LPGA Pros Share Strong Opinions on How to Fix Tour's Slow Play Problem

LPGA Pros Share Strong Opinions on How to Fix Tour's Slow Play Problem

By Michael Thompson

November 23, 2024 at 08:26 AM

Slow play is a persistent challenge in professional golf, with many LPGA players expressing frustration over rounds extending beyond 5 hours. Recent events, like the Annika tournament, have brought this issue into sharp focus.

Key Issues:

  • Rounds regularly exceeding 5 hours
  • Impact on fan experience
  • Varied pace between players
  • Complex course conditions affecting play speed

Player Perspectives:

Nelly Korda (World No. 1):

  • Advocates for first instinct being the best instinct
  • Suggests better preparation before shots
  • Recommends more on-course monitoring
  • Believes standing over putts for 2-3 minutes is excessive

Charley Hull's Proposed Solution:

  • Three bad timings should result in loss of tour card
  • Mandatory return to Q-School for persistent slow players
  • Emphasizes need for stricter penalties

Other Player Suggestions:

  • Improved tee time spacing
  • Shot clocks on every hole
  • Increased fines and penalties
  • Better course management

Lydia Ko's Balanced View:

  • Consider course difficulty
  • Account for tournament stakes
  • Recognize multiple variables affecting pace
  • Suggests no single solution will fix the issue

Practical Solutions:

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The consensus among players indicates that while slow play remains a significant issue, solutions require a multi-faceted approach combining stricter enforcement with practical considerations for playing conditions and tournament stakes.


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