Netflix takes a Full Swing with golf documentary but lacks nuance

And while Brooks Koepka and Ian Poulter, LIV stalwarts, are among the primary focus as each episode centres around two players and their journey, Full Swing largely ignores the deeper meaning and politics behind the controversy surrounding the breakaway league.

And while that will grate with some, one could argue that Netflix is not the right place to delve into this topic.

Swiftly cast as the villain when former player and outspoken broadcaster Brandel Chamblee underlines how LIV “threatens the foundations of the game,” the counter-arguments solely revolve around the riches on offer, without truly outlining why they are available.

Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth are shown as ‘frenemies’ during Full Swing

Koepka couldn’t say no given his “grandkids’ grandkids are now taken care of.”

While Poulter, ever a colourful character in the game and worthy of an episode to himself, may just be hoping to have his day in court to ensure he eventually will have his cake and eat it. Yet he remarks: “Do I love the Ryder Cup? Is the Pope Catholic?” Evidently that love is not quite strong enough to risk his presence in Rome this year.

Unlike Drive to Survive, Netflix has managed to ensure the biggest stars feature prominently in Full Swing, with Spieth and Thomas providing an excellent start before McIlroy takes centre stage in the finale.

Ian Poulter takes centre stage in Netflix’s new documentary

Intimate scenes surrounding Spieth’s best man speech and the pair swapping hundreds of dollars during Southern Hills practice rounds for the PGA Championship in a game of ‘Hammer’ illustrate the PGA Tour’s depth despite the many defections last year.

Scottie Scheffler demands more coverage, after returning to the top of the world rankings last week following victory in Phoenix. While the stories behind the likes of Jon Rahm, Xander Schauffele, Tom Kim, Max Homa and Shane Lowry would also appeal. Perhaps fans could play a role in who Netflix follows next?

If LIV was not such a domineering topic in golf, then Full Swing may just emerge as a breeding ground for the stars of tomorrow too. Tony Finau discussing the simple pleasure of a game of Uno with his family or the journeyman grind for the likes of Joel Dahmen are who the average viewer can better relate to in this infuriating sport.

Brooks Koepka features heavily in the first episode

Once the sport settles down though, you can imagine many more versions of Daniel Ricciardo emerging with 156 starters each week, rather than just 20.

Full Swing might just be the final tool to rid golf of its dependence on Tiger Woods, who is not even mentioned until 24 minutes into the first episode.

Hardcore fans will certainly enjoy the show, given a glimpse into how the professionals prepare. From McIlroy, Thomas and Spieth gathering in the gym to the latter’s mid-round commentary while struggling to find his best form: “Oh Jordan, what are you doing? Get lucky, get so lucky.”

Tony Finau and his family in Full Swing

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