eGolf: The Future of Golf Will Be Driven by Digital Technology

Rickie Fowler hits his second shot on the fourth hole during the third round of the 147th Open Championship at Carnoustie Golf Club on Jul. 21. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Leading up to this year’s Open Championship at Carnoustie Golf Links, Rickie Fowler offered a clue to the future of his sport. The professional golfer posted a picture on Instagram of him playing the course on a golf simulator.

Despite a healthy resistance to change from some traditionalists, electronic golf—eGolf—not only represents the sport’s future but may also be an important ally to a game that has been played for centuries. Fowler’s seemingly innocuous photo reflects where golf is rapidly headed, a…