LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND (Thursday, 12 November 2026)

IGF statement:

The introduction of the new IGF classification system at the Australian All Abilities Open marks an important step towards ensuring fairer and more consistent international competition for golfers with a disability.

Above all, this milestone highlights the exceptional sporting ability of these athletes. Their skill, determination and ingenuity reflect the very best of competitive golf. Understanding the impact of impairment on sporting performance reinforces both our appreciation of their achievements and the importance of ensuring fair competition.

We recognise that introducing a new classification system represents a significant adjustment for athletes, particularly when classification outcomes differ from previous assessments or expectations. We understand that this may raise questions and concerns, and we are committed to listening to athletes, providing clear explanations and ensuring they have access to established review and protest procedures. Their perspectives are important as we continue to implement and refine the system.

Classification provides an objective framework for assessing how an athlete’s eligible impairment affects the fundamental activities of golf. While athletes often develop remarkable techniques to adapt to physical limitations, those adaptations do not remove the underlying impairment. The system is designed to distinguish the impact of impairment from the advantages gained through skill, training and experience, allowing sporting excellence to determine competitive success.

The new framework introduces greater scientific rigour through standardised assessments, measurable criteria and clearly defined procedures. Based on the best available clinical evidence and golf-specific research, it reduces reliance on subjective judgement and establishes a more transparent and consistent approach to classification decisions.

A scientifically rigorous approach also requires a willingness to listen, learn and refine. As further research becomes available and we gain experience applying the rules, we will continue to evaluate and strengthen the framework.

We thank the athletes for their engagement throughout this transition. Their achievements remain at the heart of this work, and our responsibility is to provide a credible classification system that promotes fair competition, recognises sporting excellence and strengthens the international pathway for golfers with a disability.