It's obviously the masses' preferred format. Sure, there is the added element of nationalism, but some of the interest is clearly generated by its mano a mano format. Match play is just more compelling. Sure it would restore the PGA's point of difference, but it's also a helluva lot of fun to watch and to play. The beauty of match play is that you see blood immediately and you see it on nearly every hole.
Somebody wins and somebody loses.
When the Bulls and Pacers play in the NBA playoffs, we get a decision. We get some satisfaction, some blood. Tour events leave fans in a blurry sort of purgatory for the better part of a week. Match play injects drama and disappointment into every swing. It also creates intense rivalries, which in turn create further interest.