USGA Senior Rules Director Slams Tony Romo’s Golf Skill

While he’s not technically a professional, Tony Romo seems to make a lot of appearances on the PGA TOUR as a player or guest announcer. Now, he’s gaining some criticism for his golf involvement from some high members of the USGA.

Just like last year, Romo participated in the Corales Puntacana Resort and Club Championship. And, just like last year, fell flat on his face, failing to make the cut.

It’s no surprise that Romo didn’t do too well against the pros for a second straight year but he’s left people wondering if he deserves all of the exemptions into tournaments that he gets.

He’ll have one more chance to prove himself at the AT&T Byron Nelson Classic later in the schedule.

Former NFL Player and amateur Tony Romo walks from the 12th tee…

Former NFL Player and amateur Tony Romo walks from the 12th tee during the second round of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship on March 29, 2019 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

One of the major issues that Romo is receiving is from his involvement in advertisements for golf products. For someone having amateur status, there are rules against endorsing major golf products.

This came to light when female amateur golfer Lucy Li has received punishment for appearing in a sponsorship ad with Apple as an amateur. Romo, however, has received no reprimands for his promotions with Sketchers’ golf shoe line.

Tony Romo for Skechers GO GOLF

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In light of the seemingly hypocritical responses to both of these players appearing in advertisements, the question of why there was a difference was posed to USGA Senior Rules Director of Amateur Status, Craig Winters. Winters responded by stating that “the Rules of Amateur Status prohibit an amateur golfer from being part of such promotions only when he or she has ‘golf skill.’ In the case of Tony Romo, while he plays at a high level, he is not considered to have ‘golf skill’ as they are defined in the rules.”

Now that is some harsh criticism of Romo, saying that he doesn’t have to golf skill to be participating in these promotions.

Another factor that Winters mentioned in why Romo was part of these promotions was likely his football celebrity. And if that was the motivation of the advertisement, there likely isn’t much that the USGA could do to Romo.

Former NFL Player and amateur Tony Romo reacts to his shot on the…

Former NFL Player and amateur Tony Romo reacts to his shot on the seventh hole during the first round of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship on March 28, 2019 in Punta Cana, Dominican… Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images

Knowing Tony Romo from his football days, I wouldn’t be surprised if he takes that criticism and uses it as motivation at the Byron Nelson Classic. But regardless, it will be interesting to see if the USGA starts cracking down on Romo’s amateur status moving forward.

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