R&A confirms drivers are still under the microscope

Martin Slumbers at his final Open Championship press conference in 2024

In his final press conference, outgoing head Martin Slumbers has confirmed that the driver is still being considered for rule alterations

In what will be one of his final debriefs with the press, at The Open in 2024, before his tenure comes to a close, Martin Slumbers has confirmed that the R&A will still continue to look into the conformity of the modern driver past his presence within the establishment.

“We originally put out an area of interest that said we’re interested in the ball and we’re interested in the driver. The feedback from the industry -and I’m not going to go any more specific than the industry -was, okay, but only choose one. We decided that the ball was the most effective way to be able to move forward.” said Mr Slumbers on Wednesday of The Open Championship.

This was confirmed last year with the decision to implement a change in golf ball laws for 2028 and 2030.

“…the decision that was made at the end of last year, we said we are still very interested in the driver. We believe that there is work that needs to be done to make the driver less forgiving for the best players in the world. We just don’t know how to do it yet. So we’ll work with the industry.” he continued.

“The most important thing between now and — is 2028. We work with the industry, deeply conscious of the change that we’re putting into the system, and all our focus will be on getting the golf ball 2028-2030, but rest assured we’ve not lost sight of the driver. We’ll be continuing to think about that and engaging with some bright people to think about how to do that.”

About the author

Lewis Daff

Lewis Daff joined the Today’s Golfer digital team in 2024, having spent more than a decade in both big box golf retail and independent stores, working as a club fitter and builder.

Experienced with every level of golfer, from beginner to professional, he has achieved Master Fitter and Builder status with most major manufacturers, including Mizuno, Taylormade, and Callaway, helping him to cement both a wide and deep knowledge base. Lewis specializes in Clubs, Shafts, Training Aids, Launch Monitors and Grips.

In Lewis’ bag is Taylormade Qi10 Driver, Taylormade SIM Max Fairway Woods (3-15, 5-18), Wilson Staff D9 Forged 3-iron, Srixon ZX7 MKii Irons (4-PW), Titleist SM9 Wedges (52*, 60*), Toulon San Diego Putter, and Callaway Chrome Tour Ball.

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