Watch: Lucas Glover removes shoes before picking ball out of hole

Lucas Glover sparked conversation during the 3M Open this weekend after a strange moment on the 10th green. After sinking a 10-foot birdie putt, the veteran golfer walked off the surface, removed both of his shoes, and then carefully stepped back onto the green to retrieve his ball from the hole. The act drew immediate attention from spectators and television cameras alike.

Initial rumors suggested the move was a protest against the AimPoint green-reading method, which utilizes a player's feet to gauge slope. However, the PGA Tour quickly addressed the situation with a statement, explaining that Glover had been asked by an official to be more mindful of his spike marks on the soft, damp bent grass. According to the tour, the golfer was attempting to make light of the request.

Glover later offered a detailed explanation through social media to clarify his actions. He noted that he has worn metal spikes throughout his 23-year professional career and that he had never previously received a complaint from an official during a round. He expressed frustration with the intervention, arguing that the greens were already in poor condition due to the weather and that players are permitted under current rules to repair spike damage.

Despite the distraction, Glover emphasized that his actions were intended to show how to avoid making further marks near the cup in soft conditions. He expressed disappointment that the incident became a topic of conversation, stating that he would prefer attention to remain on the tournament results. Glover finished the 3M Open outside the top 50, shooting 70, 72, and 72 in his final three rounds.