With Tiger out of the PGA Tour spotlight (at least for now), all eyes are on Phil Mickelson to fill the void. Lefty has always enjoyed a share of the spotlight, but Woods’ indefinite absence opens the door for him to be “the man” and claim the #1 ranking for the first time. The expectations are evident and along with that comes some extra attention.
As recently reported on The Local Golfer Blog, a rules change in 2010 has changed the dynamic of the grooves on clubs, particularly wedges. The width and sharpness of the grooves have been reduced which will cause less spin.
However, numerous “questionable” wedges are permitted per an old court decision, including the Ping Eye 2. Although these clubs are approved for play under the Rules of Golf, many pros believe that they conflict with the essence of the new “groove” rules and create an advantage for those using them in competition. In typical golf-fashion, it’s just a measure of integrity for the game.
Where does Lefty tie into this equation? Mickelson is one of a handful of pros on tour who use the Ping Eye 2, a club that he’s had for nearly 20 years and played with since college.
When asked about his old friend earlier this week, Lefty said, “I feel like the Eye-2 grooves are not legal, or don’t conform, but they are approved for play. And after talking about it to the tour and the USGA, the only thing that matters is, ’Are they approved for play?’.”
Get your “asteriks” ready for the 2010 golf season . . .
