What happens when you put three gearheads in the same room and ask them to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of golf-ball bifurcation? Things get heated.
During the latest episode of GOLF’s Fully Equipped podcast, the co-hosts sounded off on where the game could be headed after the USGA and R&A announced a proposal to introduce a Model Local Rule golf ball for “elite competitions.”
The ball would essentially reduce distance by 15-20 yards (5 percent) for tournaments — and potentially tours — who choose to adopt the ball.
That’s assuming the ball receives support from equipment manufacturers (good luck) and Tour players (also not looking good) in the next two-plus years before the rule goes into effect on January 1, 2026.
As you’d expect, there’s a lot to unpack in the USGA and R&A proposal. The Fully Equipped crew attempts to make sense of it all in a free-flowing conversation that’s informative and highly entertaining. Check out the full episode below.
Want to overhaul your bag for 2023? Find a fitting location near you at GOLF’s affiliate company True Spec Golf. For more on the latest gear news and information, check out our latest Fully Equipped podcast below.
Jonathan Wall
Golf.com Editor
Jonathan Wall is GOLF Magazine and GOLF.com’s Managing Editor for Equipment. Prior to joining the staff at the end of 2018, he spent 6 years covering equipment for the PGA Tour. He can be reached at jonathan.wall@golf.com.
