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Jon Rahm Apologizes After Divot Strikes Volunteer at PGA Championship

5/15/2026

Summary

Jon Rahm Apologizes

Golfer Jon Rahm apologized after a divot hit a volunteer’s shoulder and face on May 14 at the PGA Championship.
He said a bad approach on seventh left him frustrated, so he swung a shot producing the divot.
Rahm checked the volunteer, promised to locate him later and give a present as amends.
He finished 69, birdied holes eight and nine after a seventh-hole bogey and an eagle on second.

Summary

Rahm Escapes Penalty

On May 15, 2026, a PGA of America spokesperson said Rahm got no warning because his swing did not violate code.
Chief championships officer Kerry Haigh said the code, created jointly by majors and tours, outlines a warning, a two-shot penalty for repeat breaches, and possible disqualification.
Officials said intent and severity determine violations, deeming Rahm’s accidental swing non-egregious, but similar future incidents could trigger the warning and penalty rules.

Summary

Rahm Warns

Rahm told reporters that many expected 15- to 20-under scores, but the course proved far tougher.
He said steep-sloped fairways narrow the apparent width and the rough’s thick grass can catch a player.
Early leaders hovered around three under par, showing lower scoring than anticipated.
He warned the course may firm further this week, making the par-70 Aronimink layout even more difficult.

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Jon Rahm Apologizes

Golfer Jon Rahm apologized after a divot hit a volunteer’s shoulder and face on May 14 at the PGA Championship.
He said a bad approach on seventh left him frustrated, so he swung a shot producing the divot.
Rahm checked the volunteer, promised to locate him later and give a present as amends.
He finished 69, birdied holes eight and nine after a seventh-hole bogey and an eagle on second.

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