The R&A and USGA are collectively reconsidering the timeline to implement a golf ball rollback, it has been revealed.
This was to give manufacturers time to create an elite-level golf ball that complied with the new testing parameters while also providing retailers and players the opportunity to use up their current stock.
However, in a letter sent out to manufacturers on Friday, January 16, the two governing bodies stated they are now “interested in soliciting views on a possible change” from the two separate dates initially proposed into a single date – specifically January 2030.
They explained that while plans were being made to support the two-phase approach, “several stakeholders have expressed concerns” surrounding issues that could arise as a result.
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The statement read: “In December 2023, The R&A and USGA published a Notice of Decision on an update to the Overall Distance Standard test for golf balls.
“This required that all golf balls submitted for conformance evaluation for listing from January 2028, must conform at the new test conditions.
“At the same time, recreational golfers would be permitted to continue to play with previously conforming golf balls until January 2030…
“Since that announcement, The R&A and USGA have been progressing plans to support the implementation of this decision, including engaging with stakeholders on a range of issues.
“During this engagement, several stakeholders have expressed concerns over the potential challenges that could come from the two-phase approach to implementation.
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“Based on this feedback, The R&A and USGA are interested in soliciting views on a possible change from the phased implementation to a single date across the whole game effective from January 2030.”
Far from kicking the can down the road or considering scrapping the plans, The R&A and USGA are asking for feedback until “no later than February 15” – suggesting they are likely to make their minds up on a new timeline well before the first men’s Major of…
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