Rule of the Week
  Oct 5th, 2016

Jordan Spieth and the Ryder Cup Match Conclusion  

QUESTION: Did Jordan Spieth lose his Ryder Cup match to Henrik Stenson due to his lack of knowledge of the rules?  That might be the case.

 

BACKGROUND: 
On the  Par 5 16th Hole, Spieth was 2 down and played his second shot into the water hazard.  His ball came to rest in somewhat of a playable condition on top of some grass, leaves and the edge of the water line (See pictures above).  He casually took off his shoes, socks and rolled up his pants.  When he attempted to take his stance, it caused the water to ripple and the ball moved downwards (See pictures below).  He called over European Tour Rules official, Jose Zamaro.  After some confusion, Mr. Zamaro informed Jordan Spieth he would be assessed a 1 stroke penalty under Rule 18-2 for causing his ball to move.  Spieth could be heard more than once asking Jose, "Are you sure. I was just trying to see if I could get my stance."  Following the brief discussion, he picked up his ball and conceded the match with Stenson who won 3&2.      

 

ANSWER: 
 18-2. Ball at Rest Moved By Player, Partner, Caddie or Equipment

Except as permitted by the Rules, when a player's ball is in play, if 
(i) the player, his partner or either of their caddies:
  • lifts or moves the ball,
  • touches it purposely (except with a club in the act of addressing the ball), or
  • causes the ball to move, or
(ii) the equipment of the player or his partner causes the ball to move, the player incurs a penalty of one stroke.

If the ball is moved, it must be replaced, unless the movement of the ball occurs after the player has begun the stroke or the backward movement of the club for the stroke and the stroke is made. 
Images via the NBC Golf     
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Happy golfing and remember the Rules of Golf Matter
About Golf Saskatchewan
As the governing body of amateur golf in Saskatchewan, our mission is to grow participation in, and passion for golf while upholding the integrity of the game.

 

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Authored by Brian Lee, Executive Director of Golf SK

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