“Consistent in our support” - Augusta chairman Fred Ridley follows Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus to back the proposed golf ball rollback

Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus recently came out in support of the USGA and R&A’s Model Local Rule on golf ball rollback. Following the legendary golfers, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley has now backed the proposed rollback move.

The Model Local Rule (MLM), which would allow elite competitions to use a ball that goes about 15 yards shorter off the tee, has sparked a major discussion in the golf world.

As the new development continues to face criticism, Ridley has revealed that Augusta will remain ‘consistent in its support’ of the USGA and the R&A.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 2023 Masters, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley said, as quoted by Golf Monthly:

“A few weeks ago, the R&A and USGA proposed a Model Local Rule that reduces distance at the men’s elite level. As the comment period remains open, we will be respectful of the process as the USGA and the R&A consider this important issue. We have been consistent in our support of the governing bodies and we re-state our desire to see distance addressed.”

Ridley’s comments suggest that the Masters will likely adopt the MLR when it comes into effect. For the unversed, the rollback proposal is set to be implemented by 2026.

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Augusta chairman Ridley's previous stance on USGA's rollback talks

It is pertinent to note that the Augusta National chairman’s comments on the golf ball rollback sit well with his previous pre-Masters press conferences.

In 2021, Fred Ridley mentioned that Augusta National “has a long-standing position of supporting the governing bodies.” He noted, as quoted by Golf Monthly:

“We have has a long-standing position of supporting the governing bodies. I was very encouraged when I saw the areas of interest that were published by the USGA and R&A recently. I know there have been varying opinions among players and others, other stakeholders in golf, and that's really how the process should work.”

Ridley also opined that Augusta, along with the governing bodies, were "concerned about growing the game."

“I would add that as far as I understand what is being studied, that part of the study would be—would not be intended to make it more difficult or to impose regulations that would make it more difficult for higher handicappers to play. We are concerned about that issue. Growth of the game is a big issue. But our position would be to support the governing bodies," he added.

He further noted that the decisions on such matters were being taken with the opinions of players into account.

It is noteworthy that two decades ago, the then Masters chairman, Hootie Johnson, raised concerns over the increasing driving distances. He suggested that the Masters be played with the “Masters ball,” which would slow down the movement.

Fred Ridley, however, was not convinced by the idea back then.