[Golf Topic] European Tour "No Spitting Amid COVID-19 Situation"

The European Tour will strictly regulate spitting on the course to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Photo by Telegraph

[Asia Economy Reporter No Woo-rae] ○…The European Tour is taking active measures to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

First, it plans to strictly regulate spitting on the course. The British Telegraph reported on the 29th (Korean time) that "the European Tour has introduced strict hygiene rules in preparation for the resumption of tournaments suspended due to COVID-19," and "is strengthening the ban on spitting." Even now, spitting on the course is subject to penalties including fines. It is not only a breach of etiquette but also behavior unbecoming of players.

The European Tour is emphasizing public hygiene. Spitting by players is not uncommon. Dustin Johnson (USA), who enjoys chewing tobacco, has often been seen spitting during matches. Brooks Koepka (USA) was investigated by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A), which organizes the tournament, after spitting during the 2018 'oldest major' The Open. The most famous spitting incident involved the 'resurrected golf emperor' Tiger Woods (USA).

It happened at the 12th hole of the final round of the 2011 Omega Dubai Desert Classic. After missing a par putt, he was caught on TV broadcast spitting on the green. Criticism poured in calling it "rude and disgusting," and the tournament committee eventually imposed a fine. According to regulations, such behavior can be fined between $400 and $16,000, but the amount fined to Woods was not disclosed. Woods himself admitted, "It was thoughtless," and bowed his head saying, "It was an inconsiderate act."