USGA Maintains Driver Testing Despite Scheffler, McIlroy Failures

The USGA, led by CEO Mike Whan, has stated it has no concerns about rules compliance at the 2025 US Open despite recent non-conforming driver tests involving Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy ahead of the PGA Championship. Whan explained that these failures are typically due to normal wear and tear on drivers rather than intentional rule violations, noting that driver faces become more spring-like over time, which can cause them to exceed the allowable 'characteristic time' limit. Despite McIlroy’s frustration over the leak of his test results, the USGA maintains confidentiality for testing outcomes and has no plans to alter its current testing protocols unless an alarming trend emerges. Testing will continue at Oakmont, but the main challenges for players remain the course’s difficult layout, including its fast greens and thick rough. The USGA also confirmed the tournament purse remains $21.5 million overall, with $4.3 million awarded to the winner, and expects large daily crowds. Overall, the USGA aims to avoid sensationalism around driver testing, emphasizing that any potential advantages from non-conforming drivers are minimal and not worth disrupting the game.