Is this year’s CJ Cup Byron Nelson cursed? The 2025 edition of this renowned tournament is encountering a wave of participant withdrawals. Will Zalatoris, a local favorite, famously withdrew because of a back injury flare-up. He stated that he needed time to recuperate and prevent long-term problems, saying, “My back needs some rest and recovery. I am ahead of schedule according to my doctors, but unfortunately, the first six months back are the most important for the long-term health of my back.” Additionally, Sungjae Im had to cancel due to illness just before his planned tee time. Even worse, storms persisted throughout the day, and the second round had to be postponed due to lightning in the area. Another barrier has entered the event scene, adding to the anxiety that fans are already feeling due to high-profile withdrawals.

Golf world livid as round of PGA tour event halts abruptly

Due to lightning in the region, the PGA Tour stated on Friday morning that the second round of the CJ Cup Byron Nelson would not be held. At TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, the stop was made at 9:46 a.m., with thunderstorms expected to last all day. Scottie Scheffler, the leader in the first round, was 2-under-par after nine holes, making him 12 under for the event when he was suspended.

“The second round of play at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson was suspended at 9:46 a.m. due to lightning in the area,” the PGA Tour’s communication staff informed spectators. “Storms continue in the area, and second-round play remains suspended,” they tweeted. Players and spectators were irritated by this sudden stop, particularly considering how turbulent the competition had begun.

This year has presented several difficulties, including the disruptions caused by the weather. The fans did not receive this incident well, especially regarding the event suspension and communication management, which the spectators and analysts questioned. Thus, as the skies grew darker over Texas, so did the mood online, where fans didn’t hold back in expressing their frustration.

Fans vent frustration over tournament’s turmoil

Fans are aware of the frequent delays and interruptions, and many have flocked to social media to vent their annoyance. “Getting out of hand smfh wtf,” tweeted one fan, summarizing the feelings of many discouraged by the tournament’s persistent problems. “3 hours we had to wait for this update,” said another fan, alluding to the interval between the first suspension and the PGA Tour’s following correspondence, underscoring the absence of quick updates. Fans feel alienated and unsatisfied with the tournament experience due to the protracted periods of uncertainty. A few fans attempted to make light of the circumstance. One commenter mockingly said, “Thank u admin this is better than nothing!” while pointing out the scant changes offered.

Applying the “preferred lies” rule, which permits players to move their ball into a better position under specific circumstances, has also drawn criticism from some supporters. “More excuses for lift, clean, and CHEAT,” a fan wrote in a remark, raising the possibility that the rule’s implementation is unfairly favoring some players. Fans are becoming disenchanted as a result of weather-related delays, player withdrawals, and alleged irregularities in the application of the rules. One fan mockingly observed, “If my wedding was outside in this type of weather we wouldn’t suspend it,” underscoring the tournament administrators’ apparent over-caution.

The difficulties faced by the CJ Cup Byron Nelson this year serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of outdoor athletic events and the value of efficient communication and backup plans. These problems must be resolved as the event goes on to rebuild trust and guarantee a fun and equitable experience for players and spectators.