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The Masters Tournament 2024: Tony Finau With Unusual Equipment Choice

Tony Finau brings two drivers to the Masters Tournament 2024. (Image: Getty)
Tony Finau brings two drivers to the Masters Tournament 2024. (Image: Getty)

When looking at Tony Finau’s golf bag, some long-established Masters Tournament fans might be reminded of an edition 18 years ago. Back then, in 2006, Phil Mickelson won his second green jacket at Augusta National. And he did so with a special set of clubs. Like Finau this year, “Lefty” relied on two drivers back then.

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The reason behind Tony Finau’s unusual bag at the Masters Tournament 2024

The explanation for this “double lotto” in Finau’s bag is relatively simple. During his tournament preparation, the American realised that he could only use his 3-wood on a single hole (hole 8) and set about looking for an alternative. The solution presented itself in the form of a second driver. In addition to the Ping G430 LST with 7.75 degrees of loft, Finau will be adding another Ping G430 LST to his bag for the Masters Tournament 2024, but this one has around 9 degrees of loft and a shaft that is three-quarters of an inch shorter. According to Ping, Finau can use it for his tee shot on five holes (holes 2, 7, 10, 14 and 17). The driver is also more forgiving than the comparable 3-wood and even with the higher loft, the long hitter still manages 300 yards or 275 metres.

Putter patent for Tony Finau

Although not in his tournament bag, Tony Finau now uses a specially designed putter for training rounds at home. Together with his equipment supplier Ping, Finau has designed a prototype that fulfils his special requirements. The American relies on his putter particularly for short shots from the first cut around the greens and turns it 90 degrees for these shots so that he catches the ball with the heel. The new putter is said to have a cube shape, placing the weight directly behind the golf ball. The patent, which was presented on Wednesday ahead of the Masters Tournament 2024, features Finau himself as well as Tony Serrano, Head of Putter Design at Ping, and CEO John A. Solheim.

“When Tony turns his putter over and hits a putt with the toe, all the mass is directly behind the ball,” Serrano said. “So he came to us and said, ‘How can we make a putter that has some of these feelings and attributes and sounds that I get when I turn this putter over?’”

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Equipment What's in the Bag

WITB Akshay Bhatia 2024: Victory with Callaway and Odyssey

Akshay Bhatias winning WITB with Callaway and Odyssey at the Valero Texas Open 2024 (Image: Getty)
Akshay Bhatias winning WITB with Callaway and Odyssey at the Valero Texas Open 2024 (Image: Getty)

The 22 year old Akshay Bhatia secured his top spot on the leaderboard early on. But in a stunning final round Denny McCarthy closed Bhatias lead and forced a playoff. But Bhatia stayed cool and secured his second PGA Tour win at the Valero Texas Open 2024. In his Bag is a mix of Callaway Classics and new models of the 2023/24 season.

Akshay Bhatia WITB fpr April 2024

(Image: Callaway)

Driver: Callaway Rogue ST Max LS (9°)

(Image: Callaway)

3-wood: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max (15°)

Hybrid: Callaway Apex UW prototype (19°)

Utility iron: Callaway X Forged UT (21°)

(Image: Callaway)

Irons: Callaway Apey TCB Raw (5-PW)

(Image: Callaway)

Wedges: Callaway Jaws Raw (50, 54, 60°)

Putter: Odyssey Versa Jailbird 360

(Image: Callaway)

Golf ball: Callaway Chrome Tour

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Equipment

Golf Pride Announces The Honorary Starter Limited Edition Grip

The new special edition Golf Pride Masters grip. (Image: Golf Pride)
The new special edition Golf Pride Masters grip. (Image: Golf Pride)

Golf Pride, an industry leader in golf performance equipment, is celebrating the annual trip to Augusta, GA with the unveiling of its 2024 Honorary Starter grip, a commemorative version of the MCC Plus4™ that is available through select retailers beginning April 8. Golf Pride has a long and storied history of success in Augusta with its first victory coming in the 1967 tournament. Over the last 56 years, Golf Pride has been trusted by the hands of 43 champions, including an unprecedented run of 17 consecutive victories between 1987 and 2003.

Golfers Favorite Grip In A New Masters Look

Golf Pride’s MCC collection is the most widely used golf grip in the world. This is true at the amateur level as well as all professional tours across the globe. In fact, MCC will be trusted by many of the athletes competing in the 2024 tournament. Golf Pride expects to be in the hands of at least 80% of players in Augusta with MCC representing 30% of those players.

As such, this grip is designed to evoke the prestige, lore and mystique of the tournament and pays homage to the success of both Golf Pride and MCC over the years in Augusta. As with all MCC Plus4 models, it is a hybrid golf grip designed with a larger lower hand section that simulates four additional wraps of tape to encourage lighter grip pressure, reduced tension, and increased speed.

“The first major championship of the season is here and we are proud to have been trusted by the hands of so many past champions in the event’s storied history,” says James Ledford, President of Golf Pride. “The legends who have chosen our grips over the past 60 years are a testament to the innovation, quality and longevity of our brand. The Honorary Starter pays tribute to the past while utilising the modern technology that has made Golf Pride the most recognisable grip brand in the world.”

The 2024 limited edition design will be available in both standard and midsize.

About Golf Pride

Since its founding in 1949, Golf Pride has become synonymous with the highest quality performance equipment in golf. Today, from its Global Innovation Center (GIC) in Pinehurst, NC, Golf Pride continues to lead in grip innovation by continuing to obsess over the only connection between our golfers’ hands and the club. That’s why more than 80% of the world’s highest performing golfers choose Golf Pride. For professionals, top amateurs and recreational golfers of all skill levels, Golf Pride sets the standard – in performance and design. To learn more about Golf Pride, go to golfpride.com.

Text: Golf Pride

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Equipment

WITB: Nelly Korda secures third consecutive win with TaylorMade

WITB: A look inside third-time-consecutive LPGA Tour winner Nelly Korda's bag. (Image: Getty)
WITB: A look inside third-time-consecutive LPGA Tour winner Nelly Korda's bag. (Image: Getty)

Once again, Nelly Korda came out on top at last week’s Arizona Championship. Through her final round 65, Korda won by a margin of two strokes, marking her third consecutive win on the LPGA Tour. This is her set of club choices by TaylorMade, helping her become the first player in eight years on the LPGA Tour to do so.

WITB: Nelly Korda 2024

(Image: TaylorMade)

Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 Max (10.5°)

(Image: TaylorMade)

Fairway wood: TaylorMade Stealth 2 (15°/21°)

(Image: TaylorMade)

Irons: TaylorMade P770 (5)

(Image: TaylorMade)

Irons: TaylorMade P7MC (6-PW)

(Image: TaylorMade)

Wedges: TaylorMade Milled Grind 4 (50°,54°,60°)

(Image: TaylorMade)

Ball: TaylorMade TP5x

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Apparel

Mizuno 2024: Streetwear cross over themes

The new spring/summer collection 2024 of Mizuno. (Source: Mizuno)
The new spring/summer collection 2024 of Mizuno. (Source: Mizuno)

Mizuno’s Spring Summer 2024 Golf Apparel Collection has a distinctly urban-influenced look. Striking in simple black and white with crew necks, trace scripts and bold logos, at the same time, harnessing the core elements of Mizuno’s established core golf performance technologies and materials.

Mizuno Polos

Mizuno’s spring/summer collection introduces a vibrant array of polo shirts designed to elevate both performance and style on and off the golf course. Among the standout pieces is the Squad Polo, boasting a modern streetwear-inspired design infused with Mizuno’s Move Tech technology for enhanced agility and comfort. The Squad Polo features a ribbed blade collar and prominently displays the iconic Mizuno Runbird logo on the chest, embodying a fusion of athleticism and contemporary fashion. Complementing this, the Ace Polo offers a refreshing take on the traditional golf shirt with a short zip and intricate floral print detailing, making it versatile for various occasions. Meanwhile, the Trace Polo makes a bold statement with its striking color block design and ‘MIZUNO GOLF’ print, while the Cali Cool Polo channels the laid-back vibe of the California coast with its eye-catching aesthetic. Rounding out the collection are the Fragma Polo and Fragma Drop Polo, featuring intricate RB maze designs and lightweight Mizuno Move Tech properties for unparalleled performance. Additionally, the Cali Cool Stripe Polo and Laser RB Polo add further diversity with their distinctive features, including typography accents and unique print patterns. With each polo shirt crafted from soft, stretch fabric and equipped with Quick Dry Technology, Mizuno ensures both comfort and functionality, making these garments essential additions to any golfer’s wardrobe this season.

Two of the new Polo shirts (Source: Mizuno)

Stay Stylish and Protected

Mizuno unveils a lineup of midlayers and jackets as part of its spring/summer collection, catering to golfers seeking both style and functionality on the course. Leading the pack is the RB ¼ Zip, a versatile piece designed to combat cooler summer mornings with its combination of Move Tech technology and heavier material, ensuring comfort and warmth in varying conditions. Complementing this, the Mizuno Trace ¼ Zip merges streetwear flair with classic design elements, featuring bold ‘MIZUNO GOLF’ typography and Move Tech properties for added insulation on brisk days. For those looking for crossover appeal, the G-Style Hoodie 24 emerges as an ideal choice, offering high stretch and substantial fabric suitable for both the course and leisure wear. Similarly, the G-Style Crew presents a streetwear-inspired option with its typography detail and exceptional stretch fabric. Additionally, the Drizzle Hoodie T stands out as a lightweight yet protective option, equipped with wind protection, water-repellent properties, and a zip-away hood for quick adaptation to changing weather conditions. With each piece adorned with the iconic Runbird logo and crafted with Move Tech properties, these midlayers and jackets ensure golfers stay comfortable, stylish, and prepared for whatever the season brings.

Stylish midlayers (Source: Mizuno)

Stylish Trousers and Shorts

The brand introduces a fresh array of trousers and shorts in its latest spring/summer collection, designed to enhance performance and style on the golf course. Leading the lineup is the Reset Trouser, boasting water-repellent capabilities for optimal comfort and protection against the elements. With an improved tapered fit and available in new leg lengths, including 30L, 32L, and 34L, these trousers offer versatility and a tailored look for golfers of all sizes. Complementing the trousers are the Mizuno Reset Shorts, featuring the same enhanced tapered fit and crafted from high-stretch, lightweight fabric. Equipped with water-repellent properties and Mizuno Move Tech, these shorts provide golfers with freedom of movement and comfort throughout their game. With both options prioritizing performance and functionality, Mizuno continues to innovate its apparel lineup, ensuring golfers can perform at their best while staying comfortable and stylish on the course.

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Equipment

Full Hole Maps: Shot Scope presents new functions

The latest innovation on the wrist with Shot Scope. (Photo: Shot Scope)
The latest innovation on the wrist with Shot Scope. (Photo: Shot Scope)

Shot Scope, the golf industry leader in advanced GPS and shot tracking technology, has introduced a new feature called ‘hole maps’ to its market-leading X5 watch. This feature overlays individual data onto every hole through an interactive map view, allowing golfers to efficiently navigate the course using their own yardages. This innovation marks the first time players can access their personalized data mapped onto the current hole, enhancing their ability to tackle any course strategically.

David Hunter, CEO of Shot Scope, highlights the significance of this addition: “The addition of hole maps to the X5 is something existing users can really make use of, seeing how the bank of statistics they’ve already collected can be used to inform their round as they take on each hole.”

Shot Scope: “Full Hole Maps” on over 36,000 golf courses worldwide

These hole maps are available for free via a firmware update to any Shot Scope X5 user and provide detailed layouts of every hole, including distances to the pin and middle of the green. The X5 now serves as a comprehensive course guide on the wrist, tailored with individual data to assist in making key strategic decisions.

Furthermore, the X5’s full-color touchscreen display utilizes personalized data to access Performance-Average distances for a golfer’s three longest clubs, aiding in informed club selection off the tee. The zoom map and target line features help golfers find the perfect line off the tee, reducing the impact of blind tee shots and providing data that a laser alone cannot.

The new hole maps establish the X5 as a GPS golf watch with unmatched performance qualities, including automatic performance tracking and over 100 statistics, such as Strokes Gained. Real-time distances to all greens, hazards, and doglegs on over 36,000 preloaded courses worldwide ensure golfers have everything they need on their wrist while they play.

Priced at $299.99, the X5 is part of Shot Scope’s affordable high-tech GPS and performance tracking products, which have no subscription fees and offer free firmware updates. With these innovative features, Shot Scope continues to redefine the GPS watch category, connecting data and golfers to drive improvement on the course.

(Text: Shot Scope)

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Equipment

Callaway for sale? – This is what the company says about the rumor

Callaway is said to be up for sale. The truth behind the rumors and what the PIF has to do with it. (Source: Getty)
Callaway is said to be up for sale. The truth behind the rumors and what the PIF has to do with it. (Source: Getty)

A report in the South Korean newspaper Chosun Daily suggests that one of the leading manufacturers of golf equipment could be up for sale. According to the report, the major shareholders of Topgolf Callaway have instructed a key manager to look into the possibility of spinning off the golf equipment and hardware business to focus solely on the state-of-the-art Topgolf driving ranges. The report states that Callaway would be valued at nearly $3 billion and that a South Korean “strategic investor is reportedly interested in acquiring the company.” To put the reported value in perspective: Korea-based Centroid Investment Partners acquired TaylorMade Golf in 2021 from New York-based KPS Capital Partners for $1.7 billion – a figure that remains the largest acquisition in the history of the golf equipment industry. After the report was published on Wednesday, Topgolf Callaway’s share price rose by more than ten percent.

Callaway denies rumors

When asked by Golf.com, a Callaway representative issued the following statement: “While it is our long-standing practice not to respond to market rumors and speculation, in light of the unusual market activity today and a recent media report in Korea about discussions of a possible sale of the company or its golf equipment business, we confirm that we are not aware of any such discussions. We do not intend to comment further on this matter and we assume no obligation to make any further announcements or disclosures should circumstances change.”

Topgolf Callaway CEO Chip Brewer emphasized that Callaway equipment would remain a big part of the message at Topgolf, particularly the Chrome Tour golf ball. “The business has performed exceptionally well from a brand perspective in 2023,” he said. “Our U.S. dollar market share positioned us as the No. 1 club brand and the No. 2 golf ball brand. In clubs alone, we were No. 1 in total clubs, drivers, fairway woods, hybrids and irons.”

PIF reportedly interested in Callaway

Shortly after the rumor that Callaway was up for sale emerged, wild speculation arose on social networks. Even multiple major winner and LIV golfer Phil Mickelson commented on one of them. Golf journalist Bob Ball published the idea on X (formerly Twitter) that the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund PIF could be interested in a takeover of the manufacturer and explained why he thought this was likely: “The acquisition of Callaway Golf by PIF would create an alliance between LIV Golf, Top Golf and Callaway,” Ball explained. “This would be a direct counter-offensive against the alliance of Tiger Woods, the PGA Tour, TGL, Popstroke and TaylorMade.” The integration of LIV Golf into Top Golf would lead to a wider audience, he explained: “With LIV Golf integrated into every Top Golf, local amateur teams could compete in fun local competitions – league play days with lots of food and free drinks. This would attract a lot of new and younger fans to LIV Golf.”

Ball also pointed out that a purchase of Callaway Golf by PIF would thwart the plans of TGL and the PGA Tour to utilize Top Golf to compete with the team concept introduced by LIV. Lastly, Ball emphasized that the purchase would likely be cheaper than investing in the PGA Tour and that Callaway is a solid revenue source. Additionally LIV stars Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson are strongly associated with Callaway. The latter has already shown enthusiasm for Ball’s idea on X. Even after Callaway dismissed the rumors as false, Ball remained steadfast in his belief that the acquisition of the equipment giant would be a good deal for PIF and LIV Golf.

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Equipment

TaylorMade introduces new SpeedSoft golf balls

TaylorMade aims to revolutionize style and performance with the new SpeedSoft and SpeedSoft Ink golf balls. (Source: TaylorMade)
TaylorMade aims to revolutionize style and performance with the new SpeedSoft and SpeedSoft Ink golf balls. (Source: TaylorMade)

The newly released SpeedSoft golf ball plays a critical role in TaylorMade’s dynamic lineup of 2024 golf balls. This low-compression design was developed with one goal in mind: To deliver the softest feel possible while maintaining explosive speeds for the average golfer. Powered by a new PWRCORE technology that makes it the softest ball in the TaylorMade range, combined with competitive pricing, SpeedSoft is the ideal blend of performance and affordability. It features a low compression core that compensates for distance and an ultra-soft feel on iron shots and approach shots around the green.

TaylorMade aims to revolutionize golf ball style and performance

“SpeedSoft represents a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to deliver performance products for golfers of all abilities. With a deliberate focus on developing a low compression design, this is the first time we have created a TaylorMade golf ball with a compression differential below 50. SpeedSoft stands out as a game changer due to its unprecedented combination of soft feel and explosive speeds.” – Josh Dipert, Director of Product Development Engineering, Golf Ball.

The new SpeedSoft golf balls from TaylorMade. (Source: TaylorMade)

Building on SpeedSoft’s low compression ratio and soft feel, the new SpeedSoft Ink showcases vibrant visual technology expressed through a distinctive ink splatter design. Designed with high contrast and high visibility in mind, SpeedSoft Ink introduces Taylormade’s patented multi-axis printing technology at a more accessible price point, bringing the brand’s leading visual technology capabilities to a wider audience for the first time. Beyond the performance benefits of visual technology, SpeedSoft Ink represents a canvas of personality and style ideal for those who dare to break convention and change the look of golf balls for the core golfer.

The SpeedSoft Ink series is designed to bring color to the golf course. (Source: TaylorMade)

Golf balls with visual technology

“The market demand for golf balls with visual technology is increasing and reflects a growing segment of golfers who are looking for more than just the traditional white ball experience. We feel this segment has been ignored until now, and with SpeedSoft Ink we are meeting this demand while taking a bold step towards the modern golfer’s desire for visual technology without sacrificing performance,” said Michael Fox, Senior Director of Product Creation, Golf Ball. “Offered in four different color options (green, red, blue and pink), the SpeedSoft Ink offers a wide range of options that are bursting with personality.

SpeedSoft and SpeedSoft Yellow are available from retailers at an RRP of 36 euros per dozen. The new SpeedSoft Ink is available for 38 Euro per dozen.

(Text: TaylorMade)

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Apparel Equipment

Footjoy unveils brand new temposeries lineup for 2024

Footjoy presents new styles for men and women for the 2024 season. (Source: Footjoy)
Footjoy presents new styles for men and women for the 2024 season. (Source: Footjoy)

New for 2024 is the introduction of the Tempo Series – a collection of technical outerwear for men and women designed with functional pieces for year-round use. The lightweight, high-tech fabrics feature temperature-regulating properties, keeping golfers warm or cool depending on conditions. Breathable, moisture-wicking, water-repellent, and stretchy fabrics enable golfers to play freely and confidently. Pieces include the Sun Hoodie, Tech Midlayer, and Softshell Vest.

The new Temposeries men’s wear. (Source: Footjoy)

Footjoy presents new series for men and women

The men’s collection includes a tech midlayer with a mesh fabric mix, a sun hoddie with a stylish hood and a lightweight softshell vest. For women, footjoy presents the new lightweight hoddie, made from micro-poly jacquard fabric with moisture-wicking properties and a zippered mesh back pocket and the temposeries jacket that features bi-stretch fabric for superior performance and flexibility, a full DWR coating and open entry pockets.

The new Temposeries women’s wear. (Source: Footjoy)

Footjoy unveils new colorways

In addition to the Tempo Series, the Spring-Summer collection for men introduces four new color palettes inspired by golfing by the sea – Ocean Park, Huntington, Dunes, and Arcadia – featuring exciting new prints and patterns. Ocean Park blends sky blue, ocean blue, deep blue with white and berry; Huntington features coral red, sea glass, navy, and white; Dunes consists of violet and lilac tones of mist, storm gray, thistle, and moss, while the Arcadia Collection combines light pink, cliff gray, gravel, and white. New highlight designs include scallop, flag, primrose, and thistle, as well as hand-drawn 19th hole and golf course prints.

New colorways for men. (Source: Footjoy)

The Essentials collection for men has also been expanded with new colors: Riviera Blue and Pink now adorn the most popular polo and midlayer models. The two women’s collections offer a range of striking floral prints and patterns with matching headwear and belts. The Tuscan Poppy Collection combines pink, red, black, and white, while the Lavender Fields Collection includes navy, mint, lavender, and white. These are complemented by a more extensive Essentials range featuring a selection of polos, pullovers, jackets, pants, and shorts. Highlights include a new sleeveless romper, patterned pants, and fashionable floral prints.

“Innovative styles and practical clothing pieces”

Colin Mynott, Footjoy Product Manager, says: “We at FootJoy are thrilled to offer a new apparel series that stands out in the current golf landscape. The Tempo Series features materials that are both versatile and comfortable, providing golfers with protection from changing temperatures and natural elements all day long. With our new color and technology stories in our men’s and women’s collections, we offer golfers innovative, stylish, and practical clothing pieces that make every day a golf day.”

(Text: Footjoy)

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Equipment

Galvin Green names tour player line-up for 2024 season

Jordan Smith will represent Galvin Green on the DP World Tour. (Source: Galvin Green)
Jordan Smith will represent Galvin Green on the DP World Tour. (Source: Galvin Green)

Hi-tech golf apparel brand Galvin Green has named its global Tour player line-up headlined by Swedish star Alexander Björk on the PGA Tour and Englishman Jordan Smith leading the brand’s presence on the DP World Tour.

Alexander Björk and Jordan Smith set to represent Galvin Green

Having achieved an impressive stroke average of 69.59 across the DP World Tour calendar in 2023, Björk is set to play most of his golf on the flagship US Tour following a career best season that saw him finish 11 th in the Race to Dubai rankings to earn a sought-after PGA TOUR card.

Hot off the back of a T2 finish at the Jonnson Workwear Open in South Africa, Jordan Smith will be seen wearing Galvin Green garments for another year after a strong showing on the DP World Tour in 2023, where he achieved four top 10s, plus a T20 and T41 finish at the 123rd US Open and 151 st Open Championship respectively.

“We’re so pleased that Alexander earned his PGA Tour card which was fully deserved after a superb season of consistent golf,” said Conor Petters, Galvin Green Global Tour Manager. “It was also great to see Jordan come some close on Sunday after being in contention so often during the course of last year,” he added.

Björk and Smith are joined by five other Tour players

Five other tour players will wear Galvin Green apparel in the 2024 season. They include fellow Englishman Laurie Canter wearing the brand’s clothing during tournaments on LIV Golf as a wildcard player and the DP World Tour. Former Walker Cup star Jake Bolton is one of the newest recruits to wear the latest men’s range featuring products such as the 100% waterproof and windproof ARMSTRONG GORE-TEX Paclite® jacket in a three tone design, plus the breathable MO shirt in moisture wicking VENTIL8™ PLUS fabric with a cross-body gradient print across the chest.

Alexandra Swayne, 23, will wear the brand’s vibrant women’s styles for a second successive season having made her Ladies European Tour debut last year, while 29-year-old Danish Nanna Koerstz Madsen joins the line-up alongside Corinne Viden on the LET circuit.

“We are delighted to continue supporting our new and established Tour players and believe each member of Team Galvin Green will prove to be valuable brand ambassadors in front of global audiences in 2024,” added Petters.

(Text: Galvin Green)