South African golfer Garrick Higgo has dismissed his caddie following a highly publicized incident at the PGA Championship, where he incurred a two-stroke penalty for being late to his opening tee time. Higgo arrived one minute past his scheduled 7:18 am start at Aronimink Golf Club, leading to the penalty and ultimately his decision to replace Austin Gaugert with Nick Cavendish-Pell, as reported by Golfweek.
Details of the Incident
Higgo, 27, explained that Gaugert was urging him to get to the tee box, but he arrived just beyond the allotted time. The golfer was on the practice putting green, which is not considered part of the starting area, and was assessed the penalty. The mistake proved costly: his first-round score of three-under 67 became a one-under 69 after the penalty. The following day, he shot a six-over 76, finishing at four-over par, just one stroke shy of the cut line.
Higgo's Reaction
Reflecting on the incident, Higgo said, 'I wouldn't have been late if I knew I was running late. I was there at 7:18 and 30 seconds. I was there on time, but the rule is if you're one second late, you're late.' He added, 'If you know me, then you know I am very casual and laid back. I thought I had time. I was obviously too casual.'
The penalty and subsequent performance have led to a change in Higgo's team as he looks to move forward from the setback.
