Garrick Higgo, the South African golfer, incurred a two-stroke penalty during the first round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club. The infraction occurred due to his late arrival at the designated teeing area for his 7:18 a.m. tee time. This penalty resulted in an immediate double bogey on his opening hole.
Higgo's tardiness meant his score on the first hole became a double bogey six, effectively dropping him four shots before he had truly begun his round. The rules stipulate disqualification for players arriving more than five minutes past their scheduled tee time. Higgo, however, qualified for an exception, receiving the general penalty applied to his first hole as he was deemed to have arrived within the five-minute grace period but not at the starting point on time. He had been on the practice putting green.
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Round's Unsettled Start
Despite the unusual setback, Higgo demonstrated some resilience. He managed to birdie the third hole and subsequently made par on several others, aiming to recover ground. Ranked No. 85 in the Official World Golf Ranking, Higgo entered this year's PGA Championship making his fourth appearance in the event. His prior performances in majors have seen him seeking his first top-40 finish.
Rules Enforcement
The penalty underscores a strict adherence to the Rules of Golf, specifically Rule 5.3a concerning starting times. While the standard penalty for such a breach is disqualification, exceptions exist for players who arrive at the starting point ready to play within five minutes of their tee time. Higgo's situation highlights a rarely enforced aspect of the rules that can significantly impact a player's tournament before their round truly commences. The PGA of America's local rules and terms of competition define the starting point of a round, a detail that proved critical in this instance.
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