In a bold move that could change the landscape of professional golf, a legendary coach’s son has suggested a two-stroke penalty to combat the growing epidemic of slow play on the PGA Tour. This urgent call to action comes on the heels of Patrick Cantlay’s notorious seven-putt performance at the Tour Championship, sparking outrage among fans and players alike. The debate over slow play is reigniting, and this proposed solution may be the turning point the sport desperately needs.
During a recent podcast, Claude Harmon, son of famed golf instructor Butch Harmon, laid out the case for a drastic shift in penalties. He argues that fines are ineffective against multi-millionaire players who can easily brush off financial penalties. Instead, he advocates for a system that directly impacts a player’s score and standing, making them think twice before taking excessive time over a shot.
Cantlay’s slow play has become a flashpoint, with many fans expressing frustration over the lengthy delays it causes. Harmon recalls legendary golfer Ben Hogan’s response to slow play warnings, emphasizing that a two-stroke penalty would resonate far more deeply with players than any monetary fine. “Give me those two shots now,” Hogan famously quipped, knowing the stakes involved in his performance.
Statistics reveal a troubling trend: in the last 12 years, 10% of tour members have taken 40 to 45 seconds or more per shot, with some rounds lasting over six hours. This pace is unacceptable, especially in a sport where timing is crucial. Harmon’s proposal aims to restore the integrity and flow of the game, making it clear that slow play will not be tolerated.
The suggestion of a “yellow card” system has also gained traction, where repeated slow play could result in tournament suspensions, impacting players’ careers and rankings significantly. This would create a real deterrent, forcing players to consider the consequences of their actions on the course.
As the Ryder Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Cantlay and other players known for their slow play. The pressure is mounting for the PGA Tour to take decisive action before the situation spirals further out of control. Fans are demanding change, and the time for discussion is over—it’s time for action.
The golf community is buzzing with opinions, and Harmon’s bold suggestions could be the catalyst needed to eradicate slow play for good. As this debate unfolds, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the future of the game hangs in the balance. Will the PGA Tour heed this urgent call for reform? The world of golf is watching closely.
