SIGN UP Golf Digest Logo
SUBSCRIBE
The Loop
News & Tours
The Loop

Sabbatini takes time to enjoy Kiawah surroundings

Photo: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images

KIAWAH ISLAND, S.C. -- It's not always a good walk spoiled at golf's toughest tournaments. The pros do stop and smell the flowers -- or in this case, mine for sea shells.

As he sauntered off the tee at the par-15 16th hole Thursday morning at Kiawah Island's Ocean Course, Rory Sabbatini suddenly stopped in the sandy walkway, bent down, and dug out a small oval sea shell. He brushed the sand off it and then handed it to his caddie, Mick Doran.

"That's a great one," Sabbatini gushed.

What made it so great?

"It's just a really nice looking shell. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," Sabbatini, known for his edgy demeanor, said with a smile.

This is the PGA Championship. "Glory's Last Shot" and all. But golf also is meant to be enjoyed, even if it is a major.

"It's a beautiful day in a beautiful place. Might as well enjoy the walk," Sabbatini said.

Golf Digest Logo

The Hit List

The best of Golf Digest delivered daily

Sign Up

Will be used in accordance with our PRIVACY POLICY

Share story