Johnson Wagner, once a steady presence on the PGA Tour, has emerged as an unlikely golf-TV sensation thanks to a segment that’s as entertaining as it is unpredictable. Rather than analyze Tiger Woods’ greatest shots from the broadcast booth, Wagner’s new series on Golf Channel has him reliving them, often failing humorously in the process.
A Fresh Take on Tiger’s Brilliance
During coverage of the Truist Championship, Wagner reenacts iconic shots from Tiger Woods’ legendary 2000 season. But don’t expect crisp re-creations of golf perfection; Wagner’s shaggy attempts often result in duffs, flubs, and collective chuckles. What began as a spontaneous on-course demonstration in 2024 has now turned into must-watch television for golf fans everywhere.
It all began at the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst, where Wagner tried recreating a dramatic sand save. That unlikely success convinced Golf Channel producers to let him attempt Tiger’s shots next, leading to a chaotic two-week journey across four legendary courses in North America.
Failing Forward — And Winning Fans
Wagner isn’t embarrassed by his blunders. In fact, he embraces them:
“I don’t want to hit bad shots,” Wagner shared, “but when I do, people seem to enjoy them even more.”
Viewers connect with Wagner because he captures the reality of golf for amateurs — it’s hard! Instead of hiding mistakes, Wagner highlights them with humor and humility, winning viewers over with what one producer called “the most relatable golf segment we’ve ever done.”
A New Career Born from a Shank
After 12 years on Tour and three wins, Wagner was already considering a broadcasting pivot. A Players Championship assignment in 2023, where he flubbed a Xander Schauffele chip on live TV, accidentally became his breakout moment. Far from being ridiculed, the internet adored it:
- Golf Twitter praised him for embracing the mistake
- Golf Channel recognized his on-air charisma
- More “real golf moments” were added to coverage
Putting Fun Back in Golf Coverage
Today, Wagner’s blend of analysis, self-deprecating humor, and fearless reenactments is reshaping how golf media connects with viewers. In an age where authenticity trumps perfection, Wagner’s chunked wedges and botched flops are resonating more than birdie highlights ever could.
As Wagner humbly put it:
“I think people see me hit a shot and think, ‘Hey, that’s how I’d do it too.’”
To learn more, read the full article on Golf.com.
