The US Golf Association (USGA) has confirmed that despite recent obstacles involving Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, it does not change driver test protocols or releases of test results.
Driver tests attracted attention at last month’s PGA Championship after it was revealed that McIlroy’s driver was considered a non-conforming one.
Using backup drivers throughout the tournament, McIlroy chose not to speak to the media during the competition, but later reviewed the report and expressed disappointment that the results were leaked.
World No. 1 Scheffler revealed that the original club switched to backup drivers at the PGA Championship after failing tests.
Speaking before this week’s US Open Open – Live On Sky Sports -USGA CEO Mike Whan said the non-conforming results are usually due to wear and tear, not intentional violations.
“These drivers don’t raise red flags during testing,” Wynn said. “They simply sneak up on the lines for overuse.”
Whan emphasized that USGA is conducting driver testing as a service to players, manufacturers and tours. He said the organization is working to keep the results secret to avoid unnecessary controversy.
“What happened at the PGA Championship only strengthened our resolve to ensure this doesn’t become a public sight,” he said. “Reality is far less dramatic than the headlines.”
The driver will naturally deteriorate over time and ultimately fail the “characteristic time” test, which measures the spring-like effect of the clubface.
For more accessible video players, use the Chrome browser
Watch US Open Golf Live on Sky Sports from 12:30pm on June 12th at SSGOLF & MAIN event
Whan compared it to a trampoline: “The longer the ball lasts, the more it bounces. If it exceeds 258 microseconds, it is not resistant.”
A random test was held at Oakmont this week, but Whan said he was unaware of the failure. He added that the USGA will reevaluate its approach.
Who will win the US Open? Check out Sky Sports’ extended coverage throughout the week. The opening round will be live on Thursdays from 12:30pm Sky Sports Golf. Get Sky Sports or Don’t stream contracts now
