Bryson DeChambeau of the United States recently made headlines by winning the LIV Golf Invitational - Greenbrier with a record-breaking 58, celebrating his victory with a birdie putt on the 18th hole.
Professional golf has traditionally operated as a meritocracy, where players earn high rewards based on their performance. However, the landscape shifted with the introduction of LIV Golf, which offered guaranteed contracts to top golfers, ensuring they receive their contracted money regardless of tournament performance.
Concerns arose regarding the motivation of LIV golfers compared to those without guaranteed contracts. Studies across various sports have shown that financial incentives can enhance athletic performance, but intrinsic motivation remains a key driver of success.
Elite athletes, including LIV golfers, are driven by a desire to win, with external rewards playing a secondary role. The introduction of team golf in LIV Golf further enhances player motivation, as being part of a team fosters accountability and pushes individuals to perform at higher levels.
Research has shown that athletes tend to excel when part of a team, as the collective goal motivates them to strive for success beyond individual achievements. This phenomenon, known as the Kohler Effect, has been observed in various sports, including swimming and track and field relays.
Ultimately, an athlete's performance is influenced by their talent, preparation, self-belief, and intrinsic motivation. While tour affiliation may impact performance to some extent, the core factors that drive success remain consistent across all athletes and sports.
