Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley insists pro golf has become "more one-dimensional" due to increasing hitting distances, urging governing bodies to implement a golf ball rollback. The USGA and R&A's plan, which would reduce longest hitters by up to 15 yards, faces delay from 2028 to 2030. Ridley emphasizes protecting golf's essence—imagination, creativity, and variety—not just Augusta's course.

Ridley argues the distance crisis affects more than competition, increasing time, cost, and environmental concerns across the sport. McIlroy and Woods support the rollback, while Ridley claims recreational golfers won't notice the changes. The Augusta chairman maintains the greats should be defined by all skills, not just driving distance.

The Masters will feature 10 LIV Golf players this year, with Ridley acknowledging ranking "issues" remain despite OWGR recognition. Ridley confirms the rollback's purpose is preserving golf's fundamentals, ensuring championship golf requires shaping shots and executing under pressure. Wall-to-wall coverage begins Thursday at 2pm on Sky Sports Golf.