Webb Simpson has admitted he is dreading the decision by golf’s ruling body to introduce a ban on long putters. The issue has long been the topic of discussion by those who feel the longer putter shouldn’t be used by the Tour, and it now appears those critics may get their way. 

Talks are still on-going between the Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the United States Golf Association about introducing a ban which would come into play next season. Simpson is one of a number of top players who use the long or belly putter, all who would have to revert to the traditional flat stick.

Simpson won the US Open using the belly putter, and has attributed his decision to switch putters in 2004 was critical to him becoming the player he has become. PGA champion Keegan Bradley is another major winner to have won with the long putter, as is current Open champion Ernie Els.Punters online certainly take putters into account, though the latest Golf odds are now altered accordingly.

The 27-year old hasn’t been convinced by any of the arguments brought forward by those in favour of a ban, making his position extremely clear that he believes there is no advantage given to players using the longer putters. 

"If the USGA bans it, I think it's going to be a whole other ballgame if the PGA Tour bans it. It's going to be tough if they do ban it,” admitted the world number-eight. 

"Last year there was no one in the top 20 of strokes gained category that anchored a putter. So the argument of, 'It's an advantage', you have to throw that out. There's a bunch of arguments going around but I haven't heard a good one yet."