Plans to introduce a reduction in driving distance through changes to golf ball testing parameters that were due to come into force across the professional tours in 2028 have been delayed by up to two years, according to a joint statement issued by the USGA and The R&A.
In 2023, the game’s two governing bodies jointly announced that the test for the Overall Distance Standard would increase the swing speed at which golf balls are tested from the current standard of 120mph to 125mph. While increasing the swing speed, the test would not change the distance limit of 317 yards. The decision came after three years of ‘notice and comment’ with equipment manufacturers and other industry stakeholders over several proposals involving clubs, balls and a distance rollback.
The original plan involved a staggered start that would only affect elite golf in 2028, before applying to all golfers in 2030. However, three months ago the USGA/R&A announced that the rule would not go into effect until 2030 for everyone.
Estimates suggest that the changing the new Overall Distance Standard (ODS) for golf balls would see a reduction of around 15 yards in driving distances for pros and around five yards for the average amateur club golfer.
The joint statement issued by the USGA and The R&A on Wednesday read: “Through a series of formal feedback processes and numerous individual stakeholder meetings, the governing bodies agreed on an across-the-game change in how golf balls are tested via the Overall Distance Standard.
Recently, two significant developments have emerged in the efforts to address the impact of distance on the game:
- Feedback from the industry on the Notice and Comment related to the date of implementation of the updated ODS testing approach indicated that the majority support a single-date implementation (2030) versus a two-date, phased implementation (2028 and 2030).
- Constructive discussions between the governing bodies, PGA TOUR leadership, the PGA TOUR Player Advisory Council (PAC), DP World Tour leadership and other stakeholders yielded three key outcomes: (a) recognition that distance continues to increase at the elite level; (b) a concern by the Tours that the updated ODS testing approach may not achieve the desired results; (c) a collective willingness to reconsider alternative approaches that may more materially impact the pace of future distance increases, while minimising disruption to the overall golf market.
“Given these developments, The R&A and USGA will take the appropriate amount of time to assess a range of possible options and determine the path forward. Specifically, the governing bodies will work closely with key stakeholders —including the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and their respective members — to review, test and implement options that have a meaningful impact on distance at the elite level.
“These efforts will ensure the elite game does not become too one-dimensional while continuing to emphasise the importance of shot-making. There will be no change to the ODS testing approach until January 2030 while these options are evaluated.”
“The R&A, the USGA, PGA TOUR and DP World Tour are confident in the path forward and committed to working collaboratively, and with other key stakeholders, to ensure the long-term health of the game.”