Justin Thomas didn't mince words, calling the commotion surrounding Lucas Glover's spike marks at the 3M Open 'mind-blowing' and somewhat 'petty,' but also absolutely understandable. The US superstar senses an incredible targeted action against Glover that really stirred things up on the green. Thomas's respect for Glover's reaction is certainly strong.
The drama unfolded recently at the 3M Open when a rules official informed Lucas Glover that the following players were complaining about his spike marks on the greens. For Justin Thomas, it was clear: Glover drew his own conclusions. He suspected Glover wanted to signal that complaints should come directly to him, not indirectly – a move that is 'petty,' but also understandable when you're in the line of fire.
When the Green Becomes a Battlefield
What annoys Thomas the most is the targeted attack on Glover. How on earth do you pick him out of the entire field, Thomas wonders incredulously? Especially on soft, susceptible greens, spike marks are left by countless players – a widespread problem and not a one-man show. Thomas also recalled Glover's AimPoint method, which perhaps doesn't necessarily make his putts better, but certainly isn't exclusively responsible for all the spike chaos.
A Touch of Theater on Tour
This whole story surrounding spike marks is nothing new, but the current episode shows how thin the ice can sometimes be when it comes to the unwritten rules on the green. It's more a look behind the scenes of Tour etiquette than it is about strict disciplinary measures. Thomas's statement, however, once again proves that even among the pros, nerves can be frayed and everyone has their own understanding of fair play.
