Some think Watson hurt the Senior PGA Tour because his absence diminished the field's star power and gave the impression Senior events are unimportant. Others argued that Watson is free to play as he chooses. Defending Senior Classic champion Larry Nelson, who lost in a three-way playoff with Watson and Tom Kite last year at the Tradition, is among those who have no problem with Watson's decision. I guess we ought to make him an honorary member of the Senior Tour. What's happened, when you look at our crowds and our ratings, isn't that surprising.
Golf goes in cycles.
But now that they're not playing as much and aren't as competitive as they were, that creates a vacuum. I was in that vacuum on the PGA Tour after those guys had gone, and it lasted for maybe 10 years. Once Player, Nicklaus, Palmer became less competitive, there was a void, and it probably won't be filled until Tiger turns 50. Weaver said Watson was not at fault. But it's a major to the Senior Tour.