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Amid golf-ball rollback debate, USGA and R&A propose 3 new rules

The golf-ball rollback is delayed for now, but governing bodies are considering near-term solutions for January 2028.

Published: Wednesday, 23 September 2026 at 6:44 PM
Amid golf-ball rollback debate, USGA and R&A propose 3 new rules
Key Things to Know
  • USGA and R&A proposed three new Model Local Rules to limit distance gains in professional golf.
  • The rules were suggested in consultation with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour.
  • Proposed changes could take effect at elite levels as early as January 2028.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The USGA and the R&A have proposed three new Model Local Rules aiming to curb hitting distances at the professional level. Suggested in consultation with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, the measures could be implemented as early as January 2028. The proposals are designed to address rapid distance gains while broader golf-ball rollback plans remain delayed.

The proposed rules would eliminate current test tolerances by capping golf ball testing at 317.0 yards and limiting driver head flex to a maximum Characteristic Time of 239 microseconds. A third proposal seeks to reduce the maximum allowable club length below the existing 46-inch limit.

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