PGA Tour Stars Take Rapid Action to Avoid Gargantuan Fines for Slow Play
Unfortunately, slow play has become a prominent issue since the 2025 PGA Tour season started at The Sentry. Of course, pace-of-play has been a long-standing problem for the PGA Tour, but incidents in recent weeks have only exacerbated the situation. The American Express tournament, for example, was excruciatingly slow at times, with Sepp Straka’s final group stranded on one hole for over 30 minutes. Similarly, during the Farmers Insurance Open, it took over three hours for nine holes to be completed. As a result, calls for harsher punishments and the implementation of a shot clock, a concept that has proven successful in the TGL, have emerged.
Michael Kim Explains Current Slow Play Rules on the PGA Tour
It is worth noting that only three players have been sanctioned for slow play on the PGA Tour since 1995, with shot penalties being handed out on each occasion. Shedding light on the current rules, Michael Kim, who has been playing regularly in 2025, explained that PGA Tour stars only face a “big fine” when they approach their tenth offense of the season. In an article on X, Kim wrote, “When slow players get close to that 10th timing, which results in a big fine, especially if you’re a repeat offender, players start playing faster. Just because we make a lot of money doesn’t mean that the fine doesn’t hurt. It actually is a real deterrent for most everyone out there.”
What Is the PGA Tour Doing to Stop Slow Play?
Thankfully, with slow play dominating the headlines, the PGA Tour has finally decided to take a stand. On Wednesday, the Tour announced that tests would be conducted to allow players to use distance-measuring equipment. Currently, caddies and players must calculate their numbers using a yardage book, which can be time-consuming. This move could significantly speed up the game. Additionally, the PGA Tour is considering sharing the average stroke time for each player and publicly announcing fines. This transparency could act as a deterrent against slow play. Finally, the Tour’s decision to reduce field sizes is expected to have a positive impact on the pace of play. However, its effectiveness remains to be seen.
Conclusion
As slow play continues to frustrate fans and players alike, the PGA Tour is finally taking concrete steps to address the issue. By implementing measures such as allowing distance-measuring equipment, sharing stroke time data, and reducing field sizes, the Tour hopes to combat slow play and maintain an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. PGA Tour stars, aware of the potential financial consequences, are already adapting their playing styles to avoid hefty fines. The future of the PGA Tour is now in the hands of these players and the effectiveness of these new initiatives in promoting faster and more exciting golf.
