By Annie Krall
Medill Reports
Some of golf’s finest players handle the pressure in different ways when the camera isn’t pointed their way. It is these tiny, quiet, and almost personal moments that help give the sport its elegance.
Medill Reports had boots on the ground to capture some scenes you may not have caught while watching the Genesis Invitational on television. From logging precious time on the driving range to remembering the basketball legend Kobe Bryant in their own way, the best on the PGA are a lot more than birdie making machines.
Rory McIlroy attacks the short game area of the Riviera two days before his first round. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Tiger Woods ponders his first putt after hitting a phenomenal second shot on the par-4 second hole during Thursday’s round. Woods snagged a solid par after an easy two-putt. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Practicing barefoot on the driving range is Canadian Adam Hadwin two days before the tournament officially begins. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Dustin Johnson’s caddie, Austin Johnson, is his younger brother who is smart enough to put some sunscreen on while holding the second hole flag during his brother’s 70-degree first round. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Brooks Koepka sends some clippings flying on the driving range Friday morning before his second round. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Jason Day takes a load off thanks to his caddie’s support while waiting for his group members to putt out on the second hole Thursday. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
The tragic death of Kobe Bryant could be felt even on the golf course with players like Danny Lee wearing or playing with merchandise honoring the fallen basketball legend. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Phil Mickelson and Brooks Koepka take a moment to themselves before leaving the 18th green
during their first round. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
During his Friday warm up on the range, Bubba Watson pumps the jams to get his head in the game. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Dylan Frittelli and Matthew Wolff’s caddie grab some quick refreshments before starting the back nine during the first day of play. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
The short game area sits in peaceful tranquility while the pros begin their first rounds at Riviera Country Club. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
Photo at the top: Tiger Woods, 2020 Genesis Invitational host, measures a putt on the first day of play. He failed to perform well finishing the tournament +6. With that, the epic battle between the tiger and the Riviera Country Club continues with the course besting the player for the twelfth time without a win. (Annie Krall/MEDILL)
