‘Is It Legal?’: DP World Tour Pro Under Fire as Controversial Actions Get Caught on Camera

Does sluggish play distract from the thrill of playing professional golf? Recent occurrences indicate that players who take their time on the course are causing fans to get more and more irate, which has resulted in a spike in nasty comments on social media.

Shaun Norris’s lengthy pre-shot procedures and numerous conversations with his caddie surprised onlookers during a recent tournament. Many fans viewed what some could describe as painstaking preparation as excessive and interfering with the flow of the game. A frustrated audience member wrote, “I can’t stand how long Shaun Norris takes.” These comments reveal a rising annoyance among golfers who appreciate the pace and rhythm of the game. In addition to trying viewers’ patience, the protracted delays also call into question good sportsmanship and consideration for other participants.

Fans react on social media: A surge of negative reactions

The backlash didn’t stop at the course. Social media platforms buzzed with criticism aimed at Norris. One Twitter user expressed, “Wow, I hope he loses,” reflecting the intensity of the disappointment. Another directed their plea to the governing bodies, tweeting, “@USGA, there is nobody who thinks this is legal. Please do something about this rule. Thank you.” Such reactions underscore a broader call for regulatory bodies to address behaviors perceived as detrimental to the sport’s integrity. 

“Hopefully Shaun Norris’s color can fade and fall off and make this interesting,” one fan wrote in one of the more personal comments, while another said, “Shaun Norris winning is horrifying; Jesus won’t make him hit it in water.” Even if they are severe, these responses show how passionate and demanding fans are of the behavior and tempo of the game.

It’s unclear how Norris and the golf community will respond to these issues as the controversy heats up. There is little doubt that fans are paying careful attention and speaking up more than ever.