A message from the editor, Neil Tappin:
If we were to start again from scratch, how would the game of golf be different today? For those of us with a vested interest in the modernisation of the sport, this is a question that often gets asked. My own answer is simple: reduce the number of holes to 12.
While this is unlikely to happen, there are a host of other levers that can more realistically be pulled to drive engagement and participation in our sport. Until very recently, Martin Slumbers was one of those with the responsibility to do just that. He took over as chief executive of The R&A in 2015 and since then has played a pivotal role in a range of important projects, from the World Handicapping System to the golf ball rollback.
Golf Monthly’s contributing editor, Fergus Bisset, has interviewed Slumbers on numerous occasions throughout his tenure, covering everything from the Open rota to the impact of LIV Golf on the men’s professional game. So, before Slumbers handed the reins to Mark Darbon, we sent Fergus back to the Home Of Golf for one last face-to-face with the man at the top. What you’ll find on page 36 is a must-read for anyone with an interest in golf’s direction of travel.
See below for more highlights from the issue...
Unleash Your Driver!
When it comes to reducing your handicap there’s plenty of data to suggest that power off the tee is king because of the accompanying distance it brings. Whether you struggle with generating power or unleashing it at the appropriate time, these simple tips will help you to bank extra yards on the golf course...
New Gear Special
The start of the new calendar year is ‘silly season’ for equipment releases. Pretty much every major brand has something to shout about, so it can be tough to keep track of what new gear to get most excited about. Luckily for you, we’ve spent the first few weeks of 2025 keeping close tabs on all the latest and greatest newcomers to hit the golf equipment world. You’ll see that 2025 is shaping up to be another bumper year if you’re in the market to upgrade your gear...
Bob MacIntyre Exclusive
His stock may have risen significantly over the past couple of years, but Bob MacIntyre tells David Facey he has his sights set firmly on the very pinnacle of the game.
Beware The Bandits
The vast majority of club golfers are honourable. Sadly, some are not, finding ways to keep their handicaps artificially high for the biggest events. But how do they go about doing it?
Martin Slumbers Exclusive
Before stepping down as CEO of The R&A, Martin Slumbers spoke to Fergus Bisset about his time at the helm before reflecting on photos of key moments from those years...
Lydia Ko Exclusive
Lydia Ko added yet more trophies and accolades to her record-breaking career during a sensational 2024. But despite constant speculation about retirement, she says she’s not done just yet…
The Best Courses You Can Play
Our team of course experts travel the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland to bring you a mix of well-known clubs and hidden gems to add to your wish list.
