R&A and USGA propose rule to bring in option of using distance-reducing ball

The R&A and USGA said in February 2020 that they intended to “break the ever-increasing cycle of hitting distance” but admitted it could take years before solutions were found.

Golf’s governing bodies have proposed a new local rule to give tournament organisers the option to require the use of a distance-reducing ball (David Davies/PA)

Golf’s governing bodies have proposed a new local rule to give tournament organisers the option to require the use of a distance-reducing ball.

Advances in fitness and golf equipment technology have seen players hit the ball further and further in recent years, leading to golf courses being lengthened in an effort to continue to test the world’s best.