Golf ball rollback is “stupid,” Keegan Bradley sounds off on USGA, R&A’s controversial decision
Keegan Bradley criticizes the upcoming decision to roll back the golf ball, expressing concern for amateurs and fans.
Keegan Bradley speaks out
Rumors have been circulating that the USGA and the R&A are planning to roll back the golf ball. This decision will not only impact professional golfers but also amateurs and everyday players. According to the rumors, drives for amateur golfers will lose an additional 10 to 15 yards.
Keegan Bradley, the 2011 PGA Championship winner, shared his thoughts on the matter and didn't hold back. He believes that making the ball shorter for amateurs is a terrible idea, especially when golf is gaining popularity post-Covid. Bradley argued that reducing the ball's distance will be detrimental to the sport, which saw a surge in popularity during the pandemic.
Mixed reactions from pro golfers
While Bradley strongly opposes the golf ball rollback, not all professional golfers share the same sentiment. Rory McIlroy, for instance, sees it differently. He believes that rolling back the ball will have no impact on the average golfer and will contribute to the sustainability of the sport. McIlroy also argues that bringing back certain skills that have declined over the past two decades could be beneficial for professional players.
This difference in opinion among pro golfers highlights the long-standing issue of bifurcation. Tiger Woods has consistently supported the idea of separate ball manufacturing for professionals and amateurs. However, a previous motion for bifurcation was rejected by the USGA and R&A earlier this year, leaving everyday golfers to bear the consequences of the upcoming decision.
Impact on everyday golfers
The potential rollback of the golf ball raises concerns for ordinary golfers, as it could significantly affect their game. While professional players may benefit from honing specific skills, everyday golfers are likely to face challenges off the tee. The decision to roll back the ball without considering bifurcation could lead to greater disparities in performance between pros and amateurs.
In conclusion, the announcement of the golf ball rollback has sparked a heated debate among professional golfers. Keegan Bradley strongly opposes the decision, emphasizing its negative implications for amateurs and the sport's growing popularity. On the other hand, Rory McIlroy sees potential benefits in terms of skill development. The lack of bifurcation further compounds the issue, as everyday golfers may experience setbacks in their game as a result of the decision.
