Jason Day Opposes Golf Ball Rollback Policy, Joining Few PGA Tour Pros in Criticism

Jason Day Opposes Golf Ball Rollback Policy, Joining Few PGA Tour Pros in Criticis

 

The golf world has undergone significant changes in recent years, with various proposals and policies shaping the future of the game. One of the most contentious changes, however, has been the golf ball rollback policy. This new rule, set to take effect in 2028, requires golf balls to be scaled back to limit distance, as the maximum allowed speed will be reduced to 125 mph. The decision sparked a debate within the golfing community, with some of the sport’s top players supporting it and others, like Jason Day, voicing their opposition.

 

High-profile golfers such as Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have been outspoken proponents of the rollback policy. McIlroy argued that it would realign the game with its core principles of sustainability while promoting skill development among players. Woods has similarly expressed his longstanding support for the policy, stating, “I’ve always been for bifurcation. I’ve always said that.”

 

However, Jason Day does not share their viewpoint. In a recent video with Dan Rapaport for Skratch, Day explained why he disagrees with the policy. As they walked the course, Day mentioned how many golfers focus on merely passing challenging holes with an even par, without addressing the root causes of their mistakes. He believes that the rollback policy, which would change the ball’s distance, is unnecessary.

 

“I don’t like the ball change necessarily, but with the upcoming ball change, I’d rather see a driver change,” Day remarked. When asked about the possibility of smaller driver heads, he responded, “Make it less forgiving.” Day’s opinion highlights the idea that experienced professional golfers may not need a forgiving club, as they are skilled enough to make optimal contact with the ball. On the other hand, less experienced players might benefit from more forgiving clubs that offer greater loft or distance than they could otherwise achieve.

 

Day’s stance on the rollback policy places him among the few PGA Tour pros opposed to the change. Most players, including McIlroy and Woods, have supported the initiative, believing it is necessary for the game’s long-term health.

 

In contrast, Padraig Harrington, the renowned Irish golfer, aligns with McIlroy and Woods in favoring the ball rollback. Harrington advocates for a unified approach and supports the idea of rolling back the ball for all players, not just professionals. He stated, “There are so many benefits to rolling it back. To be honest, I would prefer they rolled it back for everybody. I don’t like the bifurcation.”

 

Additionally, one of golf’s greatest legends, Jack Nicklaus, has long been an advocate for the ball rollback policy. Nicklaus believes that it would not only help preserve the integrity of the game but also revitalize older golf courses that were rendered obsolete due to modern technology. He argues that the policy is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the sport and helping courses that could no longer accommodate the longer drives of today’s players.

 

What do you think about the golf ball rollback policy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!