‘Insane Is Not The Right Word, But Can’t Allow That To Happen’ – Jack Nicklaus Heavily In Favor Of Golf Ball Rollback To Prevent Best US Courses From Becoming Obsolete
The Muirfield Village founder believes only around 100 US courses can currently host major events and that number will only decrease in the coming years if a golf ball rollback does not occur soon

18-time Major winner and esteemed course designer, Jack Nicklaus has stated he is very much backing a golf ball rollback in the coming years in order to protect the limited number of US courses which remain capable of hosting significant tournaments.

The USGA and R&A’s decision to officially announce plans for a golf ball rollback arrived in December 2023 after it became apparent the long-term sustainability of the game – and consequently the planet – was under threat.

With golf balls travelling further, courses had to be lengthened in order to cope. However, space was running out and more resources were required to look after the playing areas.

In response, governing bodies felt the only way to curb those changes was to limit the distance a golf ball can fly (from 2028 for pros and 2030 for amateurs).

Almost everyone in the world of golf has shared an opinion, either for or against plans for a golf ball rollback, with Nicklaus the latest to confirm he was in favor – not least because it would maintain Muirfield Village’s relevance as a capable host for decades to come.

Asked in his pre-Memorial Tournament press conference ahead of the 50th playing whether he felt Muirfield Village would remain relevant for another half-century, Nicklaus said: “As long as the golf ball doesn’t change too much…

“When and if they ever enact their new golf ball rule, it will only help this golf course. I guess they pushed it back two more years, did they? They pushed it back from what, ’26 to ’28? And as I understand the ball is about 14 yards shorter for the longest of hitters out here, maybe two or three yards shorter for the average golfer.