8 Things to Know About Golf's New World Handicap System

Right now, golfers in the U.S. play based on a handicap for any given round. But there are five other systems. One in Great Britain and Ireland uses handicaps for a limited number of rounds, Golf Digest explains. Other areas of Europe and around the world use different systems.

The new system was announced by the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (the R&A), regarded as one of the oldest golf clubs in the world.

URGENT: Who's The Greatest Golfer Of All Time? Vote Now

Here are eight things to know about the new World Handicap System:

1. It took six years to develop — Discussions and remodeling formulas took place to clear up confusion and create a single handicap index.

2. Traveling will be better — Golfers who play around the world will have a unformed system from course to course, notes Golf.com.

3. Handicaps easier to calculate — The current system is based on 90 holes while the new system has 54 holes, or any combination of 18 or nine holes.

4. The maximum handicap changes — The new system has a 54 for men and women. The current maximum handicap is 36.4 for men and 40.4 for women.

POLL: Tiger or Jack? Who Is The Greatest Of All Time? Vote Now

5. Weather conditions will be considered — Weather and course conditions will figure into the handicap.

6. Daily handicap revisions — This includes a calculation that takes into account course and weather conditions, according to the USGA.

7. Average-based calculations — The new formula bases the handicap on the best eight out of the last 20 scores for golfers to show their demonstrated ability.

8. More flexibility — Competitive and recreational rounds are included in the handicap. This will ensure that it is reflective of the golfer’s potential skills.

The new World Handicap System is set to start on Jan. 1, 2020.

VOTE: Who Is The Greatest Golfer Of All Time?

• 6 Golf Superstars Whose Game You Should Study
• 7 Golf Tips to Improve Your Long Game