The R&A and USGA have announced an update of the testing conditions used for golf ball conformance, with the new rules scheduled to take effect in January 2028. The intent is to reduce the impact that increased hitting distances have on golf’s long-term sustainability while minimizing the impact on the recreational game. Full USGA announcement here >
The longest hitters are expected to see a reduction of as much as 13-15 yards in driving distance. Average professional tour and elite male players are expected to see a reduction of 9-11 yards, with a 5-7-yard reduction for an average LET or LPGA player.
The change in testing speed is expected to have a minimal distance impact, 5 yards or less, for most recreational golfers. Research shows an average swing speed of 93 mph for male golfers and 72 mph for female players.
Existing balls approved for conformance in 2027 may continue to be used by recreational golfers until January 2030 to give golfers, manufacturers, and retailers additional time to adjust. These decisions are in line with the commitments made by the governing bodies at the project’s inception.
A significant portion of golf ball models that are currently in the market – and more than 30 percent of all golf ball models submitted for conformance across the game – are expected to remain conforming after these changes are applied.
FULL USGA PRESS RELEASE ON NOGA.ORG >
USGA CEO Mike Whan made the following statement upon the release of this announcement:
This morning, we are announcing the final outcomes from our Distance Project, which began in 2018. Today’s news is the result of a six-year process of extensive research, evaluation of numerous options and stakeholder feedback from across the industry. We’ve followed a deliberate, transparent, and inclusive process and have listened throughout each step.
Over the past few months, we heard three consistent messages: unification is important (the same playing rules and equipment standards for all golfers); minimize the impact on the recreational game; and provide the industry with enough time to adjust. As a result, this morning we announced two important changes to equipment standards, which you can read more about in the attached press release and cover note written by Martin Slumbers and me.
Governance is hard – today we’ll hear from thousands of people who think we did too much, and from just as many who think we didn’t do enough! We govern with an unbiased perspective, not tied to any one stakeholder, but rather focused on the long-term health of our game. It can certainly be unpopular at times, but we have the courage to govern, and do what’s right.
