Let’s Talk About Rollback

A Model Local Rule has been proposed. Thoughts?

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Rollback has arrived!

Sort of.

Okay, not really.

Today, the USGA and R&A proposed a Model Local Rule that would allow tournament organizers to require the use of a distance-limited golf ball. This rule would have no impact on the recreational game and, if adopted, would go into effect on January 1, 2026.

Details here.

What do you make of the governing bodies’ proposal? In your opinion, is bifurcation between elite and everyday play—as opposed to universal rollback or no change—the right way to go? How do you think the Model Local Rule would affect high-level competition? Look into your crystal ball: will the professional tours refuse to implement the rule?

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About the author

Garrett Morrison

When I was 10 or 11 years old, my dad gave me a copy of The World Atlas of Golf. That kick-started my obsession with golf architecture. I read as many books about the subject as I could find, filled a couple of sketch books with plans for imaginary golf courses, and even joined the local junior golf league for a summer so I could get a crack at Alister MacKenzie's Valley Club of Montecito. I ended up pursuing other interests in high school and college, but in my early 30s I moved to Pebble Beach to teach English at a boarding school, and I fell back in love with golf. Soon I connected with Andy Johnson, founder of Fried Egg Golf. Andy offered me a job as Managing Editor in 2019. At the time, the two of us were the only full-time employees. The company has grown tremendously since then, and today I'm thrilled to serve as the Head of Architecture Content. I work with our talented team to produce videos, podcasts, and written work about golf courses and golf architecture.

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