When Lucas Herbert carded a bogey-free 62 at Royal Birkdale during The Open, it was a round destined for the record books. But amid the cheers and headlines, a quiet debate unfolded on the course that caught the attention of broadcasters and fans alike. Herbert’s caddie, Nick Pugh, was spotted using a rangefinder mid-round—an act that immediately sparked questions about the device’s legality under tournament rules.
This wasn’t your typical equipment controversy. Pugh wasn’t measuring distances, which is banned at The Open, the Masters, and most PGA Tour events. Instead, he was using the rangefinder purely as binoculars to get a better look at the ball’s position from afar. That subtle but crucial difference kept him well within the R&A’s regulations, a fact Pugh had double-checked with officials before teeing off.
How Caddie Nick Pugh Navigated a Confusing Rule Landscape
To understand why this moment raised eyebrows, you need to know the rule differences across tours. The LIV Golf circuit, where Herbert plays regularly, allows rangefinders for distance measurement. The PGA Tour and most majors, including The Open, do not. But the R&A’s rules permit using such devices as binoculars, provided they aren’t used to calculate yardage.
Pugh, a seasoned caddie known for his old-school professionalism, took no chances. Early in the week, he consulted an R&A rules official to confirm the device’s permitted use. He even informed Herbert’s playing partners and the on-course referee before and during the round to avoid any confusion. The rangefinder he used had no battery installed—making it incapable of measuring distance.
Why This Lucas Herbert 62 Royal Birkdale Rules Controversy Matters
In a sport where the line between legal and illegal can hinge on a tiny detail, Pugh’s approach highlights how savvy caddies adapt to complex, often inconsistent equipment rules. The incident underscores how different governing bodies handle technology and the nuances players and their teams must navigate during high-stakes tournaments.
For fans and broadcasters, the sight of a rangefinder on the course immediately raised alarms due to its strict bans elsewhere. But Pugh’s careful handling reminds us that rules are rarely black and white. They often require a nuanced understanding and proactive communication to keep the game fair and transparent.
The Human Factor Behind the Equipment Debate
Beyond the technicalities, Pugh’s story brings a human element to this rules wrinkle. He’s a veteran who once tried qualifying for British Opens himself, and his candid explanation of why he relies on the device—his eyesight isn’t great, especially tracking balls hit 380 yards—adds context to the practical challenges caddies face.
This episode also serves as a reminder that the caddie’s role extends far beyond carrying clubs. It involves managing logistics, rules compliance, and sometimes even diplomacy on the course. Pugh’s calm, confident handling of the situation earned nods of respect from peers, who celebrated Herbert’s record-tying round while appreciating the caddie’s behind-the-scenes diligence.
What to Watch Next
The next big test for Herbert and Pugh will be how they handle equipment regulations as the season progresses and as more tournaments grapple with integrating technology without compromising tradition. The evolving patchwork of rules across tours means caddies like Pugh will remain essential arbiters of what’s allowed, ensuring players can focus on their shots without costly disputes.
For fans, the lesson is clear: the drama on the leaderboard is only part of the story. The nuanced chess match with rules and regulations is happening quietly alongside, shaping how golf’s future unfolds.
According to All The Golf, this episode at Royal Birkdale offers a rare glimpse into these quiet but consequential moments that can shape tournament outcomes and player reputations. For a broader view, explore our coverage of golf majors coverage and results.
Source: according to All The Golf
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