USGA and R&A delay golf distance rollback decision following player feedback

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 2:42 PM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

USGA and R&A delay golf distance rollback decision following player feedback
Summary

The USGA and R&A announced a delay in the implementation of a proposed distance rollback for golf balls. In a joint statement with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, the governing bodies stated they will reassess their approach to the Overall Distance Standard following discussions with stakeholders. Although initial plans aimed for a phased rollout starting in 2028, the new timeline retains 2030 as the full implementation date. The announcement follows heightened discussions during a recent tour event, where opinions among players varied significantly on the matter, highlighting the complexities of the proposed changes.

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By the Numbers
  • USGA and R&A partner with PGA Tour to reevaluate distance rollback plans.
  • Current rollout date for the rollback remains set for 2030.
  • Player feedback indicated significant division on the distance issue.
  • New testing criteria aim to raise swing speed standards without changing distance limits.
  • PGA Tour is gathering players' opinions through a survey on driving distance concerns.
Latest Updates
  • 6:09 PMYahoo SportsU.S. Open 2026: The USGA delayed its rollback plan to save golf from something much worse
  • 3:10 PMYahoo SportsUSGA, R&A to delay golf ball 'rollback' until January 2030
  • 2:42 PMYahoo SportsU.S. Open 2026: In a surprise statement, USGA and R&A announce they are delaying rollback, reevaluating options for "path forward"
What they're saying
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The governing bodies offered a joint statement with the PGA Tour, DP World Tour Wednesday morning stating they will reevaluate the approach for the upcoming distance rollback and delaying its date.

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The USGA and R&A, in a joint statement with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, announced Wednesday that the organizations will not change their golf ball distance-measuring standards until 2030.

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The USGA had a choice with rollback. Win the argument, or save the sport.

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