USGA and R&A propose a new golf ball testing standard for elite competition 

The USGA and R&A announced their new plans to roll back the size of a golf ball for the elite competition. Golf's governing bodies have unveiled their new standards for testing the ball.

A notice was sent to all the governing bodies that said:

“The USGA and The R&A were not considering changes that would result in substantial reductions in hitting distances at all levels of the game. The proposed MLR would enable golf event organizers and committees to use specific balls for certain elite championships and tournaments but would not impact the current recreational game in any way.”

It was sent under "modal local rule" which can be adopted by any provision and if it's limited to elite competition, the authorities are yet to confirm which level of elite competition might consider this. However, it's probably for high-level men's professional tournaments.

The new testing standards revised how the golf ball is being tested. Reportedly, the first major change that will be ruled out after the announcement will increase the swing speed of the robot from 120 miles per hour to around 127 miles per hour. The rule will take time to get implemented and will take effect in January 2026.

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"This is terrible"- Fans react to new changes in the golf ball

Fans were unimpressed with the new changes implemented in the golf and shared their opinions in the comments section of the post shared by Nuclr Golf. They wrote that it was a terrible idea and will not help golfers improve their performance.

One person tweeted:

"This is terrible. We saw what the ping ball did to Bryson. It doesn’t help! Swing speeds will never get to a point that this is an issue!"

Some even suggested that LIV Golf won't roll the ball as the PGA and the Saudi-backed series are on bad terms.

"I bet LIV won’t roll it back, another huge talking point!"

People also highlighted that the new changes in the ball are meant for the elite players. This will affect the amateur player's performance and wrote that golfers should be allowed to use the same ball.

"This is terrible. Amateurs want to be able to play the same ball as the pros. You just devalued every ball in the market."

"Golfer should play a uniformed ball. Like every other sport. Same with nascar. Needs to meet requirements. Play our league and you play this ball."

Some fans found it sort of discriminatory and jotted:

"So they're trying to take away a specific skill/talent of a very specific group of players. Sort of discrimination (lack of a better word). Once again, USGA/R&A overstepping on something that really isn't an issue. I hope players & equipment companies file multiple lawsuits."

One user explained that reducing the size of the ball won't help and would hurt shorter players.

"Nooo. Don’t roll back the ball. That would hurt shorter players more than longer players. Reduce the clubhead sizes of drivers. Smaller sweet spot means less forgiveness, which leads to inaccuracy. Players will have to reel it in to maintain good contact."