The PGA Tour has confirmed that Wyndham Clark acted within the rules during a disputed free drop in the second round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Social media questioned whether Clark's ball had landed in its own pitch mark or another divot on the 3rd hole, but officials ruled it was his own mark, allowing relief without penalty.
Clark, the former US Open champion, made par after the drop. He later said he was unaware of any confusion, noting the ball was plugged and covered with mud. The PGA Tour's rules committee reviewed ShotLink video and determined the ball returned to its own pitch mark, entitling Clark to free relief.
Despite the incident, Clark finished the round with a 71, including a double bogey on the 15th and a dropped shot on the 17th. He sits two strokes behind leader Shane Lowry, who carded a 67 to reach eight under par. Lowry's round featured a birdie on the difficult 18th hole.
Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, admitted extra motivation for a late tee time on Saturday, allowing him to watch Ireland play France in the Six Nations. He praised his iron play and conservative approach, saying he enjoys the challenge of Bay Hill where pars are valuable.
Rory McIlroy, playing alongside Lowry, shot a 70 and is four shots off the lead.
