Other options are under consideration. They include putting extra limits on ball specifications, and looking at other aspects of the equipment rules to try to curb distance.
“We’ve taken 2028 off the table. We’re leaving 2030 on the table,” Whan said.
“So when we talk about other approaches, we want to be doing that with the speed of saying if we were going to do something other than 2030 or in addition to 2030, we need to know that sooner than later.”
The rulesmakers, who also have support from the Masters, believe increased distance in the elite game, where drives can regularly fly up to 350 yards, is rendering historic golf courses obsolete and making the game one dimensional.
Leading players can reduce previously challenging par-four holes to a drive and short wedge shot and the majority of par fives can comfortably be reached with two lusty blows.
Playing footprints have been extended to cope. It is expensive to maintain greater areas of land and there are environmental concerns regarding access to extra water which is routinely needed to maintain golf courses.
Rounds take longer because players have to walk further, often backwards to new tees that have been built to make holes longer.
This debate lies at the heart of how the game of golf will be played at all levels in the future. Discussions will involve stakeholders across the game including leading players.
The governing bodies remain under pressure to find a solution acceptable to all. “I think it would be crazy to not take the time to see if we could come up with something together,” Whan insisted.
