Reaction from other parties on rule to ban anchored putting stroke

Editor's Note: Here is a round-up of the statements and reactions from other organizations, golf companies and prominent indiciduals regarding the decision by the USGA and R&A to adopt the proposed rule to ban the anchored putting stroke:

PGA Tour
PGA TOUR acknowledges that the USGA has adopted Rule 14-1b which prohibits anchored putting as of January 1, 2016. We would like to thank the USGA for providing the opportunity for input and suggestions relative to Rule 14-1b over the last several months. During that time, various questions were raised and issues discussed.

We will now begin our process to ascertain whether the various provisions of Rule 14-1b will be implemented in our competitions and, if so, examine the process for implementation. In this regard, over the next month we will engage in discussions with our Player Advisory Council and Policy Board members.

We will announce our position regarding the application of Rule 14-1b to our competitions upon conclusion of our process and we will have no further comment on the matter until that time. 

LPGA
The LPGA has consistently conducted our official events in accordance with the Rules of Golf as established by the USGA and the R&A. We recognize the need for an independent governing body to maintain the rules of the game. We trust in the ability and expertise of both the USGA and R&A to make the decisions that are in the best interests of the game. 

The USGA provided ample time and opportunity for us to not only educate our players, but also to solicit input, concerns and feedback surrounding Rule 14-1b. While we know that not every one of our members is in favor of the rule change, the LPGA will continue to respect and follow the Rules of Golf which includes the implementation of Rule 14-1b in January of 2016. 

Cobra Puma Golf
Golf lost today. This is not the direction we should be going, it will only continue to alienate people from golf. COBRA PUMA GOLF has been stressing the importance of game enjoyment since we formed in 2010; game enjoyment is how we are going to bring people back to golf. This decision is a giant leap back on that front. With this decision, bifurcation needs to be front and center in golf's conversations and we should be focusing on adapting the rules and the game to be inclusive and fun.

Olin Browne (via Twitter)
USGA/R&A have methodically thought through this issue. Consensus and adherence will be key. Two years offers time for litigation to play out

Steve Flesch (via Twitter)
It would be chaos if PGA Tour goes against ban; what it should do is enact it EARLIER to avoid any awkwardness. #Anchoring”

John Daly (via Twitter)
It's time that the Club Pros & PGAPros stop being pushed around by amateur companies when it only matters to 2 tourn British/USOpen why should we change our rules--again that's IMO. NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL....all professional organizations create their rules, PGA should also create rules as professionals in our organization.

Cliff Kresge (via Twitter)
Will TV cameras have close up views of whether butt is touching the body. Will they allow viewer call-ins&will playing partners say anything. Things could get VERY interesting n 2016. Especially if PGA Tour goes against ruling. US Open & Open champ no go. What will AugNational do?

Beth Daniel (via Twitter)
Anchoring is not the problem with the game. How about the art of ball striking, slow play, the ball, driving distance, lining players up?

Arron Oberholser (via Twitter)
Compelling arguments from both sides of the anchoring issue. Interesting to see what happens from here.

Parker McLachlin (via Twitter)
I'm in support of the ban on anchoring for tournament golf. It should have been done a long time ago though @USGA. Baseball doesn't start kids with wooden bats and 90mph pitches... New golfers shld be encouraged to start with something easier then wrk up

Meg Mallon (via Twitter)
I could not disagree more with the USGA's decision today. #respectfullytheygotitwrong

Rich Beem (via Twitter)
If only 2-4% of worldwide golfers use anchored putters, why do they feel this is "bad" for the game?