I didn’t see it coming. He’s Canadian and it gives him a chance to go home.
Listen, you never know when these type of jobs come around but tough timing as well. There’s a lot to unpack and figure out at the moment. It would be nice if there was clarity before he’s leaving.
Keith Pelley shakes hands with Justin Rose after the 2018 Turkish Airlines Open. (Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images)
Keith has always been a disruptor of the game in a good way. He’s always looked for angles, for ways to grow the game, he’s always thought a little bit differently than guys who have been in his position prior. I’ve always enjoyed his outlook and the way he swung for the fences, so-to speak.
Crystal ball would have been great because there have been some opportunities the way golf has gone where the European Tour could have positioned itself in a different way and possibly strengthened the tour in the shorter term. I don’t know how this new arrangement with (private equity), for example, if it goes through, pertains to the European Tour. So maybe it still will be a good move for the European Tour.
On Guy Kinnings taking over
He’s a lovely guy to be around. He plays the agent card really well, he knows what he is. He’s comfortable wearing a little pink.
He looks like he has been poised for a big job either with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour. Ever since the alliance I always figured he was in line for a top job with one of the tours so this doesn’t surprise me.