Remembering the Tiger Killer & Morikawa's Open Prep - July 8th, 2025

On July 8th, 2025, we remember the life of Ed "The Tiger Killer" Fiori, break down Collin Morikawa's major caddie change for The Open, and discuss the financial struggles for non-elite Tour pros.REMEMBERING ED FIORI (1953-2025)We pay tribute to four-time PGA Tour winner Ed Fiori, who passed away at 72. We look back at his most famous moment: becoming "The Tiger Killer" by beating a 20-year-old Tiger Woods at the 1996 Quad City Classic.Fiori on his legacy: "Even today, people call me the Tiger killer... I'll never forget that weekend at the John Deere."Fiori, a journeyman pro, cemented his place in golf history with one incredible weekend, forever linking his name with the game's greatest player right at the start of his professional career.MORIKAWA'S MAJOR MOVECollin Morikawa has hired legendary caddie Billy Foster for a two-week stint at the Scottish Open and The Open. This is a strategic play to tap into Foster's immense links golf knowledge ahead of Royal Portrush.This move pairs a two-time major champion with a caddie who has been on the bag for legends like Seve Ballesteros, Lee Westwood, and Matt Fitzpatrick, including for Fitzpatrick's U.S. Open win.Is this a short-term "consulting" gig or the start of a new long-term partnership? The pressure is on for this high-profile pairing to deliver immediate results.THE GRIND IS REALWe dive into the harsh financial realities of professional golf. It's not all private jets and massive paychecks; for many, it's a struggle to simply break even on the PGA Tour.Bryson DeChambeau: "Players outside the top one hundred sixty five on the money list, is losing money every year." We back this up with an economist's analysis of tour expenses.Using Kevin Chappell's 2024 season as an example, we illustrate how even earning six figures on Tour can result in a net financial loss after all expenses are paid.Quick HitsThe Open field is set • Spieth on baby watch & may be a late arrival • Ex-LIV golfer Eugenio Chacarra takes a shot at his former tour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.