Following two high profile nationally televised ruling controversies, the USGA and the R&A have issued a joint decision on the Rules of Golf to limit the use of video evidence in televised golf tournaments.
New Decision 34-3/10
The decision is officially called: 34-3/10, and it has two standards for Rules committees to consider, relative to the use of video:
- When video reveals evidence that could not reasonably be seen with the “NAKED EYE.”
- The first standard states, “the use of video technology can make it possible to identify things that could not be seen with the naked eye.” An example includes a player who unknowingly touches a few grains of sand in taking a backswing with a club in a bunker when making a stroke.
- This standard is in relation to the Anna Nordqvist ruling controversy.
- When players use their “REASONABLE JUDGEMENT” to determine a specific location when applying the Rules.
- The second standard applies when a player determines a spot, point, position, line, area, distance or other location in applying the Rules, and recognizes that a player should not be held to the degree of precision that can sometimes be provided by video technology. Examples include determining the nearest point of relief or replacing a lifted ball.
- This standard is in relation to the Lexi Thompson ruling controversy.
The new decision on the Rules of Golf takes effect immediately.
Flashback
Credit: USGA, Pro Golf Weekly, AP, Getty Images
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