Justin Thomas was hoping for a great Saturday at the U.S. Open. A 319-yard drive down the middle of the fourth fairway was a promising start.
Things started to fall apart at that point.
"During the conversation, [Thomas] was questioned if the drain would affect his swing; he responded that it wouldn't. According to a USGA statement, he did not receive relief because the drain did not impede.
If an impediment "physically interferes with the player's area of intended stance or intended swing," according to Rule 16.1a (1), relief may be granted. However, the rule adds that there is no relief "if the impediment is close enough to distract the player but does not otherwise interfere."
Thomas made the first of five bogeys on the day as his approach ball from a tricky lay landed over 50 yards short of the green. He was heard whining about the decision throughout the program.
Thomas said, "Very clearly my stance and my ball were sitting differently than it would be if that drain were not there." "I wasn't going to strike the drain in the spirit of the game.
I had the impression that I could have easily told [the official] I would receive a free drop, but I didn't.
It is evident that the drain caused my posture and the location of my ball to change, making them sit poorly, but I didn't receive any assistance from it. That is the way things are. To acquire a drop, you must be able to hit the drain.
Thomas is seven strokes down from the leader and tied for 25th.
Login To Leave a Comment