GBR Friday | Donald Trump is already here: Will his tariffs disrupt the supply of golf balls, clubs, apparel, and other key supplies?
Every Tuesday and Friday Morning We Bring You the Ten-Minute Summary of What's Happening in the Golf Industry While you Were Golfing.
Good afternoon, GBR Crew! Is your suitcase packed and ready for some sunshine in Orlando? We’ve done our homework and have some great in-flight reading lined up for you.
Let’s dive in!
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1. INDUSTRY
TOP 100 GOLF COURSES IN GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND ROLL OUT DOUBLE-FIGURE FEE INCREASES FOR 2025
Golf enthusiasts aiming to play the top 100 courses in Great Britain and Ireland this summer should brace for higher costs. Green fees across these prestigious courses have risen significantly in 2025, with increases averaging between 10% and 20%. The Ailsa course at Turnberry has claimed the title of the most expensive green fee in the Islands for 2025, with its peak summer rate reaching an eye-watering £1,000. Although discounts are available for guests staying at the Turnberry hotel, the rack rate listed on their website sets a new benchmark. Many courses are targeting the international market, particularly affluent American tourists, to justify these prices. At the other end of the spectrum, Seacroft in Lincolnshire offers the most affordable green fee among the top 100 at £85, with Brora in the Scottish Highlands close behind at £95. These two courses are the only ones priced under £100, emphasizing the widening gap between the costliest and most budget-friendly options.
These are The Main Key Trends for 2025
Premium Courses Above £400: Eight courses now charge £400 or more for a single round, including Royal County Down (£425), Kingsbarns (£448), and Trump International (£495).
Significant Increases: The Old Course at St. Andrews has risen to £340, up from £320 last year and £195 in 2021. Meanwhile, Royal Portrush now charges £385, compared to £340 in 2024.
Expensive Regions: Ireland’s top courses, such as Adare Manor (€500 for resort guests) and Ballybunion (€400), remain among the priciest, while value can still be found in Cornwall, Devon, and North Wales.
Out-of-Season and Regional Opportunities
Value-conscious players can still enjoy top courses by opting for off-peak seasons. For instance, Nairn’s Championship Course costs £120 in March, compared to £300 in peak summer. Similarly, Tralee drops from €375 to €250 outside the main season. Regions like North Wales and the North East of England also offer relatively affordable options, with green fees ranging between £120 and £150 at select courses.
THE R&A PARTNERS WITH MIKE BURTON GROUP FOR ENHANCED OPEN EXPERIENCE. The R&A, working with Two Circles and the Mike Burton Group, will introduce stay-and-play packages for The Open starting in 2026 at Royal Birkdale. These packages will combine ticket options with accommodations, opportunities to play nearby courses, and flexible scheduling for attendees. Full press release in Mike Burton Group´s parent company Destination Sports.
CALLAWAY APPAREL TO SHOWCASE 2025 COLLECTION AT PGA SHOW. Perry Ellis International, the developer of Callaway® Apparel, will unveil the brand's 2025 collection at the PGA Merchandise Show, starting next Tuesday 21s in Orlando, Florida. The collection highlights advanced fabric technologies, including moisture-wicking materials to keep players dry, UV protection to safeguard against sun exposure, and stretch fabrics for unrestricted motion during swings. More in The Golf Wire.
CHRISTIAAN BEZUIDENHOUT JOINS PXG AS BRAND AMBASSADOR. The prominent South African golfer with five DP World Tour victories, two Olympic appearances, and a role in the Presidents Cup, has entered into a multi-year partnership with Parsons Xtreme Golf. Bezuidenhout began testing PXG clubs after his career-high finish in the 2024 FedEx Cup standings, securing 29th place. Following comprehensive fitting sessions in Arizona with PXG’s team of experts, he finalized his equipment selection in January as he geared up for the 2025 PGA TOUR season. “The PXG team exceeded my expectations,” Christiaan shared. Full press release.
PING TO INSTALL ZEN GREEN STAGE AT ARIZONA TEST FACILITY. PING’s Phoenix headquarters will soon feature a Zen Green Stage adjustable putting green, an innovative addition to its advanced Putting Lab. This cutting-edge technology allows engineers and fitters to replicate diverse putting scenarios, aiding the development of groundbreaking putter designs and custom fitting techniques.
PGA TOUR® 2K25: Set for release on February 28, 2025, will feature major tournaments, including the PGA Championship, U.S. Open, and The Open, for the first time in the franchise. Max Homa, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Tiger Woods will appear as cover athletes, and the game will introduce EvoSwing mechanics and an updated MyCAREER mode.
2. CIRCUITS
TGL SIMULATOR TECHNOLOGY FACES SCRUTINY DURING SECOND WEEK
The second week of TGL events has raised significant concerns about the league’s simulator technology and coverage. We have reviewed all our sources to highlight the most interesting comments, provide a range of opinions and analysis, and identify the most discussed topics:
Issues with exaggerated shot movements resulted in players like Max Homa and Sahith Theegala hitting out of bounds from the fairway, highlighting the simulator’s flaws. Cameron Jourdan in GOLFWEEK.
The simulator’s inaccuracy on short-range shots left players frustrated, threatening the competition’s legitimacy. Josh Schrock in GOLF.
Despite the technical shortcomings, the league excelled in entertainment value, with player personalities, such as Tiger Woods’ humorous reactions, standing out. Ron Green Jr. in GLOBAL GOLF POST.
ESPN’s inconsistent coverage and TGL’s need to better embrace its unique format were points of critique. Jay Busbee in YAHOO SPORTS.
The league is described as a bold modernization attempt, though the concept of players hitting into a screen lacked excitement. Jason Gay in WALL STREET JOURNAL
Mixed reactions to TGL’s format, venue, and timing illustrate the need for improvements and adjustments to sustain credibility. By Abe Madkour in Buzzcast
PGA TOUR RELOCATES 2025 GENESIS INVITATIONAL DUE TO WILDFIRES
The PGA Tour has announced the relocation of the 2025 Genesis Invitational, initially scheduled at The Riviera Country Club, due to severe wildfires in the Greater Los Angeles area. Collaborating with Genesis, The Riviera Country Club, and TGR Live, the decision prioritizes the safety of affected communities. Set for February 10-16, the tournament’s new venue will be revealed soon. The PGA Tour also encourages fans to support relief efforts through the American Red Cross or the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. Official Statement by PGA Tour.
AUGUSTA NATIONAL PREPARES FOR 2025 MASTERS AFTER HURRICANE HELENE. Despite sustaining minor damage from Hurricane Helene in September 2024, Augusta National Golf Club remains in "spectacular condition" for the upcoming 2025 Masters, according to Chairman Fred Ridley. The course lost several trees, but the club focused its efforts on supporting the Augusta community, pledging $5 million to the Hurricane Helene Community Crisis Fund for local relief initiatives. By Nick Piastowski in GOLF.com.
PGA TOUR UNVEILS "ONLY HAPPENS HERE" BRAND CAMPAIGN. The PGA Tour has launched its latest brand campaign, "Only Happens Here," celebrating the sport's rich history and iconic figures such as Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods. The campaign, which features legendary courses like Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines, draws on insights from the Fan Forward survey highlighting fans’ preference for legacy over financial incentives. In opinion of Josh Carpenter, from Sports Business Journal, the campaign responds to criticism of LIV Golf, with former player Eugenio Chacarra pointing to its focus on monetary rewards.
3. EQUIPMENT
TAYLORMADE LAUNCHES THE QI35 SERIES
After the success of last year’s Qi10 series, TaylorMade has unveiled the Qi35 family of drivers. The Qi35 series looks to advance the story set by the Qi10 with an emphasis on combining the stability created in the Qi10 with improved distance performance.
Technical Innovations:
Chromium Carbon: The Qi35 drivers introduce Chromium Carbon. This new lightweight material allows TaylorMade’s engineers to re-distribute the centre of gravity more effectively for each model in the range.
Trajectory Adjustment System (TAS): TaylorMade pioneered Moveable Weight Technology with the R7. The TAS system works in a similar principle with moveable weights strategically positioned in the head to optimize ball flight and trajectory.
Old Favorites: The Qi35 drivers still feature tried and trusted TaylorMade technology such as Twist Face and Thru-Slot speed technology
Driver Models:
Qi35: Designed for all-around performance, combining high ball speed with forgiveness.
Qi35 LS: Features a low spin profile, ideal for players seeking lower ball flights and added distance.
Qi35 Max: TaylorMade's highest MOI driver to date, offering maximum forgiveness and an easy swing feel.
Qi35 Max Lite: An ultra-lightweight option, over 35g lighter than Qi35 Max, designed to increase clubhead speed.
Shaft Information:
The Qi35 drivers are equipped with premium shaft options, including the Fujikura Ventus Blue and Mitsubishi Diamana T+ shafts, catering to various swing speeds and preferences.
Release Dates and Pricing:
Preorder Availability: January 8, 2025.
Retail Launch: January 30, 2025.
Designer Series Availability: March 14, 2025.
Pricing: The standard Qi35 models are priced at $599.99 (£494.99 RRP,€583.99) while the LS model is $649.99 (£534.99, €632.99)
For more detailed information, please visit TaylorMade's official website.
PING RELEASES NEW G440 FAMILY
The Ping G440 driver series was officially released earlier this week. The G440 has a big task on it’s hands following in the footsteps of the G430 series, which proved to be huge success amongst professionals and amateurs. The G440 is set to go head-to-head with this year’s other big releases from Callaway, Cobra, and TaylorMade, not to mention Titleist’s GT Series, which was launched last summer. The technology powering the G440 series falls into three key areas:
Free-Hosel Design: This innovation involves removing weight from a section of the hosel and redistributing it lower and farther back in the clubhead. This adjustment results in Ping's deepest center of gravity (CG) to date, promoting faster ball speeds, optimal spin rates, and higher launch angles for longer, straighter drives.
CarbonFly Wrap Crown: Incorporated into the G440 Max, LST, and SFT models, this feature utilizes a carbon crown to reduce weight, allowing for a more forgiving clubhead and improved energy transfer at impact.
Adjustable Back Weight: The G440 drivers feature a three-position rear weight port, enabling golfers to fine-tune their preferred shot shape for enhanced control and customization.
The G440 driver lineup includes three models:
G440 Max: Designed for maximum forgiveness, suitable for a wide range of golfers.
G440 LST (Low Spin Technology): Tailored for players with faster swing speeds seeking reduced spin for added distance.
G440 SFT (Straight Flight Technology): Ideal for golfers aiming to correct a slice, with features promoting a draw bias.
No mention at the moment of a 10K G440 variant, so for the time being, Ping will still offer the G430 10K. Pricing for the Ping G440 drivers is expected to be in line with previous models, though specific details have not been disclosed. The official release date is anticipated in early 2025. On sale from 30th January, RRP $650 (£575, €632). More information available at Ping.com.
4. PEOPLE TO WATCH
Shot Scope, the Scottish leader in golf performance technology, has named 2002 PGA Championship winner and Sky Sports analyst Rich Beem as its newest brand ambassador, marking a significant step in the company’s North American expansion strategy. Beem will feature in television and digital campaigns showcasing the practical benefits of Shot Scope’s laser rangefinders, GPS watches, and shot-tracking tools, aimed at helping golfers refine their performance and improve confidence in their game. With over 300,000 global users—half of them in the U.S.—Shot Scope is doubling down on its presence in the region through increased retail partnerships, product innovation, and collaborations with PGA professionals, reinforcing its position as a global leader in golf technology. Full press release.
L.A.B. Golf, the technology pioneer behind Lie Angle Balance (L.A.B.) Putters, has unveiled its executive leadership team as it positions 2025 as a pivotal year for the adoption of its Zero Torque putters. The team includes seasoned executive Robert Johnson as president, bringing over 30 years of strategic growth experience, including a tenure at TaylorMade where he spearheaded market repositioning and product innovation. Other key leaders include CFO Amanda Weselak, COO Mike Beal, and CGO Ryan Deiro, all driving innovation, market expansion, and operational excellence. Based in Eugene, OR, L.A.B. Golf’s patented technology continues to redefine putting by eliminating torque, empowering golfers to achieve a more consistent stroke. Full press release.
5. MUST READ AND WATCH
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee Offers Insights on Sustainable Health Practices. As a renowned physician, author, and podcast host, Dr. Chatterjee emphasizes the importance of foundational habits and root-cause solutions for lasting well-being. By Blaise McGowan in The High Performance Podcast .
Trump International Golf Course in Dubai: Real Estate and Political Ties.
The luxury course in Dubai’s Damac Hills underscores the collaboration between Donald Trump and developer Hussain Sajwani, blending high-profile real estate with political symbolism. By Frank Kane in Arabian Gulf Business Insight.Jeremy Baynham Discusses Challenges of Golf Refereeing. In Golf Business Quarterly.
Remembering Heinz Kluetmeier, Iconic Sports Photographer. The celebrated Sports Illustrated photographer, known for iconic images like the "Miracle on Ice," leaves a lasting legacy in sports journalism. By his colleague Jon Wertheim.
6. JUST FOR PAID SUBSCRIBERS
DONALD TRUMP IS HERE: HOW TARIFFS WILL IMPACT GOLF BALLS, CLUBS, APPAREL, AND OTHER KEY SUPPLIES
With Donald Trump set to assume office as the 47th President of the United States in January 2025, the golf industry is bracing for a wave of potential disruptions. Trump’s latest proposals include a 10% across-the-board tariff on all imports, 25% on goods from Mexico and Canada, and a staggering 60-100% on Chinese products. These measures, while consistent with his prior administration’s tactics, have sparked significant concern and contingency planning within the golf sector.
EXPLAINER: What is a Tariff? A tariff is essentially a tax that the U.S. government imposes on imported goods. The responsibility for paying this tax falls on the company bringing the products into the country, not the government of the exporting nation. Customs and Border Protection collects the tariff before the goods are cleared for entry into the United States. It’s important to note that tariffs are a business expense borne by the importing company, not by the exporting country.
The golf industry, deeply dependent on global manufacturing and supply chains, is especially susceptible to these economic changes. Let’s examine how each product category is impacted:
Premium Golf Balls
Mid-Range and Value Golf Balls
Golf Clubs
Golf Bags
Apparel and Footwear