World Report: January 26, 2001 Vol.6 No.15

The Case of Casey's Cart

Golfer Casey Martin's leg hurts so much that he can barely climb stairs, let alone walk a golf course. A rare disease makes his right leg weak. Martin, 28, golfed in college with Tiger Woods. Now he plays pro golf, but must ride in a cart.

The Professional Golfers Association (PGA) says using a cart is against its rules. In 1998 Martin sued the PGA and won the right to play with his cart. The PGA still claims that the cart gives Martin an unfair edge. Last week the case went to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Martin's lawyer says a law called the Americans with Disabilities Act "gives people like Casey a chance." But does the law mean that pro sports must bend their rules for the disabled? The court is expected to rule by July.