LIV Golf Issues Rules Clarification Over Controversial Playoff Drop at Promotions Event
During the third playoff hole of the LIV Golf Promotions Event's second round, Ollie Schniederjans received a free drop that sparked online discussion. LIV Golf has clarified the situation with an official statement.
According to LIV Golf, a Model Local Rule was in place stating that earthen walls between grass and desert areas are considered ground under repair. If a ball touches the wall or it interferes with the intended swing path, players are entitled to free relief under Rule 16.1. However, this relief doesn't apply if the wall only affects the player's stance.
Decorative capital L cutout design
Schniederjans' tee shot came to rest against such a wall, and he properly took his nearest point of complete relief, dropping within one club length in the general area. After the round, he acknowledged the fortunate break, stating, "I was assuming I was getting relief, but I hadn't been in that spot all week. That was obviously a great break."
Golfer standing with hands on hips
Following the incident, Schniederjans went on to shoot rounds of 66 and 71 on Saturday, finishing in a tie for fourth place. While he missed out on securing a LIV Golf spot, which went to Chieh-po Lee, he did earn entry into all 10 International Series tournaments on the Asian Tour for 2024.