After her first round at the Mizuho Americas Open, amateur golfer, Mia Hammond, signed an incorrect scorecard and was ultimately disqualified from the tournament. The junior golfer self-reported the infraction after she signed for a lower score than she actually shot.
The disqualification is in accordance with the USGA Rules of Golf, Rule 3.3b (3) in conjunction with 21.1b (3) that states: “When the round has ended, the player should carefully check the hole scores entered by the marker and raise any issues with the Committee, make sure that the marker certifies the hole scores on the scorecard, must not change a hole score entered by the marker except with the marker’s agreement or the Committee’s approval, and must certify the hole scores on the scorecard and promptly return it to the Committee, after which the player must not change the scorecard… If the player breaches any of these requirements in Rule 3.3b, the player is disqualified.”
PGA Pro, Jordan Spieth, experienced the same unfortunate circumstance this year at the Genesis Invitational. Spieth signed for a second round 72 when he had actually shot a 73. The pro was disqualified for the same reason Hammond was, signing for a lower score, and accepted his expulsion without complaint. The incident reignited the debate that the rule is the “dumbest rule in all of sports”. To read the full article, click here.
Hammond has previously competed in two LPGA events, the Dana Open last July, where she tied 26th, and the Kroger Queen City Championship, unfortunately missing the cut. The 16 year old is currently ranked 203rd in the Junior Golf Hub Rankings and 212th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings.
Hammond’s disqualification is a testimony to the importance of honesty and integrity in the sport of golf, something not just reserved for professionals. All amateurs can look to her self-reported infraction and learn to do the same in their own careers in golf, if ever in the situation. Though many feel that golfers shouldn’t have to sign their own scorecards when the scores are broadcast anyways, the practice not only keeps up the tradition, but keeps golfers, both amateur and pro, accountable for their actions.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Get your personalized plan with Membership Exclusive Features
JGH offers a subscription package for users seeking a personalized experience. This includes creating a custom college list, matching with programs and coaches, managing tournament schedules, and accessing contact information for every college coach in the country. Click here to learn more.