I really don't understand the fuss about the spirit of the game here.
In real golf, it's ok by the rules, it's ok by a decision, so why should there be an ethical issue with that shot? IMHO, those who whine "only putters on the green!" lack an important part of the game, that is fantasy! They may never use the long driver punch below some trees or a putt from a bunker.
To me, the major goal in the game is fixed in rule 1: Score as low as possible following the rules, and the other major guideline is in the etiquette section, including a "thou shalt not harm anybody" imperative.
Yet don't push the damage item too much in front: Divots on the fairways are frequent and commonly accepted.
FWIW, the only reasons preventing me from chipping on the green are
- respect for the value of the green and the work of the greenkeepers, and
- the fact that it's a difficult shot due to the thin lie on a hard surface.
Due to the first reason I don't do it in private rounds,
due to the second I've not done it in tournaments ever since the first try failed.
In WGT, the main reason drops out, so why not include another successful variant to your repertoire? The divots will be repaired perfectly by some Heinzelmaennchen when you leave the green :)