The Number 1 Thing You need to know about the PGA’s New Rule
In recent years, golf has seen its fair share of rule changes, but one of the most discussed shifts in the professional game is the decision by the PGA to allow players to leave the flagstick in the hole while putting. This rule, which has been in effect since 2019, is a significant departure from the traditional expectation that the flagstick be removed before a putt. The rule has sparked much debate and continues to influence how players approach their putting strategy, both on the PGA Tour and at recreational levels.
The Rule Change Explained
The key change in the PGA's 2019 decision is the allowance for players to leave the flagstick in the hole when putting, a practice that was previously prohibited under the rules of golf. This change was made following a broader update to the Rules of Golf by the R&A and the USGA. The new rule stipulates that golfers may now putt with the flagstick in the hole, and it’s entirely at the player’s discretion whether to remove it or leave it in.
Before 2019, golfers were required to have the flagstick removed unless they were in a situation where it would be impractical to remove it, such as on very long putts where a caddie or another person would be needed to retrieve the flag. Now, however, golfers have the freedom to choose. This adjustment came after a pilot study conducted by the USGA and R&A, which found that leaving the flagstick in the hole didn’t significantly affect putting performance, and in some cases, may even offer benefits.
Why the Rule Change Matters
The change to allow players to leave the flagstick in the hole is a departure from the longstanding tradition of removing it, and it reflects a shift in the mindset about how golf can be made more accessible and practical for players at all levels. The decision to leave the flagstick in or take it out is now a matter of personal preference and strategy.
For players, leaving the flagstick in the hole can offer several advantages. One of the most significant benefits is that the flagstick can act as a backstop, potentially helping golfers who hit a putt too hard by keeping the ball from rolling too far past the hole. In windy conditions, leaving the flagstick in can also reduce the chance of the ball being blown off course. For longer putts, where the ball is unlikely to go in the hole without some assistance, the flagstick can increase the chances of a deflection that results in a successful putt.
In addition to these potential advantages, leaving the flagstick in the hole can help save time on the course. Players no longer need to wait for a caddie or volunteer to remove the flagstick, which speeds up the overall pace of play. This is especially important in professional tournaments where time is of the essence, and in recreational play, it can improve the experience for all golfers involved.
Player Reactions and Results
Since the rule change, many PGA Tour professionals have experimented with keeping the flagstick in, with mixed reactions. Some players, particularly those who prefer to putt from distance, have embraced the rule, finding that it helps their ball stay closer to the hole. Others, however, continue to prefer removing the flagstick, citing a better feel and focus when putting without it.
Phil Mickelson, known for his innovative approach to the game, has been a notable proponent of leaving the flagstick in. "It’s a great way to get a better chance at holing a putt, especially on long ones," he said, echoing the thoughts of many who see it as an advantage. On the other hand, Tiger Woods, a more traditional player, has been more cautious, often opting to remove the flag when putting.
The consensus among many golfers is that the rule change has helped create more flexibility in strategy and allowed players to make more informed decisions based on the situation at hand.
The decision to allow players to leave the flagstick in the hole while putting represents a significant change in how golf is played on the professional stage. By removing the restriction, the PGA has given players more freedom and the ability to experiment with strategies that could lead to improved performance and faster pace of play. While opinions on the rule remain divided, it’s clear that the change is one that will continue to impact how golfers approach the game for years to come. As more players get accustomed to this new rule, it may eventually become just another accepted part of the game, offering both a challenge and an opportunity for golfers of all levels.
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