Certainly Rory McIlroy is not the type to send them to say. The former (for now) number one in the world has always taken a stand on the most important topics in the world of golf. From the dry no to the petrodollar sirens to certain vitriolic comments on colleagues and situations. Now McIlroy goes against the tide once again.
Rory McIlory, statements
The Northern Irishman gave the green light to the Model Local Rule, i.e. the proposal by the USGA and R&A to adopt “slowed” balls in professional competitions. The intention of the two leading bodies of world golf is to introduce a ball which, with the same strength and club, flies 15 yards less than the current ones.
“For the world of professional golf I like this idea. I really like it,” Rory explained on the Laying Up podcast. “I am aware that it is an unpopular measure among my colleagues but I think the MLR can help to bring out a little more easily who the best players are today. And understanding this will be particularly important given the balance that reigns at the top of the rankings in the last two decades”.
If the proposal passes, from 2026 in professional golf the long irons would once again be decisive to the detriment of the drivers, the real protagonists today on the fields of the main circuits. “I no longer remember when in a competition I used all the sticks I carry in my bag – explains Rory -. With that rule you will see professionals with a more complete game than the so-called bombers of recent years”
The USGA and R&A proposal is an attempt to reduce shot distances. Some routes, even famous ones, risk not being competitive anymore as they are now too short for the power of the professionals. The innovation suggested a few days ago is being examined by producers, professionals and insiders. Someone is already looking ahead, taking it for granted: if this were the case, two of the four 2026 Majors could test the novelty. These are the US Open (organized by the USGA) and The Open (R&A). The PGA Tour has not yet expressed itself but nothing would one day prevent McIlroy from using the modified ball in any PGA competition.
“We are faced with a completely personal opinion on the slowed down ball – continues the Northern Irishman -. I am well aware that at this stage of my career I will be judged by the number of Majors I win. This is the most important thing for me. If the Model Locale Rule will give me this chance then so be it”.
Rory McIlroy has four major titles on his bulletin board. The last one dates back to 2014. Last year he finished the Masters in second place. Then a third place at The Open fifth at the US Open and eighth at the PGA Championship. Today he is number three in the world.
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