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Mud Ball Controversy Clouds Start of PGA Championship at Quail Hollow

Posted : 16 May 2025

The world’s top golfers kicked off the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, but an unexpected issue quickly stole the spotlight: mud balls. These occur when golf balls become coated with mud and dirt during wet weather, which might seem minor but can drastically affect how the ball flies and spins. This unpredictability has frustrated players, especially under conditions where such effects are rare.

 

Usually, golf tournaments allow “preferred lies” during bad weather, a rule letting players lift, clean, and place their ball within a limited distance on closely mown areas to avoid muddy shots. However, at major championships like the PGA, allowing preferred lies is up to the tournament organizers’ discretion.

 

Despite heavy rains earlier in the week, the PGA decided against this rule, which led to issues on the 16th hole where mud on balls caused top players like Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele to miss their shots badly, resulting in double bogeys.

 

Both Scheffler and Schauffele expressed frustration about the decision not to permit preferred lies. Scheffler called it “frustrating” to hit good shots only to have mud interfere with the ball’s flight, making control impossible.

 

 He acknowledged it’s part of the game but said it’s tough when rules prevent players from managing such conditions. Schauffele echoed the sentiment, calling the situation “kind of stupid” and lamenting that despite excellent grass conditions, the lack of cleaning options leaves players at a disadvantage.

 

The PGA of America stood by their choice, stating that the course conditions had improved and fairways were drying quickly, so preferred lies would not be allowed. They praised the playing surfaces and expressed optimism about the tournament’s opening round but have yet to respond to the players’ criticisms. Meanwhile, the muddy ball controversy remains a significant talking point as the championship progresses.

 

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