FAQ: What litigation between Titleist, Callaway means

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Editor's note: Many questions have arisen in connection with the ongoing litigation between Acushnet Company and Callaway Golf regarding certain patents and Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls. To avoid any misunderstandings, below are some frequently asked questions and Acushnet Company's responses. Throughout this list, we refer to "Pro V1" golf balls. These responses apply equally to Pro V1x golf balls.

Can golfers play and purchase Titleist Pro V1 golf balls now?

Yes. Golfers can play and purchase Titleist Pro V1 golf balls with confidence. All Pro V1 golf balls (those golfers might already own and any new purchases) conform to USGA rules and are legal for play and purchase.

Can Golf Shops sell Titleist Pro V1 golf balls between now and January 1, 2009?

Yes. Golf Shops can sell existing inventory of Pro V1 golf balls and order additional supplies.

Will golfers be able to play and purchase Titleist Pro V1 golf balls after January 1, 2009?

Yes. The recent court order will not impact Titleist's ability to supply Pro V1 golf balls. In September 2008, Titleist converted production of the existing Pro V1 models so that they are outside the scope of the patents in question. Golf shops can continue to order and take delivery of Pro V1 golf balls now and after January 1, 2009 and golfers can continue to play with and purchase Pro V1s.

Is there a performance difference between the existing Pro V1 golf balls and the converted production models?

No. While a number of changes in the manufacturing process were required to address the patent issues, performance and quality are indistinguishable from the current products and the converted products have been TOUR validated.

How can I distinguish between the existing Pro V1 golf balls and the converted models?

Converted Pro V1 models have the same packaging and sidestamps as the existing models. However, there is a small red or black circular sticker or marking on every Pro V1 dozen box and sleeve to identify the converted production.

Does the converted product conform to USGA Rules?

Yes.

Can golf shops sell Titleist Pro V1 golf balls after January 1, 2009?

Yes. Titleist will continue to offer converted Pro V1 products after January 1, 2009 and will introduce new Pro V1 products in the first quarter of 2009.

Can TOUR players play Titleist Pro V1 golf balls now and after January 1, 2009?

Yes. If the injunction is not put on hold, TOUR events in the United States will be supplied with converted current product or 2009 product.

When can golfers play new 2009 Pro V1 golf balls?

Titleist will launch New 2009 Pro V1 golf balls in the 1st quarter of 2009.

Does the court ruling apply outside the United States?

No.