NBC commentator Smylie Kaufman has issued an apology following an incident where he inadvertently used profanity during a live broadcast of The Open Championship. Reporting from Royal Portrush on Friday, Kaufman was caught on a hot mic just as golfer Jon Rahm prepared to take a crucial birdie putt on the challenging 14th hole.
While discussing the difficulties of the hole, Kaufman said, “What the f***,” which was audible to viewers moments before Rahm’s swing. NBC’s lead host, Mike Tirico, quickly addressed the slip on air, explaining that there had been technical issues with the microphones. He apologized to viewers for the inadvertent language, emphasizing that this kind of mistake can occur due to the different headset setups onsite compared to their usual broadcasting environment.
Shortly after the incident, Kaufman took to social media to express his regret. He reflected on the unexpected nature of the moment, stating, “Welp, I guess there’s a first for everything.” He explained that he misinterpreted a signal indicating his microphone was off and apologized to his colleagues and the audience, asserting that he would ensure such an incident would not happen again.
Kaufman, who had previously showcased significant potential on the PGA Tour, notably playing in the final group of the 2016 Masters, has since transitioned into broadcasting after an injury-plagued career. Despite the awkward microphone slip, he remains enthusiastic about his role, stating, “I love being on a golf course” and enjoying his new journey alongside former competitors.
The Open Championship at Royal Portrush has seen its share of memorable moments, both on and off the course, including an unexpected visit from a bat during the broadcast, captivating viewers further.
This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of live television while also showcasing Kaufman’s ability to handle an awkward moment with grace and humor. Such occurrences, though slightly embarrassing, contribute to the rich tapestry of sports broadcasting, reminding fans that even professionals have their slip-ups.