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Titleist hits out at ball roll back saying it’s a ‘solution in search of a problem’

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1 year ago

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This morning, the USGA and the R&A announced a Model Local Rule (MLR) proposal that would “roll back the golf ball” for professional players.

Manufacturers and other stakeholders in golf can give feedback until Aug. 14, 2023 before the rule changes would take place in January of 2026.

On Tuesday, those manufacturers have done just that.

Titleist was the most outspoken about being opposed to the proposed changes, saying “The proposal of golf ball bifurcation is in many respects a solution in search of a problem.”

“Golf is an aspirational sport, and we believe at its very best when equipment and playing regulations are unified. Golf’s health and vibrancy are at historically high levels,” said David Maher, President and Chief Executive Officer, Acushnet Company, which owns the Titleist brand. “As we see it, existing golf ball regulations for Overall Distance and Initial Velocity are highly effective. During the past two decades, PGA Tour average course playing length has increased by less than 100 yards and scoring average has remained virtually flat. Average PGA Tour clubhead speed of 114.6 mph in 2022 was well below the current 120 mph and proposed 127 mph testing conditions. The proposal of golf ball bifurcation is in many respects a solution in search of a problem.”

Callaway responded with the following: “We are studying the information and proposals provided. We have no further comment at this time.

While TaylorMade and Srixon have yet to comment about the proposed changes.

Bridgestone offered up a bit more, saying that they were concerned the potential changes could create “confusion”.

“Golf is enjoying a significant growth phase and is more popular than ever. We are concerned that the proposed rule changes could confuse and dampen the enthusiasm of millions of new participants to our game. We are pleased that the proposed changes do not appear to be aimed at recreational players.”

There’s no doubt that the topic will continue to be heavily debated between now and August 14th.

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5 Comments

5 Comments

  1. MhtLion

    Mar 15, 2023 at 2:56 pm

    The golf balls bring the most amount of money into the industry. Other than the green fees, golf balls is the number one expenditure of the golfers. And, the number one marketing expenditure of the manufactures. Clearly, the golf ball money is one of the most significant in the industry. With such a rule change, why would anyone pay $55 for a box of balls if those balls are different, most definitely different, from the balls your favorite pros use? This rule change will hurt the industry. Think carefully, PGA. Why are you trying to hurt the industry? For what?? For your peanut sized ego???

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  2. sandtrap

    Mar 15, 2023 at 5:02 am

    I think the pga tour should just do what tennis, NFL, NBA and Baseball do and just have a standard ball for all players. This way they can put whatever limits they need to on it for tournament play and all players are on a more level playing field. Amateur players will still play the manufacturer’s ball that they think is best for them.

    Reply Report comment

  3. Jonas

    Mar 15, 2023 at 3:41 am

    Dumb. Make the rough longer – plant more trees. Ever hear of Winged Foot? There’s a reason why the scoring there isn’t low during the open. No matter how far the guys hit it, the fairways aren’t 100 yards wide. Forget the equipment – make the courses more difficult to score on (that doesn’t mean make them longer). End of story.

    Reply Report comment

  4. Mike

    Mar 14, 2023 at 11:22 pm

    So golf w/b the only sport w/ 2 sets of rules. The usga should have the insight to address this 20 years ago. Now that pro v1 a tour pro plays won’t be the one you play. (The ball manufacturers will love this!). And I’ll have to buy different balls to play in an “elite amateur event”? Laughable!

    Reply Report comment

    • Jon

      Mar 15, 2023 at 8:48 am

      Football has at least 3 sets of rules: NFL, college, and high school as does basketball and baseball.

      Reply Report comment

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Whats in the Bag

Xander Schauffele WITB 2024 (May)

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