of those deals where immediately after it happened I was mad at myself because I was like, 'Gosh, that's so stupid'. But you just don't think about it when you're in the moment,' Scheffler said.
'It really wasn't like terrible, but I knew I messed something up just because the way my hand wasn't really moving much and if I did, it hurt pretty bad, so I knew something was up.'
Scottie Scheffler is BACK. 😎pic.twitter.com/JNhubPW8AC
— Golf Digest (@GolfDigest) January 28, 2025
Scheffler won seven PGA Tour titles last year, including a second Masters title.
The American is confident his recovery has gone to plan.
'Everything had healed properly. I was in a good spot and got some freedom from the doctor,' he said.
'(My) season debut, it is a little weird making it this late in the year, but it is good to be back, feeling well rested.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Upturn
2 hours ago
- Business Upturn
Inside Bentley's Pawsperous World: How a Top Pet Influencer in the USA Built a Smart Business
In recent years, the USA has seen a remarkable rise in pet influencers who capture hearts across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Among these furry celebrities, Bentley stands out as a beloved figure. Known for his charming personality and heart-melting content, Bentley has successfully transformed from an adored pet into a business powerhouse. His journey reflects not just the love people feel for pets online, but also the growing niche economy of the pet influencer business model in the USA. Bentley's appeal lies in his ability to balance cuteness with relatability, attracting millions of fans who follow his daily adventures. But behind the adorable posts lies a carefully structured system of monetisation. Understanding Bentley's pet influencer business model offers unique insights into how animal influencers generate revenue, work with brands, and sustain a long-term income strategy in a competitive digital space. Bentley's Pet Influencer Business Model in the USA At its core, Bentley's success is built on a combination of digital storytelling, strategic brand partnerships, and diversified income streams. Unlike human influencers, pets like Bentley rely on owners and creative teams to design a content pipeline that resonates with audiences while meeting the demands of brands. What makes Bentley's model particularly impressive is its adaptability. He doesn't rely on just one revenue source. Instead, he operates through multiple layers—sponsored posts, collaborations, merchandise, and even affiliate programs—each tailored to the unique spending habits of US pet owners. Brand Collaborations: The Heart of Bentley's Income For Bentley, brand collaborations form the foundation of his income structure. Pet care brands, lifestyle companies, and even mainstream consumer products partner with Bentley to gain visibility in front of his loyal fanbase. These collaborations often take the form of Instagram posts, TikTok videos, or sponsored reels showcasing Bentley enjoying a toy, trying a new treat, or even lounging in pet-friendly furniture. In the USA, brands are highly focused on authenticity. Bentley's content is carefully crafted to feel genuine rather than overtly promotional. This builds trust not only with his audience but also with the companies who see him as a reliable ambassador for their products. His ability to maintain this balance makes brand deals one of his most consistent income streams. Sponsored Social Media Posts and Story Integrations Beyond traditional collaborations, Bentley earns revenue from sponsored posts and story integrations. Companies pay Bentley's team to feature their products directly within his daily content. A simple Instagram story of Bentley enjoying a new chew toy or wearing a stylish pet accessory can generate significant brand engagement. Because Bentley's followers are already invested in his lifestyle, they're more likely to trust his 'recommendations.' This positions him as a micro-celebrity whose digital endorsements carry weight in the competitive US pet market. The growing trend of pet-focused influencer marketing ensures that Bentley's sponsored content remains a profitable channel. Merchandise and Bentley-Branded Products Bentley's brand doesn't stop at digital content—he has extended his presence into merchandise. From apparel featuring his signature face to accessories for both pets and humans, Bentley's merchandise taps into fans' desire to connect more closely with him. In the USA, where consumer spending on pets has reached record highs, Bentley's branded products offer fans the chance to 'take a piece of him home.' Merchandise not only creates a steady revenue stream but also strengthens brand loyalty, turning followers into paying customers who proudly showcase their Bentley-themed gear. Affiliate Marketing and Bentley's Influence on Pet Purchases Affiliate marketing plays a vital role in Bentley's pet influencer business model. Through carefully curated links and discount codes, Bentley's followers can purchase products he uses or recommends. Each sale generates commission for Bentley's team, creating a passive income stream that requires less direct brand management. Given the USA's booming e-commerce sector, this model fits seamlessly with consumer behavior. Fans enjoy receiving exclusive codes from Bentley while brands benefit from trackable conversions. This win-win approach highlights how pet influencers like Bentley tap into digital shopping trends. Event Appearances and Public Engagements Bentley's influence also extends offline. From pet expos to brand launch events, Bentley has appeared at gatherings where fans can meet him in person. These events not only deepen community bonds but also generate income through appearance fees, merchandise booths, or exclusive partnerships tied to the event. Event appearances are particularly powerful in the USA, where pet-friendly culture thrives. Meeting Bentley in person creates an emotional connection that digital content alone cannot replicate, making this income stream both financially and strategically valuable. Pet Product Collaborations and Co-Branded Launches Another creative layer of Bentley's income model is product collaboration. Some brands partner with Bentley to create limited-edition pet toys, accessories, or even treats branded under his name. These co-branded products cater to fans eager to give their own pets something 'Bentley-approved.' This strategy elevates Bentley from being just a promotional partner to a co-creator in product development. By lending his name and identity to exclusive launches, Bentley positions himself not only as a consumer-facing brand but also as a market innovator within the US pet industry. The USA Pet Influencer Landscape and Bentley's Strategic Position The USA pet influencer market is uniquely shaped by consumer spending habits, digital trends, and strict regulations. Pet spending in the United States has surpassed $100 billion annually, with a growing portion allocated to premium products, services, and experiences. Bentley thrives in this space by aligning with brands that reflect quality and relatability. At the same time, Bentley's business model adheres to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines requiring clear disclosures on sponsored content. His team ensures transparency with followers, using hashtags like #ad or #sponsored when necessary. This not only maintains legal compliance but also reinforces audience trust—an essential component of sustaining long-term influence. Community Engagement: Bentley's Secret Ingredient Beyond income, Bentley's true power lies in his community engagement. His followers don't just view him as a cute pet—they see him as part of their daily lives. Bentley's content often includes storytelling, emotional moments, and relatable pet-owner experiences, making fans feel personally connected. This level of engagement builds a loyal fan base that translates into higher ROI for brands. Unlike traditional advertising, Bentley's community-driven approach ensures that every collaboration feels authentic, amplifying the effectiveness of his business model. A Blueprint for Replicating Bentley's Business Model For aspiring pet influencers, Bentley's strategy serves as a blueprint for building a sustainable income. His model can be broken down into several actionable layers: Build a strong, authentic online presence – Focus on storytelling and daily relatability to attract genuine followers. Diversify income streams – Rely on multiple sources such as sponsored posts, merchandise, affiliate links, and event appearances. Align with USA market trends – Collaborate with premium brands that match consumer spending habits. Follow FTC guidelines – Maintain transparency and credibility with audiences by disclosing paid promotions. Leverage community engagement – Turn followers into a loyal fan base that actively supports both content and commerce. By following this structure, other pet influencers can replicate Bentley's balance of creativity, income generation, and long-term sustainability. The Bigger Picture: How Bentley Shapes the Pet Influencer Economy in the USA Bentley's model goes beyond personal success. His influence has indirectly reshaped how brands in the USA approach marketing. Companies that once focused exclusively on human influencers now allocate budgets for pet partnerships, recognising their emotional and cultural impact. This shift represents the rise of a niche economy—where pets not only entertain but also act as serious revenue-generating partners in brand campaigns. Bentley exemplifies how a single pet influencer can drive this change, pushing industries from fashion to food to consider animal-led collaborations. Conclusion: Bentley's Business Model as a Pet Economy Game-Changer Bentley's story highlights more than just the journey of a beloved pet influencer—it illustrates the evolution of digital monetisation in the USA. Through strategic brand partnerships, diverse income streams, merchandise, and authentic community engagement, Bentley has created a thriving business model that blends cuteness with commerce. For fans, Bentley remains a source of joy and companionship. For brands, he is a valuable marketing partner. And for the pet influencer industry, Bentley represents a benchmark of success—a model that others aspire to replicate. His impact stretches far beyond likes and shares, shaping how businesses view pets not only as companions but as partners in a growing economy. In Bentley's world, every wag, pawprint, and playful glance carries both emotional value and economic potential—proving that the pet influencer business model in the USA is here to stay, with Bentley leading the way. This article is intended solely for informational and editorial purposes. It does not constitute endorsement or promotion of any artificial intelligence technology. Business Upturn makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
YouTube Adds Artists Engagement Options to YouTube Music
This story was originally published on Social Media Today. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Social Media Today newsletter. YouTube Music is celebrating its ten-year anniversary, and to mark the occasion, YouTube has announced various additions to its music listening app, which are designed to drive more engagement among fans. First off, YouTube's launched some new badges for fans, including "First to Watch," "Top Listener," and more, as a means to encourage, and even gamify, artist engagement. As you can see in these examples, fans will be able to earn badges based on their engagement history, in order to show just how big a fan they are of an artist. Which will no doubt prove popular, and will get more users engaging with their favorite bands and musicians more often in the app. On a related front, YouTube's also adding achievements for artists, so that fans can help them reach new engagement milestones. As explained by YouTube: 'Music video watch milestones will highlight official artist videos nearing major 'view' milestones (think 100,000, 1M, even 1B views!) and motivate true fans to help their favorite artists hit major milestones.' It's another way to showcase your support, and incentivize more engagement with artists. YouTube has also announced a new partnership with live music promotion platform Bandsintown, which will enable YouTube to highlight live shows in your region. 'We're also adding new notifications to let you know when upcoming releases from your favorite artists are announced, new merch is dropping, or event dates are added - so fans never miss a beat.' So now you'll be able to keep updated on local shows by your favorite artists, which will help YouTube become a bigger hub for music engagement. Which is a key focus. Both YouTube and Instagram have been adding more music features as a means to supplant TikTok as the main music engagement tool of choice, in the event that TikTok ends up getting banned in the U.S. I mean, music engagement has always been huge on YouTube anyway, but with TikTok becoming the main platform for music sharing, YouTube is also looking to better position itself to take that mantle if opportunity arises. YouTube's also adding comments on albums and playlists, as another means to connect around music tastes, while it's also rolling out 'taste match playlists,' which will provide another means to find music that aligns with your interests. YouTube says that its taste-matched playlists will be automatically updated daily, based on the music tastes of everyone that's accessing them, which will also enable YouTube to keep users updated of relevant new releases. And it's got a lot of data to go on for this. YouTube says that YouTube Music users have created over 4 billion music playlists, including 1.8 billion public ones, so it has a huge amount of cross-matching it can do to find related interests. These are some interesting options, that will likely drive more engagement in YouTube's Music app, while the capacity to cross-promote live shows will be a welcome update for artists seeking to maximize the benefits of the tool. Also, if you're promoting any musicians, might be good to take a look at Bandsintown for expanded promotion. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Robert MacIntyre and Tommy Fleetwood make strong starts to Tour Championship
Robert MacIntyre and Tommy Fleetwood were three shots off the lead as Russell Henley set the early pace at the Tour Championship in Atlanta. Henley carded a flawless nine-under-par 61 at East Lake to lead by two from world number one Scottie Scheffler. Scotland's MacIntyre and England's Fleetwood were a shot further back alongside potential American Ryder Cup picks Collin Morikawa, Patrick Cantlay and Justin Thomas. Rory McIlroy was five strokes off the lead, in a group which also included Sweden's Ludvig Aberg, after completing a 64 with an unusual birdie in the final group. His third shot from a bunker on the closing par five came back off a grandstand to the green where he holed from 18 feet, seconds before the siren sounded for the course to be evacuated because of approaching storms. Rain throughout the day softened the course enough to allow the 30-strong field to clean and place their balls on the fairways. Henley took full advantage of a day of low scoring, holing three birdie putts from at least 40 feet and closing with three straight birdies. Scheffler finished with two birdies alongside McIlroy to jump out of the pack as Henley's nearest challenger. MacIntyre and Fleetwood came close to winning in the opening two events of the season-ending FedEx play-offs and continued their good form at East Lake. Fleetwood opened with three birdies, his only blemish coming on the 10th, MacIntyre stringing together three straight birdies from the 11th, with both making a birdie at the last.
