SPRINGFIELD, N.J. – The last time golf fans saw Daniel Berger in action was June 30 in Akron, Ohio. Having just hit his opening tee shot at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, Berger withdrew because of a strained left shoulder, walked off the fairway at Firestone Country Club and subsequently collected $50,500.
Some questioned Berger’s sportsmanship, but here’s the truth: Berger didn’t take a spot away from anyone. He earned his spot in the limited-field event and there are no alternates in World Golf Championships.
“I make the decision for myself, not for the person waiting to take my spot, but I would never hit a tee shot and walk in off the fairway if someone else would have the opportunity to play,” Berger said Tuesday on the putting green at Baltusrol Golf Club.