Full Swing Jumpstarts a Golf Revolution

George Merkt, Contributor

Golf fans around the world have been eagerly anticipating the release of Full Swing, Netflix’s new docuseries about the PGA Tour. After months of waiting, the eight-episode series is finally available to stream, and it has not disappointed.

Full Swing takes viewers behind the scenes of the PGA Tour, giving an inside look at the lives of the world’s top golfers. The series is full of drama, with stars rising and careers on the decline. It also explores the ever-present shadow and threat of LIV Golf, a new professional golf league backed by Saudi Arabian investors.

One of the most interesting aspects of Full Swing is the way it humanizes the golfers. We see them as more than just athletes competing on a golf course. We see their families, their struggles, and their triumphs. We learn about the sacrifices they make to be at the top of their game, and the toll it takes on them physically and mentally.

The series also raises important questions about the future of golf. LIV Golf, the new league backed by Saudi Arabian investors, is a constant presence in the series. The league has been making headlines in recent months, as it seeks to challenge the PGA Tour’s dominance in the world of professional golf. Full Swing explores the impact that LIV Golf could have on the sport, both in terms of its business model and its potential to attract top talent away from the PGA Tour.

But Full Swing is not just about the future of golf. It’s also about the present. The series highlights some of the game’s top players, including Dustin Johnson, Rory McIlroy, and Jordan Spieth. We see these golfers both on and off the course, giving us a better understanding of who they are as people and what drives them to be the best.

One of the most memorable moments of the series comes in the fifth episode when Dustin Johnson wins the 2020 FedEx Cup. The victory is a culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and we see the emotional impact it has on Johnson and his family. It’s a reminder that golf is not just a game, but a way of life for these players.

Full Swing also explores some of the challenges facing the sport of golf, including issues of diversity and inclusion. The series features interviews with players of different races and nationalities, giving voice to a range of perspectives on the sport. This is an important reminder that golf is a global game, with players from all over the world competing at the highest levels.

Overall, Full Swing is a must-watch for golf fans. The series is beautifully shot and expertly edited, with a mix of interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and stunning golf shots. It’s a reminder of why we love this sport, and a glimpse into the world of professional golf that few people get to see.

The series has also received praise from critics, with many hailing it as a groundbreaking piece of sports journalism. Golf Digest called it “essential viewing for anyone who loves the sport,” while Golfweek praised it for its “compelling storytelling” and “unprecedented access.”

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Of course, Full Swing is not without its flaws. Some viewers have criticized the series for its lack of focus on women’s golf, and for its failure to explore some of the more controversial aspects of the PGA Tour, such as the use of performance-enhancing drugs.

But these criticisms should not detract from the overall impact of Full Swing. The series is a triumph of sports journalism, a testament to the power of storytelling, and a reminder of why we love this sport so much. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard golf nut, Full Swing is an essential addition to your regular viewing schedule.