Explained: The golf rule change that helped Hideki Matsuyama at Bay Hill

Hideki Matsuyama played one of the more relatable chip shots of his career when he clumsily double-hit the ball during the first round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.  

The 2021 Masters champion went on to shoot 5-under in the opening round and is currently two shots back from round one leader Shane Lowry, thanks to a rule change that prevented him from being docked two shots. 

Matsuyama's double hit occurred on the 15th hole when the ball ballooned up out of the rough and caught his club during his follow-through.

Before 2019, the mistake would have cost Matsuyama two shots; however, thanks to a rule change, the Japanese star walked away unscathed. 

The rule in question is 11.1a in the official R&A rule book. It states that:

Following his lucky break, Matsuyama bounced back in style, chipping in on the 16th hole for an eagle from 50 feet. 

After his round, he confessed he was unsure whether or not he would receive a penalty for the error.

Speaking to the media, he said:

Watch his interesting short game display below:

Double hit to chip-in



Co-leader @HidekiOfficial_ had an interesting short-game sequence on Nos. 15 and 16 @APInv. pic.twitter.com/rVPCh15kWn

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) March 7, 2024

Matsuyama has already picked up one victory on the PGA Tour this season, with a win at the Genesis Invitational, and he will be aiming to add to that tally this week at Bay Hill.

However, the Japanese star also admitted post-round that he is currently struggling with some back issues. 

He went on to highlight the issue in his post-round press conference, saying:

Matsuyama will commence his second round at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at 17:30 GMT alongside Russell Henley.

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