The sun dappled through Augusta’s towering pines last Wednesday afternoon. Children’s laughter mixed with polite applause across the pristine par-3 course. Tiny caddies in white jumpsuits stumbled alongside their famous fathers. This treasured Masters tradition transforms golf’s most hallowed grounds into a family playground once every year. Among these special moments, seven-year-old Frankie Fleetwood stole the spotlight.
Tommy Fleetwood’s young son wasn’t just carrying clubs. He was carrying the entire interview. The youngster faced the cameras with natural confidence, and his charming British accent and quick wit captivated viewers immediately. “I’ve been trying my hardest to get it over the green,” Frankie explained earnestly. “I’ve been practicing as hard as I can but just not reaching it this year.”
His perfect mimicry of professional interview responses left viewers charmed with one post on X swiftly declaring, “Frankie Fleetwood interviews better than most PGA players. His accent is awesome too.” This heartwarming moment quickly became an unexpected masterclass in media relations. Mainly because of the timing!
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You see, the timing couldn’t have been more relevant given recent tensions between players and the press. Frankie’s natural ease presented a stark contrast to the sometimes guarded approach of the Tour professionals, especially Colin Morikawa‘s.
Collin Morikawa’s recent press struggles were inevitable when he made headlines for all the wrong reasons after Bay Hill. After finishing T2, Morikawa chose not to speak to the media at all.. Just like Rory McIlroy did at the 2024 US Open after 1-stroke defeat. Morikawa was then quick to point out he “doesn’t owe the media anything.” And boy, has this whipped up a storm.
“I might bite my tongue after saying this, but to the Brandel Chamblees, to the Paul McGinleys, and to the Rocco Mediates of the world, I don’t regret anything I said. You know, it might have been a little bit harsh that I don’t owe anyone, but I don’t owe anyone,” Collin Morikawa expressed his feelings adamantly at TPC Sawgrass. The controversy highlighted the growing tension between golf’s stars and those covering them. Many members of the community called Morikawa out for owing it to the fans, if not the media.
Professional golf media have long valued authenticity in player interviews. Frankie’s natural approach at Augusta provided a perfect example of genuine engagement with questions. His spontaneous responses and earnest delivery stood in stark contrast to the sometimes guarded answers from tour professionals. This refreshing display of authenticity sparked immediate reactions from fans across social media platforms.
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Fan reactions flood social media asking Colin Morikawa to learn
Golf Twitter erupted with praise for the youngest Fleetwood. “Frankie Fleetwood is more willing to talk to the media than Morikawa,” wrote one golf enthusiast, directly referencing the media snub incident where Morikawa declined three follow-up questions and left after just three minutes. Another fan agreed: “Frankie Fleetwood is better in the interview room than Collin Morikawa,” noting how the seven-year-old answered questions for nearly five minutes—longer than Morikawa’s entire press conference.
Some were more direct in their commentary, with one fan bluntly stating, “Collin Morikawa should take notes,” a clear reference to the two-time major champion’s recent media struggles.
The enthusiasm continued with creative suggestions from fans. “Give Frankie Fleetwood his own Tuesday press conference at next year’s Masters,” proposed one avid golf follower, referencing Augusta National’s tradition of Tuesday press conferences that often produce stale, rehearsed answers from players. The comment suggested Frankie’s fresh approach would be a welcome change from the typically guarded responses at golf’s most prestigious event. Another fan expressed their admiration more dramatically: “Frankie Fleetwood for president!” exclaimed a golf enthusiast after the clip reached an impressive 2 million views within 24 hours.
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Professional commentators also noted Frankie’s natural media presence. “Frankie Fleetwood interviews like a seasoned pro! Love it,” posted a well-known golf analyst. The comment compared Frankie’s delivery to Brooks Koepka‘s often praised candor and natural speaking style. This sentiment particularly resonated with the golf community, gathering thousands of likes and spurring discussion about whether media training sometimes removes authenticity rather than enhances it.
The viral moment captured a refreshing side of golf interviews. Young Frankie’s natural approach won fans over instantly. His seven-year-old earnestness provided a stark contrast to the often reserved press conferences typical on tour. The clip continued gaining traction throughout Masters week, eventually becoming one of the tournament’s most shared moments online.