The governing bodies of golf, the R&A and USGA, have declared their support for a new rule change aimed at reducing the distance that golf balls travel. R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers and USGA counterpart Mike Whan have stated that the impact of this change on recreational players will be “minimal.”
Previously, the R&A and USGA had proposed a Model Local Rule (MLR) allowing elite tournaments to mandate the use of balls that travel approximately 15 yards less. This change is set to take effect for their own events, such as the Open Championship and US Open, beginning in 2028, and for recreational players starting in 2030.
Despite facing opposition from entities such as the PGA Tour, PGA of America, and equipment manufacturing company Acushnet, as well as players like Justin Thomas, the governing bodies are proceeding with the rule change. Their rationale includes the need to reintroduce skill to the game, address hitting distance, and consider environmental sustainability.
The new rule will impact the fastest swing speeds by 13-15 yards, the average Tour speed by nine to 11 yards, and the average recreational player by less than five yards. Additionally, the clubhead speed at which balls are tested will be raised from 120mph to 125mph, with a distance limit of 317 yards plus an additional three yards of tolerance.
Golfer Keegan Bradley has expressed concerns about the potential impact on amateur players, stating that the new ball is 40 to 50 yards shorter with his driver. However, Martin Slumbers has reassured that the impact on recreational players will be minimal and not as significant as claimed.
Notable players, such as Rory McIlroy, have voiced support for the rule change, believing that it will reintroduce skill to the professional game and enhance its entertainment value. Despite differing opinions, the governing bodies have determined that the rule change is essential for the long-term integrity of the game.
The PGA Tour and PGA of America have expressed conditional support for the news, while also objecting to the increase in test clubhead speed. Equipment companies Bridgestone and Callaway have also accepted the decision, with Bridgestone Golf president Dan Murphy emphasizing the need to focus on creating compliant products for both professionals and amateurs.
In summary, the governing bodies are pressing forward with the rule change to address the distance that golf balls travel. While there are varying opinions and concerns, the decision has been made in the best interest of the long-term structure and sustainability of the game.