Brooks Koepka stands out as a distinctive figure in the realm of professional golf. Known as the PGA Tour turned LIV Golf captain for Smash GC, he possesses a bold persona that garners both admiration and criticism from fans and fellow players alike.
Regardless of one’s sentiments towards him, there’s an undeniable quality to Koepka: his unfiltered honesty.
In a recent conversation with Golf.com’s Claire Rogers on her segment, “The Scoop,” Koepka offered insights into his views on golf and life. Set in a relaxed atmosphere where guests indulge in their favorite ice creams, “The Scoop” provides a casual setting for candid discussions.
One of Rogers’ questions delved into Koepka’s admiration for a fellow professional golfer. She asked him to choose one player to partner with for the rest of his career, and his response, naming Rory McIlroy, was both surprising and intriguing.
“Most people probably hate this answer, but Rory,” Koepka remarked. “I feel like maybe — divulging a lot. There’s a competition. Maybe he’s that way or not, but I’ve got to get one more [major] than him. He will get to five soon, and it’s like a one-up thing… I want to try to be better than him because I think he’s arguably one of the best players ever, so it’s trying to one-up — that’s how it feels anyways.”
This declaration sheds light on Koepka’s intense competitive spirit, particularly regarding major championships, the yardstick by which players are often measured. His drive to surpass McIlroy, who currently holds four major titles, reveals the depth of his determination.
Koepka’s competitive nature extends beyond his rivalry with McIlroy. He elaborated on his favorite major victory, his bond with his caddie, and the experience of becoming a first-time father. These personal insights offer fans a glimpse into the man behind the intense on-course demeanor.
While viewers may have initially glimpsed Koepka’s personality during his appearance on Netflix’s “Full Swing,” his conversation with Rogers provides a deeper understanding.
Rogers herself is a prominent figure in the golf community, known for her humorous presence on Twitter and her unique approach to golf coverage. “The Scoop” segment reflects her laid-back style, providing entertainment for fans of all backgrounds.
Koepka joins a roster of distinguished guests on Rogers’ show, including Rose Zhang, Nelly Korda, J.R. Smith, Koepka’s wife, Jena Simms, and many others.
In her role as a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through, Savannah Leigh Richardson continues to deliver comprehensive coverage of the sport. For more updates on golf, follow @_PlayingThrough on major social platforms, as well as Richardson’s personal accounts on Twitter (@SportsGirlSL) and Instagram (@savannah_leigh_sports).
