Sports journalism is a vibrant and dynamic field, offering a platform for diverse voices to share their insights and perspectives. However, there is a noticeable under representation of Black sports writers covering PGA Tour events. In times past, writers like Pete McDaniel – former Sr. Writer for Golf Digest, best selling author and freelance writer. I along with Pete and several other Black journalist were regular fixtures in the PGA Tour Media Centers. Not nearly so much anymore, and this disparity raises essential questions about diversity, inclusion, and the barriers that may exist within the industry.
One of the primary reasons for the lack of Black sports writers in PGA Tour coverage is the
historical context of golf itself. Golf traditionally has been perceived as a predominantly white sport in terms of its players and audience. This perception may continue to create a barrier to entry for Black journalists who may feel their voices and perspectives are not as valued or relevant in this particular niche. The sport’s well known history of exclusivity, along with very few Black American professional golfers on the PGA Tour, has contributed to this perception and–by extension–the lack of diversity in its coverage.
Another factor is the broader issue of overall representation within sports journalism. While there have been strides in increasing diversity in newsrooms, the industry still struggles with inclusivity, particularly in specialized areas like golf. Black journalists may face challenges in gaining access to the networks and opportunities that lead to covering high-profile events like the PGA Tour. This lack of presence can be due to a lack of mentorship, limited access to resources, or systemic biases within media organizations.
Moreover, the financial barriers associated with covering golf events can also play a role. Travel, accommodation, and equipment costs can be prohibitive, especially for freelance journalists or those working for smaller outlets. The cost of sending a writer/photographer to cover only the premier and major championship events (i.e., the Masters, U.S. Open, and The Open in Europe) can be in the thousands. Aspiring Black sports writers may find pursuing opportunities in this field extremely challenging without adequate support or sponsorship.
Efforts to address these issues are crucial for fostering a more inclusive environment. Media organizations can play a significant role by actively seeking out and promoting diverse voices in their coverage. To improve this situation includes providing mentorship programs, scholarships, and internships aimed explicitly at underrepresented groups. Additionally, creating partnerships with organizations that focus on diversity in sports journalism can help bridge the gap and provide valuable opportunities for Black writers.
The professional tours, the PGA, LPGA, Senior PGA, and, the foreign tours all have committed to growing the game through various player development initiatives.
The PGA Tour itself can also contribute more by promoting diversity and inclusion within its events. More Black journalist participation could involve offering media credentials to various outlets, hosting diversity-focused panels and discussions, and actively engaging with journalists from diverse backgrounds.
The underrepresentation of Black sports writers in PGA Tour coverage is a multifaceted issue requiring concerted efforts from media organizations and the golf industry. We can work towards a more inclusive and representative sports journalism landscape by addressing the historical, systemic, and financial barriers that exist. More journalists of color enrich the coverage of golf and ensure that all communities’ stories and perspectives are heard and valued. Growing the game means more than player development programs, youth programs, and the like. There must be a definitive effort on the part of major media outlets and various tours to support and send more Black journalists to more professional events to report on the entirety of the sport and not just who may or may not be a minority entrant.
