Lucas Glover has clarified that his decision to remove his shoes during the 3M Open in Minnesota was not a protest against the AimPoint putting technique, but rather a practical move to avoid making spike marks. Glover, a former U.S.
Open champion, took off his shoes before retrieving his ball from the hole after sinking a 10-foot birdie putt. TV commentators had suggested that the gesture was a form of protest against AimPoint, which has been criticized for slowing down the game and damaging greens. However, Glover took to Instagram to set the record straight, stating that his actions were solely intended to prevent spike marks.
He explained that he removed his shoes to retrieve his ball without making any marks, regardless of the type of spikes he was wearing. The United States Golf Association (USGA) and the R&A have allowed players to tap down spike marks since 2019.
Glover revealed that he was approached by an official who informed him of a complaint about spike marks and noted that other golfers on the course were wearing metal spikes. He expressed his surprise at being approached about the issue, stating that it was the first time he had been spoken to about his spikes.
Glover, who has six PGA Tour titles, including the 2009 U.S. Open, concluded by saying that he looks forward to competing in Detroit and has no plans to change his shoes, which will continue to have metal spikes.