Niemann penalty puts golf’s new conduct code in the spotlight

Joaquin Niemann was given a two-shot penalty at the US Open for throwing his sand wedge during a difficult sixth hole. Officials treated the incident as serious misconduct under rule 1.2b, making him the first known player penalised under the new conduct code for majors.

The penalty turned Niemann’s score on the par-four sixth from nine into 11, and he finished his delayed opening round with an eight-over 78. He responded strongly in round two with a five-under 65, leaving him at three over overall and narrowly inside the projected cut line.

Niemann later acknowledged the incident and said he regretted losing control, while also accepting that officials had the authority to make the call. His explanation pointed to a frustrating sequence: two tee shots out of bounds, an awkward lie, and mounting irritation before he threw the club.

The case gives golf’s updated behaviour policy a high-profile test at a major championship. With Robert MacIntyre and Sergio Garcia already cited in earlier conduct discussions this season, editors may want to watch whether enforcement becomes more consistent, more visible, or more controversial as major weeks unfold.