S E47: The USGA’s Plan to Protect Golf’s Future

USGA CEO Mike Whan joins Jimmy Roberts for a wide-ranging conversation about the decisions that could shape golf for generations.

Whan explains why the continued increase in distance at the elite level has become one of the game’s biggest long-term challenges—and why the answer could involve changes to the golf ball, driver standards or different equipment rules for professional and recreational golfers. He also discusses the USGA’s evolving conversations with the PGA TOUR, the possibility of changes before 2030 and why protecting historic golf courses requires the industry to think decades ahead.

The conversation also explores the rapid growth of the U.S. National Development Program, the USGA’s $50 million commitment to junior golf, the growing importance of water conservation and what women’s golf still needs to produce its breakthrough moment in America.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• Why golf’s continued increase in distance could threaten its most historic courses

• Whether professionals and recreational golfers should play by different equipment rules

• How the USGA is building a national development pipeline for young American golfers

• Why water and land use could become major challenges for the golf industry

• What women’s golf needs to create its own Caitlin Clark-style breakthrough in America

The episode also features Powering the Women’s Game, presented by Chevron, and Peyton Manning sharing the handwritten letter that became his Big Swing moment.

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