
Ping and the PGA Tour Resolve Wedge Issue
After the recent news and controversy around the use of Ping's EYE2 wedge and irons, Ping have agreed to waiver it's right to use the clubs.
The rulings changed earlier this year for wedge grooves but a loophole allowed for Ping's EYE2 wedges made prior to April 19990, with deeper wide squared grooves, to be technically available in play.
Several players had been reported to be sourcing the clubs, with John Daly and Dean Wilson using at the Sony Open, ensuring they fast became hot property on auction sites such as ebay.
The waiver goes into effect March 29 and applies to the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour. As a result of a request from the USGA, PING will also apply the waiver to the U.S. Open in June.
"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," said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem.
John Solheim is encouraged by the USGA’s announcement that the volunteer organization will share more information with, and seek more input from a variety of sources, including manufacturers, in the rulemaking process.
“I’ve been consistent in voicing my concerns over the last several years about the challenges of the current rulemaking process and the needs to improve it to the benefit of golfers,” said Solheim. “I am hopeful this will be a significant first step in realizing this goal. We’re looking forward to the forum and will be an active participant when it convenes sometime this fall. Our goal is to help ensure innovation remains an important part of golf’s tradition.”
PING and the PGA TOUR stated the waiver does not take all EYE2 irons and wedges out of PGA TOUR player’s hands. At the request of several players this year, PING has made EYE2 irons and wedges with grooves that conform to the 2010 New Groove rule. Those clubs remain eligible for use.