Tyrrell Hatton stands out as a fiery and candid presence in a sport often defined by its buttoned-down demeanor and stoic composure. Known for his on-course outbursts and colorful commentary, Hatton recently gave an interview that has sent ripples through the golf community.
The English golfer, now a star on the LIV Golf league, discussed various topics, with a particular focus on the amount of fines he has incurred over his career for his sometimes unbecoming behavior on the golf course.
The 32-year-old’s career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, punctuated by moments of brilliance and bouts of frustration. Despite his temperamental nature, Hatton has secured a respectable place in the golfing world, with multiple wins and top finishes.
Currently competing in the U.S. Open, Tyrrell Hatton’s candid comments offer a rare glimpse into the financial and emotional toll of his passionate approach to the game.
Tyrrell Hatton’s Interview: Fines, Frustrations, and Frankness
Following Friday’s second round at Pinehurst, Tyrrell Hatton was in front of the media and was asked about the cumulative amount of fines he has received for his temperament throughout his career. The exchange revealed an unexpectedly modest total, contrary to the astronomical figures some might have guessed.
“How much I’ve been fined? I think you’d actually be shocked because you’re thinking it’s ridiculous amounts. Now, don’t get me wrong; it’s still a lot of money, but it is nowhere near—give me your best guess,” Tyrrell Hatton said.
When a reporter guessed $100,000, Tyrrell Hatton laughed and responded:
“Mate, you are not even close. I think even with the DP World Tour, I reckon I haven’t reached double digits. It’s still quite a bit of money, but it’s nowhere near where you were saying.”
Hatton’s revelation underscores a stark contrast with other sports. For example, NBA star Draymond Green has been fined nearly $900,000 by the league and lost an additional $3.2 million due to suspensions.
By comparison, Hatton’s fines seem almost negligible, though the impact on his career and psyche is undeniable.
Tyrrell Hatton’s career is marked by a blend of skill and volatility. He burst onto the scene with a series of impressive performances on the European Tour and later on the PGA Tour. His passionate play and emotional outbursts quickly made him a fan favorite and a polarizing figure.
The pinnacle of his career so far came with his victory at the 2020 Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, a win that boosted his confidence and solidified his reputation as a formidable competitor.
Hatton’s ability to perform under pressure has often been overshadowed by his fiery temper, leading to numerous fines for club throws, curses, and other on-course antics.
Despite these challenges, Hatton has remained a consistent presence in major tournaments. His best finish in a U.S. Open came in 2018, where he secured a T6. However, he has
struggled to maintain that form in subsequent years, often being his own worst enemy on the course.
The U.S. Open Performance
Tyrrell Hatton’s performance at the 2024 U.S. Open has been a mix of brilliance and frustration. He started strong with a two-under 68 in the first round, showcasing his potential to contend.
However, his second round was marred by typical Tyrrell Hatton flare-ups, including a viral moment where he drop-kicked a 5-iron on Pinehurst’s 17th hole—a hole he ultimately birdied.
His candidness continued in the press conference, where he acknowledged the difficulty and stress of playing in the U.S. Open.
“It sort of brings them to my level because I just lose my head every week,” Hatton said with a smile, referring to how the challenging conditions affect even the most composed golfers.
Despite a one-over 71 on Friday, Hatton remains in contention, sitting just a few strokes off the lead. His ability to remain in the hunt despite his emotional outbursts is a testament to his skill and resilience. However, his internal battles are far from over. “Sort of internally screaming for the most part,” he described his mindset during major weeks.
Tyrrell Hatton’s interview provided a rare and refreshing glimpse into the mind of a professional golfer who wears his heart on his sleeve. His comments about fines and his emotional state on the course highlight the unique pressures faced by golfers at the highest level. Unlike many of his peers, Hatton does not shy away from expressing his frustrations, often to his own detriment.
Despite his fiery nature, Tyrrell Hatton is also known for his thoughtfulness and honesty. When asked about his happiest moment of the week, he spoke fondly of staying with fellow golfer Matt Fitzpatrick, enjoying meals prepared by Fitzpatrick’s chef.
“Last night we had peanut butter brownies,” Hatton said with a smile. “The night before that he did a chocolate mousse with shortbread. Off-the-charts good. I’m in my happy place there.”
As Hatton heads into the weekend at the U.S. Open, he remains focused on staying out of his own way and playing to his potential. His journey is a reminder that in golf, as in life, the battle is often as much internal as it is external. For Hatton, finding balance between passion and composure will be key to unlocking his full potential.