LAS VEGAS – The golf world is changing, and it’s not just for the top players.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) and R&A, the golf governing bodies, have announced that they will change how golf balls are tested for conformity in order to reduce distance’s effect.
In 2028, a robot will test golf balls to determine if they are conforming. The robot will swing a titanium club with 125 mph, and hit the ball at an 11-degree angle, while spinning it 2,200 times per minute. The shot cannot exceed the Overall Distance Standard of 317 yards combined with carry distance and rolling (with a tolerance of 3-yard ).).
The robot’s clubhead will increase by 5 mph and the launch angle will be increased by 1 degree. Its spin rate is also reduced by 300 rpm.
This change will affect golfers of all levels, from top pros to weekend warriors in a local muni. How will it affect top amateurs and college golfers?
Scott Langley, senior director of the USGA’s player relations, spoke at the annual Golf Coaches Association of America Convention and explained what the new changes in golf ball testing mean.
Langley stated that “more and more speed” is being introduced into the game and players are learning to play at faster speeds. “The college game is full of great examples of players who have mastered the art and skill of driving the ball at speeds up to 190 miles an hour.
“I can assure that the process of creating these boundaries does not occur without friction. I believe that healthy friction is necessary for the long-term health of sport. True freedom is the freedom that exists within acceptable boundaries. True freedom does not mean absolute freedom. “Governance is difficult, but essential.”
Langley won the 2010 NCAA Individual Championship while playing for Illinois. Before joining the USGA, he played professionally. He knows what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of amateur golf, but he also understands that the integrity of the sport must be maintained.
Scott Langley, Illinois, poses with the NCAA Individual Trophy and Arnold Palmer Award at the Honors Golf Course.
The average male amateur is likely to lose between 3 and 5 yards. This includes the longest male amateurs.
The top amateur women golfers will likely lose between 5-7 yards, while the average amateur female will probably lose between 1-3 yard off the tee.
Langley stated that “advancement and athleticism is both inevitable and just plain awesome.” But they must be carefully balanced with the long-term health and identity of sports. ”
Langley said that the USGA is still looking for solutions to reward the center strike by the driver, but had none to offer yet.
The USGA and R&A have said that the golf ball rollback should not affect irons or wedges, except for the driver.
Top professionals and amateurs are the first to experience this change in 2028. The majority of golfers and amateurs will not experience the changes until 2030. The change is ultimately in the interest of the future of golf and the longevity of the sport at all levels.
