S12, Ep 57 Part 2: Hal Sutton: Perspective, Gratitude & the Game That Shaped Us

Season 12 Finale | Part 2

We close out Season 12 of Next on the Tee with the kind of conversation I always like to save for last — an honest, thoughtful, and heartfelt visit with Hal Sutton.

Hal is genuine, speaks from the heart, and is someone I’m proud to call a friend. We talk about the success of his design at The Darmoor Club outside of Houston, how course design, his podcast Be the Right Club Today, and work in the Instruction space have given him meaningful ways to give back to the game. I asked Hal how golf has been both a blessing and sometimes a burden throughout his life, and if good has always outweighed the bad.

We then dive deep into the Ryder Cup, including why Hal decided to add Jackie Burke Jr. as an Assistant Captain in 2004, how he handled leading a team with massive star power, and why the U.S. continues to struggle in team competition. Hal also shares his thoughts on what might need to change if we’re going to turn the tide.

Hal offers candid insight on the current state of the PGA Tour — shrinking fields, fewer Tour cards, and whether recent changes are about growing the game or overreacting to LIV. We also have some fun reminiscing about persimmon woods, blade irons, balata golf balls, and the artistry required to succeed in his era.

We wrap things up talking equipment, confidence on the greens, his partnership with Makefield Putters, and whether more course design projects might be ahead.

It’s a fitting way to end the season — filled with perspective, honesty, and appreciation for the game and the people who shape it, like Charlie Rymer, Suzy Whaley, and Hal Sutton. I’m incredibly grateful to each of them for their friendship and openness, and I’m truly thankful for you — the listeners — for spending another season with me. Thank you for pressing play and being part of the Next on the Tee family.