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Golf Introduces New “Bryson” Rule to Limit Driver Length

Around this time last year, the world was different. We were amidst a global pandemic, parents were thrust into the job of teachers as schools were, for the most part still solely online learning, and oh yeah…48-inch drivers were one of the hottest topics in the golf equipment world. That was mostly thanks to Bryson DeChambeau’s announcement that he’d be testing longer drivers following his 2020 U.S. Open win.
Mind you, DeChambeau had just lapped the field at Winged Foot, quite literally one of the most difficult U.S. Open venues statistically. Then he does what? He starts talking about his plan to test out even longer drivers to push his distance limits. This clearly got the golf worlds attention. Fast forward 12 months…
You could almost hear the thoughts swirling in the heads of his competitors heads: If Bryson gets even longer, I’m gonna be forced to keep up. Shoot, I can’t keep up now. I must be better! Others were likely more skeptical of longer drivers and wanted nothing to do with it.
All that said, either way, DeChambeau did bring up a viable point. Why not experiment with longer driver builds to see if there’s significantly more distance to be had?
In the wake of DeChambeau’s declaration, some tour players ordered 47- and 48-inch drivers from their PGA Tour equipment reps to try out. “If he is gonna do it, why cant I? Afterall, he is the mad scientist of golf” As onlookers, and experimenters ourselves, we speculated: Will 48-inch drivers REALLY become the new norm? Will so many players switch into longer drivers that 8,000 yard golf courses will become the new norm?
I suppose, if you really wanted to, you could argue that distance was already an issue on the PGA Tour. Hell, even without longer drivers being thrown into the equation. The USGA has certainly been researching the distance debate for itself.
In the last year, though, 48-inch drivers haven’t quite taken over professional golf like some thought they might. Sure, Viktor Hovland has experimented with the concept. And yeah, Phil Mickelson won the 2021 PGA Championship with a driver measuring 47.9 inches (Bet you didn’t know that gem).
But as the PGA Tour discovered in its recent research on the matter of driver length, it really only impacts a very small segment of tour golfers. The numbers you ask, well I am glad you did. A mere 3 percent of professional players use clubs longer than 46 inches. That’s not exactly the takeover that us equipment insiders were anticipating. Surely golf wouldn’t make a rule that affects 3 out of 100 golfers and makes the game less fun? Right?
Regardless, on Tuesday, the USGA and R&A announced a new local rule option to limit driver length to 46 inches. That’s right, its an option. So, week in and week out the rules governing this will change based on who is hosting the event. 1 week it’s OK, but the next may be… “nah, sorry man – it’s a hard no for us”. It’s kind of like reservation gambling at the native American casinos. Its illegal over here, 1 mile away, BUT over here, 1 mile east, you are playing blackjack and penny slots to your hearts content and it’s all good. Something seems off to me on this one…
“Admittedly, this is not the ‘answer’ to the overall distance debate/issue, but rather a simple option for competitive events,” Mike Whan, the USGA’s chief executive officer, said in a statement. “It’s important to note that is not a ‘Rule of Golf,’ and as such, it is not mandated for the average, recreational golfer. Rather, this is an available tool for those running competitive events.”
In a statement, the PGA Tour then announced that it would implement the local rule for its competitions starting on Jan.1, 2022.
“After understanding the feedback received from the golf manufacturing community, we also undertook a survey of usage of clubs in use across the PGA Tour, PGA Tour Champions and the Korn Ferry Tour and found that a very small number of players either have used or are currently using clubs greater than 46 inches,” the statement read. “The PGA Tour Player Advisory Council recently reviewed the subject and we have concluded that the PGA Tour will implement the Local Rule on Jan. 1, 2022.”
We already know Mickelson’s stance on the subject, as you can watch in the embedded Tweets below. Spoiler alert, He don’t like it!
That got us thinking…What do other PGA Tour players think about the ban of drivers longer than 46 inches? Here’s what a collection of PGA Tour pros had to say at the 2021 CJ Cup following the news.
Justin Thomas
“Yeah, I don’t really agree with it,” Thomas told the press on Tuesday at the 2021 CJ Cup. “I think it’s — I don’t know. I feel like there’s a lot of other things, you know, like the arm-bar putter, that they should be approaching as opposed to the length of driver. I think the fact that you see only a few people using a long driver speaks for itself, that it’s not really that big of an advantage. It’s a lot harder to hit it straight.
“In terms of do I think it makes the game of golf and growing the game better? No, I don’t at all, but they seem to have their kind of mind around that for a while now, so it seems to be the issue because if there’s an amateur golfer or players at home that want to hit it a little bit farther, so be it. Or if there’s guys out here that want to have a chance to put it in play with a 47-, 48-inch driver, then power to them. I had that opportunity; I just chose not to. I don’t necessarily agree with it, but it is what it is.”
Kevin Kisner
“I don’t know what they’re trying to accomplish other than to keep people from hitting it far,” Kisner told GOLF.com. “I mean, the game’s moving in that direction. I think they’re just trying to figure out a way to keep it in some sort of a realm. But anything that makes the game harder I’m against. So, if it makes it harder, I don’t wanna do it. The game’s hard enough, man.
Dustin Johnson
“My opinion is more, I don’t think it matters what length someone uses, because the longer the driver gets the harder it is to hit straight,” Johnson told GOLF.com. “So, if you could hit a 48-inch driver and keep it on the planet, then more power to you. I’ve tested with ‘em, and yeah it goes further, but it also goes a lot more crooked. You lose a lot of control, so for me, I don’t think it’s necessary.”
Adam Scott
“My initial reaction is that I don’t think it’ll make any difference,” Scott told GOLF.com. “The only thing I can say is maybe for the future if everyone started using 47- and 48-inch drivers and they all started to go down that route, but for now I don’t see it making any real difference. I don’t know how many guys were using 47-inch drivers.”
Collin Morikawa
“Look, it’s not going to change my driver specs, I’ll tell you that, and I don’t think it’s going to change many other guys’ driver specs,” Morikawa told the press on Tuesday. “Is that the answer to hitting it shorter? No. You know, I think yeah, if you have a long driver and you see what Bryson did, you see what long drive guys do, they have a longer driver, right, and they’re able to hit it farther, but can you maintain that on the golf course? Hasn’t been done yet. Not saying it won’t be done, but you know like if a guy wants a 47-inch driver, I think they should let them, because why not?
“We’ve seen courses that you end up shooting 10-to-15 under, and it’s not because the course is 9,000 yards long. We don’t play that. It’s because it makes you shape shots; it makes you hit different shots and it’s all about course design. So that’s my opinion in it or on it, is that I think course design needs to be structured in a way where we don’t need 8,000-yard courses. Yeah, they’re great sometimes, but there’s a lot of short courses on our tour that don’t provide 25 under par and it’s because of the way the layout is and the conditions. So, I don’t think many guys have over 46 inches, their driver, anyways, so I don’t think it will change much.”
Hudson Swafford
“I mean I can’t hit a 48-inch driver, so, it doesn’t really bother me,” Swafford told GOLF.com. “I hit a 45-inch driver; pretty standard, actually a little shorter. So, it doesn’t really bother me. It is what it is. I don’t really care. But it’s interesting; people are trying it and picking up a lot of speed. I picked up like a 46-inch and picked up speed, but I can’t hit it straight. So, it didn’t do me any good.”
Stewart Cink
“I think it’s going to have zero impact on golf, because I don’t know if I’ve ever known a golfer to use a driver longer than that in competition out here,” Cink told GOLF.com. “I don’t think it’s going to be a huge impact. To me it seems like there’s other areas, if they want to address distance, the length of the shaft is probably not the main thing, it’s probably just to safest one from a legal standpoint.”
This article originally appeared on Golf.com
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7 Hot Vacation Stops To Watch The HotelPlanner Tour
Plan your golf holidays at these glorious locations!

The 2025 HotelPlanner Tour schedule continues in South Africa this week, with the Cell C Cape Town Open in association with Honor taking place at the Royal Cape Golf Club in Cape Town from February 6-9.
Players will compete for a record total prize fund of over €9,000,000 on the HotelPlanner Tour this season, with each European event having a minimum prize fund of €300,000.
The prize fund increases for 16 events in total in 2025.
The schedule will consist of 29 tournaments staged across three continents in 18 different countries.
The All New HotelPlanner Tour
The 2025 HotelPlanner Tour, formerly known as the European Tour, offers an exciting array of tournaments set in some of the world’s most captivating destinations. Golf enthusiasts and travelers alike can look forward to experiencing top-tier golf while exploring diverse cultures and landscapes.
Here are some of the standout destinations on this year’s schedule:
1. Kolkata, India – Kolkata Challenge (March 13-16, 2025)

Venue: Royal Calcutta Golf Club, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Why Visit: As one of the oldest golf clubs outside of Britain, Royal Calcutta Golf Club is steeped in history. Kolkata is a vibrant city known for its colonial architecture, delicious street food, and cultural festivals. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge while soaking in the city’s unique charm.
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near this tournament
2. Abu Dhabi, UAE – Abu Dhabi Challenge (April 17-20, 2025)

Venue: Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Why Visit: Abu Dhabi is a dazzling metropolis known for its luxurious lifestyle and cultural heritage. While in town, visitors can explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, experience thrilling desert safaris, and relax on pristine beaches. The Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club provides a fantastic setting for both seasoned golfers and casual fans.
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near this tournament
3. Girona, Spain – Challenge de España (May 8-11, 2025)

Venue: Fontanals Golf Club, Girona, Spain
Why Visit: Girona is a picturesque Catalonian city known for its medieval architecture, vibrant food scene, and stunning coastal proximity. Golfers will love the challenging course at Fontanals Golf Club, while visitors can stroll through the charming old town, visit the iconic Girona Cathedral, or enjoy local tapas.
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near the tournament
4. Lucerne, Switzerland – Swiss Challenge (June 5-8, 2025)

Venue: Golf Sempachersee, Lucerne, Switzerland
Why Visit: Nestled amidst breathtaking Alpine scenery, Lucerne offers a perfect mix of nature and culture. Beyond the golf course, visitors can take a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne, ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus, or explore the charming old town with its iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge).
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near the tournament
5. Cadiz, Spain – Challenge de Cadiz (May 29 – June 1, 2025)

Venue: Iberostar Real Golf Novo Sancti Petri, Cadiz, Andalucía, Spain
Why Visit: Located in the heart of Andalucía, Cadiz is a sun-soaked paradise with stunning beaches, rich history, and fantastic seafood. The Iberostar Real Golf Novo Sancti Petri course is a delight for golf lovers, while the region offers countless attractions, including the historic old town, flamenco shows, and world-famous sherry wines.
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near the tournament
6. Scotland – Farmfoods Scottish Challenge (July 31 – August 3, 2025)

Venue: SCHLOSS Roxburghe, Heiton by Kelso, Scotland
Why Visit: Scotland is the birthplace of golf, and playing at SCHLOSS Roxburghe offers an authentic experience in one of the sport’s most iconic countries. Beyond the greens, visitors can explore Edinburgh’s historic sites, tour whisky distilleries, and take in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near the tournament
7. Portugal – Open de Portugal (September 11-14, 2025)

Venue: Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort, Vau Óbidos, Portugal
Why Visit: Portugal is renowned for its stunning coastline, historic towns, and exceptional golf courses. Royal Óbidos offers breathtaking ocean views and challenging play. While in the region, visitors can explore the medieval town of Óbidos, enjoy fresh seafood, or relax on the beautiful beaches of the Silver Coast.
Click here for flight, hotel, and car deals near the tournament
Plan Your Ultimate Golf Trip
From the bustling streets of Kolkata to the scenic landscapes of Switzerland, the 2025 HotelPlanner Tour promises incredible golfing experiences in some of the world’s most captivating locations. Whether you’re a dedicated golfer or just love to travel, these destinations offer the perfect mix of sport, culture, and adventure.
Which of these stunning golf locations would you love to visit? Let us know in the comments below!
For the complete 2025 tour schedule, visit the official website
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Echoes of Triumph: The Heart and Soul of LPGA Glory
With its storied past and commitment to the future, Mission Hills continues to be a pivotal venue in both PGA and LPGA histories, celebrating the spirit of golf.

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Rancho Mirage, California, Mission Hills Country Club has long been a beacon for golf enthusiasts. Known for its pristine courses and prestigious tournaments, Mission Hills has hosted numerous PGA and LPGA events, forging a legacy that intertwines with the legends of golf.
A Haven for Championship Golf
Mission Hills Country Club is renowned for its role in women’s golf. Known formerly as the Kraft Nabisco Championship and originally as the Colgate-Dinah Shore Winner’s Circle, this major LPGA tournament has been held at Mission Hills since 1972. It’s not just a tournament; it’s a celebration of women’s golf where champions take the iconic leap into Poppie’s Pond, a tradition that started in 1988.
PGA Showcases
While primarily spotlighted for its contributions to women’s golf, Mission Hills has also played host to PGA events, adding layers to its rich narrative. The club’s courses, particularly the Dinah Shore Tournament Course, are designed to challenge the best in the sport, offering a blend of beauty and rigor that demands excellence from all who walk its greens.
Architectural Marvels and Challenging Courses
The design of Mission Hills Country Club is a testament to the vision of its architects, including the legendary Desmond Muirhead. The courses are crafted to harmonize with the desert landscape, featuring rolling fairways, majestic mountain backdrops, and meticulous landscaping that make every round a visual spectacle as much as a competitive challenge.
A Cultural Impact Beyond the Fairways
Mission Hills Country Club has transcended its role as a mere golf venue, impacting the culture of golf and sports more broadly. The ANA Inspiration has become one of the most anticipated events in the LPGA calendar, known for its high stakes and the celebratory champion’s leap into Poppie’s Pond. This event has not only highlighted the skill and tenacity of women golfers but has also inspired countless young girls to aspire to their heights.
The Future of Golf at Mission Hills
As the sport evolves, Mission Hills continues to be at the forefront of hosting world-class golf events. With its deep commitment to promoting golf, the club is set to remain a key player in shaping the future of the game, fostering new talent and continuing its traditions.
Mission Hills Country Club stands as a monument to golf’s enduring appeal and the unbreakable spirit of its players. From hosting major championships to being a site where golf history is made, Mission Hills is more than a country club—it’s a cornerstone of golf history.

Spanning over half a century, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has undergone changes in latitude as well as attitude. But the core of the tournament remains not only the exceptional golf by the world’s best players, but also the lore surrounding each yearly winter extravaganza.
Wyndham Clark made history at the 2024 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Tied for 23rd heading into Saturday’s third round, he ended the day in first place with a 12-under 60, setting the course record for the lowest score ever at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
In 2017, Justin Rose & Justin Timberlake collaborated on one of the most unique moments in AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am history. While JR took a selfie, JT nearly made an ace on the iconic par-3 7th ultimately leading to a tap-in birdie.
Always a fan favorite and one of the best entertainers Pebble Beach has ever seen, check out Bill Murray’s best shots and funniest moments from his career at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Signature moments from the five U.S. Opens that were held at Pebble Beach (Calif.) Golf Links, site of the 2019 championship.
Perhaps remembered best for a hole out at the par-4 15th hole, Tiger Woods came back from a 5-shot deficit to move past 54-hole co-leaders Mark Brooks and Matt Gogel and claim victory at the 2000 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Iconic courses, iconic golfers. See you at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, returning for its second year as a PGA TOUR Signature Event.
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