Starting today, the PGA Tour is testing the use of distance-measuring devices, known as rangefinders, to combat slow play, beginning with the RBC Heritage.

The issue of slow play has become increasingly prominent, particularly after the Farmers Insurance Open, where the final round stretched nearly six hours, drawing criticism from CBS reporter Dottie Pepper.

In response to the slow-play concerns, PGA Tour chairman Fred Ridley highlighted the necessity for better monitoring during events, especially after the Masters.

To further address slow play, a player committee has proposed additional measures, including changing penalty structures to impose strokes for slow play violations instead of merely issuing warnings.

During the testing phase, players will be allowed to use rangefinders solely for yardage, with strict penalties in place for any misuse, including a two-stroke penalty for the first infraction and disqualification for subsequent violations.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of rangefinders in speeding up play, suggesting that other factors may have a more significant impact.

Scheffler advocates for playing in twosomes rather than threesomes, which he believes could effectively reduce round times from five hours to under four.

The rangefinder testing will extend through several tournaments, including the Truist Championship and OneFlight Myrtle Beach Classic, as well as on the Korn Ferry Tour.

Despite the focus on speeding up play, Scheffler emphasizes that the primary goal should be to grow the game of golf and attract more players.