“I wasn't willing to upset the amateur game to do it” - USGA chief clears his stance on golf ball rollback
USGA CEO Mike Whan opened up about the officials' decision on the ball rollback. After months of discussions, the USGA and R&A have decided to implement some changes to the golf ball by introducing a rollback technique to reduce the distance the ball travels on the greens.
It was announced last year, and the implementation is likely to happen in 2028. In a recent interview with Golf Digest, USGA CEO Mike Whan was asked about the changes. He acknowledged that the officials were "involved and vocal in the process" and they were "making it a rule." He further revealed that the changes would be implemented by 2026 and would take effect sometime between 2028 and 2030. He said:
"Both entities were very involved and vocal in the process, and what we heard loudest from them was, don’t bifurcate. If you’re going to [limit distance], have the guts to make it a rule [for everyone]. If we made it their choice, their preference would be to not go along. So we’re making it a rule and I feel confident everyone will play by the rules of the game."
Whan further explained its impact on amateur golfers. He added:
"In the end, we reduced the impact of this change so that the overwhelming majority of amateurs won't know the difference or experience the difference. Would I have liked the difference to be larger? I would have, but I wasn't willing to upset the amateur game to do it."
Notably, initially, in March 2023, officials implemented a model local rule for professional and elite golfers. However, after receiving feedback, nine months later, in December 2023, they announced changes to be made for all golfers.
What is ball rollback in golf?
With advancements in golf equipment over time, the golf ball has traveled a longer distance. Different techniques and materials used in golf equipment have advanced the game over the years. Golf rollback is cutting the distance so that balls do not travel too far.
In March 2023, the USGA and R&A implemented a model local rule to cut the driving distance by 15 to 30 yards. However, this rule was initially only for professional and elite golfers, a form of "bifurcation," meaning a different set of rules for amateurs and professionals. However, equipment manufacturers and professional golfers were not in favor and opposed the ruling.
So finally, in December 2023, officials announced a non-bifurcated proposal suggesting changes for professionals starting in 2028 and for all golfers—both professional and amateur—by 2030. With the changes, any ball submitted to the USGA for conformance after October 2027 will be tested based on the new protocol.
Under these rules, a swing speed of 125 mph should not result in a ball traveling more than 317 yards to conform. This is a change from the previous 120 mph. Testing will also include changes in swing speed testing, including spin rate and launch angle. The spin rate will change from 2520 rpm to 2200 rpm and the launch angle from 11 degrees to 10 degrees to keep the Overall Distance Standard consistent.