LPGA Sets English Language Rules

The LPGA is setting rules for the women golf professionals. It is an English language proficiency standard that must be met or there is a possibility of suspension from the tour:

“…The new guidelines will affect all players who have been on tour at least two years. They will be evaluated with an oral examination, according to Golfweek.

“Hopefully, what we’re talking about is something that will not happen,” LPGA deputy commissioner Libba Galloway is quoted as saying of possible suspensions. “If it does, we wouldn’t just say, ‘Come back next year.’”

link: LPGA players must speak English or face suspension

Whatever happened to using interpreters? As long as all players know the rules by which the game is played, the golf ball does not care whether the player is proficient in English or not. This ruling does nothing to foster the globalization of the sport.

Not being proficient in English may limit a professional golfer’s opportunities to earn extra income with advertising contracts. It may limit socializing at pro-am events. However, the players will recognize that the language barriers are limiting earning capacity and may decide to become more proficient in English. However, should this not be the choice of the player?

The LPGA is threatening a player’s income unless they speak English proficiently. Can you image NBA Commissioner David Stern saying that to the professional basketball players? There would be such an outcry if Commissioner Stern suspended Allen Iverson over English language skills.

Catherine Forsythe