Controversial Kevin Roy Bunker Ruling Stuns Golf World at John Deere Classic
PGA Tour pro Kevin Roy’s controversial bunker ruling at the John Deere Classic sparks outrage from fans and Sky Sports commentator Dame Laura Davies.
SILVIS, ILLINOIS – The John Deere Classic, typically celebrated as a golfer’s paradise ripe for low scores, found itself under an unwelcome spotlight during its third round on July 5, 2025. A contentious bunker ruling, not a string of birdies, seized the conversation, leaving spectators and broadcast analysts alike in disbelief and sparking a heated debate over the spirit of the game.
The incident unfolded with PGA Tour professional Kevin Roy, who was firmly in contention at TPC Deere Run. After his initial bunker shot failed to clear the sand, leaving his ball resting precariously in front of his own footprint, Roy initiated a sequence of events that would soon go viral. Instead of playing his next shot immediately, he strategically waited for his playing partners to complete the hole before requesting a rules official. His intent was to rake the sand before attempting his next shot from the same bunker.
A Rule Ignites Debate
The official’s ruling allowed Roy to smooth the sand without penalty under Rule 12.2b(2), which permits a player to remove loose impediments or smooth sand in a bunker when the ball is not in play, provided the actions do not improve the conditions affecting the next stroke. The official determined the footprint was not in Roy’s “line of play,” thus granting him permission to rake. This decision, however, drew immediate and sharp criticism from observers.
Davies and Fans Outraged
Sky Sports commentator Dame Laura Davies was particularly vocal in her disapproval. “I’m baffled by this. He should be penalized,” Davies lamented on air. She added, “That’s not how the game is meant to be played.” The sentiment intensified as she declared the ruling “not in the spirit of the game” and warned, “It’s not what we teach young players.”
The moment quickly resonated across social media. Golf analyst Joseph LaMagna questioned the decision publicly, stating, “Wait, why was Kevin Roy allowed to rake that bunker??” Fans mirrored the outrage, with many labeling the incident “Bad!!!!” Others echoed the sentiment, asserting, “This is very bad, blatantly trying to abuse the rules and no pushback from the official.” The widespread reaction highlighted a perceived disconnect between the letter of the PGA Tour rules and the underlying principles of golf etiquette.
Roy’s Performance Overshadowed?
Roy, a 34-year-old seeking his maiden PGA Tour victory in his 50th start, had otherwise been playing exceptional golf throughout the week. Rounds of 65, 67, and 70 saw him briefly climb into the top 10, just four shots off the lead. His recent T8 finish at the Rocket Classic underscored his improving form. Yet, despite his solid performance, this controversial ruling now threatens to define his week at the John Deere Classic, potentially overshadowing his competitive play.
Tournament Leaders Chase John Deere Crown
As the final round on July 6, 2025, commences, the focus shifts back to the battle for the championship. Davis Thompson leads the field at 15-under par, aiming to become the first back-to-back winner at the John Deere since Steve Stricker’s remarkable three-peat from 2009 to 2011. He is closely pursued by a formidable group including Max Homa, David Lipsky, Emiliano Grillo, and Brian Campbell, all positioned just one shot behind at 14-under. The tournament boasts an $8.4 million purse, with the winner set to claim $1.512 million and 500 coveted FedEx Cup points. Regardless of the outcome, the third-round Kevin Roy bunker ruling has ensured this year’s John Deere Classic will be remembered for its unexpected controversy.
