Michael Brennan was disqualified at the Farmers Insurance Open by the PGA Tour, ending his run after round one due to a controversial rule.
Disqualification After First Round on the PGA Tour
In a shocking development at the Farmers Insurance Open, Michael Brennan was disqualified from the tournament after the first round. The PGA Tour confirmed a violation of the so-called Model Rule G-11. Brennan used unauthorized materials for green reading, constituting a clear breach of the Tour’s regulations.
At the time of disqualification, the 2025 Bank of Utah Championship winner was tied for 55th place, two strokes under par.
What the Model Rule G-11 Permits and Prohibits
Effective since January 2022, this rule strictly limits the use of analytical aids. Only PGA Tour-approved yardage books, official flagstick location information, and course overviews no larger than A4 size are allowed.
Handwritten notes are permitted only if made by the player or their caddie based on personal observations, including watching rolled or played balls and subjective impressions of the putting green. Detailed measurements or third-party green analyses are expressly forbidden.
The rule initially prescribes a two-stroke penalty for an infraction, with disqualification following a subsequent violation. The PGA Tour has not disclosed when Brennan’s infractions occurred.
A Rule That Sparks Debate
Since its introduction, Model Rule G-11 has been controversial. In 2022, Rory McIlroy, then president of the player council, defended the rule strongly, stating that many players had become too reliant on green reading aids. “It’s not a huge advantage,” McIlroy said, “but it diminishes a skill that requires time and practice. Reading greens is an art, and these aids neutralize individual strengths and advantages.”
German player Alex Cejka was also affected by this rule shortly after its implementation, being disqualified in 2022 for using a non-approved yardage book.
Hole locations for the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open pic.twitter.com/P4L6jEz39B
— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) January 31, 2026