The DP World Tour has been rocked by controversy after a video surfaced showing professional golfer Sam Bairstow seemingly violating the rules of golf during the Nexo Championship in Scotland. Bairstow, a 27-year-old English pro, withdrew from the tournament after the first round under what were initially described as “mysterious circumstances.”
Bairstow had signed for a 5 on the par-4 14th hole at Trump International Golf Links’ Old Course, when he had actually made a 7. He disqualified himself after the error was brought to his attention following his round of one-over 73.
While scoring errors can occur even at the highest levels of the sport, this incident took a dramatic turn with the emergence of a video obtained and shared by James Corrigan of the Telegraph. The video, shot by a fan, clearly shows Bairstow's ball moving as he prepared to play his shot on the 14th hole.
According to the Rules of Golf, if a player's actions cause the ball to move, they are required to replace the ball on its original spot and take a one-stroke penalty. Bairstow seemingly failed to do so, playing the ball from its new resting place and recording what he believed to be a bogey 5.
Corrigan reported that the fan shared the video with DP World Tour officials, who then questioned Bairstow about the incident. Initially, Bairstow, ranked 210th in the world, denied any wrongdoing. The DP World Tour has now sanctioned Bairstow, although the specific nature of the sanction has not yet been publicly disclosed.
This incident raises questions about integrity and sportsmanship in professional golf. The DP World Tour has not yet released an official statement, but further updates are expected as the story develops.
Key Takeaways:
- Sam Bairstow sanctioned by DP World Tour after video surfaces.
- Incident occurred at the Nexo Championship in Scotland.
- Video shows possible violation of golf rules regarding moving the ball.