Golf ball “roll-back” rule explained

From 2028, major new regulations are set to be introduced by the R&A
and USGA to reduce the distance golf balls travel, aiming to preserve
the integrity of golf courses and promote sustainability

Scottie
Scheffler
World
No.1

KEY OBJECTIVES
Limit driving distance by changing how
golf balls are manufactured and tested

Proposals: Golf balls
struck at robot-controlled 
clubhead speed of 125mph
– increased from 120mph –
with revised spin rates
and launch angles

Rigorous testing process – adding stress
and strain onto golf ball – expected to
affect live performance. Balls must
not exceed 317 yards to conform

DRIVING DISTANCES
Estimated reduction in driving capability

Longest hitters		13-15yrds
Average tour players	9-11yrds
Elite female		5-7yrds

FUTURE GOALS
Despite objections from PGA of
America, PGA Tour and elite golfers,
changes are designed to encourage
manufacturers to prioritise control
and accuracy, over raw power

Bryson
DeChambeau
Crafted game
based on
powerful
drives

PGA TOUR: AVERAGE DRIVING DISTANCE EVOLUTION (YARDS)

1988
Longest hitter:
Steve Thomas, 284.6
2023
Rory McIlroy, 326.3

300
290
280
270
260

1988
1993
1998
2003
2008
2013
2018
2023

262.9
259.8
270.2
285.9
287.3
287.2
296.1
299.9

Number of players
averaging 300+ drives

0
0
0
9
13
13
58
98

Sources: R&A, Guardian, Golf Monthly
Pictures: Getty Images
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