Controversy at the PGA Championship: Drivers in the Spotlight
At the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club, the USGA (United States Golf Association) conducted tests on the players’ drivers, and the results have generated debate. Among the affected golfers are prominent figures such as Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler.
Rory McIlroy’s driver, winner of the Masters, was declared non-conforming during pre-tournament testing. For his part, Scottie Scheffler, current world number one, also confirmed that his driver was disqualified.
“Driver testing is something that regularly happens on tour,” Scheffler said. “My driver failed me this week. We had a feeling it was going to happen because I’ve used that driver for over a year. I felt fortunate that it lasted so long.”
Scottie Scheffler
McIlroy’s situation is particular, since, according to reports, his driver did not comply with the regulations. The golfer, who finished in 47th place in the championship, did not make statements to the media during the last days of the tournament.
The PGA of America requested the USGA to conduct driver testing at Quail Hollow, which was carried out. The USGA explained that this program is similar to the one offered on the PGA Tour and focuses on the “characteristic time” of the clubface, that is, its spring effect.
The results of these tests are kept confidential.
Scottie Scheffler struggled to hit the fairways with his new driver in the first round on Sunday, although he attributed this to his swing, not the equipment. In the third round, with his new TaylorMade driver, he managed to hit 13 of 14 fairways.
Scheffler suggested that, if tests are to be carried out, they should be more exhaustive and cover all players. Xander Schauffele, also a winner of major tournaments, agreed on the need to test all participants’ drivers to protect the integrity of the game.
