News
USGA tells Bryson DeChambeau his putter is non-conforming
Bryson DeChambeau received word the day before the start of last week’s CareerBuilder Challenge that the USGA had an issue with his widely publicized side-saddle putting, per golf writer Adam Schupak.
Not with the putting, per se, but rather with the putter itself.
Golf’s governing body determined that the center-shafted putter DeChambeau had been using was non-conforming. He was told, reportedly, that the putter would conform if the shaft was seated at the rear of the putter and made the modification.
“I was very disappointed with the way they handled it,” DeChambeau told Schupak Tuesday at PGA Demo Day at Orange County National. “They’ve said to me, too, that they don’t like the way I’m doing it. But it’s within the rules, and I don’t know why they don’t like it. They say I’m potentially taking skill out of the game. Anything that helps shoot lower scores or makes golf more fun and grows the game, that’s what I’m all about.”
The USGA wouldn’t comment on the matter.
“The circumstances surrounding the club’s non-conformance are confidential and between the USGA and Bryson DeChambeau,” USGA spokesperson Janeen Driscoll said.
Certainly, there were those in the golfing community (and likely DeChambeau himself) who felt the USGA would work to shut down the unconventional putting style. Both DeChambeau and his instructor, Mike Schy, seem to feel the USGA now has a vendetta against the Golfing Scientist.
“They basically threatened him that if he showed up on Thursday, they would DQ him,” Schy said. “I think they thought he wouldn’t have a backup and he’d have to go back to conventional and it would be over. The week before, they made him put lead tape and mark it up. Every week, they’ve been inspecting it. It’s bad. It’s really bad. I’m telling you, they do not want him putting this way.”
We’ll keep an eye on this story as it develops.
See in-hand photos of DeChambeau’s putter in our forums.
- LIKE389
- LEGIT28
- WOW93
- LOL44
- IDHT12
- FLOP15
- OB23
- SHANK102
Brazil and Texas were kindred souls this week, at least when it came to weather. Both regions experienced torrential delays, and three tournaments were held up. The LPGA, PGA Tour Americas, and PGA Tour Champions were compelled to reduce play or work extra holes into Sunday. As if that weren’t enough, South Carolina and the PGA Tour fell victim to nature’s wrath, with lightning postponing the conclusion of the event to Monday.
The year’s first women’s major championship was celebrated in Texas. The Chevron is gaining a bit of tradition in its second year after relocation. This year’s event culminated in the continued coronation of the game’s current best. The Korn Ferry Tour saw a top-twenty performance from a 15-year old amateur, while the second event of the week on the big tour found a winner in the Dominican Republic. Six events is more than a handful, so let’s get right to it, with this week’s (delayed) Tour Rundown.
LPGA @ Chevron Championship: Korda corrals second major title
The winter of 2022-2023 seems so distant for current Nelly Korda. A mysterious ailment sapped all of her energy, just as the world appeared to have finally emerged from the pandemic. We never quite secured the complete information that we desired, but no one can say that any of us deserved to know more than Nelly wished to share. One thing is for certain: Nelly Korda has returned to top form, and the world number one golfer is at least one level above anyone else on tour.
Korda began her 2024 campaign with a January victory in the Drive One Championship. In her next start, in March, she continued her assault on the record books, with a win at the Se Ri Pak. She won again the following week, at the Ford, then defeated Leona Maguire in the final match at the T-Mobile Match Play, for a fourth consecutive victory. Would the increased hype around a major championship have an impact on her game? Well, no.
Korda began play at the Chevron Championship with a score of 68. She trailed Lauren Coughlin by two after 18 holes, but caught her with a second-round 69. Coughlin would ultimately tie for third spot with Brooke Henderson. Henderson played with Korda on day four, but the middle third of the round was her undoing. Making a late move was Maja Stark. House Stark closed with birdies at 17 and 18 to reach 11 under par. Both Korda and Strak played the final three days in identical numbers: 69 each day.
Korda held a firm hand on the tournament over the course of the final day. She stood minus-four for the round through ten holes, before a bit of sloppy play made things competitive again. Bogeys at 11 and 15 opened the door a wee bit for Stark. Korda was equal to the test, however, and closed stylishly with birdie at 18.
Safely around the green on the 72nd hole
Watch @NellyKorda‘s historic finish now on NBC! pic.twitter.com/1zaAYtbaCz
— LPGA (@LPGA) April 21, 2024
PGA Tour 1 @ RBC: Scottie, so hottie!
Nelly isn’t the only golfer on fire, although Scottie Scheffler still has a ways to go to match her. Scheffler proved this week that he has a game for all courses. After winning comfortably at lengthy Augusta National, Scheffler shifted gears and game to the wee Sea Pines course, and won again. That’s two weeks in a row for the man from New Jersey/Texas, so let’s learn how he did it.
Scheffler totaled 69 on day one, and found himself six shots behind leader J.T. Poston. Scheffler revealed that his teacher, Randy Smith, would tell him that he didn’t need to be the best 15 year-old; just the best 25 year-old. It was easy, then, to play the long game and consider all 72 holes, instead of just 18. Scheffler improved to 65 on Friday, and then went even lower on Saturday. His 63 moved him to the top of the board, and caused the golfverse to wonder if Scheffler would win for a second consecutive week.
Sunday saw all the chasers fall away. Scores between 70 and 72 from Patrick Rodgers, Collin Morikawa, and Sepp Straka meant that others would need to seize the day, if Scheffler were to do more than coast. Wyndham Clark and Justin Thomas each moved inside the top five with fourth-round 65s, but no one ever got close enough to the world number one. The win was Scheffler’s 10th on tour, and made him the betting favorite for next month’s PGA Championship at Valhalla.
Scottie Scheffler can save par from just about anywhere.
Including the water ?
(Presented by @CDWCorp) pic.twitter.com/RUqL2sBrr9
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 22, 2024
PGA Tour 2 @ Corales Puntacana: Baton Boy claims 8th Tour triumph
If you’ve ever seen Billy Horschel toss a club, you know that he doesn’t do so in anger. More likely is a calculated, soaring arc, paired with a look of fractured disbelief, followed by a quick catch of the cudgel. Ergo, Baton Boy. This week on the island of Hispaniola, the native of Grant, Florida, outworked and outhustled everyone else on Sunday. Horschel gathered seven birdies and an eagle, on the way to a 63 and a 23-under par total.
The former Florida Gator zipped past the four golfers in front of him, and left the remaining field in the rear-view mirror. Horschel’s round was two shots better than anyone else, and moved him two shots ahead of third-round leader Wesley Bryan. One of the famed Bryan Brothers, Wes closed with birdie at the last to post a 68 that would have won the week on any other day.
Walking it in with a fist pump ?@BillyHo_Golf is 9-under on the day and leads by two @CoralesChamp. pic.twitter.com/N6rjL1GGGA
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 21, 2024
Korn Ferry Tour @ LeCom Suncoast: It’s Widing in extra holes
Miles Russell probably won’t have to serve detention for ditching class on Thursday and Friday. The high school freshman made his KFT debut, survived the 36-hole cut, and toyed with a top-ten finish. He ultimately tied for 20th at 14-under par, six shots behind the three co-leaders. My guess is that Epstein’s Mom will write him a note, and he’ll get a pass. By finishing top-25, Russell earned a spot in next week’s event. Yikes!
Back to the top of the board. Patrick Cover, Steven Fisk, and Tim Widing all found their way to the magic number of -20. Fisk made birdie at the last, after bogeys at 16 and 17. Cover had three bogeys on the back nine, but a birdie at 14 was enough to get him to overtime. Widing was plus-one on the day through four, but played interstellar golf over the final 14. Six birdies moved him from Russell-ville to extra time.
The trio scurried to the 18th tee, where Cover drove into a fairway bunker. He was unable to reach the green with his approach, made bogey, and exited the overtime session. Widing and Fisk returned to the final deck once more, and matters were resolved. Fisk was unable to convert a long par putt, and Widing (pronounced VEE-ding) tapped in for his first KFT title.
The feeling of relief when you know you won. ???
Tim Widing is now a champion on the #KornFerryTour. pic.twitter.com/K0vgiZ21UG
— Korn Ferry Tour (@KornFerryTour) April 21, 2024
PGA Tour Americas @ Brasil Open: Mr. Anderson finds a way
Golf is a funny game. Matthew Anderson held a lead with one round to play. He made six pars on Sunday, and sprinkled the rest of his card with birdies and bogeys. In complete contrast, Ollie Osborne played consistently on the day, posting four birdies and zero bogeys. Connor Godsey was not far off Osborne’s pace, with seven birdies and but two bogeys on the scorecard. So, of course, Matthew Anderson won by a stroke over Osborne and Godsey.
Not how, but how many, is another one of those platitudes that we all learn early on. Despite five bogeys through his first 14 holes, Anderson summoned the defiant grit to make birdie at the 71st and 72nd holes. After making deuce at the penultimat hole, Anderson’s swerving effort at the last looked as if it should miss low, but it had enough pace to stay inside the hole and fall for a closing four at the par-five finisher.
Birdie-birdie finish to secure the ?
Mississauga-native Matthew Anderson is your 69th ECP Brazil Open Champion. pic.twitter.com/ONE8hIUjeS
— PGA TOUR Americas (@PGATOURAmericas) April 21, 2024
PGA Tour Champions @ Invited Celebrity: Broadhurst stands tall
What do you call a tournament that begins on Friday, takes Saturday off, and finishes on Sunday? Fortunate is one adjective to use. A weather system moved through Texas this weekend, and made a mess of things in Irving. After Thomas Bjorn signed for 64 on day one, rain and all things counter-productive moved through the Las Colinas resort, ensuring that Saturday would be nothing more than a rest day. When Sunday arrived, conditions had improved, and the game was on. Bjorn was unable to preserve his Friday magic, although he did record a 70 for -8. He finished in a third-place tie with Y.E. Yang.
David Toms, the 2001 PGA Championship victor, presented Sunday’s low round, and moved to 10-under par. Toms made one mistake on the day. He lived in the rough on the 9th hole, ultimately making bogey. The rest of the day was immaculate, as seven birdies came his way, resulting in a six-under par 65. Only one golfer was able to surpass Toms, and that was Paul Broadhurst.
Broadhurst nearly matched Toms for daily honors. His mistake came early, with bogey at the second. He bounced back with eagle at the third, and added three more birdies for 66 and 11-under par. Over his first three seasons on the Tour Champions, Broadhurst won five times, including two major titles. His fifth win came in 2018, making this win his first in six years. A long time coming, for sure, but well earned.
Looking at the hole is working for @PBroadhurstGolf ?
He leads by one after a clutch birdie on 15 @InvitedCC. pic.twitter.com/S0rhcVwaeE
— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) April 21, 2024
- LIKE0
- LEGIT0
- WOW0
- LOL1
- IDHT0
- FLOP1
- OB1
- SHANK1
|
- LIKE1
- LEGIT0
- WOW0
- LOL0
- IDHT1
- FLOP0
- OB0
- SHANK0
GolfWRX is on site this week at Harbour Town Golf Links on Hilton Head Island for the RBC Heritage. Plenty of golfers who competed in the Masters last week will be making the quick turnaround in the Lowcountry of South Carolina as the Heritage is again one of the Tour’s Signature Events.
We have general albums for you to check out, as well as plenty of WITBs — including Justin Thomas and Justin Rose.
We’ll continue to update as more photos flow in from SC.
Check out links to all our photos, below.
General Albums
- 2024 RBC Heritage – Monday #1
- 2024 RBC Heritage – Monday #2
- 2024 RBC Heritage – Tuesday #1
- 2024 RBC Heritage – Tuesday #2
WITB Albums
- Justin Thomas – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Justin Rose – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Chandler Phillips – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Nick Dunlap – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Thomas Detry – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Austin Eckroat – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Xander Schauffele – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Jason Day – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Will Zalatoris – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Patrick Cantlay – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Ludvig Aberg – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Collin Morikawa – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Sam Burns – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Stephen Jaeger – WITB – 2024 RBC Heritage
Pullout Albums
- Wyndham Clark’s Odyssey putter – 2024 RBC Heritage
- JT’s new Cameron putter – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Justin Thomas testing new Titleist 2 wood – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Cameron putters – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Odyssey putter with triple track alignment aid – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Scotty Cameron The Blk Box putting alignment aid/training aid – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Cameron putter – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Odyssey Ai One Eleven T putters – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Christian Bezuidenhout – testing new Callaway Ti 340 mini driver – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Rory McIlroy testing the new TaylorMade BRNR Mini Driver Copper – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Xander Schauffele testing the Callaway Ti 340 mini driver & the DUW – 2024 RBC Heritage
- Byeong Hun An, two new L.A.B. Golf putter builds with “T” alignment – 2024 RBC Heritage
See what GolfWRXers are saying and join the discussion in the forums.
- LIKE10
- LEGIT0
- WOW0
- LOL2
- IDHT0
- FLOP1
- OB0
- SHANK0
Dave Portnoy places monstrous outright bet for the 2024 Masters
John Daly stuns fans into silence with brutal opening tee shot on PGA Tour Champions
Things got heated at the Houston Open between Tony Finau and Alejandro Tosti. Here’s why
Tiger Woods arrives at 2024 Masters equipped with a putter that may surprise you
Report: Tiger Woods has ‘eliminated sex’ in preparation for the 2024 Masters
‘Absolutely crazy’ – Major champ lays into Patrick Cantlay over his decision on final hole of RBC Heritage
Two star names reportedly blanked Jon Rahm all week at the Masters
2-time major champ announces shock retirement from the sport at age of 33
Report: LIV Golf identifies latest star name they hope to sign to breakaway tour
Neal Shipley presser ends in awkward fashion after reporter claims Tiger handed him note on 8th fairway
Sam Burns WITB 2024 (April)
Sam Burns’ what’s in the bag accurate as of the RBC Heritage. Driver: Callaway Paradym Triple Diamond S (9 degrees...
Will Zalatoris WITB 2024 (April)
Will Zalatoris’ what’s in the bag accurate as of the RBC Heritage. Driver: Titleist TSR2 (9 degrees, A1 SureFit setting)...
Scottie Scheffler’s winning WITB: 2024 RBC Heritage
Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 (8 degrees @8.25) Buy here. Shaft: Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X (45 inches) 3-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 (15 degrees) Buy...
Nelly Korda’s winning WITB: 2024 Chevron Championship
Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 Max (10.5 degrees) Buy here. Shaft: Mitsubishi Diamana GT 60 S 3-wood: TaylorMade Stealth 2 (15 degrees)...
-
19th Hole2 weeks agoDave Portnoy places monstrous outright bet for the 2024 Masters
-
19th Hole2 weeks agoTiger Woods arrives at 2024 Masters equipped with a putter that may surprise you
-
19th Hole3 weeks agoReport: Tiger Woods has ‘eliminated sex’ in preparation for the 2024 Masters
-
19th Hole11 hours ago‘Absolutely crazy’ – Major champ lays into Patrick Cantlay over his decision on final hole of RBC Heritage
-
19th Hole1 week agoTwo star names reportedly blanked Jon Rahm all week at the Masters
-
19th Hole7 days agoReport: LIV Golf identifies latest star name they hope to sign to breakaway tour
-
19th Hole1 week agoNeal Shipley presser ends in awkward fashion after reporter claims Tiger handed him note on 8th fairway
-
19th Hole6 days agoBrandel Chamblee has ‘no doubt’ who started the McIlroy/LIV rumor and why
Bob Parson Jr.
Jul 8, 2018 at 11:40 am
USGA? Not my money!
Ivor Robson
Feb 3, 2017 at 8:09 pm
It’s hard to watch. I have to look the other way when that lad strokes his gutta percha
RG
Jan 29, 2017 at 12:32 am
That’s hilarious!!!! The USGA is like a closet full of clowns! Every time they try to make a rule I just laugh! Oh… scores are to high. I know lets get rid of box grooves,th clubs that’ll fix it! I dont like how people putt, I know, lets’s get rid of anchored putting ( how’d that hinder Bernhard Langher?) I don’t like this guy with the one length clubs and the side saddle, lets think of a reason to get rid of it!1 USGA you are not correct.
RG
Jan 29, 2017 at 12:27 am
That’s hilarious!!!! The USGA is like a closet full of clowns! Every time they try to make a rule I just laugh! Oh… scores are to high. I know lets get rid of box grooves,th clubs that’ll fix it! I dont like how people putt, I know, lets’s get rid of anchored putting ( how’d that hinder Bernhard Langher?) I don’t like this guy with the one length clubs and the side saddle, lets think of a reason to get rid of it!1 USGA YOU ARE A JOKE!!
joro
Dec 24, 2018 at 6:37 pm
Closet full of Clowns, ha ha ha I love it. What other group throws it’s Championship in an area that is known for Thunder Storms most of the time. What other group walks around a course in Temps over 100 degrees with long sleeve shirts and a Black Armband. Of course the Snobby ones, the USGA, ruler of all Golf.
Great comment RG, I have dealt with them on a couple of issues and they truly are a bunch of Clowns.
KCCO
Jan 28, 2017 at 2:46 pm
USGA….lol. I totally agreed with anchoring, this is totally different. IMHO I see no advantage to his putter, or style of putting. Whether advantage or a disadvantage to golfers as a whole, this should be explained a bit more thoroughly for everyone. His shAft appears to be in an angle, so what is the angle they are reguiring if that’s USGA’s beef? That being said, if his style or putter is not working for them, hypothetically when someone uses toe of putter to move from edge of green onto green where does that fall? Or players who have turned their club 180 degrees to give ability to make a shot when pressed against an obstruction and switching their dexterity. I know I may be a little of target with my examples and rant, but come on. It’s not hinged, I’ve never seen lie angles measured at a PGA sanctioned event tour or smaller venue.
Figure out something else to bitch about, and focus energy and time on something to grow this game as it doesn’t seem to be growing. From a youth perspective, I do see growth in them joining the game. Other than that doesn’t look like it did when tiger was dominating . I’m speaking of those who play, those who watch, and the die hards that are part of this industry. Good luck getting half of all of your average social golf fans that tuned in for the “woods show” as it looked like Tiger (who I am a fan) was the glue that held this game together for television market, doesn’t look to promising for the big picture for numbers pertaining to the average fan who only knows tiger as a household name. Gonna be tough to hold interest when every month it’s a new “greatest player since sliced bananas” then disappear.
They should be encouraging Bryson to do what he’s doing. Beside us, no one else cares about the Jason Day of the month. (not saying he isn’t a great player, but they do put players on a pedestal and three weeks later, poof they’re gone) *sarcasm just meaning it’s gonna be tough for Scotty Cameron to make a limited edition putter for each months new “golf great”.
Chuck
Jan 29, 2017 at 2:02 pm
How many times does it have to be repeated in this thread, that the USGA acted on a piece of equipment — namely one of Bryson’s several putters — and not in relation to a putting method?
ooffa
Jan 28, 2017 at 7:01 am
The hat is non conforming. Way non conforming! They should make that illegal!
Ron
Jan 27, 2017 at 12:11 pm
Two things.
1. Anyone who tinkers with their putting to this level, is likely a pretty bad putter. Not saying that’s true in this particular case, but overall, if you’re sinking putts, you’re not doing a lot of tinkering with that. So, if you’re a bad putter, what’s the harm in going side-saddle. or putting between your legs, or any other wacky method you want to use. You’ll likely remain a bad putter.
2. By enforcing the borg-level “you must conform” standard, the USGA is stifling the free market. Can you imagine the crazy things the merchandise show would have if the USGA just took it a little easy?
Daniel Forbes
Sep 25, 2018 at 4:38 am
Silly comment…putt between your legs… thats called straddling the line of your putt…
DJ
Jan 27, 2017 at 11:42 am
i don’t get the whole ban on anchoring or this issue with the side saddle putting. the golfer still has to read the break and get the speed right. let’s get rid of the claw grip cause it’s an unfair advantage. ur gonna allow golfers to tamp down spike marks to make more putts and speed up the game. but then you create restrictions on putters and putting method so more golfers miss putts.
S Hitter
Jan 27, 2017 at 12:15 pm
Anchoring was proven that it takes away one of the complexities in the stroke to make it easier to hit putts on line is why it was banned. Claw gripping is not an unfair advantage. Spike marks are not allowed to be tramped down, only ball marks. Please read the rules
Tiger Noods
Feb 14, 2019 at 4:44 am
This reply did not age well…
JThunder
Jan 26, 2017 at 9:53 pm
Wow. The USGA are ruining the game by trying to maintain some semblance of rules. DeChambeau is a jerk, narcissist and elitist because he knows something about physics and has an education. He’s also a jerk for not wearing a baseball cap (but instead a cap that’s more traditional to golf, BTFW).
This place sounds like an inbred white trash Trump rally. Keep lowering the bar folks.
birdy
Jan 27, 2017 at 10:42 am
sounds like you’re the inbred
namthanh20982
Sep 26, 2018 at 11:42 am
This article has inspired me to golf and also some minor deficiencies. See more at golf to be more complete
Ell
Jul 24, 2020 at 2:05 pm
Sounds like you never picked up a club in your life unless it was part of an anti-fa march.
Kent
Jan 26, 2017 at 8:00 pm
Spent 3 days following and watching a good share of players at Career Builder last week, 95% plus of the pros are very similar in the way they set up and swing (and Putt) and these are the better players. There is simply a way to play this game at a high level and being the odd man out with a different set up and swing is only going to work for a small fraction of players (very small) and the sad thing is amateurs are going to get lured into these odd movements with the idea this could be the holy grail for their game…pretty simple leave what Bryson does to him…do not be fooled into thinking his way is an answer, if odd swings work for a majority we would all hit it like Moe Norman.
Jack's Hit
Jan 26, 2017 at 11:58 pm
And even Moe Norman has been debunked, that is, he thought he was a one-plane swinger throwing the clubhead straight down the line, when all video analysis points to him setting up shut and aimed right and pulling the ball a la Snead and not lined up square and hitting it down the line
Tim
Jan 27, 2017 at 2:38 pm
Would agree, cannot count Moe Norman the man hit balls on the range until hitting them straight was the only option left for the golf ball…if you can repeat a swing 1000 times a day 365 days of the year you may hit a huge percent straight also……
Scott
Jan 31, 2017 at 12:43 pm
I am not sure that is considered “debunked”.
jeff monik
Feb 20, 2017 at 2:05 pm
you must work for the PGA teachers association
Mad-Mex
Jan 26, 2017 at 7:38 pm
And they wonder why golf participation is on a decline,,,,,,,,
Brian
Jan 27, 2017 at 7:16 pm
Do you really thing the average, recreational golfer has any idea what the USGA says or does? I didn’t know, or care, about the rules of conforming equipment, the proper way to take a penalty, the fact that you can’t ground your club at address in a hazard until after I became a passionate player.
Participation is on a decline for a myriad of reasons, USGA rulings likely being the least responsible among them.
Rich Douglas
Jan 26, 2017 at 5:53 pm
Just because you can’t understand the science doesn’t make it any less valid.
ButchT
Jan 26, 2017 at 5:21 pm
He does not seem arrogant to me – just trying to play golf. He is different, but in a good way, I think. Single length clubs are here to stay.
gunmetal
Jan 26, 2017 at 4:59 pm
Biggest issue I have here is the USGA telling him they don’t LIKE the way he’s putting. Who the %^$& cares what they like? Ban the stupid thing then. It’s what you do best. But if he’s within the current rules, shut the heck up and let the guy do his job.
Chuck
Jan 26, 2017 at 8:55 pm
But the USGA made no statement. Are you saying that you believe that we know what the USGA is thinking, simply through a comment by deChambeau’s coach and friend?
Philip
Jan 27, 2017 at 12:59 am
Of course, didn’t you know that if someone writes something it has to be the truth? People never give misleading information to sway others to their side … what would be nice is an actual photo of the putter so that we can form our own opinion on the putter instead of misinformation.
Rich Douglas
Jan 28, 2017 at 11:21 pm
Not making a statement IS making a statement. And that statement is: They’re making it up as they go.
If his putter is non-conforming, explain why publicly. Oh, and how he swings it is irrelevant. The putter is either conforming or nonconforming based on its design, not its use.
The USGA looks like the foolish amateurs they are. No wonder they make stupid decisions at U.S. Opens…and here.
Chuck
Feb 2, 2017 at 3:31 pm
No. Not making a statement is not “making it up as they go.” Not making a statement is the opposite of that. It is in keeping with a pre-existing policy. That policy is an agreement between the USGA and equipment manufacturers who submit equipment for testing. The agreement, for good reasons, is that the USGA won’t make statements about the reasons for particular pieces to have been ruled non-complying. You can imagine all of the problems, with R&D, with marketing, and with trade secrets, if the USGA started making statements all the time whenever they felt like it, or to defend themselves in controversial cases.
So there is good reason for the policy, and you just couldn’t even trouble yourself to think about it.
That said, it would NOT prohibit Team de Chambeau from talking about it. They could, if they wanted. Again, as I have said elsewhere in this comments thread, that if I had been writing the story, I’d have questioned Bryson and his coach and his equipment people very carefully about what they were told. I imagine that it is a very interesting and maybe compelling story.
But it really seems that most of the commenters here just wanted an excuse to go off on the USGA.
Randall
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:12 pm
The USGA sucks!
BIG STU
Jan 26, 2017 at 6:10 pm
I agree with you 110% Randall— The USGA sucks screw em!
Brian
Jan 27, 2017 at 7:11 pm
Big Stu is clearly a mathematician.
Jordan
Jan 26, 2017 at 1:19 pm
Those damn millennials and their innovative way of thinking
Rich Douglas
Jan 26, 2017 at 12:03 pm
Golf is a game of rules. What rule is he violating? His stance is conforming. His putter is conforming (except that the USGA says it isn’t without saying why). Some of the poster who object simply because they don’t like it are entitled to their opinions, but that is insufficient when applying the rules.
The USGA has a habit of coming across as arbitrary and lacking context. This is just another example.
Chuck
Jan 26, 2017 at 9:29 pm
I would like to read a story wherein the specific rule was discussed. If I were reporting the story, it’s the first question I would have asked Bryson and his team. I expect that the answer is interesting, and that the information would help understand the USGA’s side of the dispute.
Mat
Jan 27, 2017 at 6:32 pm
Yep. Total lack of facts, and you can only extrude the USGA doesn’t want to say… because they emotionally don’t like him following the rules his way.
Chuck
Jan 28, 2017 at 9:51 am
No, the USGA is following its own policy of not discussing private rulings. They said, “No comment.” All of the rest of this story comes from Bryson’s side.
David Montgomery
Jan 26, 2017 at 10:17 am
I cannot love this enough. Time to go back to the garage and make another doozy of a putter.
Stephen Boudreau
Jan 26, 2017 at 3:31 am
I was out of golf from 96 to 2009, 13 years and the first time I saw the CLOWN SHOE Sized Driver Heads I was astonished. I came around quickly but what a shock. All to make Golf more attractive to the public? Lower scores? More money for the organizations I say. It’s always about money. As another commenter said “You want to grow the game of golf make it more affordable to the average Joe” I paid over a grand for two year old equipment to have a more modern Bag. WHAT! When I started playing golf in 92 I purchased my first new clubs in 94 and paid $300 for a new leftover set of Titleist Tour Models and less than that for Big Berthas D, 3 & 5 woods. All new, I may have found a deal but still top of the line stuff. I can’t pay $150 for a round of golf, that’s almost a full days pay for me and I’m 55 and a Machinist for 38 years. Really! Golf is still an elitist rich man’s game and the poor slobs get treated as such. We get the rundown courses that have been gobbled up by the big corps and crappy fairways and less than desirable greens. Thank god for GolfNow.
Johnnylongballz
Jan 26, 2017 at 3:11 am
Good for the USGA! Golf is a side on game. Please find the right verbiage to make this style of putting illegal all together.
Jay
Jan 26, 2017 at 9:47 am
He’s still standing to the side – are you favoring we outlaw open stances??
Johnnylongballz
Jan 26, 2017 at 10:10 am
Having an open stance, and standing directly facing the hole are two different things. That is why the USGA need so come up with a rule with the correct verbiage to help people like you understand.
Jack
Jan 26, 2017 at 10:40 am
Really? Then why did David Fay tell Golf Digest that the method is “really just an extremely open stance”. I hope this helps you understand.
OntheGrass11
Jan 26, 2017 at 11:24 am
This is an idiotic statement.
Stephen Boudreau
Jan 26, 2017 at 3:11 am
Rules are Rules. Period. I can’t do 100 MPH on the highway and not get busted. Though the usga MUST clearly and definitively decide once and for all weather Bryson’s Putter is legal or not, if his stance is legal or not, if his grip is legal or not. He is anchoring the grip to his arm, I didn’t like seeing that at all because they made the long Putter chest anchor illegal. When I golf I count all my mis hits and shots into the woods because I’m not going to get better cheating myself. Neither will he. All rules of golf should be universal and global on ALL TOURS…
Mat
Jan 26, 2017 at 5:26 am
I don’t understand why it’s not… it’s a centre-shafted 80º stick. What’s wrong with that?
Jason
Jan 26, 2017 at 1:18 pm
Rules are rules but the USGA seems to constantly be asking for players to hit a moving target in regards to what is allowed and what is not.
lolgolf
Jan 26, 2017 at 12:34 am
That “girl” hits it 300 yards and is 6′ tall, your wife must love you.
C
Jan 26, 2017 at 8:08 am
Wife?
Rex
Jan 26, 2017 at 8:59 pm
That’s his mom. I know. Gross right
Boobsy McKiss
Jan 26, 2017 at 12:14 am
The frustration and envy in your voice is unbecoming. LOL.
StillBoard
Jan 25, 2017 at 7:29 pm
USGA is ruining the game.
Brian
Jan 25, 2017 at 7:43 pm
Every Saturday and Sunday morning, the game is the same to me no matter what the USGA and R&A decide, so no, they aren’t “ruining” the game.
S Hitter
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:20 am
Well said, Brian.
Ell
Jul 24, 2020 at 3:40 pm
My retired buddies and I could care less what the USGA has in their rule book.
Uhit
Jan 25, 2017 at 6:26 pm
Maybe it is time to simply use the R&A rules, from the home of golf, for golf – worldwide… 😉
Kevin
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:16 pm
http://golfweek.com/2017/01/23/rules-of-golf-ra-usga-changes-2020/
ScottC
Jan 25, 2017 at 6:00 pm
Golf has always had an experimental aspect to equipment and playing. Just look at the PGA show going on in Orlando this week; new clubs, new shafts, some innovative, some updates from previous iterations. Not all players have the same swing (See John Jacobs comments on the swing) thus, not all clubs fit all players.
Yes, BDS has some different ideas about clubs and putters. Cobra thought enough of that to create a line of single length clubs. Let the market determine their success on that form of club. I have seen him play at the Western Am and US AM (that he won). It works very well for him. Just as the putter seems to work for him. Maybe it will work for you, maybe not. It doesn’t mean he is wrong, just different. I am sure people thought Gene Sarazen was crazy when he invented the modern sand wedge.
The USGA doesn’t like different. Even if they have no evidence that his putter creates an advantage for him over a “standard” putter. This reminds me of Sam Snead putting croquet style, the USGA didn’t like that either and outlawed that stroke. Primarily because they didn’t like the look of the stroke.
Does the putter meet the definitions as supplied by the USGA? If it does then it should be allowed. If it does not, then tell BDS and the golfing public why it does not meet the standard.
Here is some of the USGA rules on putters from their website:
If the overall design of a putter is such that the player can achieve a “vertical-pendulum” style stroke (i.e., putt effectively with the shaft in a vertical or near-vertical position), it would be ruled contrary to Appendix II, 1d, even if the shaft angle does satisfy the 10-degree Rule when the putter is in its “normal address position.” The shaft angle on such a putter could be required to be increased to as much as 25 degrees. In assessing whether a putter can be used effectively in a “vertical-pendulum” style manner, the combination of the following features should be considered:
length of shaft
position of shaft attachment to head
angle of shaft in toe-to-heel plane and front-to-back plane
shape and weight distribution of head
curvature and shape of sole
intent of the design
Even though each of these putter features, when considered separately, could conform to the Rules, the combination of the features might lead to a decision that the putter does not conform.
This is an extremely good example of an area where rules officials should take care not to make a decision unless they are 100% certain they are correct. If, after examining the club and carrying out all of the appropriate consultations, it is still not possible to give a definitive ruling, a Duration of Competition or Duration of Round Answer should be given (see Field Procedures – Guidance to Rules Officials Concerning Questions on the Conformity of Clubs at Competitions).
S Hitter
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:21 am
What the heck is BDS
C
Jan 26, 2017 at 8:08 am
Some guy named Bryson. I think…
S Hitter
Jan 26, 2017 at 12:27 pm
That would be BDC, innit?
ScottC
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:11 pm
Yes, you are correct…..got a little quick with my typing..lol
Zubair
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:33 pm
Really happy that his gimmick non sense is being discouraged. Stupid putter, stupid stance. Hes not growing the game with this stuff or helping people. Its just his own mad scientist fetish he is scratching. Lol growing the game, that phrase is so misused now. LOWER the costs of green fees, equipment, INCREASE pace of play, awareness of the game in lower middle class families. Brysons equipment choices and ideas have a 0.1% impact on the game. Few retailers releasing single length irons doesnt change anything.
D mack
Jan 25, 2017 at 10:13 pm
Maybe we should all put side saddle. We could all look like a bunch of side saddle putting ninnies. Maybe you could have your caddie sit spread eagle behind the hole and if the put doesn’t drop you smash him in the nuts with a croquet mallet. I bet that’s not clearly defined in the rules either.
Rich Douglas
Jan 26, 2017 at 5:50 pm
Actually, it is. It is two strokes of the penalty.
RAT
Jan 25, 2017 at 11:10 pm
Totally agree, He just wants to stand out .Time will tell whether this is worthy of discussion gauged by his winning and wins in Majors.
Former PGA Professional
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:32 pm
Why do we continue to have the governing board of an Amateur organization telling Professionals what they can and can not do? The PGA Tour (and PGA of America for that matter) should be the ruling the body of the professional side of the game, not the USGA.
S Hitter
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:25 am
That’s why you’re a Former
Chuck
Jan 26, 2017 at 9:32 pm
Because, Former PGA Professional, the PGA of America, and the PGA Tour don’t want the responsibility and expense of doing all of the things that the USGA does for them right now; testing balls and conforming clubs, turfgrass research, etc.
The PGA’s have been free-riding off the USGA for years on the hard issues, and they want to keep it going.
Dr Troy
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:05 pm
Tisk, tisk USGA. Another antiquated BS rule perhaps?
BK24BK
Jan 25, 2017 at 4:29 pm
agreed. his “scientist” and “artist” bs is enough already. he’s not doing anything that hasn’t been done in the past.
S Hitter
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:26 am
That hat he wears is asinine too, doesn’t look good on him at all
golfer
Jan 26, 2017 at 7:33 pm
wow you’re so cool you can insult his hat. what a tool. delete your account.
3 metal stinger
Jan 25, 2017 at 4:26 pm
This guy barely has his tour card and I’m already sick of his act. Win a tournament with your stupid single length irons or just shut up and play golf.
Zac
Jan 25, 2017 at 4:43 pm
He did… He won a ncaa title, an US amateur title and the DAP championship on the web.com tour to keep his card. He has no act or attitude, he wants to grow the game and break barriers. If it were speith or tiger or any other accomplished tour pro it would be a completely different story..
S Hitter
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:27 am
Yes Zac, but those other players you mentioned don’t play with weird clubs and don’t claim to be physicists or whatever
Kevin B
Jan 26, 2017 at 11:30 am
S Hitter I am not sure if you are aware, but he did graduate with a degree in Physics.
MM
Jan 26, 2017 at 11:47 am
He did not graduate, so no degree. He left when SMU was sanctioned.
Kevin B
Jan 26, 2017 at 12:13 pm
Interesting, I thought he did end up completing his degree, just not playing for them. Thanks for the correction MM.
3 metal stinger
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:24 pm
Kevin B stays holding these Ls
Kevin B
Jan 26, 2017 at 4:13 pm
Holding these L’s? Oh man, how old are we? 10? Good luck with everything 3 metal stinger, trolling the internet does no one any good. Best of luck.
3 metal stinger
Jan 26, 2017 at 4:29 pm
L
Tim
Jan 27, 2017 at 2:33 pm
Winning an NCAA title is like playing college football, what maybe one other future NFL player on the other team….NCAA title what maybe one or two future PGA players in the field? BS swings just do not stand up to the polished modern swings most PGA players display…there is a reason more swings look alike then different…they work more often then not.
Kevin B
Jan 25, 2017 at 4:43 pm
3 metal stinger – he has won a few tournaments with single length irons. Try again.
3 metal stinger
Jan 25, 2017 at 4:47 pm
Cool story bro, how about a tournament that someone actually cares about? E.g. PGA Tour/European Tour
Kevin B
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:01 pm
Plenty of people care about the Web.com and the NCAA tournaments. These are the up and coming players. Just because you chose to ignore them, and have some hatred towards BDC, no need to get all defensive.
3 metal stinger
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:36 pm
Notice how I referenced him having a tour card? That would mean that my “no wins” comment applies to the PGA Tour. Reading is hard, I know.
BP
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:03 pm
3MS-You can’t argue with a comment this arrogant and stupid.
Kevin B
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:21 pm
BP – how is my comment arrogant and stupid?
BP
Jan 25, 2017 at 5:47 pm
Sorry Kevin….that was for 3 metal stinger. You are spot on!
Kevin B
Jan 25, 2017 at 6:58 pm
No worries bud, hard to read the front page posts sometimes the way it is laid out. Have a good one.
3 metal stinger
Jan 27, 2017 at 10:21 pm
You can hold this L too
Bud
Jan 25, 2017 at 4:48 pm
Well he did win the US Amateur and the NCAA title year before last. (Which has only been accomplished by a very small, elite group…)And a Web.com event last year…He’s not done winning.
I don’t have a problem with what he’s doing. He’s thinking outside the box. The USGA is ran by stuffy, rich old white dudes who issue completely arbitrary rulings. If Bryson is pissing off the powers that be at the USGA, then he’s doing something right in my book.
bajaokie
Jan 25, 2017 at 9:03 pm
Agreed!
Alfredo Smith
Jan 25, 2017 at 11:31 pm
Agree also, and while we are bashing rules they need to rethink the rule where you can’t post your score if you play alone… and the stupid no music rule… sheesh
ScottC
Jan 26, 2017 at 2:15 pm
The “can’t post your score when you play alone” issue is a concession to the Rest of World (ROW) due the upcoming changes in the handicapping system (2018).
While the basis of the handicapping system will continue to be what we are used to in the USA, the USGA had to give some concessions to the ROW handicapping groups. In many parts of the world your handicap is based on tournament rounds or when playing with others who can corroborate your scores. Thus, the change here.
COGolfer
Jan 26, 2017 at 10:11 pm
Something far worse than playing alone is not being able to move from a divot in the fairway. Grounds under repair is definitely obvious, but the fact they haven’t made a rule on this in the last 100 years is hilarious.