Despite pushback from professional players, USGA Commissioner Mike Whan confirmed on June 11 that the organization is “full speed ahead” with its plan to roll back the golf ball.
Speaking at Oakmont Country Club ahead of the US Open’s opening round on June 12, Whan addressed upcoming equipment regulations, including a change in the golf ball speed standard set to take effect in January 2028. The USGA and R&A say these changes will only slightly impact recreational golfers starting in 2030.
While the PGA Tour and PGA of America oppose the move, Whan expressed optimism following recent stakeholder meetings at The Players Championship and the Masters.
“I understand it’s not easy, and everyone has their own interests,” Whan said. “But as an industry, we need to make small adjustments now for the long-term health of the game. These decisions have been made. We’re moving forward. Not everyone will agree, but the game will be fine.”
When asked about a backup plan, Whan responded, “We’ve announced our plan.”
The goal is to reduce driving distances, which leaders agree is essential for golf’s future. Manufacturers are currently developing and submitting new golf ball prototypes for approval.
Whan emphasized the USGA remains open to new data but has yet to see anything that challenges their stance on distance.
On other topics, USGA chief championships officer John Bodenhamer noted that the rough at Oakmont will be longer and denser than usual, making it tough for players to punch the ball out. “Players who hit fairways will have a clear advantage,” he said.
Oakmont is widely regarded as one of the toughest championship courses, with only 27 of 1,385 Major participants finishing under par—less than 2 percent.
Whan praised the USGA’s transparency in sharing course setup plans with players ahead of the tournament.
Regarding Phil Mickelson, who may be playing his final US Open this week, Bodenhamer said the USGA would consider any future exemption requests on a case-by-case basis. Mickelson, a six-time Major winner, currently holds an exemption from winning the 2021 PGA Championship but that expires this week. Bodenhamer added, “We hope he earns his way in, and I think he’d agree.”
Mickelson’s elusive US Open title has seen him finish runner-up six times, making this event a key part of his storied career.
