mikeintopeka Ask the guys that had to eventually scrap their irons with non-conforming grooves. Or the guys that had to change their putting stance altogether because they used belly putters.
I trust the USGA as far as I can spit. This 'report' is a shot across the bow aimed at the PGA and other professional tours and once again amatuers will have collateral damage if history repeats, IMHO.
However, This really only impacted a very, very small percentage of golfers. ...those being pros, high level amateurs and others who played in competitive golf that adopted the rule changes.
Since only roughly < 5% of all golfers actually carry a valid handicap, its safe to say that these changes did not impact 95% of the golfers who are free and able to still use both and whatever they want be that a high cor driver or illegal ball.
I play quite a bit of competitive golf , in club competitions, opens, invitationals and play on an amateur tour . There are no groove restrictions and I still use an old Ping Eye 2 SW.
Belly putters are perfectly legal, and used ....it is the anchoring of them that is not allowed.
Equipment regulations are in place in many sports.
I played competitive softball for 30+ years and still play less competitively, changes to bat performance factor (bpf) occurred several times meaning bats I bought could not be used in some tournaments and leagues...others allowed them. The COR of the ball has been reduced many, many times to keep fenced parks relevant. ....i see a very close parallel to that and pro golf.
and yes, I am very trusting and not easily overcome by paranoia and speculation as others might be.
in the end, whatever changes are made, if any , will do absolutely nothing to change my enjoyment or participation in golf. I play for the exercise, the beauty of the surroundings and most importantly the social aspect of the game.