Miguel Angel Jimenez put in an impressive performance at the U.S. Senior Open last weekend; however, his final round at Broadmoor was not without controversy
Miguel Ángel Jiménez played the U.S. Senior Open(Image: Getty Images)
Miguel Angel Jimenez took advantage of one of the USGA’s latest rule changes on the way to finishing third at the U.S. Senior Open last weekend.
Jiminez put in a strong performance at The Broadmoor, especially on Sunday, as he carded an impressive six-under-par 64 in the final round to finish two shots behind champion Padraig Harrington. His performance was not without a typical bit of Jimenez drama, though.
During his second round last Friday, the former European Ryder Cup star was tasked with a tricky chip from the greenside rough on the par-four 11th hole.
As the ball came out left, the Spaniard played a double hit as the ball caught his club in his follow-through. It left those watching, including Jimenez, scratching their heads; however, the ex-PGA Tour player was saved from any sort of penalty thanks to a rule change.
Taking to social media in the aftermath of the incident, some speculated the move may have been intentional, as one golf fan wrote: “That looked intentional lol genius move,” while another also added: “No doubt in my mind he did that on purpose. It was going to land back in the rough. Rather impressive.”
A third then tweeted: “That’s actually impressive. Good hand eye coordination. He knew it was going to be short of the green. He knows the rules. Take advantage as much as you can without a penalty.”
Previously, players were penalized one shot if they made contact with the ball twice.
DOUBLE HIT! 😳 pic.twitter.com/rIR8nH7en1
— USGA (@USGA) June 28, 2025
This has, however, been altered by the USGA, meaning the Spaniard was free to continue without being punished for the freak mistake.
And he more than took advantage of this, going on to make the par-putt before signing for a level-par 70 for his second round.
Intentional or not, it did not impact the Spanish star’s score, who walked away with a cool $255,000 in prize money.
Speaking of his final round showing that saw him just miss out to Harrington, Jimenez said: “I’m very solid. I’m very happy with the way I’ve been playing.
“Very solid all day, though. Eight birdies, two bogeys, one to finish.”
It was yet another strong showing on the senior major stage from the Spanish veteran, who seemingly enjoys thriving on the big stage.
“Well, majors always give you something more,” he added. “You focus. You’re going to win. I did very well under pressure, and that’s something.”