The LPGA have announced a new Pace of Play Policy for both the LPGA and Epson Tours. It will focus on improving pace with lowered timing thresholds for stroke penalty. In their statement released on Thursday, the LPGA outlined the changes as including:
New penalty structure for plus times
- +1-5 seconds over time: Fine
- +6-15 seconds: One-stroke penalty
- +16 seconds or more: Two-stroke penalty
10-second allowance changes
- The first to hit on par 4s and 5s will no longer receive an additional 10 seconds, except on reachable par 4s
- The first to hit on par 3s, approach shots and putts will still receive the extra 10 seconds
Previously, players were only fined for +1-10 seconds over time, or given a two-stroke penalty for +11 seconds over time.
LPGA Player President, Vicki Goetze-Ackerman added: “This new policy, which was player-led and developed through an established Pace of Play Committee, was created in what we believe is in the best interest of our brand, fans and the overall LPGA watching experience.
“Based on a data-backed approach and direct player input, this policy now acts as a stronger deterrent, ensuring players take warnings seriously before penalties become necessary. Our overall intention is to improve the pace of play on Tour, and these updates mark a significant step toward creating a more efficient and enjoyable competitive environment, benefiting both our Members and our fans.”
World No. 1 Nelly Korda also expressed her content with the new changes, saying: “I’m very excited about it. I think that’s one of the things that I’ve just noticed over my time on tour is that we used to go from five hours, under five hours, to now it’s just five and a half, typically, our rounds.
“So I think that implementing harsher rules is going to be good for the game of golf. They were saying at the meeting at the end of the day we’re a form of entertainment. If we’re taking really long out there, I mean, that’s not entertaining.”
The policy will come into effect at the LPGA’s Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass, March 27; as well as at the Epson Tour’s IOA Championship pres. by Morongo Casino Resort and Spa, April 25.