The USGA has acknowledged that it created "uncertainty" during the final round of the US Open after insisting on leaving an incident involving Dustin Johnson unresolved until the end of play.
On the fifth green, Johnson's ball moved fractionally as he prepared a putt - something that he immediately addressed with an official - but despite the incident seemingly being dealt with, he was later notified that he may be handed a one-shot penalty at the end of play.
Johnson went on to win the tournament by four shots - which was eventually reduced to three shots by officials - but after receiving criticism from players at the top of the sport, the USPGA has admitted that it made a mistake.
The statement read: "Upon reflection, we regret the distraction caused by our decision to wait until the end of the round to decide on the ruling.
"It is normal for rulings based on video evidence to await the end of a round, when the matter can be discussed with the player before the score card is returned.
"While our focus on getting the ruling correct was appropriate, we created uncertainty about where players stood on the leaderboard after we informed Dustin on the 12th tee that his actions on the fifth green might lead to a penalty."
The victory for Johnson saw him claim his first Major crown and move up to third position in the World Golf Rankings.
Darren Plant
