The LPGA finds itself in controversy after the introduction of a new dress code prohibiting its players to wear revealing clothes, plunging necklines or even leggings on the ground.

Michelle Wie at the HSBC Women's Champions 2017 - Photo: DR

These new regulations, which came into force on July 17, have been very well received in the international press, with the influential magazine Teen Vogue accusing the circuit of stigmatizing women according to their attire.

An email sent on July 2 by the president of the LPGA players, Vicki Goetze-Ackerman, indicates the new set of dress rules to which circuit members will now have to comply.

Players will therefore no longer be able to dress in tank tops without collars, over-plunging necklines, leggings (unless they are worn under a short skirt or bermudas), training clothes or even jeans. Skirts, skirts-shorts or shorts must be of a length deemed appropriate, or so that the buttocks of the player are not visible at all times, including when she is crouching.

A measure also requires players to wear “appropriate” and “professional” attire during off-course events organized by the LPGA.

According to Golf Digest, a first violation of the regulations will result in a fine of $ 1000. This will double for each subsequent violation.

The director of communications for the LPGA explained this new dress code to Golf Digest, noting that it "requires players to present themselves professionally in order to reflect a positive image of the sport".

Critics, such as former European circuit golfer Matt Blackey, replied that the new code would do nothing to popularize golf.