Author: Max Hollweck

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Tour News

Ryder Cup 2023: Jon Rahm – Woods Conqueror and Europe’s Key Player

Jon Rahm will be at the Ryder Cup 2023. (Photo: Getty)
Jon Rahm will be at the Ryder Cup 2023. (Photo: Getty)

World number 3 Jon Rahm is already one of the most successful Spanish golfers of all time. With two Major titles already won and a total of 30 weeks at the top of the world rankings, the 28-year-old golfer manifests his impressive presence on the international stage. Over the course of 2023, Jon Rahm continues on his path of success. A highlight of this year was undoubtedly his victory at the US Masters, where he claimed the coveted Green Jacket. There is no doubt that Jon Rahm will also play a key role in the European team at the 2023 Ryder Cup.

Jon Rahm at the Ryder Cup 2023

Rahm qualified for the 2023 Ryder Cup via two routes and was one of the first confirmed members of Team Europe early on. After closing the 2022 season with victories at the Acciona Open de Espana and the DP World Tour Championship, Rahm continued that impressive form in 2023. The year began for him with back-to-back wins on the PGA Tour at the Sentry Tournament of Champions and the American Express Championship. It wasn’t long before he was in the winner’s circle again – this time at The Genesis Invitational. His fourth triumph earned Rahm the coveted green jacket and his second major title in April. A closing round of 69 on Sunday secured victory at the Masters by four strokes on what would have been the 66th birthday of the late, great Seve Ballesteros. Since then, he has finished in the top-10 three times, including runner-up finishes at the U.S. Open at Los Angeles Country Club and the 151st Open at Royal Liverpool.

Woods conqueror Rahm faces third Ryder Cup appearance

Rahm has played in two editions of the Ryder Cupp so far (2018, 2020) in which he has recorded four wins, three losses and one draw. The Spaniard made his debut in Paris in 2018 after automatically qualifying for Thomas Bjørn’s European team. A memorable highlight of the week was his first Ryder Cup point, which he claimed during Sunday’s singles matches. In an impressive victory over Tiger Woods, he ensured that all Team Europe players won at least one point over the three days.

Jon Rahm’s greatest successes and prize money

Jon Rahm’s path to professional golf began during his time at Arizona State University. He joined the professional ranks at the remarkably young age of 22, in 2016. Just one year later, “Rahmbo” demonstrated his extraordinary talent when he won his first PGA Tour title at the Farmers Insurance Open. In July 2020, he climbed to the top of the world golf rankings for the first time by winning the Memorial. With this achievement, he followed in the footsteps of the legendary Seve Ballesteros and became the second Spanish golfer to reach this position. The following year, at the US Open, Jon Rahm continued his rise and secured the coveted victory at one of the prestigious Major tournaments. This underlined his ability to dominate at the highest level and hold his own among the best.

Last season was undoubtedly the highlight of Rahm’s career so far. The Spaniard won an impressive four matches this year, including the triumph at the US Masters. A memorable moment that occurred on the birthday of his idol Seve Ballesteros, of all people. This emotional connection gave his success a deeper meaning. Jon Rahm’s exceptional consistency and skills are reflected in his performances. In over 149 events played, he made the cut an incredible 134 times. With an impressive total winnings of $51 million, Rahm is undoubtedly one of the top earners on the tour.

Ryder Cup 2023: A look inside Jon Rahm’s golf bag

Since Jon Rahm’s switch to outfitter Callaway in 2021, things have gone steeply uphill for the exceptional Spanish golfer. With various victories and two Major titles, it was no wonder that he extended the cooperation this year and will now also play in the 2023 Ryder Cup with a pure Callaway golf bag. Rahm’s selection includes the latest woods from the Paradym series, as well as the Players Irons from the Apex models. When it comes to wedges, Rahm relies on Callaway’s classic Jaws Raw. His equipment is rounded off with the Odyssey White Hot OG putter and the Chrome Soft X golf ball.

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Equipment

Duca del Cosma: Georgia Hall plays the Solheim Cup in new shoes

Team Europe superstar Georgia Hall will be striding into her fourth Solheim Cup later this week in new Duca del Cosma shoes. (Source: Duca del Cosma)
Team Europe superstar Georgia Hall will be striding into her fourth Solheim Cup later this week in new Duca del Cosma shoes. (Source: Duca del Cosma)

Duca del Cosma ambassador and Team Europe superstar Georgia Hall will be striding into her fourth Solheim Cup later this week in the super stable AVANTI shoes as she looks to help her team retain the coveted cup on the pristine fairways of Spain’s Finca Cortesin. Seeking a third win in a row with Team Europe, Georgia has selected to wear this distinctive style from the luxury Italian brand’s advanced Pro Spike collection, offering top performance and modern style features in equal measure.

Duca del Cosma: Maximum stability and comfort

Developed for pro golfers and amateur players alike, the lightweight waterproof shoes feature a striking white design with a distinctive red outsole and Softspikes PULSAR cleats to deliver a sturdy grip during the swing. Additional traction nubs enhance stability and
ensure Georgia can play in ultimate comfort during her forthcoming matches against the United States.

“We’re thrilled that Georgia will be representing Team Europe once again and look forward to seeing our premium shoes being worn at the event for very first time,” said Frank van Wezel, Chairman of Duca del Cosma. “Georgia is a fantastic golfer with a seriously impressive record on golf’s biggest stages, and we’ll be cheering her on in every match,” he added.

Having made her Solheim Cup debut as a 21-year-old in 2017, Hall secured a spot in this year’s European team via world ranking places and is looking to build on her record of 7.5 points from 13 matches when play gets underway on Friday. The top-ranked women’s star signed with Duca del Cosma in August and debuted the brand’s stylish golf shoes at the AIG Women’s Open at Walton Heath.

Duca del Cosma: Premium quality

Duca del Cosma sells premium Italian-designed shoes in 40 different countries across the world and operates from its own subsidiaries in The Netherlands (HQ), United States, UK and South Africa. Each shoe is handcrafted in Portugal using the finest materials available to deliver unrivalled performance, all-day comfort and a super stable fit.

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Tour News

Solheim Cup 2023: Rules and Format explained

America versus Europe - rules and format of the Solheim Cup. (Image: Getty)

The Solheim Cup is the female counterpart to the Ryder Cup in professional golf. Since 1990, the best female golfers from Europe have squared off against their American counterparts every two years in teams of twelve players each.

Solheim Cup 2023DatePlaceAttendeesFormat
Solheim Cup 202322.09. – 24.09.2023Finca Cortesin Golf Club, SpainTeam USA vs. Team EuropeMatchplay (Fourball / Foursome / Single Matches)

Solheim Cup 2023: Rules and format

In 1996, the Solheim Cup adopted the exact same format as the Ryder Cup. Over the course of three days, the tournament is played in a “woman-to-woman” format, comprising a total of 28 matches over 18 holes. Three different game formats are played over these three tournament days. On the first and second tournament days, there are a total of eight classic foursomes (alternate shot) and eight four-ball best-ball matches (fourballs). In these matches, two players from one team, appointed by the captain, compete against two players from the opposing team. On the final day, the competition culminates in singles matches, where it’s one-on-one.

Foursomes

On Friday and Saturday, four foursome matches are played. Here, the same ball is alternately played within a team of two until it’s holed. If one team takes fewer strokes than the opponent on a hole, they go “1 up.” If a team is ahead by more holes than there are remaining, the match ends before the 18th hole, and the winning team gets a point. If both teams have won an equal number of holes, the match is halved, and each team receives half a point.

Fourballs

On Friday and Saturday, four fourball matches are also played. In these matches, two European golfers face off against two American golfers in a foursome flight. However, unlike foursomes, all four players use their own balls. Only the best score per team is counted for each hole. Otherwise, the same rules as other match-play formats apply. Whether the days start with foursomes or fourballs is determined by the event organizer.

Singles

On Sunday, the Solheim Cup concludes with twelve singles matches. The order in which players from each team face representatives of the opposing team is determined by the respective captain. However, captains do not know in advance which players will face each other. The matchups are randomized by the captains’ selections, a process that also applies to foursomes and fourballs.

How the Solheim Cup is decided

For every victory in a match, the team earns a point, which contributes to the team’s overall score. If a match ends in a tie, both teams receive half a point. With a total of 28 matches, there are 28 points up for grabs. A team needs 14.5 points to win the Solheim Cup. In the event of a tie, the defending champions are declared the winners.

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Equipment

TaylorMade Golf unveils new Spider Tour Series

TaylorMade revitalises the essence of this iconic franchise with the release of the Spider Tour Series (Image: TaylorMade)
TaylorMade revitalises the essence of this iconic franchise with the release of the Spider Tour Series (Image: TaylorMade)

With unmatched stability and an unmistakable shape, for nearly two decades Spider putters have been claiming major championships and stacking victories across professional tours globally.

Introducing the Spider Tour Series: A New Era of Putter Excellence

Today, TaylorMade revitalises the essence of this iconic franchise with the release of the Spider Tour Series – a family of high MOI putters with five unique models featuring renowned technologies such as True Path™ Alignment, Pure Roll™ and TSS weighting.

Within a design that will always be synonymouswith stability, each Spider Tour Series putter is crafted using multi-material construction to push weight low and back in the head for high levels of inertia. Engineers created superstructuresthat maintain the shape of a classic Spider Tour, then utilised thin wall undercuts to remove excess weight.

Enhancing Stability and Performance: Spider Tour Series Innovations

With the Spider Tour Series, TaylorMade is utilising the same Pure Roll insert that rose to prominence with the original Spider X putter. Moulded from a Surlyn material, it delivers a soft yet responsive feel with grooves that are angled 45° downward to help impart better topspin and anend-over-end roll.

“Spider putters have long been synonymous with stability, which directly translates to high-MOI performance. The unconventional shape creates a more stable platform that protects ball speed on mishits and delivers a more consistent roll across the face. Our new Spider Tour Series maintains our iconic technological features, including True Path and Pure Roll, while also delivering a range of shapes and CG locations to match a variety of putting styles”, says Brian Bazzel, VP of Product Creation.

In this new series we have different weight options with different centreof gravity placements to help different golfers’ putt better.

Models and Prices

Spider Tour

Spider Tour is one of the most recognisable shapes in the putting world, accounting for dozens of victories on professional tours across the globe. TaylorMade is breathing new life into the company’s most popular creations with enhanced materials, a new colour and refined weight distribution. The Spider Tour model has a CG location of 35mmfrom the face, 5,700 MOI and 29° of toe hangon a small slant hosel. Spider Tour has over 700 MOI more than the previous model.

Spider Tour X

Made popular as the putter of choice for Rory McIlroy, the Spider X shape has been one of the most sought-after in the franchise. It was originally designed to convert players who loved blade putters into mallets, using acompact shape and modern look to deliver a more blade-like feel with the added benefits of alignment and forgiveness that are incumbent to Spider putters. TSS weights in Spider Tour X are placed farther forward, generating more face rotation and a CG placement that is 33mm from the face compared to 35mm of Spider Tour. This model has MOI of 5,000 and 30° of toe hang on the small slant hosel.

Spider Tour Z

Spider Tour Z is one of two new shapes in this line-up, paying homage to the Spider Tour with a wing shaped back. The perimeter of this putter sits low in the ground to provide a comfortable feeling at address and help frame the golf ball for easy alignment. TSS weights on this model are placed very far forward to encourage more face rotation and a blade-like feel. It has a CG location of 29mm from the face, 5,050 MOI and 29° of toe hang with a small slant hosel.

Spider Tour V

Spider Tour V eliminates the wing structure and creates a more modern streamlined look. It is the smallest putter in shape and size in the line-up, providing the most rotation of the bunch. Spider Tour V has a CG location of 27mm from the face, MOI of 4,900 and 32° of toe hang with a small slant hosel.

Spider Tour S

The Spider Tour S is a larger version of the original Spider. The putter head is 3 mm longer and 8 mm wider in comparison. Spider Tour S is constructed at a heavier head weight and only offered at 35” and 38” lengths, with both featuring counterbalance grips for maximum stability. Spider Tour S has a CG location of 38 mm from the face, 6,063 MOI and is face balanced. It will be available in Spring of 2024.

Prices, Availability & Specifications

Spider Tour series putters are available at retail on October 27with an RRP of £299/€399/4,299SEK/4,299NOK/2,999DKK/399CHF. All models come equipped with a white/yellow Super Stroke GT 1.0 Pistol grip and gloss black PVD KBS shaft.

Text: TaylorMade

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Tour News

Ryder Cup 2023: Tommy Fleetwood – Unforgettable Moliwood-Duo

Tommy Fleetwood will compete for the third time at the Ryder Cup 2023. (Source: Getty)
Tommy Fleetwood will compete for the third time at the Ryder Cup 2023. (Source: Getty)

The 2023 Ryder Cup will take place at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club. The American team was already on a reconnaissance tour in Rome at the beginning of September and the Europeans also took a close look at the venue before the Ryder Cup 2023. One of the more experienced players of the Europeans is definitely Tommy Fleetwood. The Englishman will be playing his third Ryder Cup in Rome. He is probably particularly remembered for his phenomenal performance at the European victory in 2018, when he won every match together with Francesco Molinari.

Tommy Fleetwood at the 2023 Ryder Cup

Although the six-time DP World Tour winner narrowly missed out on automatic qualification after being overtaken by Matt Fitzpatrick in the final qualifying event of the season, he enters the Ryder Cup in excellent form. After closing the 2022 season with a win at the Nedbank Golf Challenge and a shared fifth-place finish at the DP World Tour Championship, Fleetwood has maintained his form into the early part of 2023 and has been consistently in the top positions on both the DP World Tour and PGA Tour leaderboards. In recent months in particular, he has shined with six top-ten finishes in his last eight global starts, including a shared fifth-place finish at the US Open, a shared sixth-place finish at the Genesis Scottish Open, a shared tenth-place finish at the 151st British Open at Royal Liverpool and a shared tenth-place finish at the Tour Championship.

 
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Hero of the Moliwood-Duo of 2018

In his very first Ryder Cup appearance, Tommy Fleetwood became one of the mainstays of Team Europe and, along with his partner Francesco Molinari, played a key role in helping the Europeans claim victory at Le Golf National. Fleetwood and Molinari earned four wins from four matches. The duo dominated the headlines on and off the golf course, earning them the nickname “Moliwood.”

The last edition of the Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits undoubtedly presented the players with a special challenge. The fact that there were hardly any European fans on the course due to travel restrictions resulted in an extremely pro-American crowd. It was a completely different atmosphere from Fleetwood’s first appearance in France. Since that experience, the Englishman has found it undeniable that the crowd can literally take a team on its shoulders and carry it to victory – at the Ryder Cup more than at any other tournament.

A look inside Tommy Fleetwood’s bag at the Ryder Cup

Tommy Fleetwood has been a regular member of the TaylorMade team for years. The Englishman’s bag contains the latest woods from the TaylorMade Stealth 2 Series. As a driver, he chooses the Plus version with adjustable weights for a flexibly selectable draw or fade tendency from the tee. The fairway wood also comes from the Stealth 2 Series, offering him a flexible solution from the fairway with good ground contact and forgiving characteristics. The choice of his 3-wood is unusual. Here Fleetwood reaches for TaylorMade’s BRNR Mini Driver with a larger face and more control of the ball flight compared to the usual long wood.

The proven Ryder Cup player gets his irons from TaylorMade‘s P7TW series. The 2019 Tiger Woods irons were developed together with the golf legend and feature tungsten weights just behind the sweet spot. A good ball feel and individual adjustments depending on the iron provide more control and feel at impact, that’s how TaylorMade describes it. Fleetwood also seems convinced and gets the Players irons from the 3 iron to the pitching wedge in his bag.
When it comes to wedges, however, he doesn’t rely on TaylorMade, but instead picks up the Titleist Vokey WedgeWork prototypes in 52- and 60-degree inclinations. Different sole grinds allow Fleetwood to use the irons flexibly and use creative stroke variations in the short game.

The putter at the Ryder Cup will also come from Odyssey, namely in the White Hot Pro Number 3 version. The narrow blade putter has been accompanying Fleetwood on the greens of the Tour for quite a while now, and with success. The TaylorMade TP5x completes his equipment. Here, Fleetwood doesn’t use the classic white version, but plays the colorfully printed Pix ball of the strong-feeling 5-piece golf ball.

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News Tour News

Harry Kane replaces Thomas Müller as FC Bayern’s best golfer

Harry Kane is not only the most expensive player ever to play in the Bundesliga, but also arguably the best golfer. (Credit. Getty)

Thomas Müller in particular should be extremely pleased about the spectacular transfer of English superstar Harry Kane to FC Bayern. Müller, who is known for his passion for golf, will probably not only provide the perfect templates for the new star striker on the football field in the near future, but will probably also enjoy one or two rounds of golf together with him. With the signing of Harry Kane, FC Bayern has not only gained one of the most outstanding goal scorers of the last ten years, but also brought a virtuoso golfer into the team. With a handicap of 0, Kane even puts the experienced golfer Müller in the shade.

 

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Harry Kane: Golfer by Passion

Kane first ventured onto the golf course at the age of six or seven, but his involvement at that time remained rather modest. The true passion for golf only ignited in Kane at the age of 17 or 18. During one summer, he deliberately refrained from travelling and instead devoted himself to golf every day for five weeks. During this period, his handicap dropped from 18 to about 10, and from then on, his enthusiasm for the sport grew inexorably year by year. He began to follow golf on television, with Tiger Woods in particular inspiring him.

Nowadays, Harry Kane presents himself with an impressive handicap of zero. As a member of Wentworth Golf Club as well as Beaverbrook Golf Club in Surrey, he has made two renowned golf courses his sporting home. During his time at Tottenham Hotspurs, he often played with teammate Eric Dier. Now in Munich, he has probably already found a new playing partner in Thomas Müller, who will keep him company on the golf course. Since Müller is also a regular guest at the Pro-Am of the BMW International Open, fans may soon be able to admire Harry Kane’s golf game at the Munich-Eichenried Golf Club.

Golfing with Tiger Woods not a dream for Harry Kane

Harry Kane has already experienced several things in his golf career that remain a lifelong dream for most golfers. In 2017, the Englishman had the honour of playing four holes with golf legend Tiger Woods in the Bahamas, an experience he still looks back on with great pleasure. The list of golf courses on which the striker has already played reads like a poem: Augusta National, St. Andrews Old Course, Kingsbarns, Loch Lomond and many more. So it’s no wonder that golf has become a real passion for Kane.

 

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Kane is well aware of his strengths on the golf course. The 1.88 metre tall attacker cites long tee shots as his greatest weapon and estimates that he can keep up with many professionals in this respect. But power is not his only expertise – his precise short game, especially when chipping, is testament to his remarkable talent. Striving for consistent performance on the golf course is a major driving force for Kane. But unlike on the football pitch, performance and perfection are not the only things that count for the 30-year-old when it comes to golf. For him, it is a way to enjoy the moment, switch off and leave the stress of everyday life behind. While he is on the golf course, he can focus on having a good time without the pressure he might feel on the football field.

In a golf challenge, Harry Kane has even taken on Tommy Fleetwood. A good opportunity to watch the new Bavarian play golf.

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Equipment

TaylorMade introduces new Wedge with All-New Spin Tread Technology

The TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 (MG4) is the newest addition to the TaylorMade Wedge Familiy. (Source: TaylorMade)
The TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 (MG4) is the newest addition to the TaylorMade Wedge Familiy. (Source: TaylorMade)

TaylorMade unveils its latest breakthrough in wedge design – the Milled Grind 4 (MG4) with the all-new Spin Tread technology. Built upon the success of its predecessors, MG4 represents a significant advancement in the Milled Grind family, offering golfers acombination of spin control, versatility and premium feel.

A Game-Changer in Wet Conditions

Bill Price, the Senior Director of Product Creation, Putter & Wedge is extremly happy about the new wedge: “This is a major step forward in the progression of the Milled Grind family. With MG4 we have evolved our approach to wet spin and developed an all-new Spin Tread technology. We use a laser etching treatment to create face roughness, which translates to better friction and moisture channeling for optimal ball control, especially on partial shots.”

This innovation proves crucial, particularly in wet conditions, where players experience higher launches and reduced spin. By combining the laser treatment with strategically designed grooves and a raw face, TaylorMade has achieved notable improvements in wet spin rates compared to prior models while also increasing face durability. The technology works in a similar fashion to the tread on a tire, which creates space for water to exit so the tire can have direct contact with the pavement and better grip the road. In the case of MG4, the treads channel away moisture and allow the golf ball to stay on the face longer while imparting more spin. With MG4, TaylorMade has not only focused on performance and technology,but also prioritised aesthetics and player feedback. MG4 features a refined finish with a slightly darker tint, minimising glare and providing a more unified appearancethat blends seamlessly with the raw face as it oxidises over time. Furthermore, the redesigned back geometry enhances the wedgewith a more solid and softer feel – all complimenting its refined Tour-inspired shaping and address versatility.

Innovative Wedge Design: Unveiling Enhanced Feel and Versatility

Greg Cesario of the TaylorMade Wedge Design Team says what he thinks is important about new wedges: “The feel component is a significant factor. By replacing thechrome-plated face withraw finishes early in the Milled Grind evolution, we were able to influence spin and also enhance the overall feel of the wedge. Adding our reconstructed backbar, with more weight positioned directly behind the strike zone, allows us to help players achieve their desired shot trajectories and spin rates with premium feel and confidence.”

Sole Grind Options for Performance Excellence

TaylorMade has introduced a comprehensive range of sole grinds in the MG4 lineup,offering golfers more versatility while also simplifying the selection process. The grinds are categorised into three main options: low bounce (LB), standard bounce (SB) and high bounce (HB). However, to cater to different swing dynamics, the company added alternative options in each category, providing a total of six bounces to meet the player’s unique requirements. The new MG4 wedge range features the following sole grinds:

Standard Bounce (SB): All-around performance that prevents excessive digging and allows the clubhead to glide through the turf smoothly. Standard Bounce C (SBC): Provides increased versatility for players who prefer to manipulate face angles, without compromising bounce performance. High Bounce (HB): TaylorMade’s standard high bounce designis playable for skilled golfers and defies the convention that high bounce wedges are only for high handicappers. In fact, Rory McIlroy uses a HB 60° Milled Grind 4 depending on course conditions. High Bounce Wide (HBW): With an increased sole width, this high bounce option offers improved playability and excels in sand play. Tiger Woods Grind (TW): Offered in 56° and 60° lofts, each sole on the MG4 TW was inspired by Tiger’s grind. The 56° wedge is a dual sole with heavy heel relief, while the 60° has an extremely high bounce on the leading edge with a shaved heel. Designed to be supremely versatile, these unique grinds allow Tiger to take on any shot, on any course, anywhere in the world. Milled Grind 4 wedges are available in two premium finishes, Tour Satin Chrome and Tour Matte Black (SB only). Milled Grind 4 will be available at retail on September8, 2023 with an RRP of £159/€199.

(Text: TaylorMade)

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Equipment

TaylorMade Launches the Latest Iteration of the Acclaimed P 790 Irons

TaylorMade announces the all-new P·790, with each iron individually designed to perform exactly how golfers need it. (Source: TaylorMade)
TaylorMade announces the all-new P·790, with each iron individually designed to perform exactly how golfers need it. (Source: TaylorMade)

TaylorMade Golf’s P·Series irons each have their own unique artistry that positions them among the highest-performing irons in the marketplace. Recently TaylorMade announced the all-new P·790, with each iron individually designed to perform exactly how golfers need it. With precision mass optimisation in each iron, tungsten weighting and SpeedFoamTM Air, every individual iron has a unique internal structure. This AI-optimised construction is engineered to create an unrivaled blend of distance, forgiveness and accuracy. “P 790 is a collision of art and engineering. The allure lies not only in the clean design and visual appeal, but also in the high-performance machine that lives within. It’s the total package, an ideal blend of external elegance and internal power”, says Matt Bovee, the Director of Product Creation Irons.

FLTD CG-Technology for consistent performance

For the first time, P·790 features FLTD CGTM, a strategic design that positions the centre of gravity (CG) lowest in long irons and progressively shifts it higher throughout the set. This intuitive design concept allows for easier launch and more forgiveness in the long irons, while the shorter, weaker lofted irons are designed to control ball flight and optimise spin. In the long irons (3-4), CG has been shifted almost a millimeter lower compared to previous generations, while CG starts to creep up as you go through the set. Overall, there is a linear trend from low-to-high giving the golfer spin exactly where they need it to promote accuracy, control and consistency from top to bottom.

It’s what’s inside that counts

The internal structure of every P·790 iron was uniquely designed with AI-driven mass optimisation, ensuring every gram of weight was strategically placed to deliver the best possible result with that specific iron. The most notable visual difference from one iron to the next is the sound stabilisation bar, which sits above the tungsten weight framework. Located in the three through seven irons, each bar is uniquely shaped and positioned to individually optimise feel and performance by controlling the amount of unsupported space between the internal structure and the topline of the club. The design minimises unwanted vibrations at impact and ensures that every iron creates a premium forged feel with optimal CG placement. In the long irons, the sound stabilisation bar moves more toward the centre of the club while the tungsten weight frame is positioned nearer to the sole. Mass distribution is specifically arranged to lower the centre of gravity, making it easier to launch the golf ball high with low-lofted irons. Compared to prior generations of P·790 irons, a larger face opening gave engineers more space to push tungsten weights farther towards the toe. In conjunction with a thick-thin back wall that creates additional mass savings, this new construction allows for a shift in mass that’s designed to produce more consistency throughout the set. Moving weight lower and towards the perimeter of the club further allowed engineers to design for improved forgiveness and control CG positioning. Within the scoring clubs (8-PW), CG progressively shifts higher for more control, better spin properties and enhanced accuracy.

Refined Aesthetics and proven technologies

P·790 irons have always been revered for their clean and minimalistic appearance, and the latest model upholds that history. A band of tour satin scratch bisects the pearl satin chrome finish to create premium appeal. With refined aesthetics, P·790 irons seamlessly blend with P·770 irons in a combo set to create a unified look throughout the bag. The 2023 P·790 irons still feature SpeedFoamTM Air, which is 69 percent less dense than the original SpeedFoam. A forged 4140 high speed face creates a hollow body construction that houses the internal technology and sustains a premium feel. A staple of TaylorMade designs, the Thru-Slot Speed PocketTM works in unison with unique internals constructions to expand the sweet spot while also protecting ball speeds on low face strikes. P·790 irons include machined grooves for precision craftsmanship, a characteristic that is paramount throughout the P·Series lineup. P·790 features a pearl satin scratch finish and tour satin stripe that runs down the middle of the club, with a sharp tonality on the polishing.

The all-new P·790 irons are available for pre-order on August 8, 2023, with sets hitting the shelves on September 1, 2023. They sell for £172 or €220 per iron for the steel version and £200 or €257 for the graphite version. P·790 irons are offered in 3-PW, AW (RH/LH) with True Temper Dynamic Gold 105 (S) and Dynamic Gold 95 (R) steel shafts and Mitsubishi MMT 75S, 65R and 55A graphite shafts. P·790 irons come equipped with Golf Pride’s Z Grip +2.

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Equipment

Duca Del Cosma signs women’s golf superstar Georgia Hall

Duca del Cosma, the premium Italian golf fashion brand, has signed top ranked women’s superstar Georgia Hall. (Source: Duca Del Cosma)

Duca del Cosma, the premium Italian golf fashion brand, has signed top ranked women’s superstar Georgia Hall to wear its latest Pro Spike shoes on a global basis from this month. The British Major winner and European Solheim Cup star will make her first appearance in Duca del Cosma shoes at the AIG Women’s Open on 9 August at Walton Heath, attempting to become the first home golfer to win the prestigious title on two occasions.

Georgia Hall: A Trailblazer in Golf, Embracing Duca del Cosma

When capturing her first Major in 2018 at Royal Lytham & St Anne’s, she became the first player to shoot four sub-70 rounds in the tournament’s brand that offers the widest selection of golf shoes for male and female golfers on the market, also embraces her fourth consecutive appearance as a stalwart of Europe’s Solheim Cup team in Spain this September. She has an impressive record in the event with eight wins, including four straight victories in the 2019 competition. The eight-time Tour winner picked up another professional title recently at the Aramco Team Series – London, when she led Team Hall to victory. “I love everything about the Duca del Cosma brand – from the quality of design and comfort of the shoes to the storyline behind the Italian styling and craftsmanship,” said Georgia. “I want to win more Majors and Solheim Cup matches, so being able to wear the best shoes on offer for women golfers can only help me in my quest and I’m excited to represent the brand.

”Commenting on the signing, Frank van Wezel, Chairman of Duca del Cosma, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Georgia to the Duca family and are confident that she will add a great deal to the profile and appeal of the brand, as we offer even greater choices of styles and colours in our women’s collections of golf shoes and boots. Her standing in the women’s game and ambition to add more titles to her name make Georgia the perfect ambassador for the Duca del Cosma brand,” he added.

Duca del Cosma Welcomes Georgia Hall: A Perfect Fit for the Brand

Georgia will be showcasing the signature AVANTI Pro Spike shoes as part of the Women’s Pro Collection introduced earlier this year. Developed for professional golfers to wear over long periods of play, the lightweight, waterproof shoes feature an elegant white design and striking red outsoles with soft spikes, plus technology that delivers maximum stability during the swing. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of a Tour season, the super stable AVANTI shoes enable Georgia Hall to walk close to an estimated 2.5 million steps in comfort during her busy golfing schedule each year.

The holder of an MBE, Georgia became a British golf sensation when she was the first player to hold both British Girls’ and Ladies’ Amateur titles at just 17 years old. Turning professional in 2014, she worked at her game consistently with unwavering dedication and was rewarded with a place on the 2017 Solheim Cup team at the age of 21 and played in all four matches. She joins a team of other Duca del Cosma brand ambassadors, including six-time DP World Tour winner Joost Luiten, emerging Dutch star Daan Huizing and fellow LPGA golfer Kelly Tan.

Duca del Cosma sells premium Italian-designed shoes in 40 different countries across the world and operates from its own subsidiaries in The Netherlands (HQ), United States, UK and South Africa. Each shoe is handcrafted in Portugal using the finest materials available to deliver unrivalled performance, all-day comfort and a super stable fit.

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The Amundi Evian Championship: A unique Reference Point in the Women’s Game

The Amundi Evian championsship in France is the only golf major on european mainland. (Source: Rolex)
The Amundi Evian championsship in France is the only golf major on european mainland. (Source: Rolex)

Golf’s first Major to be staged in continental Europe, The Amundi Evian Championship is a reference point in the women’s game. Nestled between the pristine shores of Lake Geneva and the majestic summits of the Alps, the Evian Resort Golf Club in France offers a venue befitting this Major championship and the talent of its field. Each year, the world’s finest players take on the Champions Course to showcase their exceptional skills, with this year’s edition held from 27–30 July.

The Success Story of the Amundi Evian Championship”

First played in 1994, the tournament has grown in stature year-on-year, constructing its own history. Rolex has been a Main Partner and Official Timekeeper at The Amundi Evian Championship since 2000, as part of a broad and enduring commitment to women’s golf that dates back to 1980, when the Swiss watchmaker became a partner of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA).

The Amundi Evian Championship has been the stage of many triumphs for Rolex Testimonees, including two-time champion Annika Sörenstam (2000, 2002). Widely regarded as one of the best golfers in the history of the women’s game, she set a benchmark of excellence to which the modern generation can aspire.

Reflecting on her experiences there, Annika Sörenstam said: “It was one of my favourite tournaments on the LPGA Tour. The championship showcases the incredibly beautiful landscapes of Evian-les-Bains and the quality of the services surrounding the golf is first class. The course requires great technical skill and control over your game. It is less about power and more about accuracy as the fairways are quite undulating.”

Seeking to emulate the Swede and win a second crown at Évian-les-Bains will be fellow Testimonee Brooke Henderson. The Canadian returns as defending champion, having captured the second Major title of her career last year, and in the process, becoming the first LPGA player to begin any Major with successive rounds of 64.

Speaking ahead of this year’s tournament, Brooke Henderson said: “Competing at any Major championship is always difficult – both physically and mentally. At The Amundi Evian Championship, the conditions are different to any other golf course due to the differing size of slopes which makes it a very challenging week. Despite this, I had a great strategy in 2022 which allowed me to go really far under par in the first two rounds which was really exciting. It was a dream come true to be able to push on and win the trophy on the Sunday afternoon. Winning my second Major championship was a really special moment and one that I will always remember. I am really looking forward to returning this year.”

Rolex’s Enduring Commitment to Women’s Golf

Other Testimonees to have triumphed at this visually stunning venue include Lydia Ko (2015), Suzann Pettersen (2013) and Anna Nordqvist (2017). Lydia Ko said: “The Amundi Evian Championship will always remain special to me as it is where I won my first Major championship. When I play at the event, I almost feel like I am playing in front of my family as the crowds are extremely supportive. It would be extremely special to join fellow Rolex Testimonee Annika Sörenstam as having won the tournament more than once. This is definitely a big motivation and I will try to achieve the feat at this year’s edition. I was proud of the way I played at the 2022 tournament but fellow Rolex Testimonee Brooke Henderson truly excelled and deserved the win.” 

Rolex has been a committed partner of women’s golf for more than 40 years as part of one of the most successful relationships between a brand and sport. This enduring partnership contributes to the game’s development around the world. The Swiss watchmaker is part of the very fabric of golf and supports the game at all levels, including elite and legends of the game, Major championships – including all five women’s Majors – the foremost professional tours and the world’s leading team competitions, among them the Solheim Cup.

Built on a strong sense of integrity, respect for tradition that promotes the continuity of expertise and transfer of knowledge, and an appreciation of the importance to invest in the sport’s development for future generations, Rolex’s support also extends to amateur tournaments, international federations and organizations representing golfers of all ages.

(Text: rolex)