According to CNN, the discussion on the new rules on golf balls is sparking opposition. The governing bodies of golf, R&A and United States Golf Association (USGA), held a joint press conference on Tuesday to announce their proposals to restrict the distances that golf balls can fly in elite tournaments. These measures are in response to the significant increase in hitting distances over the past two decades, leading to the lengthening of golf courses, and threatening the long-term sustainability of the sport.
However, these proposals have received significant backlash from some of golf’s elite, including Sam Burns and Justin Thomas, who both criticized the plan as unnecessary and detrimental to the game. Bryson DeChambeau, renowned for his driving distances, was particularly scathing, calling the proposals “the most atrocious thing that you could possibly do to the game of golf.”
The proposed measures would allow tournament organizers to make it mandatory for golfers to use balls tested under modified launch conditions to limit hitting lengths, reducing striking distances by an average of 14-15 yards for the longest hitters with the highest clubhead speeds. The new measures, termed the “Model Local Rule,” would apply only to elite competitions, with recreational golf unaffected.
While not all golfers have been critical of the new proposals, the PGA Tour stated that it would be collaborating with the USGA and R&A, as well as conducting its independent analysis to evaluate and provide feedback on the proposals. Acushnet, the company that produces Titleist golf balls, criticized the plans, claiming they would drive a wedge between professional and recreational golf.
In conclusion, the proposed measures to roll back the distances that golf balls can fly in elite tournaments have divided opinion among golfers. While some, like Pádraig Harrington, believe it will lead to an array of benefits, including reducing the environmental impact of golf, others like Burns, Thomas, and DeChambeau, oppose the measures, arguing they are unnecessary and will make the game less enjoyable. The proposal will come into effect in 2026 if adopted.
