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Unusual Air Shot by Golf Pro on DP World Tour Not Recognized as a Stroke Count

Odd occurrence during the Open de France: Keita Nakajima inexplicably hit a shot into thin air, yet avoided penalty in his subsequent play

Unaccounted Golf Shot by DP World Tour Player: The Mysterious 'Air Shot' Ruled as Non-Stroke
Unaccounted Golf Shot by DP World Tour Player: The Mysterious 'Air Shot' Ruled as Non-Stroke

Unusual Air Shot by Golf Pro on DP World Tour Not Recognized as a Stroke Count

In an unusual turn of events at the Open de France, Japanese golfer Keita Nakajima experienced an air shot during his first round at Golf de Saint-Nom-La-Breteche. However, this incident did not cost Nakajima a stroke in the tournament.

According to the Rules of Golf, an air shot would usually be counted as a stroke. But in this case, the PGA Tour stated that Nakajima deliberately tried to miss the ball after being disturbed. The rules post specified that a stroke has not been made if the player deliberately tries to miss the ball after being disturbed.

The disturbance came from a cough from someone in the crowd during Nakajima's downswing. This unusual swing of the day, as some might call it, occurred at the 15th hole, where Nakajima ended up making a bogey.

Despite this bizarre incident, Nakajima carded a four-under round of 67 for his opening round, placing him tied for fourth place in the tournament. The PGA Tour's official statement regarding the significance of Nakajima's 'Air Shot' was authored by a representative or spokesperson of the PGA Tour organization. The statement indicated that no stroke was made by Nakajima.

The PGA Tour also made a rules post explaining Nakajima's air shot situation on their social media, providing clarity to the golfing community about this unusual incident. Despite one of the more bizarre incidents on the PGA Tour this season, no penalty stroke was applied to Nakajima's first round score.

Nakajima made six birdies during his first round, showcasing his resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. The Open de France continues, with Nakajima poised to make a strong challenge for the title.

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