Golfer Banned for Life After Breaching Strict Tournament Rule
A golfer has been banned for life after breaking a strict tournament rule, in an incident that sparked a strong reaction from both the organisers and fellow players.
The pressure of top-level sport can push athletes to breaking point and cause them to lose control of their emotions.
In a sport like golf, the ability to stay composed is an essential trait for those wanting to build a successful career.
However, that is often easier said than done, as John Daly found out.
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The American golfer has enjoyed a highly successful career on the Tour, winning two majors along the way.
After victory at the PGA Championship in 1991, he went on to win The Open in 1995, although he never made a Ryder Cup team, becoming the only man with multiple majors to miss out.
But Daly has been disqualified from several events over the years, struggling to keep his emotions in check.
Arguably his lowest moment came at the Australian Open in 2011 at The Lakes in Sydney.
According to the golfing gazette, Daly found the water seven times on the 10th hole during his opening round.
He then told his playing partners he was leaving, before storming off the course, without informing event organisers of his decision to withdraw.
After being made aware of Daly's withdrawal, tournament director Trevor Herden spoke to the media.
He said: “I would say this is the last time we see John Daly at this tournament.
“I’m extremely bitter and disappointed. It’s becoming a bit of a habit.
“If you run out of golf balls, and you are acting in a professional manner, you will call a rules official and we will get the type of ball he is playing with and replenish his stock. We can do that.
"For him to treat it as ‘that’s it’ and ‘see you later’, that’s not good enough.“
Hunter Mahan, who was playing alongside Daly that day, added: “Once I saw two go in, I think the effort went down pretty fast.
"I thought that’s what we were going to see and we did. It’s not the most respectful thing for a guy who would die to play in this.“
Brian Thorburn, the CEO of the PGA of Australia, continued: “John is not welcome at Coolum."
Daly, who is now 59, is still competing professionally.
He has played in 10 tournaments so far this year, most recently withdrawing after the opening round of the Sanford International in South Dakota.
Topics: Golf
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