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USGA, R&A clarify caddie-alignment rule, allowing for intent

Related Topics: Caddie, Li Haotong, Denny McCarthy

The R&A and USGA released two clarifications to controversial Rule 10.2b(4) – the caddie-alignment rule – which was thrust into the spotlight over the past two weeks because of separate incidents involving Haotong Li and Denny McCarthy.

Here is a summary of the clarifications, from a Wednesday release from the R&A and USGA:

  • If a player backs away from a stance, the player is not considered to have begun a "stance for the stroke.” Therefore, a player can now back away from his or her stance anywhere on the course and avoid a breach of Rule 10.