Phil Mickelson Speaks Out Over Long Putter Debate

Four-time major winner Phil Mickelson has entered the long putter debate, and not for the first time, he and Tiger Woods stand on opposite sides of the fence.

The American left hander spoke out at a press conference ahead of the Barclays Singapore Open, saying : “I understand both sides, it’s just that I don’t think you can take away what you’ve allowed players to use, practise and play with for 30 years. I think it is grossly unfair.

“I also understand that it’s a better way to putt and all young players should start to putt that way as they get older. It’s a more efficient way to putt.

“I am concerned about some amateur players that use it and I don’t want to deter people from the game of golf.”

Earlier, Tiger Woods had suggested a rule making the putter the shortest club in the bag, but Australian Adam Scott – one of those currently using a long putter – said: “I’m not necessarily sure his views on what the putter should be are correct at all.

“I don’t think the putter should be the shortest club in the bag. That has never been a rule in golf, so I don’t know why it should be now.”

The debate has gathered pace in recent weeks after Keegan Bradley, Mickelson’s Ryder Cup partner, suggested he would consider legal action if a ban is imposed.

European Tour chief, George O’Grady, has already confirmed that the Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the United States Golf Association, who set the rules of golf, have been discussing their options, with a decision expected in December.

If a ban is introduced it is likely to take effect from the start of 2016.