Matt Fitzpatrick and Scottie Scheffler expressed their strong discontent towards a PGA rules official during the BMW Championship, labeling the situation as “outrageous” and “an absolute disgrace.”
Matt Fitzpatrick and Scottie Scheffler expressed their strong discontent towards a PGA rules official during the BMW Championship, labeling the situation as “outrageous” and “an absolute disgrace.”
As the final round of the 2024 BMW Championship commenced at Castle Pines Golf Club, Fitzpatrick found himself tied for 27th place with several holes remaining. The eighth hole, a par five, became the focal point of a dispute involving the rules officials.
Fitzpatrick sought permission to change his driver due to a crack on its face. However, according to rule G-9 of the USGA, a club cannot be replaced solely for having a crack. Given the precision required in golf, the 29-year-old’s request was denied on the grounds that the damage was not deemed “significant.”
Scottie Scheffler, Fitzpatrick’s playing partner, also shared in the frustration over the ruling. Reacting to the official’s assertion regarding the lack of “significant damage,” Fitzpatrick remarked, “This is outrageous, it’s an absolute disgrace. I’ve literally just watched a ball do a completely different thing from the whole morning. It couldn’t be more obvious.”
As Fitzpatrick’s concerns went unacknowledged, Scheffler intervened to support his partner. The exchange unfolded as follows:
Matt Fitzpatrick: “It’s caved in. There’s an obvious crack there that’s causing a defect in ball flight.”
Rules Official: “We have said no.”
Matt Fitzpatrick: “So I’m going to have to use -wood for the rest of the day? That’s what you’re telling me?”
Rules Official: “I’m going to talk to Steven, the chief referee, and I’ll meet you on the tee.”
Matt Fitzpatrick: “This is outrageous, it’s an absolute disgrace. I’ve literally just watched a ball do a completely different thing from the whole morning. It couldn’t be more obvious.”
. During the BMW Championship, Matt Fitzpatrick and Scottie Scheffler voiced their outrage towards a PGA rules official, deeming the situation “outrageous” and “an absolute disgrace.”
As the final round of the 2024 BMW Championship unfolded at Castle Pines Golf Club, Fitzpatrick was positioned tied for 27th place with several holes yet to be played. The eighth hole, a par five, became the center of a contentious interaction with the rules officials.
Fitzpatrick requested a club change due to a crack on his driver
