Michael Brennan was disqualified by the PGA Tour at the Farmers Insurance Open after a controversial rule violation ended his tournament after round one.
Disqualification After Round One on the PGA Tour
A shocker at the Farmers Insurance Open: Michael Brennan was disqualified from the tournament after the first round. The PGA Tour confirmed a breach of the so-called Model Rule G-11, stating that Brennan used unauthorized material to analyze the greens—a clear violation in the Tour’s view.
At the time of disqualification, the 2025 Bank of Utah Championship winner was at two under par, tied for 55th place.
What Model Rule G-11 Permits and Prohibits
Effective January 2022, this rule restricts the use of analytical aids significantly. Only PGA Tour-approved yardage books, official flagstick location information, and a course overview no larger than DIN A4 format are allowed.
Handwritten notes may only be made by the player or caddie based on their own observations, including rolled or played ball impressions and subjective putting green insights. Detailed measurements or third-party green analyses are explicitly forbidden.
The rule initially penalizes violations with two strokes; only a subsequent violation results in disqualification. The PGA Tour has not disclosed when Brennan’s infractions occurred.
A Rule Sparking Debate
Model Rule G-11 has generated ongoing discussions since its introduction. In 2022, then Player Advisory Council President Rory McIlroy defended the rule strongly, stating many players have grown lazy in reading greens. “It’s not a huge advantage,” McIlroy said, “but it takes away a skill that requires time and practice. Reading greens is an art, and these aids neutralize individual strengths and advantages.”
German player Alex Cejka also faced disqualification under this rule in 2022 due to an unauthorized yardage book.
Hole locations for the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open pic.twitter.com/P4L6jEz39B
— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) January 31, 2026