BogeyLounge: Michelle Wie - From Prodigy to Sideshow Act?

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May 31, 2007

Michelle Wie - From Prodigy to Sideshow Act?

A recent internet search for the definition to "sideshow" rendered the following response: Sideshow - A diversion or spectacle that is incidental to a larger set of circumstances or a bigger issue of concern.

Is there a better way to describe Michelle Wie and what has quickly gone from a promising career to a letdown of biblical proportions?

Today, she withdrew after 16 holes with a +14 score... just a two more strokes over par and she would have been banned from LPGA tour events for a full year.

What is going on? Here are a few opinions.

1. Her parents are pushing her too hard.
2. Nike is pushing her too hard.
3. She is using the injury as a safety net for when she doesn't perform.
4. Deep down, she is rebelling against her pop by performing poorly.
5. She should go to college and continue to practice and come back in two years.
6. She should focus on dominating the LPGA before trying to prove anything else.
7. She needs to grow up but can't until number one stops being a factor.

I hope Michelle "recovers" in time for next week's LPGA Championship at Bulle Rock. I thoroughly enjoyed watching her during the event last year when she contended into the final day.

Michelle Wie still has the potential to become one of the greatest athletes we'll ever see. I just hope she doesn't have to reach rock bottom in order to get to the top.