The US Golf Association and St Andrews governing body have been deeply examining the issue of golfers hitting longer distances.

For the last six years, the US Golf Association and St Andrews governing body have been deeply examining the issue of golfers hitting longer distances, with a joint report and their "Distance Insight Project" concluding that this growing trend is disastrous to the entire game.

USGA & ST Andrews Look For Ways To Limit Distance

The USGA and St Andrews continue to look for ways to limit distance in order to protect the long-term integrity of the sport.

They acknowledge that much research needs to be done to ensure that any regulations they set are fair, effective, and beneficial for all players.

Twelve months ago, the R&A and USGA released a statement to manufacturers indicating that they were researching the effects of increasing ball test speeds to reflect current driver head speeds used by professional golfers.

Manufacturers & Driver Technology

Driver specifications were also pinpointed as an area of investigation and research into potential distance outcomes. The governing bodies hope this further inquiry will help them devise ways to reduce hitting distance while maintaining an enjoyable game experience for all players.

Despite pressure from manufacturers to object and propose different solutions, the R&A and USGA remain focused on limiting ball distance in golf as a whole, instead of drastically revising rules that could potentially have an effect on casual golfers.

The R&A and USGA have taken the initiative to address this potentially complex situation concerning drivers and balls.

Next Steps & Legal Complexity

Manufacturers have already sought out legal consultants on the matter, which has the potential to become a minefield in itself.

Despite this heated discussion, it will take many years of deliberation before any changes may come into play.

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