In this very special episode of Next on the Tee, 2011 U.S. Senior Open Champion Olin Browne and 1987 US Amateur Champion Billy Mayfair join the show.
Olin shares his thoughts on the PGA Tour’s controversial changes—smaller field sizes, fewer Monday qualifiers, and the dominance of signature events. Is the tour catering too much to top players at the expense of the grinders? Olin shares his perspective on how these changes might impact the next generation of Tour players.
We also discuss the financial side of the game, from $25 million purses to sponsors pulling out. With TV ratings down and fans feeling disconnected from today’s stars, what can the PGA Tour do to bring back its audience? Olin weighs in on whether accessibility and engagement changes could make a difference.
Shifting gears, we reminisce about Olin’s experiences at Oakmont, site of the 2025 U.S. Open. He reflects on his rounds there in ‘94 and ‘07, the legendary greens, and even witnessing Arnold Palmer’s farewell.
Billy Mayfair was also witness to The King’s final US Open round and talks about sticking around following his Friday round to see it. We discuss his trip to Moroccoto open up his Champion’s Tour season. Billy reflects on his legendary iron play, including a streak of six consecutive birdies on Par 3s last season—an impressive feat on today’s long courses.
Billy also gives his perspective on equipment advancements, comparing today’s clubs and balls to those from earlier eras. He recalls playing alongside icons like Nicklaus, Palmer, Player, and Trevino, sharing his favorite memories from competing against legends.
Billy also gets candid about his journey in professional golf, revealing how he turned pro without telling his parents and when he finally broke the news.
Finally, we check in on his wife, Tami, who has been a huge influence on his career—both as a caddie and in her own golf endeavors—and ask Billy how much longer he envisions competing at a high level, given that Bernhard Langer is still winning at 67!
It’s a fascinating discussion with two of golf’s true competitors—don’t miss it!