From Nationalclubgolfer · Matt Chivers · · 1m
Rory McIlroy penalty at Abu Dhabi
Rory McIlroy takes two-shot penalty for grounding club near ball at Abu Dhabi tournament.
In brief
Rory McIlroy takes two-shot penalty for grounding club near ball at Abu Dhabi tournament. Rory McIlroy accepted a two-shot penalty after reviewing video showing he may have pressed his club on the ground during play at Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship. Originally reported by Nationalclubgolfer.
Rory McIlroy penalty
Masters champion Rory McIlroy received a two-shot penalty in the first round of the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship.
Rule 8.1b(4) violation
McIlroy grounded his club behind the ball on the 12th hole at Yas Links, rolling a piece of grass into a divot.
Penalty decision
The DP World Tour ruled McIlroy did not press the club on the ground but accepted a two-shot penalty due to perception concerns.
McIlroy's explanation
McIlroy said he tried to feel the lie but the video showed grass lying down, so he took the penalty to avoid negative perception.
Result
McIlroy's quadruple-bogey 8 led to a 2-under 70, keeping him in third place in the Race to Dubai.
At a glance
Rory McIlroy accepted a two-shot penalty after reviewing video showing he may have pressed his club on the ground during play at Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship.
