PGA TOUR Star Wants To Bring the Hammer Down on Slow Players

A PGA TOUR star wants leadership to make more of a deal over slow players, arguing that the fight against those who have issues with playing pace is only half over.

The TOUR is already implementing a rule change that will reduce field size and make it less congested out on the course.

However, this does not fix the problem completely. Players on TOUR will still have the ability to take their time with shots, something that has been somewhat controversial for the past few seasons.

Camilo Villegas is going to join the PGA TOUR’s Policy Board as a Player Director this coming season, replacing Jordan Spieth. It seems he will be on the prowl to make major changes in how the speed of the game is perceived.

He said (via Golfweek):

“With a 156-man field we can’t enforce pace of play. In 2026, when that is not the case, we need to enforce it. One of the questions I asked is, how many guys are averaging above time on their shots. They gave me a number which I can’t remember. The way I see it, those guys are breaking the rules.”

Of course, pace of play can be impacted by more than one variable. Field size will certainly help, but that could potentially incite some players to take even more time with their shots, something that is not super advantageous for some players.

It is crucial for many to get a rhythm going, and when playing partners are not cognizant of this, it can slow groups down as a whole.

He continued:

“There needs to be consequences. I think their names should be posted in the locker room in font (size) 30, and (fellow Tour pro) Michael Kim brought this up a little while back, their caddie should wear a fluorescent orange bib. Make them feel bad. That’s not the way this game should be played. The Tour’s never going to do that. I wish they did. We had the balls to do the changes last year so maybe we do have the balls to enforce pace of play a little better.”

Players have made their discontent known during rounds with players who are less-than-considerate with their time to take a shot.

Viktor Hovland was more than up front when he played with Patrick Cantlay at the 2023 Masters Tournament. Brooks Koepka and Jon Rahm were paired behind them, and they were also upset with Cantlay’s pace.

Hovland was so fed up playing with Patrick Cantlay yesterday pic.twitter.com/MG5i43OYWM

— Fanatics Sportsbook (@FanaticsBook) April 10, 2023

Cover Image via New York Times