PGA Tour Pro Avoids Cut Thanks to Rules Review of Sand Trap Frustration
Pro golfer Jake Knapp nearly missed the cut at the Mexico Open due to a rules controversy over bunker sand interaction, but a video review saved him.
Jake Knapp at Mexico Open
On the par-3 9th hole at Vidanta Vallarta, Knapp's bunker shot rolled back into the sand, prompting him to drag his club in frustration. Initially, officials assessed a two-stroke penalty, dropping him below the cutline at one-under-par.
However, a video review by rules official Ken Tackett and the committee reversed the decision, citing Rule 12.2b which specifically allows "striking the sand in frustration or anger." This ruling kept Knapp at three-under-par, enabling him to make the cut.
The decision proved financially significant - Knapp went on to shoot rounds of 68 and 66 on the weekend, finishing tied for 25th and earning $53,783.
Key Rule Details:
- Pre-2019: Players could not touch bunker sand with hand or club
- Current Rule 12.2b: Allows touching sand in frustration/anger
- Still prohibits: Testing sand conditions or touching sand during practice swings
This case highlights the importance of knowing current rules and the value of video review in professional golf, as it helped preserve Knapp's tournament continuation and subsequent earnings.