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USGA and R&A Want Deeper Study of Distance Beyond New Golf Ball Test in 2030
On Wednesday, the US Golf Association and the R&A announced golf ball rollback rules will take effect as a single-date implementation in January 2030, delaying the previously planned phased rollout from 2028.
Industry feedback indicated a majority preference for a single-date implementation rather than a two-stage plan, prompting governing bodies to align with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour on the unified timeline.
The updated Overall Distance Standard will test golf balls with a 125 mph swing speed, up from 120 mph, limiting travel to roughly 317 yards to prevent the elite game from becoming too one-dimensional.
USGA CEO Mike Whan said governing bodies will "review, test and implement options" with key stakeholders, adding "This isn't another eight-year effort. We need to get at it and do it with a sense of urgency."
Players expressed "collective willingness" to explore alternatives that might minimize market disruption, as officials seek to balance sustainability with shotmaking while keeping distance from making golf too one-dimensional.