During the second round of The Open Championship, NBC broadcasters Dan Hicks and Kevin Kisner found themselves in an unexpected situation when a bat suddenly entered their booth. The incident occurred as players battled through the rain, adding an unusual twist to the already challenging golf competition. Hicks, known for his energetic and dynamic commentary, responded with dramatic hand gestures as if trying to scare away the bat. Meanwhile, Kisner, a seasoned announcer, opted for a more composed reaction by pulling his sports coat over his head to shield himself from the unexpected intrusion. The contrast in their responses provided a humorous moment for viewers, underscoring the chaotic and unpredictable nature of live sports broadcasting.
Mike Tirico, who narrated the replay of the incident, took the opportunity to rib Kisner for his reaction, noting that a proud hunter might find himself spooked by a bat. The event was set against the backdrop of fluctuating weather conditions, with the tournament facing downpours throughout the morning and afternoon. Despite the challenges, the broadcast team managed to maintain their focus on the competition, even as they dealt with the unexpected bat invasion. The incident has since become a memorable moment in the coverage of The Open Championship, highlighting the unpredictable and sometimes humorous nature of live sports commentary.
While the bat incident was a brief and lighthearted diversion, the tournament continued with its main focus on the golfers competing under difficult weather conditions. Matt Fitzpatrick was leading the event at 9-under par at the time of the report, showcasing the resilience of the players despite the challenges posed by the weather and the unexpected interruption in the broadcast booth. The incident, while amusing, serves as a reminder that even the most professional sports events can be disrupted by the most unexpected occurrences.