Rory McIlroy is testing new TaylorMade irons at the start of 2026. Is he switching his entire iron set for the first time since 2017?
After an outstanding 2025, Rory McIlroy is already focusing on making the next year equally successful. A change could be coming in the 36-year-old’s club selection as he tests a new set of irons at TGL. Having already changed his driver and golf balls last year, another significant update to his equipment might be on the horizon.
TaylorMade P7CB replacing Rors Proto
Since 2017, McIlroy has been using TaylorMade Rors Proto irons, but at the Crown Australian Open, he switched his 4 to 6 irons to the TaylorMade P7CB model. It now appears the rest of his iron set might follow suit, as before his match at Boston Common Golf Club in early 2026, his TGL team released a video asking him what he was currently focused on. The 36-year-old replied, ‘I’m testing a new set of irons right now, and I’m really excited about it.’
Shortly after the video’s release, McIlroy played in Boston Common’s TGL season opener against Los Angeles Golf Club, winning the match while using TaylorMade P7CB irons from 4 to 9, paired with Project X 7.0 shafts. The P7CBs are more forgiving than the Rors Proto irons he had been using, providing greater shot versatility.
Whether this will be a permanent switch remains to be seen, but it represents a significant change in McIlroy’s game. It will be the first time the five-time major winner does not use blade irons in his set.
McIlroy to start season in Dubai
McIlroy will officially begin his 2026 season at the Dubai Invitational from January 15 to 18, where fans will get a clearer look at his golf bag and iron choices for the upcoming year.
His new TaylorMade Qi4D driver and fairway woods are expected to remain in his bag into the new season, after he first used them at the HSBC Championship in November.