GBR Tuesday | Rolling Back Distance, Not Profits? Inside the $1.2 Billion Golf Ball Debate
Every Tuesday and Friday, we connect the dots across golf’s business, media, and professional landscape.
Good morning, GBR community,
Here we are on the eve of the last major of the year, The Open at the brilliant Dunluce Links at Royal Portrush is set to host the biggest sporting event in Northern Ireland, and the largest Open Championship since 2022’s 150th celebration at St Andrews.
Since Rory McIlroy completed his grand slam at Augusta in early April, the Northern Irishman will have known at the back of his mind that this Open would be truly special for him, and expectation will be high.
Can he win? A second place at the Genesis Scottish Open last week indicates his form could be trending in the right direction.
Moving on to what we have on offer in today’s GBR.
The R&A has published its Global Participation report, and the figures look good, with 108 million adults and juniors playing golf in some capacity regularly.
Elsewhere in our industry section, we cover a successful first quarter for Lightspeed, a new partnership for the NGCOA, and a news Master’s degree for those looking to work in the golf industry.
In circuits, the main story centers around LIV Golf’s fresh submission to the OWGR. Does this further indicate that the status quo is set to remain, and will LIV be successful this time?
Our paid story looks at the impending golf ball rollback, and we examine its potential impact on a $1 billion-plus segment of the golf equipment market.
Industry
Circuits
Equipment
People To Watch
Golf Ball
Enjoy your week, and we’ll catch up on Friday.
INDUSTRY
GLOBAL GOLF PARTICIPATION SURGES TO 108 MILLION, DRIVEN BY NON-TRADITIONAL FORMATS
Golf participation continues to climb across The R&A’s affiliated markets, with new figures showing a combined total of 108 million adults and juniors now playing the sport in some form — a year-on-year increase of nearly three million. The 2024 Global Participation Report marks the first time The R&A has combined adult and junior data, offering a fuller picture of global engagement. While traditional on-course play (nine and 18 holes) grew modestly to 43.3 million players, the sharpest gains came from non-traditional formats like driving ranges, simulators, and adventure golf. Junior participation stands at 43.9 million, with 80% engaging through these alternative experiences, signaling a generational shift in how golf is played and accessed. The number of registered golfers — those affiliated with clubs or national associations — has also risen to 8.4 million, up from 7.4 million in 2020.
Regional highlights underscore the sport’s expanding footprint:
Asia leads adult participation with 26.2 million players
Europe follows with 20.3 million adults and leads junior participation with 18.5 million
Canada ranks third with 6.9 million adult players
Among the nine largest markets, women now account for 31% of adult players and 50% of adults playing non-traditional formats. The R&A's research shows that many new golfers are introduced to the game through these alternatives, with 37% of on-course golfers in Canada and 36% in England having started in non-traditional settings. “The millions of juniors enjoying the sport across all formats offers huge potential for future growth,” said R&A Chief Executive Mark Darbon, who credited national federations and partners worldwide for their role in expanding golf’s appeal. The R&A’s 2024 Global Participation Report can be downloaded here.
LIGHTSPEED UNVEILS MAJOR Q1 PRODUCT UPDATES TO ENHANCE RETAIL, HOSPITALITY, AND GOLF OPERATIONS
Lightspeed Commerce Inc. has announced a wave of product innovations across its retail, hospitality, and golf platforms during its first fiscal quarter, aimed at helping merchants gain deeper insights, operate more efficiently, and improve customer experiences. In retail, new features include “Order Trends” in NuORDER by Lightspeed—allowing buyers to make smarter, data-driven stocking decisions—and enhanced inventory tools like Custom Inventory Adjustments, Gross Margin Return on Investment (GMROI), and Inventory Turns, which have led to an average 25.4% GMROI increase for users. Lightspeed Retail also achieved “Built for NetSuite” certification, streamlining Point of Sale (POS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) integrations. Other upgrades include improved clienteling via the Scanner App and expanded omnichannel capabilities for order management, loyalty payments, and fulfillment tracking.
In hospitality, Lightspeed expanded its AI-driven Benchmarks & Trends tool into Europe, helping restaurants compare performance with local peers. Lightspeed Tableside was upgraded with a new Mobile Tap device in the UK, Netherlands, and Belgium, offering tap, insert, and swipe payment functions and a 48-hour battery life. Additional updates include enhanced reporting via the Pulse mobile app, Kitchen Display System insights for real-time kitchen performance, and a new Sales Report with hourly metric filters to support better shift planning and profitability. In the golf sector, Lightspeed deepened its integration with Whoosh to improve private club operations by offering cloud-based POS, payment, and membership management features, allowing clubs to centralize billing and track member activity in real time across their facilities. Demos and consultation info on Lightspeed’s tools are available here.
NGCOA ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH ON!® NICOTINE POUCHES TO SUPPORT GOLF OPERATORS
The National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) has entered into an executive partnership with Helix Innovations LLC, manufacturer of on!®—a tobacco-free nicotine pouch designed as an alternative to traditional tobacco products. As part of the agreement, on!® will provide discounted products to NGCOA members through the association’s Smart Buy Marketplace and receive multi-year recognition at NGCOA’s flagship events, including the Multi-Course & Resort Operators Retreat, Golf Business TechCon, and the Golf Business Conference. “This partnership enables NGCOA to continue advancing the interests of golf course owners and operators,” said Mike Ketterman, NGCOA Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships. Helix Managing Director Nick MacPhee highlighted the dual appeal of the product, which is designed for adult consumers aged 21 and over and includes a built-in disposal compartment to help reduce litter on golf courses. More details of the partnership between on!® and the NGCOA can be found here.
8AM GOLF SELLS GOLFLOGIX TO REVELYST IN STRATEGIC TECH EXPANSION
8AM Golf has announced the sale of its top-performing GPS app, GolfLogix, to Revelyst, Inc.—the parent company of Foresight Sports and Bushnell Golf—in a move that unites two industry leaders in golf technology. Founded in 1999 and acquired by 8AM Golf in 2014, GolfLogix pioneered handheld GPS for golf and now boasts over seven million global downloads and a database of 40,000 mapped courses, the largest of its kind. Its app also supports digital scorekeeping, stat tracking, and a global online community of golfers. Revelyst’s acquisition further strengthens its Precision Sports Technology platform and enhances its software capabilities and on-course integration.
Key details:
Founded: GolfLogix launched in May 1999; acquired by 8AM Golf in 2014
Reach: 7M+ downloads, 40,000+ mapped courses
Features: GPS yardages, club tracking, scorekeeping, stat uploads, online clubhouse
New Owner: Revelyst, Inc. (parent of Foresight Sports, Bushnell Golf)
8AM Golf Chairman Howard Milstein and CEO Hoyt McGarity both emphasized that the sale aligns with the company’s mission of fostering innovation and unlocking long-term value. “GolfLogix is an incredibly strong fit with Foresight/Bushnell,” said 8AM Chief Strategy Officer Trey Marucci, calling the deal a natural next step for the app’s continued growth.
More information relating to GolfLogix’s sale to Revelyst can be found here.
ULSTER UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES MASTER'S DEGREE IN GOLF MANAGEMENT AT COLERAINE CAMPUS
Ulster University has announced the launch of a new Master’s degree in Golf Management, set to begin this September at its Coleraine campus. Offered by the Department of Hospitality, Tourism and Event Management, the programme is designed to meet growing global demand for skilled professionals in the golf industry by combining academic coursework with hands-on experience. Located near Royal Portrush Golf Club, the course gives students direct access to world-class golfing venues and partnerships with local clubs, including Portstewart and Galgorm Castle. The curriculum covers the management of golf facilities, events, and organisations, while also incorporating sustainability and community-focused initiatives. Dr Peter Bolan, Course Director, described the new programme as a “significant milestone” for the university, highlighting its potential to prepare graduates for high-level careers in a sector increasingly recognised as a key economic driver. Details of the new Master’s Degree can be found here.
CURRENCY AND POLITICS DETER CANADIAN GOLFERS FROM U.S. COURSES
Golf clubs near the U.S.-Canada border, including New York’s Malone Golf Club, are experiencing a sharp decline in Canadian visitors this summer due to unfavorable exchange rates, rising travel costs, and ongoing political tensions. Once a reliable customer base, Canadian golfers are increasingly opting to stay home, contributing to a reported $400,000 revenue loss at Malone alone. The downturn comes amid a 21% year-over-year drop in Canadian border crossings in May, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Clubs that depend on cross-border traffic for greens fees, cart rentals, food sales, and pro shop revenue are now grappling with economic uncertainty and shifting travel behavior. While some businesses are offering discounts and targeted promotions, many acknowledge that broader financial and diplomatic stability will be essential to reversing the trend. Travel and Tour World’s article carries more details on the economic downturn of fewer Canadians crossing the border to play golf in the U.S.
SINGAPORE TO CLOSE MULTIPLE GOLF COURSES AS LAND DEMAND INTENSIFIES
Singapore’s Ministry of Law has announced the phased closure of several golf courses as part of long-term land use planning to meet critical national needs, including housing and infrastructure. Mandai Executive Golf Course will shut by the end of 2026, while Warren Golf & Country Club, Orchid Country Club, Keppel Club’s Sime Course, and SICC’s Bukit Course will lose their leases in 2030, with some sites repurposed for housing or a new 18-hole public course. TMCC’s Garden Course will close in 2035, and its future use is under review due to its proximity to Changi Airport. Only Sentosa’s Serapong Course and NSRCC’s Kranji Course have been granted lease extensions to 2040. The Singapore Golf Association acknowledged the sense of loss within the golf community but pledged continued collaboration to keep the sport accessible, noting that over 140,000 golfers currently play on courses, with 75,000 more engaging in alternative formats. Further details on the course closures are found in the Asian Golf Industry Federation’s report.
CIRCUITS
LIV GOLF RESUBMITS WORLD RANKING APPLICATION AMID UNCERTAIN PATH TO RECOGNITION
The LIV Golf League has officially resubmitted its application for inclusion in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR). The application, received by the OWGR on June 30, comes over a year after LIV’s initial request was rejected and subsequently withdrawn. OWGR Chairman Trevor Immelman confirmed the review is now underway, stating that LIV's bid will be evaluated “in accordance with OWGR's criteria to ensure fairness, integrity and consistency.” While the application’s specific revisions have not been disclosed, LIV CEO Scott O’Neil expressed optimism, asserting that their submission addresses outstanding concerns and offers a more inclusive vision for ranking the world’s top players ahead of the 2026 major season.
LIV Golf’s previous application was denied due to structural concerns, including its team-based format, lack of promotion and relegation, and limited access for emerging players. At present, LIV athletes earn world ranking points only through major championships and select international events, leaving top names like Bryson DeChambeau (No. 15) and Tyrrell Hatton (No. 22) among the few still holding strong OWGR positions. Major champions Jon Rahm (No. 72), Patrick Reed (No. 61), Brooks Koepka (No. 282), and Dustin Johnson (No. 969) have seen significant declines in their rankings. While the OWGR Board is set to meet this week during The Open at Royal Portrush, a decision on LIV’s application is not expected immediately. LIV CEO, Scott O’Neill’s statement on applying for world ranking status can be found here. Dave Shedloski’s article in Golf Digest is one of many outlets carrying the story.
PGA TOUR SET TO RETURN TO TRUMP NATIONAL DORAL IN 2026 AFTER NEARLY A DECADE
The PGA Tour is expected to return to Trump National Doral in Miami in 2026, nearly a decade after the venue last hosted a Tour event. According to five industry sources, the new tournament is slated for the week of April 27–May 3, falling between the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and the Truist Championship, a Signature event, and just ahead of the PGA Championship. While the title sponsor and tournament operator have yet to be confirmed, speculation suggests it could carry Signature event status. Trump Doral hosted PGA Tour events for 54 consecutive years before being dropped from the schedule in 2017 amid sponsorship challenges, and has since served as a regular LIV Golf venue. However, it is notably absent from LIV’s 2026 calendar. The move is being interpreted by some as a possible gesture toward former President Donald Trump, who has been vocal in his support for LIV and critical of the PGA Tour during its ongoing negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The schedule reshuffle will also see the CJ Cup Byron Nelson move to later in May, creating back-to-back Dallas-area events for the first time since 2018. Josh Carpenter’s story for Sports Business Journal can be viewed here.
LIV GOLF'S BRAD ULLMAN MAKES HISTORY WITH INVITE TO OFFICIATE AT THE OPEN
Brad Ullman, Vice President of Rules for LIV Golf, is set to become the first rules official from the league to serve at a major championship, having been invited by the R&A to join the Rules Committee at this week’s Open Championship at Royal Portrush. With more than 15 years of officiating experience—including roles at the U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Senior Open, and Presidents Cup—Ullman called the invitation a significant moment both personally and for LIV Golf. “To represent LIV Golf as a referee at the oldest championship in the world and to work alongside referees from over 20 other professional golf organizations is indeed an honor,” he said. LIV’s Senior Vice President of Competition Management, David Benne, praised the R&A’s decision, noting the prestige associated with officiating at one of golf’s four majors. The assignment marks Ullman’s first time officiating at a men’s major. More details of Ullman’s participation in The Open Championship can be found here.
EQUIPMENT
TITLEIST UNVEILS 2025 T-SERIES IRONS WITH NEW TECHNOLOGY AND TOUR VALIDATION
Titleist has officially launched its 2025 T-Series iron lineup, a comprehensive evolution of its flagship iron range first introduced in 2019. The updated series includes refinements to the T100 and T150 models, along with the introduction of the T250 and T250 Launch Spec—both offering enhanced speed, distance, and control. Designed to meet the needs of players from tour professionals to higher handicappers, the lineup is built around Titleist’s "3 D’s"—distance control, dispersion, and descent angle. Key upgrades include forged multi-material construction, progressive grooves for spin control, and split tungsten weighting for launch optimization. Each model serves a distinct player type:
T100 (33° 7-iron): Tour-preferred feel with added forgiveness
T150 (32° 7-iron): More speed and higher launch with compact shaping
T250 (30.5° 7-iron): Player’s distance iron with a forged L-Face and Max Impact 2.0
T250 Launch Spec (35° 7-iron): Built for moderate swing speeds with higher lofts and lighter heads
T350 (29° 7-iron): Game-improvement performance with maximum forgiveness and high launch
Titleist notes that over 80% of its tour staff play blended sets, with players like Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, and Will Zalatoris already gaming combinations from the new series.
Complementing the iron range are two revamped utility options: the T250U and the next-generation U505, both available for fittings starting last week, July 10, and at retail globally on August 21. The T250U, offered in 18°, 20°, and 22° lofts, mirrors the sleek shaping of the standard T250 irons, delivering explosive speed via a forged L-Face and Max Impact 2.0 in a hollow-body construction. Meanwhile, the U505, available in 16°, 18°, 20°, and 22°, features progressive shaping to match player preferences across lofts, along with improved launch, spin, and ball speed. Both models offer seamless transitions within combo sets and are already in the bags of players like Tom Hoge and Davis Riley. Pricing starts at $1,499 (£1,119, €1,289) for a 7-piece T-Series set, with utility irons priced at $279 (£205, €240) (standard shaft) and $399 (£299, €340) (premium shaft). More details of the full Titleist T-Series irons can be found here.
PEOPLE TO WATCH
LUKE DONALD HAS APPOINTED FRANCESCO MOLINARI AS HIS FOURTH VICE-CAPTAIN FOR THE 2025 RYDER CUP. Molinari returns to the role he held in 2023, when Team Europe triumphed over the U.S. in Rome. He joins a seasoned leadership group that includes his brother Edoardo, Thomas Bjørn, and José María Olazábal. A veteran of three Ryder Cups, Molinari famously clinched the decisive half point against Tiger Woods as Team Europe scored an unlikely victory at Medinah in 2012. More details of Molinari’s appointment and Ryder Cup experience can be found here.
LOTTIE WOAD HAS OFFICIALLY TURNED PROFESSIONAL AFTER A STANDOUT FORTNIGHT ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE. The 21-year-old claimed victory at the KPMG Irish Women’s Open and secured a third-place finish at the major Evian Championship. Woad, who joined the England Golf programme in 2017, had long expressed her ambition to compete professionally. Her rise has included landmark wins at the British Girls’ Championship, the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, and now, a breakthrough on the pro circuit. Seamus Rotherick’s report for The Golf Business further outlines Woad’s outstanding amateur career.
Rolling Back Distance, Not Profits? Inside the $1.2 Billion Golf Ball Debate
By 2028, the world of professional golf will look very different. That’s the deadline the United States Golf Association (USGA) and The R&A have set to enforce a sweeping regulation: a universal rollback on golf ball performance. The move aims to curtail the ever-expanding distances achieved by elite players and to preserve the strategic integrity and sustainability of the game.
This is not just a story about a ball. It’s a story about a billion-dollar industry, environmental pressures, aging golf courses, and a brewing power struggle between governing bodies, players, and equipment giants.
The Rule and the Rationale
Announced in December 2023, the new regulations will apply to elite professionals from January 2028 and to recreational golfers by 2030. The new rule mandates that balls must conform to a maximum distance of 317 yards (plus 3-yard tolerance) when tested at a clubhead speed of 125 mph—up from the previous 120 mph limit, CBSSports.
The average PGA Tour pro is expected to lose between 9 and 11 yards. For the longest hitters, it could be 13 to 15 yards. LPGA players may lose 5 to 7 yards, NBCSports.
The rollback is being driven by sustainability concerns. Courses are getting longer, maintenance costs are rising, and the environmental toll of mowing, watering, and managing larger layouts is growing. There is also a desire to maintain the challenge posed by classic course designs without stretching them beyond their original intent.