From the discussion I had about this change, my understanding is the HC Team is trying to address an issue that affects players who have visual impairment or experience issues with color distinction in game. They are doing so with this short term solution because it would otherwise be an intensive code change. I got the impression that an alternative method may be implemented in the future to allow players to customize their player names, though there was no guarantee because volunteers only got so much time and energy.
Edit: I'll also add something that I was only recently made aware of with the role title markers, which is that they aren't intended to be used solely for the purpose of player name color customization - rather they are meant to help new players solicit assistance, indicate players who are roleplaying, and highlight which players are willing to help others.
As someone with a gold title from 2020, I've maintained the Helper role on my main character to enable an all gold player name, title, badge, etc. This change makes it so my character does not stand out among large groups of enemies or players. However, since the purpose of the role tag is to make it clear to other players that I am willing to help them, this change still allows that.