MURFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio — Sky Sports commentator Jay Townsend has called on the PGA Tour to tighten rules on marking and replacing balls on the green after English golfer Matt Fitzpatrick was criticized for slow play during the third round of the Memorial Tournament.

Fitzpatrick, who has enjoyed a strong 2026 season with three victories and a rise to world No. 4, took considerable time lining up a birdie putt on the par-5 15th hole on Saturday. Townsend expressed frustration on the broadcast, arguing that once a player replaces their ball after marking it, they should not be permitted to lift and re-mark it again.

"He's certainly taking a lot of time," Townsend said. "It comes back to what I was saying yesterday. You shouldn't be able to mark it again after replacing your ball on the green. When you put the ball down, take your hand off, it's in play. This is just too slow. They're playing within the rules, okay. I'm just saying that when every four years they come out with updated rules and stuff, they need to take that away."

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about pace of play on the PGA Tour, where slow rounds have long frustrated players, fans and broadcasters. Fitzpatrick's deliberate routine on the 15th drew particular attention as he ultimately missed the putt, contributing to a round that left him tied for 32nd at three-over par heading into the final day.

Despite the slow start at Muirfield Village, Fitzpatrick has produced strong results this year. His three wins demonstrate consistency and scoring ability, though recent form has been uneven following a driver........

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