[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

In my opinion, the video clearly shows that she cheated by moving the ball out of a hole, which was probably a spike mark. The player is not allowed to repair spike marks, or to move the ball from its original location. Regardless of how the violation was detected, I think the ruling was correct. Unlike other sports, golfers are supposed to enforce their own violations.

I don't think that "cheated" is an appropriate term here. To me. "cheated" implies that the player did something intentional to gain an advantage.

Do you think that Roberto DeVinsenzo cheated when the signed an incorrect scorecard? Do you think that Dustin Johnson cheated when he touched the ground in a poorly defined bunker?

Do you think that a player that accidentally kicks his ball while searching for it in long rough is cheating?

Cheating implies intent and no one is saying that Lexi Thompson intentionally tried to create an advantage.