Look at who wins the event. Look at how the best players in the world play the course.
I don't see how this is valid criticism of the Players. But I would agree that to some degree the Players is more hype than merit regarding its status.
On the topic of Webb Simpson, according to Wikipedia, he has the US Open win in 2012, and not a single other major top ten. That's crazy if you ask me. I definitely think he has to be Stewart Cink/Lucas Glover/ YE Yang tier major champion. I see the point that he now has a better career than Fowler but it is definitely been longer than Fowler's. I would assume that Fowler would be crushing him if you don't count wins.
However Webb did lose in a playoff last year at WMPO, so he definitely has been having a bit of a career resurgence the last couple of years. I don't think it is unreasonable to see him in a Ryder Cup spot if he keeps it up.
Despite the fact that I find myself constantly defending Rickie, I do somewhat agree with you guys that his career to this point has been a little underwhelming/not lived up to the hype. I don't think that takes away from the fact that he is a top 5-20ish player in the world these days.
Though if we are going to talk about underwhelming/disappointing careers, how does Kuchar compare to Fowler? Almost an identical resume minus minor tour wins.
