Doesn't anyone just PLAY the game for fun?
I came second in a tournament the other day! I was ecstatic and proud of myself! I shot 29 + 31 at Erin Hills in Legend Tier. It took luck, and I was nervous, and I almost blew it, and I also ran 3-4 putts inches past the hole. The difference between winning and not being competitive is pretty small. It was definitely my best performance at that course, too, one I struggle with.
I look at guys winning $1000s and scoring 53s in tournaments and I think I could never do that. I can't see how I'll ever make TL or Champion level, but... then again... maybe I will, in time. A month ago I didn't think I'd get on the podium at any tournament in Legend Tier. A few months ago I couldn't imagine making it to Master Tier. And I was swinging my L48 R1 driver around hitting 64 credit WGT balls wondering why anyone would ever bother with anything else.
If you want to get better, play more, read more tips, practice what you're doing, actually take note of the equipment you use and what others say about it. Nobody has the right to expect to compete against people who put in the hours and take this seriously (and perhaps, spend the money).
If you turn up to a head to head game with rocks and starter Wedges as a level 60 Tour Pro, expect to get thrashed quite regularly.