Overview
- R&A chief Mark Darbon said a new code at Royal Birkdale will let referees give a two-shot penalty for serious on-course misconduct, with details to be set out before the championship.
- Officials said the four majors have agreed to run similar conduct policies this season, and leading tours are expected to align though their rules are not yet final.
- Augusta National used its policy at the Masters, issuing warnings to Sergio Garcia for damaging a tee box and to Bob MacIntyre for swearing and an obscene gesture.
- Garcia later apologized for his behavior at Augusta, and MacIntyre said he does not plan to change his on-course demeanor.
- Darbon also said the R&A and USGA still plan a golf-ball distance rollback, and a single 2030 start date is under review after industry feedback.