Thomas Pieters was caught up in a freakish rules incident at the French Open which saw the big hitting Belgium allowed to retake his putt after mishitting an effort. And the reason why soon had everyone weighing in on the drama.
Putting for birdie on the par-5 3rd during round two, Pieters barely made contact with his effort in what looked like the biggest mishit we’ve ever seen. Seriously, just take a look at this…
The bizarre incident soon got even wilder though as it turned out Pieters had been distracted by a child coughing in the crowd at the DP World Tour event.
Having attempted to pull out of the putt but accidentally connecting in the process, it was then over to a rules official as Pieters pleaded his case.
With the referee agreeing the Ryder Cup star had indeed played the putt unintentionally, Pieters was allowed to replace his ball and retake the effort all over again.
That’s because the bizarre situation falls under Rule 13.1d, which states if you accidentally cause your ball to move you are entitled to replace it on its original spot.
Pieters would eventually make par after retaking the putt. But of course social media was soon divided over the situation…
This has to be a rogue ruling. He has commenced a stroke at the ball. He has struck the ball. He can only stop it being a stroke by stopping before he hits it or by deliberately missing it. He has not ‘caused it to move accidentally. pic.twitter.com/4WwJd9GT0Y
— Keith Farrow (@plod1956) September 23, 2022
Very open to interpretation among the average golfers. I can hear the discussion’s in the bar already !
— David Johns (@Johnzey) September 23, 2022
Will remember this ruling every time I hit a putt 6ft short with the lads
— Admirals Pride (@unwelcomeguest_) September 23, 2022
Call it cheating.
— Paul Lewis (@LittyMan) September 23, 2022
Yep, it’s a new rule. Utterly mad. Authorities shld be ashamed of themselves for allowing it to be established. Open to abuse on every course.
— Totalitarian Tolerance (@bobwells999) September 23, 2022
Weirdest rule. Seems to excuse inability to control nerves or just outright carelessness. What do you say when a guy with the yips is putting? Sure they dont even know themselves when theyre trying to make a stroke
— Mick (@Benicetomonty) September 23, 2022
There ain’t no drama like a bit of Rules of Golf drama.
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George Cooper
