This is a click bait article designed to wind up the Hymies of this world.
The UK is now a third country so as with Americans, Japanese, Aussies, Kiwi's etc they want to ensure anyone entering their country has the wherewithal to pay for themselves during their stay and that they are intending to leave before the 90n days are up. This is no different to what the UK, US, Aus etc do and it is a good thing.
It is also primarily aimed at those not on a package tour. The border patrols of these countries are not going to bother themsleves with general tourists who have hotels and a ticket back. It's aimed at those stopping with someone and/or no return ticket.
Has anyone tried going to the US like this? It's a nightmare I can tell you unless you have the documentation they want.