MARANA, Ariz. — PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem threw a big wrinkle into the plan to outlaw the anchored putting stroke when he said yesterday the tour opposed the ban because there was not enough evidence to suggest players had an advantage by using a long putter.
“We hold the USGA in highest regard as a key part of the game of golf,” Finchem said. “We don’t attempt to denigrate that position in any way whatsoever. It’s just on this issue, we think if they were to move forward they would be making a mistake.”
The USGA and the Royal & Ancient Golf Club announced Nov. 28 a proposed rule that would prohibit players from anchoring the club to their body.
Three of the last five major champions used a belly putter.
The governing bodies are nearing the end of a 90-day comment period before deciding whether to adopt the rule, which would not take effect until 2016.
Finchem has been meeting with his players the last few months, with USGA executive director Mike Davis presenting the rule to a player meeting in San Diego last week. Finchem sent a letter to the USGA and R&A on Friday to state the tour’s position.
The PGA of America also opposes the ban. The USGA said it would decide on the proposed rule in the spring.