Golf Ball Distance Regulation: "Prohibited if Flying Over 317 Yards"

"Negative Impact on Golf Industry and Damage to the Essence of Golf"
Golf Manufacturers and Players "Oppose"

The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A) and the United States Golf Association (USGA), which oversee the global rules of golf, have agreed to limit the performance of golf balls that continue to advance. Going forward, golf balls that travel more than 317 yards when struck at a swing speed of 127 miles per hour (approximately 204.4 km/h) will not be allowed in tournaments.

On the 14th (local time), the R&A and USGA announced in a joint statement that they will restrict the performance of golf balls used by players competing in professional tournaments. Accordingly, the R&A and USGA plan to add a regulation, effective from January 2026, that prohibits golf balls traveling more than 317 yards when hit at a swing speed of 127 miles per hour. However, this regulation will apply only to professional players, not amateur golfers.

R&A and USGA logos [Image source=each association]

This measure was decided based on the R&A and USGA’s judgment that the improvement in golf ball performance hinders the development of the golf industry and damages the essence of golf. Three years ago, the R&A and USGA released a joint report stating that the continuous increase in driving distances by professional players is harmful to golf. In the report, they said, "The increase in golf ball distance threatens the sustainability of golf and undermines the essence of golf, which is centered on balanced play." They added, "As long hitters increase, the maintenance costs to keep courses longer have risen, and the use of water and chemicals has increased, negatively impacting the environment." Industry experts predict that with the introduction of the distance limit regulation, the driving distance of top players on the PGA Tour will decrease by about 15 yards.

The reactions from golf ball manufacturers and players have been far from favorable. After the announcement, the PGA Tour stated that it would "thoroughly review this matter." The PGA of America, which has a high proportion of teaching professionals, also expressed strong opposition to the rule change, saying it "diminishes the enjoyment of golf." Golf ball manufacturers Acushnet and Callaway Golf have also expressed opposition to this statement.

Meanwhile, golf manufacturers and stakeholders opposing this measure can file objections until August 14.