PGA Tour Determines Its Stance on Golf Ball Rollback

The PGA Tour has determined what its stance will be on the proposed golf ball rollback, and it is not in support of the proposed modification to the game.

The Tour’s Commissioner Jay Monahan finally made a statement on the proposed rollback, which would provide a new, modified ball design that would decrease ball flight and overall distance for professional players. It is an effort that aims to make the game more difficult for the modern player, and as golf course lengths have done nothing but increase over the past few years and technology continues to improve, golf’s governing bodies are at a crossroads on how to solve the issue.

Monahan said on Wednesday:

“As you know, we have spent the last two years undertaking a comprehensive analysis of distance on the PGA Tour and its impact. Although there has been some level of support for limiting future increases, there is widespread and significant belief the proposed Modified Local rule is not warranted and is not in the best interest of the game.”

He also stated the PGA Tour notified both the USGA and R&A of their decision after a Player Advisory Council meeting that took place recently.

NEW: Jay Monahan sent the following memo to PGA Tour members today. Some key points below:

• The PGA Tour is declining to adopt a rollback of the golf ball.

• A task force is evaluating pathways back to the PGA TOUR for LIV players who wish to reapply in the future. pic.twitter.com/DdaEEc7Kom

— John Nucci (@JNucci23) July 27, 2023

Golf leagues had until August 15 to submit feedback on the proposal to the governing bodies. The rule change was not set to take effect until 2026, as the more technical details and R&D on the new ball would have to be ironed out within the next few seasons.

Monahan added:

“While the PGA Tour is committed to collaborating with them — and all industry partners — to arrive at a solution that will best serve our players, our fans and the game at all levels, we are not able to support the MLR as proposed.”

It seems there is still room for some open discussion based on the Commissioner’s comments that supported a continuous effort for collaboration.

Monahan communicated these quotes to the players in a memo on Wednesday evening, which was initially reported by The Associated Press.

The R&A, along with players across the Tour have been voicing their various opinions regarding the potential modification to golf balls. R&A Cheif Martin Slumbers said before The Open Championship last week that “doing nothing is not an option.”

🚨#DISTANCE DEBATE — R&A chief Martin Slumbers said Wednesday that “doing nothing is not an option” when it comes to the golf ball rollback and that the governing body must do “what is right for the sport when we reach our determination on the way forward.” pic.twitter.com/IakCmQXm4V

— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) July 19, 2023

Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy seemed to support the rollback by stating it would help his game.

However, Adam Scott seemed to be supportive, but in another nature. The Australian suggested a smaller driver head, which would force players to be more conservative from the tee box.