PGA Tour Pros Share Their Thoughts on the Golf Ball Rollback Debate

NASSAU, Bahamas – The USGA and R&A are expected to make an announcement early next week after a three-year “Notice and Comment” period with equipment makers and other golf organizations, discussing plans for a universal golf ball distance rollback. And some PGA Tour pros are already calling it “one of the dumbest things I’ve ever heard of.”

Keegan Bradley, a player who has had to adapt his putting style after the governing bodies banned the belly putter, spoke out about the potential ruling change at the Hero World Challenge. Bradley and other pros believe that a rollback for all players, including amateur golf enthusiasts, is a drastic overreach by the USGA and R&A.

Keegan Bradley: ‘Dumbest thing I’ve ever heard of’

Keegan Bradley was one of the most vocal critics at the event. He cited the global growth of golf post-COVID and the barrier the rollback would pose to that progress. He called it “one of the dumbest things I’ve ever heard of.”

Tiger Woods and Rickie Fowler also joined in the conversation, expressing their concerns over the potential rule change and its impact on the game of golf.

Tiger Woods: ‘I’ve always been for bifurcation’

Tiger Woods, who has been present during multiple debates about rolling back golf ball distances, understands why the ruling bodies are considering the change. He believes it is necessary to protect the integrity of the game, even if it requires players to adjust their playing style.

“We’ve been hammering the ball, and the governing bodies are trying to protect the sport. I’ve always been for bifurcation. I’ve always said that,” Woods commented during an interview at the Hero World Challenge.

Rickie Fowler: ‘Those weekend golfers aren’t going to be super excited to go hit it shorter

Rickie Fowler agreed with Woods’ views, stating that the proposal to roll back the golf ball is a step backward for the sport. “When you look at the state of golf today, I don’t think you can argue it’s ever been in a better place, so why make changes that could impact the enjoyment of the game for many players?”

While the debate continues, it’s clear that the proposed rollback of golf ball distances is a contentious issue among PGA Tour professionals, posing challenges to both the game’s integrity and appeal to players of all levels.

Story originally appeared on GolfWeek