USGA admits fault in claiming Justin Thomas ‘canceled every meeting’ about new rules

The USGA admitted it was at fault Tuesday after claiming over the weekend Justin Thomas “canceled” several meetings which involved discussions on the new Rules of Golf.

“After further and more direct conversations with (Thomas), we realize he did not avoid a discussion with the USGA nor cancel any meetings,” the brief statement said. “We value his and all players’ opinions and are committed to a productive dialogue as the golf world adjusts to the modernized rules.”

After further and more direct conversations with @JustinThomas34, we realize he did not avoid a discussion with the USGA nor cancel any meetings. We value his and all players’ opinions and are committed to a productive dialogue as the golf world adjusts to the modernized rules.

— USGA PR (@USGA_PR) March 5, 2019

Thomas went on a rant on Twitter Saturday after earlier in the day Adam Schenk was assessed a 2-stroke penalty for violating the new caddie alignment rule in the Honda Classic’s third round on Friday.

On Saturday, Thomas retweeted the USGA’s statement in which the penalty was announced, adding the hashtag, “#growthegame.” Thomas went on to answer questions from his followers about the new Rules of Golf implemented in January 2019.

“My problem with the rule is that unless a caddie is clearly lining a player up (which is very obvious), I don’t see how there’s any benefit to it. Doesn’t make the game any better in my eyes. That being said, we know the rule and have to be careful to go by it,” he wrote.

The USGA quickly chimed in, replying to one of Thomas’ conversations with fans and stating the two parties needed to talk. The USGA then claimed Thomas “cancelled every meeting” it planned with Thomas to discuss the new rules.

The exchange can be read below.

Justin, we need to talk. You’ve cancelled every meeting we’ve planned with you, but we are reaching out again. We were at the first 5 events, and tournaments last year, and your tour has had a seat at the table for 7 years. We’d love nothing more than to give you a seat. Call us.

— USGA PR (@USGA_PR) March 2, 2019

Before the final round of the Honda Classic Sunday, Thomas was asked about the USGA’s claims. Thomas asserted he hadn’t canceled any meetings, but would still work to communicate with the USGA for the betterment of golf.

“It was a little shocking. It was a little upsetting just because it was inaccurate,” Thomas said Sunday. “I haven’t canceled anything, especially any meetings. But it is what it is, and all I want is the best for the game of golf and the best for the sport, and that’s what we’re going to continue to try to communicate with each other to get that.

“It is unfortunate. It just was — it really hurt me.”

Thomas retweeted the USGA’s statement Tuesday afternoon without further comment.