Jon Rahm Questions Golf's Divot Rule: What Exactly Defines A Divot?
Professional golfer Jon Rahm recently addressed one of golf's most debated rules - relief from fairway divots - during an appearance on Rick Shiels' YouTube channel.
According to Rahm, professionals rarely encounter fairway divot situations in competition, noting it happens "less than once a year." However, he acknowledged the complexity of the debate regarding whether players should get free relief.
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The two-time Major winner explained both sides of the argument: "I think you should [get relief], because it's the definition of ground under repair. But then, what is a divot? Can you call any possible imperfection a divot when it's on the fairway, and get relief?"
Golf ball on grass
Rahm specifically highlighted concerns about pitchmarks, referencing Paul Casey's situation at The 2022 Players Championship. Casey's ball came to rest in a previous player's pitchmark in the fairway, forcing him to play a conservative shot instead of attacking the green.
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A Golf Monthly forum poll revealed that approximately 75% of respondents opposed granting free relief from fairway divots, supporting the current "play it as it lies" rule. Currently, the Rules of Golf do not permit relief from fairway divots, though players are expected to repair them as part of golf etiquette.
This ongoing debate highlights the challenge of balancing fair play with practical rule implementation in golf.