Neal Shipley jokes about compensation for cut line

Neal Shipley played a surprising role in the Valspar Championship by affecting the cut line. His performance led to the cut being set at 2-over, helping 12 other golfers make it through to the weekend. Shipley, a Korn Ferry Tour rookie, had an up-and-down couple of rounds. He started badly with a 5-over 76 in the first round but improved greatly in the second round. He shot a 3-under-par 68, which included four birdies, even though he bogeyed the last hole. That last bogey moved the cut line down, creating opportunities for others. After the round, Shipley made a lighthearted request for "compensation" for his crucial bogey. He humorously suggested that fellow players could leave Waffle House gift cards in his locker. Many fans enjoyed his request, and it quickly became popular on social media, with calls for Waffle House to sponsor him. One player who benefited from Shipley's performance was Michael Kim, who expressed his appreciation on social media. Kim noted that "Neal just made 12 new friends" for helping them make the cut. Shipley entered the final round tied for 61st place after three rounds, now sitting at 2-over par. His journey continues as he plays in the tournament thanks to a sponsor's exemption.