The USGA and R&A recently announced a proposal to create a Model Local Rule where highly skilled golfers must use a different golf ball from 2026 onwards. This will introduce bifurcation into the sport, meaning – the recreational golfer – will play with different equipment than the professionals.
TaylorMade released a statement saying “We believe a large part of golf’s appeal is this underlying sense of: “I can do that, too.” And using the same equipment as the pros gives us a more accurate feel for how talented these players are. Most of us will never know what it’s like to play in Madison Square Garden, throw a touchdown in the Super Bowl, or score the game-winning goal in a World Cup final, but we can go to St. Andrews, walk across the Swilcan Bridge and for a moment feel what it’s like to be a professional. Walk in their shoes, play the same courses, and use the same equipment. It’s all part of why we love this sport.”
Several players including world number two Jon Rahm and Justin Thomas have criticized the Model Local Rule (MLR) proposal by golf’s rules makers.
However, Northern Ireland’s McIlroy, one of the longest hitters in the world, said he supports the move.
“For elite level play, I really like it. I really do,” Northern Ireland’s world number three told the No Laying Up podcast this week.
“I’m glad in this new proposal that they haven’t touched the recreational golfer. I know that’s a really unpopular opinion amongst my peers, but I think it’s going to help identify who the best players are a bit easier.
“Especially in this era of parity that we’ve been living in these past couple of decades.”
Jon Rahm has claimed The R&A and USGA are trying to make the professional game more difficult with its golf ball bifurcation plans.
The 28-year-old also suggested there are plenty of other ways to make the game more difficult without altering the equipment. “There’s plenty of things you can do to make it more difficult for us, golf course design, course setup, all these great things.
The USGA and R&A have provided a window in which all manufacturers can provide feedback on this proposal and its potential impact.
