R&A and USGA propose rule to bring in option of distance-reducing ball

Golf’s governing bodies have proposed a new local rule to give tournament organisers the option to use a distance-reducing ball. Advances in fitness and equipment technology have led to players hit the ball further and further in recent years, leading to courses being lengthened in an effort to test the world’s best.

The R&A and USGA said in February 2020 they intended to “break the ever-increasing cycle of hitting distance”, but admitted it could take years before solutions were found. Since then they have been consulting equipment manufacturers and on Tuesday announced the proposal of a Model Local Rule (MLR) that gives organisers the option to require the use of balls that are tested under modified launch conditions.

In 2021, the Masters chairman, Fred Ridley, said a specific “Masters ball” would be a last resort in the battle to limit hitting distances. The fifth hole at Augusta National was lengthened by 40 yards before the 2019 Masters and the par-five 13th has been extended by 35 yards.

The MLR is intended for use only in elite competitions and, if adopted, will have no impact on recreational golf. The proposal was sent to equipment manufacturers on Monday and they can provide feedback until 14 August. If adopted, it would take effect in January 2026.

Under the proposals, a ball struck at a laboratory-controlled swing speed of 127mph – up from 120mph – must not travel more than 320 yards. The change is expected to reduce hitting distance by 14-15 yards on average for the longest hitters with the highest clubhead speeds.

The R&A chief executive, Martin Slumbers, said: “We have worked closely with the golf industry throughout this process and taken time to listen carefully to their perspectives and reflect on the