Yealimi Noh, one of the rising stars in women’s golf, found herself at the center of controversy during this year’s U.S. Women’s Open after fans took to social media accusing her of illegal ‘anchoring’—a putting technique banned under golf’s rules since 2016.
The claims surfaced during Noh’s round at Lancaster Country Club, where eagle-eyed viewers alleged that her putter appeared to be touching or nearly touching her body during strokes, potentially violating Rule 10.1b of the USGA rules. The anchoring rule specifically prohibits players from creating a fixed point of contact between the putter and any part of the body other than the hands or forearms.
While the USGA has not officially addressed the complaints or issued a penalty, the buzz generated online has sparked debate among fans and commentators. Some argue that the video evidence circulating is inconclusive and that what appears to be anchoring may simply be a close—but legal—proximity of the putter to her chest or torso.
Noh, who turned professional in 2019 and has since developed a reputation for her consistent play and calm demeanor, has not yet publicly responded to the allegations. She completed her round without any official rulings or penalties, and it remains unclear whether tournament officials will review the footage in greater detail.
Former players and analysts have also weighed in on the incident. “It’s tricky with anchoring because perception doesn’t always match reality,” said one LPGA commentator. “Unless there’s a clear and sustained contact point, it’s tough to prove without close-up footage.”
This incident echoes similar past controversies involving other professionals, including Adam Scott and Bernhard Langer, whose putting techniques sparked questions—even post-ban. In all such cases, the burden of proof lies heavily on intent and consistent visual evidence.
For now, Yealimi Noh remains focused on her game as she competes in one of the sport’s most prestigious tournaments. Whether or not the accusations amount to anything more than speculation, they serve as a reminder of how closely top athletes are watched—and judged—by fans in the digital era.
Golf fans will be watching closely in the next rounds, not just for her score, but for any further signs of a possible rule breach.
Note: Anchoring in golf refers to a player bracing the putter against the body to stabilize it, which was banned to restore skill and feel to putting. The rule has been a source of debate since its introduction.