In the wake of a controversial ruling that cost Haotong Li about $100,000 in earnings, the R&A released a statement Monday to confirm that the Rules of Golf were correctly applied at the Dubai Desert Classic.
On Sunday, as Li sized up a short birdie putt on the 72nd hole, his caddie appeared to help with his read and alignment before stepping out of the line as Li built his stance. A rules official determined afterward that Li’s caddie violated Rule 10.2b(4), which restricts a caddie from standing behind the player. The two-shot penalty turned Li’s birdie into a bogey and dropped him from a tie for third into joint 12th.
European Tour players fumed on social media at what they perceived to be a harsh penalty for a hazy infraction.
The R&A, however, said there was no doubt that it was a violation of the new rule, which went into effect Jan. 1.
“It applies as the player begins taking a stance, which includes when the first foot moves into position,” the R&A said. “This rule prevents any opportunity for a caddie to line up a player. Intent to line up is not needed for this rule to play. On the putting green, the player can back away from the stance to avoid a breach of the rule.
“It was an unfortunate situation, but the rule was applied correctly.”
1/3 To clarify any misunderstanding of the Li Haotong ruling, Rule 10.2b(4) restricts a caddie standing behind the player. It applies as the player begins taking a stance which includes when the first foot moves into position. pic.twitter.com/jpkYWMc943
— The R&A (@RandA) January 28, 2019
2/3 This Rule prevents any opportunity for a caddie to line up a player. Intent to line up is not needed for the Rule to apply.
— The R&A (@RandA) January 28, 2019
3/3 On the putting green, the player can back away from the stance to avoid a breach of the Rule. It was an unfortunate situation but the Rule was applied correctly.
— The R&A (@RandA) January 28, 2019
Bagikan Berita Ini
0 Response to "R&A: New rule 'applied correctly' with Haotong Li penalty"
Post a Comment