Potential $20,000 Fine Looms Over Jordan Spieth’s Slow Putting at The Sentry 2024: PGA Tour Update

The final stages of the PGA Tour’s 2024 calendar-opener have unfolded, with Chris Kirk leading the leaderboard after the third round.

However, Jordan Spieth, currently in joint third, faces more than just competition for the trophy. Recent changes in gameplay by the PGA Tour have brought attention to Spieth’s playing style, leading to speculation about a potential $20,000 fine.

During the third round at Kapalua Plantation Golf Course, Spieth drew criticism for taking an extended time to line up a short putt. The golfing community, including peers like Kevin Kisner, expressed their disapproval online. Despite the scrutiny, Spieth has narrowly escaped a $20,000 fine for this incident, marking a warning for the 30-year-old to adapt to the updated pace-of-play policy introduced by the PGA Tour for 2024.

The new pace-of-play policy aims to address the issue of slow play in golf. The Player Advisory Council (PAC) has introduced an Average Stroke Time infraction, comparing a player’s average stroke time to the field average at the tournament’s end. Accumulating 10 infractions leads to a substantial $20,000 fine, with subsequent penalties carrying $5,000 and $10,000 fines for 11-14 infractions and 15 or more violations, respectively. Spieth’s near-miss highlights the importance of adapting to the evolving rules while he remains in contention at The Sentry 2024.

As the PGA Tour unfolds, the spotlight is not only on the leaderboard but also on players’ adherence to the updated pace-of-play policy. Jordan Spieth’s close call with a potential fine serves as a reminder of the scrutiny faced by golfers in light of evolving regulations, adding an intriguing layer to the competition at The Sentry 2024.