The proposition to introduce a universal rollback on the distance a golf ball can travel has ignited a contentious debate within the golfing community. The R&A and USGA’s plan to implement this change has caused concern among club players and raised questions about the future of the game.
In a recent poll, nearly 65% of respondents expressed their opposition to hitting a shorter golf ball. Golfing legend Rory McIlroy even weighed in, stating his belief that the change would not significantly affect an average golfer’s score, handicap, or enjoyment of the game. However, many players, including myself, disagree with this viewpoint.
The potential impact of hitting a shorter golf ball cannot be overlooked. For many of us, a reduction in distance would require the use of longer clubs, resulting in increased scores and slower gameplay. This could be particularly challenging for male club golfers, whose average driving distance is just over 215 yards. The USGA has also highlighted that many golf courses are already too long for the average player, further complicating the situation.
While the impetus for this change comes from the highest levels of the game, it is the golf clubs themselves that will need to adapt and address the impact of hitting a shorter ball. If the average player is to be affected, then clubs must take charge and make necessary adjustments to mitigate the changes. This may involve moving tee boxes or providing more choice through multi-tee events, but it is essential for the sustainability and accessibility of the game.