Unusual Golf Rules on Display: A Look at the Top Three Incidents from 2025

The Rules of Golf, spanning over 200 pages, can often baffle even seasoned players. In 2025, several unique rule interpretations came to light on the PGA Tour, exposing unexpected challenges from technology malfunctions to natural impediments. These incidents serve as vital reminders of the importance of knowing the rules thoroughly.

May 4, 2024; McKinney, Texas, USA; Davis Riley plays his shot from the second tee during the third round of THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-USA TODAY Sports ©USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

1. Distance Device Restrictions—Rangefinder Slope Feature Penalty

During the PGA Tour’s test period for rangefinders, Davis Riley encountered an unexpected situation involving his device. Amidst the second round of the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, his laser rangefinder not only measured distances but also displayed elevation changes—a feature strictly prohibited in competition.

Riley promptly reported the infraction and received a two-stroke penalty. This incident illuminated the fine line between technological assistance and adherence to the game’s standards. Players can use rangefinders to measure straight-line distances but must refrain from assessing height differences.

Key Takeaway:

Riley’s self-reporting emphasized golf’s integrity and showcased how easily players can mistakenly breach equipment rules in an age of advanced technology.

2. Wrong Ball Played—Disqualification for Failure to Correct Error

In a surprising turn of events at the Corales Puntacana Championship, Ben Crane inadvertently played the wrong ball. After hitting into a hazard on the eighth hole, Crane found a second ball in the fairway and mistakenly assumed it was his original ball, which had sustained damage.

According to Rule 6.3, players are required to rectify any wrong-ball issues before starting the next hole. Unfortunately for Crane, he did not discover the error until after beginning play on the ninth hole, leading to automatic disqualification. By reporting himself honestly, he underscored the importance of precise ball identification, even for veteran professionals.

Key Takeaway:

This rare application of the rule showcases the critical need for attention to detail regarding ball identity among even the most experienced players.

PGA, Golf Herren FedEx St. Jude Classic – Second Round, June 8, 2018, Memphis, TN, USA; Ben Crane steps away from his tee shot on the 13th hole during the tournament. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

3. Natural Impediments Interpretation—Bird Droppings on the Green

In a classic blend of nature and sport, Padraig Harrington faced an unusual challenge during the final round of the Senior PGA Championship. Bird droppings on the 14th green obstructed his path to a crucial birdie putt. The question arose: were the droppings “fixed” to the surface or loose obstacles?

Officials quickly determined that the droppings were not fixed as per the Rules of Golf, allowing Harrington to remove them without penalty. After ridding the green of the sticky interference, he successfully made the putt.

Key Takeaway:

This instance illustrates how unexpected natural occurrences can complicate a player’s approach, reinforcing the need for precise knowledge of the rules.

Conclusion

The events of the 2025 PGA Tour serve as a reminder of the complexities and intricacies that define golf. From technological limitations to strict regulations around ball identification and natural obstacles, these situations highlight the importance of understanding and adhering to the rules. Whether one is a seasoned player or a newcomer, mastering the intricacies of golf’s rules is essential to navigate the challenges of the game effectively.