Rule of the Month To help everyone brush up on the Rules of Golf and avoid some of the more common penalties, we're introducing a Rule of the Month feature. This month's rule comes after Bryson DeChambeau was recently given a two-shot penalty at The Open after inadvertently improving the area of his intended swing by pressing down long grass behind his ball. Rule 8.1 – Improving the Conditions Affecting the Stroke Players must not improve the conditions affecting their next stroke by moving, bending or breaking growing objects, pressing down grass, or otherwise improving the lie, intended stance, swing area or line of play. Even if it's unintentional, a 2 shot penalty may apply. Club reminder: Before you play your shot, resist the temptation to flatten the grass or test the lie. If you're ever unsure, leave it as you find it - or ask a fellow player