Is the Golf Ball Rollback Losing Momentum? USGA, R&A Reconsider Timeline

The long-anticipated golf ball rollback may no longer be arriving as soon as expected.

In a notice sent to golf ball manufacturers, the USGA and R&A revealed they are reconsidering the current timeline for implementing changes designed to curb how far elite players hit the ball. The governing bodies are now soliciting feedback on whether to abandon their previously announced two-phase rollout in favor of a single implementation date across the entire game.

Under the original plan, a revised golf ball conformance test—intended to reduce elite-level driving distance by 15 yards or more—would take effect in 2028 for top-level competitions, including the PGA Tour. Recreational golfers would have followed two years later, in 2030.

Now, however, the USGA and R&A say they are open to delaying the rule for elite players and instead introducing the rollback universally beginning in January 2030.

“The Governing Bodies adopted this phased approach in response to contributions made during the decision-making process,” the notice states. “However, during subsequent engagement with stakeholders, concerns have been raised regarding the challenges associated with a two-phase implementation.”

Those concerns center on confusion, enforcement issues, and the burden placed on club professionals, retailers, and everyday golfers navigating two sets of equipment standards over a multi-year period.

Feedback on the proposed change is due by Feb. 15, signaling that a decision could come quickly. That timeline matters, particularly for manufacturers, as the development cycle for premium golf balls often spans multiple years.

The possibility of a delay marks a notable shift in tone from the USGA’s leadership. Speaking during last year’s U.S. Open, CEO Mike Whan appeared resolute about the governing bodies’ direction.

“We’re full speed ahead on what we’ve announced,” Whan said at the time. “Those decisions have been made.”

The rollback proposal, first announced in December 2023 after years of study and industry consultation, would increase the swing speed used in golf ball testing from 120 mph to 125 mph. Balls would need to meet the new standard by late 2027 to remain conforming, with mandatory use initially planned for elite competition in 2028.

The staggered rollout drew criticism from some corners of the industry, including PGA professionals tasked with enforcement. Former PGA of America president John Lindert warned that golfers would simply stockpile older balls, creating long-term compliance issues. Former PGA of America CEO Derek Sprague added that club professionals would be unfairly burdened with policing ball conformity during rounds.

Manufacturers, meanwhile, are watching closely. Bridgestone Golf CEO Dan Murphy confirmed his company had been informed of the potential shift but emphasized the need for clarity. Other major ball makers declined immediate comment.

Complicating the debate is the continued surge in driving distance at the professional level. Average driving distance on the PGA Tour climbed to a record 302.8 yards in 2025, nearly nine yards longer than in 2019. Average swing speed has also increased sharply, with more than 40 players now averaging over 120 mph off the tee.

That trend has led some players to question whether delaying the rollback would blunt its impact. Rory McIlroy voiced that concern last year, suggesting that by the time the new balls arrive, gains in swing speed and optimization could offset much of the intended distance reduction.

With elite performance continuing to evolve and stakeholders divided on implementation, the future of the golf ball rollback—and its timing—remains uncertain.