Analysis of Performance Measures affecting the economic success on the PGA Tour using multiple linear regression

Abstract: This bachelor thesis examined the relationship between performance measures and prize money earnings on the PGA Tour. Using regression analysis and data from seasons 2004 through 2019 retrieved from the PGA Tour website this thesis examined if prize money could be predicted. Starting with 102 covariates, comprehensibly covering all aspects of the game, the model was reduced to 13 with Driving Distance being most prominent, favouring simplicity resulting in an R2Adjusted of 0.6918. The final model was discussed in regard to relevance, reliability and usability. This thesis further analysed how the entry of ShotLink, the technology responsible for the vast statistical database surrounding the PGA Tour, have affected golf in general and the PGA Tour in particular. Analysis regarding how ShotLink affected golf on different levels, both for players as well as other stakeholders, where conducted. These show developments on multiple levels; on how statistics are used, golf related technologies, broadcasts, betting market, and both amateur and PGA Tour playing golf players. The analysis of the latter, using statistics from the PGA Tour website, showed a significant improvement in scoring average since ShotLinks inception.