4 days ago
RBC Canadian Open: Latest PGA Tour Technology Draws Mixed Reviews
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Golf fans watching the RBC Canadian Open will notice something new about the shot tracing technology.
The PGA Tour unveiled its new "smart trace," which will change color after a shot based on whether the ball lands in the fairway or the green.
Josh Carpenter, a reporter for Sports Business Journal, tweeted about the new change and shared the PGA Tour video that shows it shifting colors.
PGA Tour debuts a new 'smart trace' that changes colors based on fairway probability — Josh Carpenter (@JoshACarpenter) June 5, 2025
His post sparked fans to begin discussing whether or not this is a change that needed to happen.
There is no denying that since LIV Golf emerged onto the scene, the PGA Tour has made some changes with its schedule and payouts.
CALEDON, ONTARIO - JUNE 05: Signage is seen along the course during the first round of the RBC Canadian Open 2025 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley on June 05, 2025 in Caledon, Ontario.
CALEDON, ONTARIO - JUNE 05: Signage is seen along the course during the first round of the RBC Canadian Open 2025 at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley on June 05, 2025 in Caledon, Ontario.
Photo byIt also seems like they are taking some notes from the rival league for improving the golf broadcast.
The fans were hot and cold about his new technology; many felt it was insufficient.
Cool tech, but so much worse than the camera from behind with normal shot tracer... this is a terrible view for people who like golf — George Beardsley (@GBeardsley) June 5, 2025
The X user, George Beardsley, complimented the tech but expressed that he did not like it.
"Cool tech, but so much worse than the camera from behind with normal shot tracer... this is a terrible view for people who like golf," he wrote.
Another user wanted less technology and, of course, fewer commercials.
How about less tech and less commercials? — Mike McG (@EffTruck) June 6, 2025
A few people took the opportunity to express their opinions about this change and remind the PGA Tour of their other needs.
"This is cool, but we really just want to see more than six golfers during prime time coverage," X user Jack Goff wrote.
While many people were unimpressed by the tracer, some fans still thought it was neat.
Very cool. Love this application of tech. — Lee Brillhart (@leebrill) June 6, 2025
One guy suggested they do the same for the ladies' tour so more people can see how far the women hit it.
There were many mixed reviews for this new technology, as it seemed to be a slight shift in the broadcast when there were other issues at hand.
Many who commented on the new tracer quickly reminded the PGA Tour of that, too. Simply put, fans want fewer commercials and more action from the best players on the PGA Tour.
At least the Tour seems finally open to changes and improving its product for professional golf. The broadcast may have room to grow, but it appears to be heading in the right direction.
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