The PGA Tour has not been slow in explaining its position on the decision of the R&A and the PGA Tour to make the ball fly less from 2028. As you already know, the main change has been made in the tests that will be carried out on golf balls to determine whether they are conforming or not to be used in both professional and amateur golf. The difference is that before the balls were hit in the tests at a club speed of 120 miles and now they will be done at 125. To be conforming, the balls must not exceed 317 yards in distance with a margin of error of three yards. If it is hit at a higher speed and the maximum distance is the same, obviously the ball must fly less to be conforming.
Well, the PGA Tour has issued a statement where it explains that those five miles of difference are “disproportionate”. In this sense, they have confirmed that they will continue to express their opinion to the Royal and Ancient and the USGA in agreement with the players, although they do not clarify whether they will adopt the new ball or not in their tournaments from 2028. Obviously, there is still a lot left for the approval of this new measure and they trust to change the criterion in this time. On the other hand, they appreciate that both the R&A and the USGA have adopted some of the suggestions made by the PGA Tour, without specifying which ones they are.
On the other hand, golf equipment manufacturers have also started to respond to the news. According to the calculations made, the change will mean a reduction of between 13 and 15 yards in distance for the biggest hitters, 9-11 yards for the average and 5 to 7 yards for an average LET or LPGA player. Meanwhile, the impact for recreational players is described as “minimal”, and regular amateurs are expected to lose five yards or less.
In this regard, TaylorMade has commented that “as a brand that prioritizes the improvement of the performance of its products for golfers of all levels, the decision to make the ball fly less is disappointing. Although we appreciate the opportunity to have a seat at the table and a voice in the debate, we feel that this decision is simply disconnected from what golfers believe is best for the game. Throughout the decision-making process, the USGA provided a platform to express our views, provide new data sources and engage in frank discussions. In a spirit of collaboration, we recognize and respect the rules that are an integral part of our game, even when we do not agree with them. Looking forward, with the entry into force of the new golf ball rules in 2028 for professional golfers and in 2030 for amateurs, we assure everyone, at all levels of our game, that we will be well prepared to face these changes. Our commitment to innovation remains unwavering. As with every product we manufacture, we will work tirelessly to find alternative ways to make them better and we will continuously push the boundaries within the parameters set by the rules”. Signed by David Abeles, CEO.
