The Law of Diminishing Returns
I was listening to “Mike & Mike in the Morning†on the radio today discuss Tiger's win of the U.S. Open. One of the Mike's commented that athletes who win much of the time enjoy their wins much less than they regret their losses. He mentioned Michael Jordan as an example and pointed out how much happier Rocco Mediate looked taking second place than Tiger did winning first. The trophy kiss may have been one of relief than joy.
Around our shop we were all rooting for Rocco. I may be the only Tiger fan in the group, but even I was hoping Rocco would win. His determination, simple approach to the game and grace under pressure were terrific. As the underdog in age, skill and experience Rocco's performance was truly amazing.
I saw Tiger's last 9 holes on Saturday and Sunday, as well as the final four on Monday. He made some incredible shots, but his woods got him in trouble as often as not. Rocco's focus on staying out of trouble kept him in the game and almost won him the Open. I understand that kind of golf and appreciate seeing it work.
Tiger is expected to win and each win is a notch toward beating Jack Nicklas' record. Does a good shot feel as good as a bad shot feels bad? Is a tournament win as thrilling as a loss is painful? Tiger isn't playing for money anymore and playing with the kind of pain his knee was causing him may have cost him the rest of the season. He's got another U.S. Open trophy cup in his collection. May it not be filled with bittersweet regrets.
On another note: Titleist got some great exposure on the staff bag that Tiger's Saturday co-player, Robert Karlsson, used. Karlsson also played a very respectable round that day. Ping was represented by some strong players, the young Hunter Mahan and the Spaniard, Miguel Jimenez, both fun to watch. Plus Lee Westwood was playing with Ping clubs and Lee makes those clubs look like musical instruments with his swing.
But the best advertising was Rocco for Callaway Golf, Phil M. notwithstanding. Roc Solid, is right (especially with the Claw putter).
