Ping and PGA settle wedge dispute

Golfers will no longer be able to use the controversial Ping Eye 2 wedge after March 29, following an agreement between the club’s manufacturer and the PGA Tour.

Ping chairman John Solheim said he was waiving his rights that prevented the PGA Tour from banning the club in accordance with the 2010 groove rule under a long-standing court agreement.

Phil Mickelson was one player who had chosen to add the wedge to his bag after the prohibition on U-shaped grooves came into place, but was heavily criticised for doing so.

Europe’s top ranked played Lee Westwood accused the world No.3 of bending the rules, while American Scott McCarron called it “cheating” before issuing and apology for the remark.

PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem said the decision by Ping was in the best interests of the game.

“John Solheim and PING had a terrific opportunity to do something very positive and significant for the game of golf and we very much appreciate his willingness to take this action,” he said.

Solheim, meanwhile, said the agreement “levels the playing field on the PGA Tour and resolves a very unfortunate situation.”

Bryce Ritchie is the Editor of bunkered and, in addition to leading on content and strategy, oversees all aspects of the brand. The first full-time journalist employed by bunkered, he joined the company in 2001 and has been editor since 2009. A member of Balfron Golfing Society, he currently plays off nine and once got a lesson from Justin Thomas’ dad.

Editor of bunkered