Matti Schmid & Broom-Handle Putters: PGA Tour Debate
The golf world is again debating the legality of long putters, specifically the anchoring putting stroke, and whether it offers an unfair advantage in professional play. The issue, brought to light by recent performances and the practices of players like Matti Schmid, highlights inconsistent rule enforcement since the 2016 ban. Some pros still use longer putters, and the current guidelines have become ambiguous, creating an uneven playing field. The core concern centers on the need for clarity and fairness. News Directory 3 reports on the varying opinions of players, officials, and the proposed solutions to level the playing field. Discover what’s next as governing bodies consider changes.
Golf’s putting Stroke Rule Faces Scrutiny Amid Long Putter Use
Updated May 27, 2025
A rule designed to protect the “fundamental characteristics of the putting stroke” is under renewed scrutiny as some golfers continue to use longer putters, raising questions about fair play and enforcement. The anchoring ban, implemented in 2016, followed a string of major wins by golfers using extended putter shafts.
Past major champions like Keegan Bradley (2011 PGA), Ernie Els (2012 Open), Webb Simpson (2012 U.S.Open), and Adam Scott (2013 Masters) all won using an anchored stroke. Scott continues to use a long putter, but without anchoring it to his body.
While clamping an extended shaft against a forearm, as Bryson DeChambeau does, is permitted, some feel even this gives an unfair advantage. Players like Schmid, Akshay Bhatia, Si Woo Kim, and Lucas Glover effectively use longer putters.
bernhard Langer and Scott McCarron have faced questions about their putting techniques on the senior tour. Eugenio Chacarra’s victory at the Indian open on the DP World Tour also sparked debate.
Langer defended his technique in 2017, saying he doesn’t understand the controversy. “I’m a man of integrity, and the last thing I wont to do is break rules and be known as cheating,” Langer said. “I know when I’m anchoring and when I’m not anchoring as I control my hand.” He added that his knuckle is away from his body,so he is not anchoring.
The difficulty lies in consistent enforcement, as violations are often not evident. This ambiguity creates an uneven playing field, some say.
Eddie Pepperell, a DP World Tour winner, suggested a simple solution: “Insist on the putter being the shortest club in the bag.”
One anonymous official agreed, stating, “Easy solution is just limit the maximum length of the putter and be done with it.” Another official added, ”The powers that be should be looking at it. If there is a rule, we should be able to enforce it.”
What’s next
Golf’s governing bodies may revisit the putting stroke rule to clarify enforcement and ensure a level playing field for all competitors. Any changes could significantly impact equipment and technique choices on professional tours.