Lucas Herbert’s impressive performance at The Open Championship briefly became the subject of controversy after television cameras appeared to show his caddie using a rangefinder during the second round. Since distance-measuring devices are not permitted during The Open, many viewers immediately questioned whether Herbert had unknowingly breached the Rules of Golf and faced a possible penalty.
The incident unfolded as Herbert’s caddie, Nick Pugh, was seen looking through what looked like a standard laser rangefinder while searching for Herbert’s ball. The images quickly spread across social media, with many fans believing the Australian golfer was at risk of receiving a two-shot penalty for violating the championship’s equipment regulations.
However, the speculation was soon put to rest.
Officials clarified that the device was not being used to measure distance. Instead, its battery had been removed before the round, meaning it was incapable of providing yardages or any other distance information. With the battery removed, the device functioned solely as a monocular, allowing Pugh to locate Herbert’s golf ball and assess its position on the course.
The R&A, which governs The Open Championship, had already approved the use of the disabled device for this purpose. Because it could no longer perform its primary distance-measuring function, it complied fully with the Rules of Golf. As a result, Herbert committed no rules violation and avoided any penalty.
The clarification ensured that Herbert’s outstanding round remained the focus of attention. His brilliant 62 matched the lowest round ever recorded in Open Championship history, placing him alongside some of the tournament’s greatest scoring performances. Rather than being overshadowed by controversy, his achievement stood as one of the highlights of the championship.
The incident also served as a reminder that appearances on television can sometimes be misleading. While rangefinders are generally prohibited during The Open, a disabled device used only as an optical aid is permitted under the rules. Once that distinction was explained, the debate quickly ended.
For Herbert, the clarification meant his record-tying performance remained intact, allowing fans to celebrate one of the finest rounds in Open Championship history without any lingering questions over its legitimacy.
