The full story behind the incident at the 3M Open where the golfer removed his golf shoes
Lucas Glover’s act of removing his golf shoes during the final round of the 2026 3M Open was not a protest against Aimpoint. It was a playful expression after he received feedback regarding marks left by the metal spikes.
Glober recorded a birdie on the 10th hole of the final round of the tournament, which was held on July 26 at the TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota. He then took off his golf shoes at the edge of the green and walked to the hole in his socks to retrieve the ball.
According to the official records of the PGA Tour, Glover finished in a tie for 57th place with a total score of 5 under par, 279 strokes, after four rounds.
Complaints about metal spike marks were the cause
According to reports from Golf Digest and Golf.com, Glover was informed by a tournament official that a complaint had been raised regarding spike marks on the green. Glover was identified as the player who left the marks due to wearing metal spikes.
Glover stated that not only he, but also players in adjacent groups were wearing metal spikes. He said he felt singled out, and that removing his golf shoes was a way to satirize the situation.
Sports Illustrated reported that the PGA Tour’s explanation is consistent with this context. The tour stated that Glover was asked to be careful of the spike marks, and he responded with a lighthearted comment.
The interpretation that this was a protest against “aimpoint” is inaccurate
At the time, some commentators and fans interpreted Glover’s actions as a protest against Aimpoint’s green dot aiming system. This was because Glover had previously expressed critical views on Aimpoint and the issue of match speed.
However, Glover clearly stated through social media that this action was unrelated to Aimpoint. Therefore, any interpretation that he removed the metal spike to use Aimpoint or that he supports related technology is not factual.
What is an aimpoint?
Aimpoint is a green reading system that helps players assess the slope of the green and the putting line. It is commonly used by players who first sense the degree of slope with their feet and then use their fingers to establish an estimated starting point.
While Glover’s past statements caused this scene to escalate into a debate about aimpoints, the actual cause was the on-site situation surrounding the golf shoes and the spike marks.
According to golf rules, spike marks can be repaired
Rule 13.1c of the Rules of Golf, established by the R&A and the United States Golf Association, stipulates that damage and spike marks on the putting green caused by shoes can be repaired using reasonable methods. This includes using hands, feet, standard ball mark repair tools, tees, or clubs.
However, the restoration should not go beyond bringing the course back to its original state. It should not involve excessively improving the greens or unfairly delaying play. Currently, the rules state that if spike marks affect the putting line, the player can clear them directly.
Glober also emphasized in his explanation that the players can repair the spike marks by pressing them down. He also stated that, although he has been wearing metal spikes for a long time in the PGA Tour, this is the first time he has received complaints related to them during a competition.
Metal spikes were not permanently removed
This incident is not a case of Glover removing the metal spikes from his golf shoes or replacing his equipment. He only temporarily took off his golf shoes on the 10th hole, and subsequently stated that he would continue to wear the metal spikes.
Ultimately, the unusual scene at the 3M Open, which was not related to equipment changes or protests against aiming points, can be interpreted as a satirical response to the request to be mindful of green damage. At the same time, it brought renewed attention to discussions surrounding the use of metal spikes, green maintenance, and consideration among players.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did Lucas Glover take off his golf shoes at the 3M Open?
After receiving information that complaints had been raised about metal spike marks on the green, I took off my golf shoes in a playful manner to demonstrate my intention not to leave any additional marks.
Was Glover’s action a protest against Aimpoint?
No, that is not correct. Glover stated through social media that his actions were unrelated to Aimpoint and were a reaction to the situation surrounding the spike marks.
Did Lucas Glover completely eliminate metal spikes?
No, he did not remove the spikes from his golf shoes; rather, he temporarily took off his shoes during the match. He also stated that he intends to continue wearing metal spikes.
Can spike marks on the green be repaired according to golf rules?
It is permissible. According to golf rule 13.1c, a player may repair damage to the putting green caused by their shoes or spike marks using reasonable methods.
What was Glover’s final score at the 3M Open in 2026?
Glover finished the tournament in a tie for 57th place with a total score of 5 under par, 279 strokes, after four rounds.
