Members of the media and other dignitaries attending the Masters Tournament often refer to the man responsible as “Chairman Ridley” when they visit the Augusta National Golf Club’s hollowed grounds. They love the manicured turf, blooming flowers and pearly-white bunkers.
Liberty Corners, New Jersey calls him something less formal.
Recently, a staffer at the United States Golf Association stated that “Oh, we just refer to him Fred”.
Ridley was the 1975 U.S..A. champion, something that may be surprising to some. Amateur is the most prestigious USGA amateur tournament for men. He was the last person to win that event and he also served as the USGA president from 2004 to 2005.
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Ridley, who was elected Augusta National’s seventh chairman in 2000, and Ridley himself a member in 2000, is a strong bond with the USGA. It was no surprise that Ridley suggested support for R&A and the USGA’s new Model Local Rule. This rule could mandate that elite male golfers use a range-reducing golf ball by 2026.
Ridley stated in his opening remarks that “As long as the comment period is open, we will respect the process as the USGA or the R&A consider the issue.” “We have been consistent with our support for the governing bodies, and we reaffirm our desire to see the issue of distance resolved.”
Ridley responded to a reporter asking for more information about distance and the possibility of using distance-reducing golf balls. The comment period was created to solicit industry input. We will then evaluate the final product and take a decision. We have been supportive of all governing bodies. I have stated that we believe there is a need to address distance. “I think it is obvious that we will support each other.”
This has been a fantastic week for the USGA and R&A’s proposed Model Local Rule because, with the addition of Ridley and, by extension, the Masters Tournament, three massively-influential voices have come forward in support of the idea of a golf ball rollback.
Tiger Woods stated Tuesday, “I believe this should have occurred long ago.” Jack [Nicklaus] said that the [Titleist384 ball] was too far. This was back in the 1980s. That was just my opinion. Amateurs should have fun while still hitting the ball well, but it is possible to regulate how far they hit it.
Rory McIlroy also reaffirmed his support Tuesday by saying, “It is a big deal, you know, it can dramatically change the landscape for our game going forward.” Rory McIlroy stated Tuesday that he was certain he is in the camp where he believes it’s right to do so.
We know from experience that the Model Local Rule will be adopted by the U.S. Open in 2026 and the British Opens in 2026. We now have reasons to believe that the Masters will adopt it, which will make it more difficult for the PGA of America not to adopt it. Otherwise, it could be the only major championship without requiring players to use a distance reduction ball.
Let’s imagine that the major championships announce that they will require golfers to use a shorter ball to reduce distance. Jay Monahan, PGA Tour commissioner, could be able to do the same thing.
If that happens, Liberty Corners residents will write ‘Thank You’ cards to Fred.
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