The way golfers around the world will calculate their handicaps "is set to be transformed," according to Martin Dempster of the SCOTSMAN. It will happen though a new "World Handicap System" developed by the game’s two governing bodies, the R&A and the U.S. Golf Association. Set to be implemented in '20, "its key features are designed to provide all golfers with a consistent measure of playing ability." The new system will include:
- Flexibility in formats of play, "allowing both competitive and recreational rounds to count for handicap purposes and ensuring that a golfer’s handicap is more reflective of potential ability."
- A consistent handicap that is "portable from course to course and country to country" through worldwide use of the USGA Course & Slope Rating System, "already successfully used in more than 80 countries."
- An "average-based calculation of a handicap, taken from the best eight out of the last 20 scores and factoring in memory of demonstrated ability for better responsiveness and control."
- A calculation that "considers the impact that abnormal course and weather conditions might have on a player’s performance each day" (SCOTSMAN, 2/20).
