Driver: Titleist GT2 (9 degrees)
Shaft: Mitsubishi Diamana ZF 60 TX

3-wood: Titleist TS3 (15 degrees)
Shaft: Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Blue 85 TX

5-wood: Titleist 915 Fd (18 degrees @19.5)
Shaft: Fujikura Motore Speeder VC 9.2 X

• See more in-hand photos of Justin Thomas’ WITB in the forums.

Irons: Titleist T200 (4), Titleist T100 (5), Titleist 621.JT (5-9)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100

Wedges: Titleist Vokey Design SM10 (46-10F @47.5, 52-12F, 56-14F @57), Titleist Vokey Design WedgeWorks Proto (60-06K @60.5)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 (46), True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 (52-60)

• See more in-hand photos of Justin Thomas’ WITB in the forums.

Putter: Scotty Cameron Phantom 9.2 Tour Prototype
Grip: SuperStroke Zenergy Pistol Tour

(Photo courtesy of Scotty Cameron)

(Photo courtesy of Scotty Cameron)

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet Cord

Ball: Titleist Pro V1x

See the rest of Justin Thomas’ WITB in the forums.

More Justin Thomas WITBs

• Justin Thomas WITB 2023 (November)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2022 (December)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2022 (August)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2022 (January)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2021 (October)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2021 (September)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2021 (August)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2021 Masters
• Justin Thomas WITB (2020 Zozo Championship)
• Justin Thomas WITB (2020 Tour Championship)
• Justin Thomas WITB (Workday Charity Open – July)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2020
• Justin Thomas WITB 2020
• Justin Thomas WITB 2018
• Justin Thomas WITB 2017 (FedEx Cup Champion)
• Justin Thomas WITB 2015
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2022 PGA Championship
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2021 Players Championship
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2020 WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2020 Sentry Tournament of Champions
• Justin Thomas’s winning WITB: The 2017 CJ Cup
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2019 BMW Championship
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2018 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2018 Honda Classic
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2017 Dell Technologies Championship
• Justin Thomas’ winning WITB: 2017 PGA Championship

Molinari said his data-driven approach has helped him most with strategy – more specifically, it has opened his eyes to use his driver more often off the tee.

“Strategy is a big thing,” Molinari said. “I think off the tee especially, I’m a good driver of the ball, and once I started looking at the numbers a bit more in-depth, I realized I could hit driver a lot more often than I used to. So I would say, these days, I hit driver a lot more than other players simply because, A) I’m more accurate than average and, B) I’m a little bit shorter than average. Especially on shorter holes, I try and push it up a bit more, as much as I can, and I feel like I’ve been gaining shots in that area for sure.”

On that note, Molinari recently switched into Titleist’s new GT3 8-degree driver, which he said provides more consistent spin rates and roughly 5 to 6 more yards of distance compared to his previous driver.

On the lower end of his setup, Molinari uses four wedges (PW, 52, 56 and 60 degrees) – a decision that was solidified by the proof he found in the data.

“Looking at the numbers, I realized that I could gain a lot more with the wedges … if I didn’t have a 3-iron,” Molinari said. “So I basically have a bit of a bigger gap between my 4-iron and the hybrid. But the thing is, once you’re that far away from the green, all you’re trying to do is just trying to hit the green. So I don’t need a perfect number there, but I’m happier to have some more options around the greens, and especially from shots in the 75- to 125-yard range.”

Head over to PGATour.com for the full article.

“Looking at upgrading to a modern driver but I don’t see many deep face options. Does anyone know and modern (last 5 years) any actual deep face models?

Prefer the look of a deep face versus the shallow face stretched out design of the 10k models out right now. For reference I play Titleist 905T and R7 Superquad TP. Thanks!”

And our members have been sharing their suggestions in our forum.

Here are a few posts from the thread, but make sure to check out the entire discussion and have your say at the link below.

• djohnsonx: “It looks to me that the Titleist TSI and TSR drivers are pretty deep faced. I’ve only seen the 2’s and 3’s in each model but the deeper faces on those look really good.”
• Louis_Posture: “Mizuno ST-X 230 driver.”
• roundersmitty: “PXG 0211 and Gen5 and 6 are deep.”

Entire Thread: “Best modern deep faced drivers – GolfWRXers discuss”

It’s that sense of community that drives day-to-day interactions in the forums on topics that range from best driver to what marker you use to mark your ball. It even allows us to share another thing we all love – buying and selling equipment.

Currently, in our GolfWRX buy/sell/trade (BST) forum, there is a listing for a TP Mills Circle TP Fleetwood putter.

From the seller: (@KGGolf): “TP Mills Circle TP Fleetwood – TP Mills Gripmaster grip – 35” – Swiss GSS – 10/10 Condition – TP Mills Custom Shop Headcover. $600″

To check out the full listing in our BST forum, head through the link: TP Mills Circle TP Fleetwood putter

This is the most impressive current listing from the GolfWRX BST, and if you are curious about the rules to participate in the BST Forum you can check them out here: GolfWRX BST Rules

Driver: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Max (8.5 degrees @7.5)
Shaft: Fujikura Ventus Black 6 X

3-wood: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max (15 degrees)
Shaft: Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Black 75 TX

• Check out more photos of Mike Lorenzo-Vera’s equipment here.

Utility: Callaway Apex UT (18 degrees)
Shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100

Irons: Callaway Apex CB (3-5), Callaway Apex MB (6-10
Shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100

• Check out more photos of Mike Lorenzo-Vera’s equipment here.

Wedges: Callaway Jaws Raw (52-10S, 58-06C
Shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400

Putter: Odyssey Ai-One #7 CS
Grip: 2Thumb Snug Tour 30

Grips: Golf Pride MCC, Golf Pride Tour Velvet

Check out more photos of Mike Lorenzo-Vera’s equipment here.

Driver: Cobra Darkspeed LS (10.5 degrees @9.5)
Shaft: Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw Orange 75 TX (45 inches)

3-wood: Cobra Darkspeed X (15 degrees @14)
Shaft: Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw White Prototype 85 TX

• Check out more photos of Beef’s equipment here.

Hybrid: Cobra King Tec (19 degrees)
Shaft: Fujikura Ventus Blue HB 8 X

Irons: Cobra King Tour (4-PW)
Shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100

• Check out more photos of Beef’s equipment here.

Wedges: Cobra Snakebite (48, 52, 58)
Shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400

Putter: Scotty Cameron Tourtype SSS FB-1.5

Grips: Golf Pride MCC

Balls: Titleist Pro V1

Check out more photos of Beef’s equipment here.

TaylorMade

The “royal” theme inspired TaylorMade with their purple and gold staff bag. The staff bag is a deep purple and complemented with shiny gold accents with little hints at The 152nd Open Championship. Matching white headcovers feature a purple TaylorMade logo with a crown over it.

Cobra

I feel like Cobra went with a little more traditional look with its bag and headcover designs. The bright yellow bag matches the hole signs and iconic leaderboard that will be easily visible at Royal Troon this week. The headcovers are all different designs, but match with their stamp and mail themes stictched into them.

Srixon

I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a golf bag that features Scottish tartan on it! Srixon’s staff bag is a deep navy blue, red, and white with tartan on the sides. They also carried that tartan detail over to the classy headcovers that are white with green and tartan stripes near the bottom for a very Open Championship feel.

Callaway

Stamps everywhere! Callaway went heavy with the stamp theme and used them to celebrate the holes at Royal Troon. Each stamp has a hole number and graphic of the hole’s famous feature in them. For golf balls, they took the new Chrome Tour ball and used their Truvis graphics to celebrate the 1st, 8th, 11th, and 18th signature holes.

The reigning Masters champion gave the 8th hole at Royal Troon, called “Postage Stamp,” as an example as to how holes don’t need to be lengthened to be more difficult.

“No. 8 is a good little way to almost step back in time and control your ball a bit more.

“You don’t have to make a par-three 230 yards to make it a great hole. It can be 120 yards.

“I think holes like 12 at Augusta and 17 at Sawgrass, the best par-threes in the world are short par-threes. They’re not overly long par-threes.”

“It leaves a lot of opportunity for you to hit a shot.

“If I don’t hit the green on No. 8, it’s mostly likely going to be a bogey unless you’re in the front of the green.

“If you miss it in the right bunker or the left bunker — if you hit it in the left bunker, you’re going to be glad to be making a bogey because it’s probably going to plug, and you’ll be hitting up-and-down for your bogey.

“I think great little, short holes like that are fun.

“I think it’s an underrated skill for guys nowadays to be able to control your ball, and I think it’s something we need to encourage in our game, not just building golf courses longer and longer.

“You can make a short hole with a small green, and it’s pretty dang tough.”

One of the major obstacles of Royal Troon this week will be the bunkering. The fairway bunkers on the course are extremely penal and most will require a splash out into the fairway rather than a shot at the green.

“One of the things I liked that the R&A changed this year from last year was the bunkering,” he said.

“Last year I thought it was a bit silly how they flattened out each bunker.

“The bunkers are still a penalty enough when the ball isn’t up against the lip.

“It was a bit of luck whether or not your ball would bury into the face because you have a flat bunker and a wall that’s going to go right into it.”

“As long as you build a little bit of slope into it, you can allow guys the opportunity to get out of the bunker.

“If you’re on the greens, it allows for opportunity for guys to either take on the lip or play smart and play sideways.

“It leaves more opportunity for great shots and risk and reward around the greens and the fairways because you have an opportunity to hit a great shot or just play it safe and go out sideways.

“I love how they changed how they rake the bunkers this year with the more traditional sloping coming off the walls.”

Scheffler is set to begin his quest for a second major championship of 2024 on Thursday.

More from the 19th Hole

We have plenty of galleries from Truckee, California, assembled for your viewing pleasure, so let’s get to it.

General Albums

• 2024 Barracuda Championship – Monday #1
• 2024 Barracuda Championship – Tuesday #1

WITB Albums

• Barclay Brown – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Ryan Brehm – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Marcel Schneider – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Pat Steffes – NorCal PGA Section Match Play Champ – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Mitchell Schow – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Ricardo Gouveia – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Todd Clements – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Gunner Wiebe – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Oliver Wilson – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Louis De Jager – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Mats Ege – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Andrew “Beef” Johnston – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Mike Lorenzo-Vera – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Jeong Weon Ko – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Alex Fitzpatrick – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Manuel Elivra – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Ian Gilligan – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Fabrizio Zanotti – WITB – 2024 Barracuda Championship

Pullout Albums

• TaylorMade putter covers – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Kevin Dougherty’s custom Cameron putter – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Camilo Villegas’ custom Cameron putter – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Cameron putters – 2024 Barracuda Championship
• Oliver Wilson’s 1 off Odyssey putter – 2024 Barracuda Championship

See what GolfWRXers are saying in the forums.

This week, McIlroy’s friend and fellow Irishman, Shane Lowry, has come to the defense of the four-time major champion.

While speaking with BBC Sport NI, Lowry said the criticism makes his “blood boil”.

“It makes my blood boil, to be honest,”

“They don’t see how hard Harry works and how good he is for Rory.

“Just because he’s not standing in the middle of the tee box like other caddies who want to be seen and heard doesn’t mean that his voice isn’t heard by Rory.

“When you get to tournaments, he’s always there before Rory, he’s always walking the course. He works harder than any of the caddies out here.”

Lowry added that he still believes Rory will get another major.

“He’s the best caddie for Rory and I’ll argue that with anyone who wants to argue it with me,”

“It’s tough for him. Northern Ireland and Ireland is a small place. I’m sure it’s tough for Harry to go home and deal with all that but he’ll be alright.

“That’ll make the next one they get together all the sweeter.”

McIlroy will try to add to the tally once again this week at Royal Troon, where he finished T5 back in 2016.

More from the 19th Hole

Woods has been critical in the past of traditional rain gear, so he and Sun Day Red designed a product that he in comfortable wearing in the rain.

“Tiger never liked traditional rainwear because it tends to billow or bend out at the wrong moments, like when he’s lining up a putt. So, we created an innovative knit technology that provides plenty of stretch, making it easy to slip on and off without any restrictive bulk. And the closer, more tailored fit means it stays put, never billowing out and disrupting his swing or focus. In fact, Tiger called this the best rain gear he’s ever worn.”

Woods wore the 3L Half-Zip Rain Jacket and Pant, which Sun Day Red described to us as:

“Designing rain gear is a challenge; it’s usually loud and doesn’t fit well. But when Tiger asked us, ‘How quiet can you make it?’ we knew we could create something incredibly quiet with a low-profile look and feel by using soft, stretchy knits instead of woven fabrics. Of course, Tiger had a few additional must-haves. He wanted a narrower cut to the pants, a cargo pocket to keep his glove dry between shots, and pockets that could zip through to his internal pant pockets. The end result was rain gear engineered to Tiger’s exacting standards for battling the elements without sacrificing his swing.”

Today, it’s available for purchase, along with Sun Day Red’s entire “Weather Collection” to get golfers through those not-so-sunny days on the course.

• 3L Half-Zip Rain Jacket – $550.00
• 3L Pant – $500.00

RELATED: Tiger Woods WITB 2024 (July) 

Here’s what Lowry had in the bag for his absolutely clinical drubbing of the field on the County Antrim coast five years ago.

Driver: Srixon Z 585 (9.5 degrees) Buy here.
Shaft: Mitsubishi Diamana D+ 70 X (45.25 inches, tipped .75 inch, D3 swing weight)

3-wood: TaylorMade M4 (15 degrees) Buy here.
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD DI 8 X

Irons: Srixon ZU85 [2 (18 degrees), 3 (20 degrees bent to 21)] Buy here, Srixon Z585 [4 (23 degrees], 5 (26 degrees)] Buy here, Srixon Z785 (6-PW) Buy here.
Shafts: Mitsubishi Tensei CK Pro White Hybrid TX (2), KBS Tour 130 X (3-PW)

• See more in-hand photos of Shane Lowry’s 2019 WITB here.

Wedges: Cleveland RTX 4 (50 @51, 58) Buy here.
Shafts: KBS Tour Wedge X

Putter: Odyssey Stroke Lab Exo 2-Ball Buy here.
Grip: SuperStroke Traxion Pistol GT 1.0 (custom shamrock)

Ball: Srixon Z-Star XV Buy here.

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet 58R (logo down)

See more in-hand photos of Shane Lowry’s 2019 WITB here.

WITB Time Machine is presented by 2nd Swing Golf. 2nd Swing has more than 100,000 new and pre-swung golf clubs available in six store locations and online. Check them out here.

After McIlroy came up short at the U.S. Open last month, Chamblee criticized his iron play.

“Don’t get me wrong, I love Rory’s golf swing, it’s beautiful. It’s beautiful. But he’s now finished in the top-ten in the last six U.S. Opens and he’s averaging in those six U.S. Opens – because I just looked here in strokes gained approach – about 30th. Guess what they do not do? Win U.S. Opens.

“The guys who win U.S. Opens finish first, second, third, fourth. Brooks Koepka in U.S. Opens – first, second, most greens and best iron shots, strokes gained approach.

“Rory consistently underperforms in his iron play – and that is the most important statistic.”

In the lead up to this week’s Open Championship at Royal Troon, Brandel is questioning McIlroy’s major championship preparation, after posing the question “Why does Rory’s game deteriorate in the biggest moments?”

Speaking at Royal Troon, Chamblee said

“When you look at what the best athletes do when they play to a higher level, they are being themselves.

“They are extraordinary athletes; they don’t have their minds cluttered up and, of course, their focus narrows the closer they get to the lead because of the confidence they get from that.

“So, it seems to me that Rory over time has enquired a lot from swing instructors or putting instructors or sports psychologists or deep dives from YouTube.

“With this generation, there is an epidemic of people doing deep dives on YouTube and getting cluttered up with curiosity.

“When I see Rory, it looks to me like he has either too many swing thoughts in his mind or he has too many voices in his head, it’s the only logical conclusion that I can draw.

“Why can one person be so obviously different getting into the lead or close to the lead and so obviously different when he has the lead.”

McIlroy will look to finally get over the line this week at Royal Troon, where he finished T5 back in 2016.

More from the 19th Hole

Inspired by convertible car culture – where a black paintjob, black interior and black soft top signifies a “triple black” color combination – these special release putters feature four of Scotty’s most popular blade configurations, revisited with his own “triple black” design format: a black finish, black shaft, and black grip.

In select Titleist golf shops worldwide beginning Friday, July 26th, the new B3 Triple Black Design LTD putters will be offered in four models: the Newport 2 (available in right-hand and left-hand), Newport 2 Long Neck, Santa Fe and Catalina. The lineup blends classic setups with modern head shapes and tour-inspired dual-milled face technology.

“Our Triple Black putters have always been a popular option on Tour with players who not only like a stealthy, cool-looking design, but also want an extra solution for reducing sun glare. We created the B3 Triple Black Design LTD putters to give dedicated golfers that tour-quality experience in four classic configurations.” – Scotty Cameron

Driver: TaylorMade Qi10 LS (9 degrees @9.5)
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD VF 6 X (45 inches) 

3-wood: TaylorMade Qi10 Tour (15 degrees @13.5)
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD VF 7 X

• Check out more in-hand photos of Tiger Woods’ WITB in the forums.

5-wood: TaylorMade M3 (19 degrees @18.25)
Shaft: Mitsubishi Diamana D+ Limited 80 TX

Irons: 2023 TaylorMade P770 (3), TaylorMade P7TW (4-PW)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 (3-PW)

Wedges: TaylorMade MG4 Raw (56-12TW Proto, 60-TW11 Proto)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400

• Check out more in-hand photos of Tiger Woods’ WITB in the forums.

Putter: Scotty Cameron Newport 2 GSS prototype
Grip: Ping PP58 Blackout

Ball: Bridgestone Tour B X (2024)

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet Cord 58R

Check out more in-hand photos of Tiger Woods’ WITB in the forums.

More Tiger Woods WITBs

• Tiger Woods WITB 2024 (February)
• Tiger Woods WITB 2023 (November)
• Tiger Woods WITB 2023 (February)
• Tiger Woods WITB 2022 (December) (new in-hand photos)
• Tiger Woods WITB 2022 (July)
• Tiger Woods WITB at the 2022 PGA Championship (with a new 2-iron!)
• Tiger Woods WITB: 2022 Masters
• Tiger Woods WITB 2021 PNC Championship (new in-hand photos)

The results have certainly not been a reason for optimism, but Tiger’s former coach, Hank Haney, believes Woods still has a chance to compete for an Open Championship.

A lot of people thought Augusta was Tiger’s best chance to ever win again, it’s wasn’t, it was always the Open Championship for multiple reasons, he can hit shots like this, slower greens mean fewer 3 putts and no one has more knowledge about playing links golf. Based on what… https://t.co/1ImmrZWVFs

— Hank Haney (@HankHaney) July 15, 2024

“A lot of people thought Augusta was Tiger’s best chance to ever win again, it’s wasn’t, it was always the Open Championship for multiple reasons, he can hit shots like this, slower greens mean fewer 3 putts and no one has more knowledge about playing links golf. Based on what he’s done so far this year it’s kind of looking like now or never. His swing looks really good in practice.”

???????Tiger Woods’ swing is ________. @TWlegion | @TaylorMadeGolf

pic.twitter.com/PMpX0POARY

— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) July 15, 2024

Woods’ swing looks good ahead of this week’s Open Championship at Royal Troon, however, his swing has not been the problem of late.

Time will tell if Tiger is able to remain healthy and if his body can work through the wear and tear of a 72-hole tournament against the best players in the world.

More from the 19th Hole

“There is a time for all sportsmen to say goodbye, but it’s very difficult to tell Tiger it’s time to go. Obviously, he still feels he can win. We are more realistic.”

“At Pinehurst, he did not seem to enjoy a single shot and you think, ‘What the hell is he doing?’” Montgomerie said. “He’s coming to Troon and he won’t enjoy it there, either.”

Woods spoke ahead of the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon and responded to Montgomerie’s comments.

“Well, as a past champion, I’m exempt until I’m 60. Colin’s not. He’s not a past champion, so he’s not exempt. So he doesn’t get the opportunity to make that decision. I do,” 

“So when I get to his age, I get to still make that decision, where he doesn’t.”

This morning, Montgomerie took to his X account to defend his comments on Tiger.

If Golf Writers want my thoughts on Tiger please ask me direct, rather than taking a quote from an interview out of context. Wishing Tiger an enjoyable and successful week.

— Colin Montgomerie (@montgomeriefdn) July 16, 2024

“If Golf Writers want my thoughts on Tiger please ask me direct, rather than taking a quote from an interview out of context. Wishing Tiger an enjoyable and successful week.”

More from the 19th Hole

GolfWRX staffers were tasked with browsing the golf-related wares for sale on the world’s largest online retailer for the best stuff.

Of course, for your equipment needs, we recommend you head on over to our partner 2nd Swing Golf. 2nd Swing has more than 100,000 new and pre-swung golf clubs available in six store locations and online. However, when it comes to accessories, apparel, and all the rest, we’ve got you covered below.

Amazon Prime Day golf deals: GolfWRX recommends

Rapsodo MLM2PRO Launch Monitor

Was: $699
Now: $651

Saving some money on a high-quality launch monitor doesn’t happen every day. Here we get a deal on Rapsodo’s latest MLM2PRO that works as a simulator and launch monitor so you can have fun playing your favorite course at home or dial in your yardages.

Buy here.

Desert Fox Phone Caddy

Was: $24.99
Now: $19.95

Phone mounts are plentiful and cheap, but the Desert Fox ads some real quality and features. We have seen this one in use and are impressed by the build quality and the adjustability to fit just about any phone. The Phone Caddy straps to the cart roof support and stays where put no matter how rough the rough gets.

Buy here.

GoSports Golf Practice Net

Now: $79.99

BK has been using a net at night to work on some swing mechanics and not only has it helped his swing, it is a nice way to wind down the day. This GoSports net is 10ft wide and 7ft tall so it should contain your bad shots and not let them fly 2 streets over. It is also easy to set up, take down, and store in a compact bag.

Buy here.

Flightscope Mevo

Was: $504
Now: $354

While it’s a couple of years old, the OG Mevo still delivers plenty of data — now at a deep discount! We like the Power Bundle, if you’re in the market.

Buy here.

Golf Trunk Organizer 2 Layer

Was: $40
Now: $29

If you have a car and don’t have a trunk organizer, clearly your obsession hasn’t reached GolfWRX levels. Good price here!

Buy here.

FootJoy Pro SL Golf Shoes

Was: $119.95
Now: $89.95

A nice discount on some of the best-selling shoes in the game.

Buy here.

Garmin Approach S70 Watch

Was: $699.99
Now: $619.95

Passing muster with both GolfWRX’s watch snobs and data junkies, the S70 gets our blessing — and the 11% discount doesn’t hurt.

Buy here.

Golfguru Golf Chipping Net

Was: $69.99
Now: $49.99

A chipping net system that will actually help you improve — at 30 percent off. What’s not to like?

Buy here.

EyeLine Golf Putting Alignment Mirror

Was: $39.99
Now: $27.96

Training aids abound, but this is an actual product for improving putting performance we see PGA Tour professionals using on the putting green at every tournament. And it’s 30 percent off.

Buy here.

Orange Whip Golf Swing Trainer Aid

Now: $119.99

Speaking of training aids the pros actually use, the Orange Whip has had a good long life on the PGA Tour. Undoubtedly the aid we spot the most in the bags of pros, with its distinctive orange ball nestled among clubheads.

Buy here.

Adidas – Ultimate365 Golf Shorts

Was: $70
Now: $52

If you want to show off your Josh Allen-esque quads, we like Adidas’ Ulitmate365 shorts in the 8.5-inch inseam variety, which are available in a number of colors. If you’re looking for a little more length, try the 10.5 inchers.

Buy here.

Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Patriot Pack Rangefinder

Was: $399.99
Now: $347.99

Almost 20 percent off the V6 Patriot Pack — a top performer in last year’s Members Choice.

Buy here.

Arccos Caddie Link 

Was: $149.99
Now: $139.45

If you want to, you know, actually get better at golf, you need to know what you’re doing in your golf swing and on the golf course. That’s why, regarding the latter, we’ve long been advocates for Arccos and similar products. If you’ve been on the fence, let the discount tip you over.

Buy here.

Blast Golf Swing Analyzer

Now: $179.95

As mentioned above, we like data, and Blast Golf is a “Prime” option for generating swing data from a butt cap in the end of your club (“Prime” pun quota met).

Buy here.

Juboury Golf Pen Set

Was: $18.99
Now: $11.99

Who says you can’t play golf at the office?

Buy here.

*All products featured on GolfWRX are independently selected by our staff. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

It’s that sense of community that drives day-to-day interactions in the forums on topics that range from best driver to what marker you use to mark your ball. It even allows us to share another thing we all love – buying and selling equipment.

Currently, in our GolfWRX buy/sell/trade (BST) forum, there is a listing for a set of Miura Forged Wedges.

From the seller: (@mlowrimore): “Miura Tour Wedges. 52, 56, 60 Tour. 52, 56, 60 Tour High Bounce (HB). S400 Tour Issue Shaft. Standard L/L/L as viewed HERE and HERE. Tour Velvet 360 Grips. Excellent condition 9.5/10, HB wedges have never been hit. $250 per club, or $700 for 3.“

To check out the full listing in our BST forum, head through the link: Miura Forged Wedges

This is the most impressive current listing from the GolfWRX BST, and if you are curious about the rules to participate in the BST Forum you can check them out here: GolfWRX BST Rules

This marks the tenth time that Royal Troon will host the Open Championship. The last time we saw the course host The Open was 2016 and it provided one of the best major championship final rounds of all time when Henrik Stenson outlasted Phil Mickelson in a shootout. 

Royal Troon Golf Club is a par 71 measuring 7,385 yards. The front-nine typically plays relatively easy and will give players plenty of birdie chances. However, the back-nine is a lot more challenging and will provide a difficult finishing stretch. 

There are 156 players in the field this week, with the top 70 and ties making it to the weekend. As expected, almost all of the world’s top players will be in attendance this week, seeking a highly coveted Claret Jug.

The Latin motto of Royal Troon is “Tam Arte Quam Marte”, which means “as much by skill as by strength”.

Past Winners at Royal Troon

• 1950: Bobby Locke (-1)
• 1962: Arnold Palmer (-12)
• 1973: Tom Weiskopf (-12)
• 1982: Tom Watson (-4)
• 1989: Mark Calcavecchia (-13)
• 1997: Justin Leonard (-12)
• 2004: Todd Hamilton (-10)
• 2016: Henrik Stenson (-20)

Past Winners at The Open Championship

• 2023: Brian Harman (-13)
• 2022: Cameron Smith (-20)
• 2021: Collin Morikawa (-15)
• 2019: Shane Lowry (-15)
• 2018: Francesco Molinari (-8)
• 2017: Jordan Spieth (-12)
• 2016: Henrik Stenson (-20)
• 2015: Zach Johnson (-15)
• 2014: Rory McIlroy (-17)
• 2013: Phil Mickelson (-3)
• 2012: Ernie Els (-7)
• 2011: Darren Clarke (-5)
• 2010: Louis Oosthuizen (-16)

In this article and going forward, I’ll be using the Rabbit Hole by Betsperts Golf data engine to develop my custom model. If you want to build your own model or check out all of the detailed stats, you can sign up using promo code: MATTVIN for 25% off any subscription package (yearly is best value).

Key Stats For Royal Troon

Let’s take a look at the most important metrics at Royal Troon to determine which golfers boast top marks in each category over their last 24 rounds. This should give us a good starting point for building our betting card.

Strokes Gained: Approach

Henrik Stenson was one of the best iron players of his generation, and that proved to be the difference in 2016. As the course motto suggests, skill is more important than power this week, and iron play should be the most important factor. 

Total Strokes Gained: Approach in past 24 rounds:

1. Scottie Scheffler (+1.63)
2. Xander Schauffele (+1.13)
3. Tony Finau (+0.98)
4. Collin Morikawa (+0.80)
5. Tom Kim (+0.79)

Strokes Gained: Links Golf

Royal Troon is a true links test. This statistic will show us who’s been the best on links courses over their past 36 rounds (minimum 12 rounds). 

Strokes Gained: Links Golf over past 36 rounds:

1. Cameron Smith (+2.41)
2. Robert MacIntyre (+2.15)
3. Collin Morikawa (+1.97)
4. Rory McIlroy (+1.84)
5. Scottie Scheffler (+1.75)

Strokes Gained: Total in Major Championships

Over the past few years, recent major form has been a strong indicator of performance at the following major. I suspect we may see some familiar names atop the leaderboard this week. 

Strokes Gained: Total in Major Championships over past 36 rounds:

1. Rory McIlroy (+2.83)
2. Scottie Scheffler (+2.72)
3. Ludvig Aberg (+2.48)
4. Xander Schauffele (+2.44)
5. Will Zalatoris (+2.24)

Strokes Gained: Total (Windy Conditions)

Wind is always going to be a factor when playing in an Open Championship. Even if the wind speed doesn’t get extremely high, it will still be a factor in club selection and execution.

Total Strokes: Total (Windy Conditions) in past 36 rounds:

1. Scottie Scheffler (+3.18)
2. Xander Schauffele (+2.09)
3. Matthew Southgate (+1.91)
4. Rory McIlroy (+1.79)
5. Jon Rahm (+1.61)

Strokes Gained: Putting

Good putters tend to win Open Championships at St. Andrews. Adding putting to the model will help to eliminate golfers who won’t be able to hole enough putts to contend.

Strokes Gained: Putting in past 24 rounds:

1. Mackenzie Hughes (+1.05)
2. Robert MacIntyre (+1.01)
3. Xander Schauffele (+0.90)
4. Bryson DeChambeau (+0.86)
5. Alexander Bjork (+0.86)

Strokes Gained: Ball Striking on Small Greens

The greens at Royal Troon are the smallest of any in the Open Rota and are one third the size of the greens at St. Andrews. Players who’ve excelled at hitting into small greens will have an advantage. 

Strokes Gained: Ball Striking on Small Greens over past 24 Rounds:

1. Scottie Scheffler (+2.40)
2. Ludvig Aberg (+1.43)
3. Viktor Hovland (+1.37)
4. Tony Finau (+1.33)
5. Xander Schauffele (+1.30)

Statistical Model

Below, I’ve reported overall model rankings using a combination of the six key statistical categories previously discussed.

These rankings are comprised of SG: APP (27%); SG: Putting (14%);SG: Links Golf (15%); SG: Windy Conditions (15%) ; Strokes Gained: Ball Striking on Small Greens (15%), and SG: Majors (15%)

1. Xander Schauffele
2. Collin Morikawa
3. Rory McIlroy
4. Scottie Scheffler
5. Viktor Hovland
6. Corey Conners
7. Tommy Fleetwood
8. Patrick Cantlay
9. Brian Harman
10. Tom Kim
11. Aaron Rai
12. Shane Lowry
13. Ludvig Aberg
14. Tony Finau
15. Tom Hoge
16. Sahith Theegala
17. Christiaan Bezuidenhout
18. Robert MacIntyre
19. Russell Henley
20. Si Woo Kim

2024 Open Championship Picks

Jon Rahm +2500 (FanDuel)

I’ve resisted the temptation to bet Jon Rahm at a major thus far in 2024, but now seems like the right time to take a swing at one of the world’s most talented players at what I believe is a very fair number.

Rahm would be the first to tell you he’s had a relatively weak season by his extremely lofty standards, but he’d also tell you that he’s one major away from a great season. It hasn’t been all bad on LIV thus far for Rahm. He’s finished in the top ten in all but one of his LIV starts, and the one where he failed to do so was because of an injury.

The Spaniard seems to be healthy now, and heads to a major that he’s been excellent at over the course of his career. In his last four Open Championships, he’s finished T11, T3, T34, T2 respectively. He’s been fantastic on the coast and on links tracks, and Royal Troon should suit him well.

Rahm didn’t finish as well as he’d hoped at LIV Andalucia (T10), but there were some positives to take away from the performance. He ranked 1st on the week in greens in regulation and 16th in total birdies. He ranks 4th in the field in Strokes Gained: Total in windy conditions, 13th in Strokes Gained: Total at Major Championships and 15th in Strokes Gained: Total on Links courses.

Rahm may not be having his best season, but if he gets in contention over the weekend, he’s more than capable of beating anybody in the world.

Tommy Fleetwood +2500 (FanDuel)

It’s been frustrating at times backing Tommy Fleetwood to win golf tournaments, but I’ll be giving him one last shot at the Open Championship this week. His inability to cross the line and win events is undeniable, but he’s been one of the best Open Championship players of his generation.

Over his past five Open’s, the Englishman boasts finishes of T12, 2, T33, T4 and T10 respectively. Last year, Tommy was in the final pairing on Saturday before Brian Harman ran away with the tournament, so the T10 doesn’t tell the whole story of how well he played.

The week calls for some wind, rain and chilly temperatures, which should suit Fleetwood well. As hard of a time as he’s had winning in the U.S., he’s been very solid in the UK. He had six DP World Tour victories and has beaten some world class players in doing so.

Fleetwood has been one of the best major championship players in the world over the past three seasons. In his past 36 major rounds, he ranks 6th in Strokes Gained: Total, only trailing Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa and Will Zalatoris. He’s played his best golf in the biggest events and has risen to the occasion against the best of the best.

Tommy is one of the best links players on the planet and can change the narrative that he can’t close with a win at Royal Troon Golf Club this week.

Viktor Hovland +3000 (DraftKings)

I believe in the long-term ceiling of Viktor Hovland about as much as I do for any player in the world. 2024 hasn’t gone according to plan for the 26-year-old, but that doesn’t change the fact that he’s a top-5 talent in the field.

Hovland has missed the cut in two of his three major starts this year but had a chance to win the PGA Championship deep into his final round on Sunday. He also finished T15 at the Memorial Tournament a week later, so has shown flashes of the form that won him the 2023 Tour Championship.

The betting odds for Hovland have risen to a point where I feel it’s an auto bet for the foreseeable future at this number. He ranks 8th in Strokes Gained: Total at majors and has four top-7 finishes in majors since 2022. He’s also been excellent in Open Championships. Over his last three Open’s he’s finishes no worse than T13, with his best being a T4 in 2022.

I trust Hovland on links in the wind and I have no doubts that he is a viable threat to win this week’s Open Championship.

Joaquin Niemann +6600 (BetRivers)

Joaquin Niemann has been disappointing in majors so far throughout his career, but his talent is simply too great to ignore at deeper prices on the odds board.

In addition to the enormous talent of Niemann, I also believe the course fit for Royal Troon is too strong to ignore. The Chilean has a lower ball flight and is a fantastic wind player. In his past 36 rounds, he ranks 17th in Strokes Gained: Total in windy conditions.

Niemann has been great on LIV and is first in the individual standings. He’s won two events and has three additional top-3 finishes on the season as well. He started slowly last week at LIV Andalucia but finished strong, posting rounds of 68 and 69 on Saturday and Sunday at Valderrama. The week played windy and difficult and therefore should serve as a solid warmup for Niemann heading into the season’s final major.

The questions on whether or not Niemann has what it takes to perform in majors are fair to this point, but I’m betting on the talent once again.

Louis Oosthuizen +6500 (FanDuel)

I bet Louis a few months back at 130-1 and he was 110-1 as recently as Sunday on plenty of books, however, the number has taken a Monday dive.

The Oosthuizen popularity is warranted, as he can most definitely still compete with the world’s best on certain golf courses, with Royal Troon being one of them. The South African has had his best season since 2021, which is a year that saw him finish in the top-3 of three of the year’s four majors. This season, four top-five finishes on LIV to go along with two DP World Tour wins last fall.

Oosthuizen has finished in the top-20 in three of his last four Open Championships, and of course, won The Open at St. Andrews back in 2010. Opens have been kind to older players, and at 41 years of age, it may be the only one of the four majors in which Louis can still truly contend.

Don’t let the LIV “retirement” narratives fool you, Louis is still a good golfer who can contend at Royal Troon.

Akshay Bhatia +12500 (FanDuel)

It still may be too early for Akshay Bhatia to win a major, but at triple-digit odds, the 22-year-old is absolutely worth a punt with how talented he is. Bhatia has the upside to be a future top-5 player in the world and has shown in 2024 that the enormous hype he received as a teenager was warranted.

Bhatia comes into the Open Championship scorching hot. After winning in April, Akshay has once again hit his stride and finished in the top 22 in his last four events, culminating with a T2 in his most recent start at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. He missed a short putt to win, but that is part of the growing and maturation process of a young player.

It’s early in his career, but Bhatia has already shown the world he’s one of the most reliable players on the PGA Tour when it gets windy. He’s also a prolific birdie-maker, so if the scoring is easier than expected this week, he can keep up with the scoring.

Bhatia is a high upside play that could pay huge dividends if he brings his best stuff with him across the pond.

*Featured image courtesy of LIV Golf*

Driver: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Max (8.5 degrees)
Shaft: Project X HZRDUS Black 60 TX

3-wood: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Max (15 degrees)
Shaft: Project X HZRDUS T1100 70 6.5

7-wood: TaylorMade Stealth (21 degrees)
Shaft: Project X HZRDUS Smoke Green 90 6.5 TX

Irons: PXG 0317 CB Raw (4-9)
Shaft: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100

Wedges: PXG Sugar Daddy II (48-10S, 50-12S, 56-12S, 60-07)
Shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 (48), True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 (50-60)

Putter: Odyssey Ai-One #5 DB
Grip: SuperStroke Pistol Lock 1.0

Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet Cord

Ball: Titleist Pro V1

See more in-hand photos of Michael Johnson’s clubs here.

Today, Callaway is officially announcing the retail launch of its Opus and Opus Platinum wedges and pulling back the curtain on the most tour-tested, tour-validated wedge in company history in the process.

2024 Callaway Opus wedges: What’s new, key technology

Spin Gen Face Technology

Callaway engineers combine three elements for what they’re calling “Spin Gen Face Technology.” More grooves are present on the face thanks to decreasing the distance between each groove. As with previous designs, engineers also leverage offset groove-in-groove design for more spin, particularly on open-face shots. Finally, the face has been aggressively blasted with quartz to create additional roughness. The sum total of all these elements? More spin, particularly from the rough and in wet conditions, as well as lower launch.

Tour feedback

As a result of extensive testing and input from tour professionals, Opus wedges feature a higher toe peak, refined leading edge radius, and smooth hosel transition for what the company calls its “best wedge shape ever.” Owing to professional input, Callaway offers Opus wedges with a full range of grinds.

2024 Callaway Opus wedges: Additional model details

Opus Platinum wedges

In addition to the standard Opus wedge, Callaway is also unveiling premium MiM (metal injection molded) Opus Platinum wedges. The wedges feature 17 grams of tungsten bonded high in the topline of the club for lower launch with more spin as well as a proprietary blend of metals in the body of the club for optimum feel and performance.

What Callaway says

On the name…Paul Winterhalter – Product Manager: There is an art to the game, and we really felt this quote summarized what this product really meant: where the art meets science. So, with that, introducing the new name for our franchise of wedges is Opus. In general, the name has an air of elegance to it. There’s a sense of beauty, and especially as you look at the product and we get these in your hands, you’ll see that there really is just a new look, just a beautiful sense to them. They’re quite elegant…for us, there was a ton of time and effort put into this product, and we really felt that the product was befitting of the name Opus.

On the different design mentality…Brian Herr – R&D Manager, Wedges: “We started with a different mentality this time. We didn’t design a wedge and then bring it out and see what they thought. We started from the ground up, we started with shaping. We had multiple different shapes that we brought out and showed, we got their feedback, we iterated, we got their feedback, we iterated again. So, we really let the Tour players design this product to a shape they wanted. And then after we got a shape that we loved, we started on the sole grind. So, there’s notes here all over of what Dean tested and what he built and how he went about making products for players and getting their feedback. But really, it was 18 months in the making of going and testing and then iterating and then going back out, getting as many players as feedback as we could and helping them to have them help us design it.”

On the available grinds…Paul Winterhalter: “Looking at the grind offerings, as wedges go, this is crucial for us. On the right-hand side, we have the S and W grinds where we do the lion’s share of sales. The S is our standard everyday grind with a standard sole, while the W has a wider, more forgiving full sole…We also wanted to create a product that’s a better fit for better players, so we introduced the T grind, which is new, and the C grind.

Brian Herr: The T grind is narrow and sits low to the ground, incredible for open-faced shots, particularly for players who pick the ball cleanly without taking a divot. On the other hand, the C grind is a departure from what we’ve done before, designed to keep the leading edge low when opening the face, suitable for versatile shot-making from various lies. The wider sole in the C grind provides better feedback through the turf compared to the T grind. Both grinds cater to skilled players who want to make any shot around the green.

On the Opus Platinum wedge design…Paul Winterhalter: The Opus Platinum looks super premium with MIM (Metal Injection Molding) lines in the back and elevated curb appeal. As a quick elevator pitch, we have the Spin Gen face technology as with Opus and Tour-validated shaping so those are kind of baked into the product. But what we’re doing to take it up another level is that trajectory control using tungsten. And then that unique MIM construction. We’ve talked about this already but through a large amount of tungsten being bonded into that topline to help the CG placement…and the next piece of that is the Metal Injection Molding – it’s not caste, it’s not forged, it’s kind of something new for us.

Brian Herr: MiM is a different way to manufacture, it’s more precise, and it also provides better feel. We’ve done extensive testing on MIM versus other manufacturing methods. MIM dampens better than other materials even the same material in different methods. MIM is a better dampener, so you’re going to notice a premium good, soft feel.

Pricing, specs, and availability

• Price: Opus ($179.99), Opus Plantium ($229.99)
• Pre-sale: 7/19
• At retail: 7/26
• Opus finishes: Brushed chrome, black shadow
• Opus Platinum finishes: Blue, chrome
• Stock shafts: True Temper Dynamic Gold MID 115 grams (steel), UST Recoil DART HDC 65 grams (graphite)
• Stock grip: Golf Pride Tour Velvet +2 Gray

Full Callaway Opus specs

Callaway Opus

Callaway Opus Platinum 

Barkley’s quirky swing, which is much improved in recent years, still leaves a bit to be desired.

Over the weekend, a video of Barkley golfing was taken, and the 61-year-old was pretty hard on himself after a bad shot.

Just a warning, the following content is NSFW.

Charles Barkley HOT mic ?? ?

? “God dammit, you fat F—K!!” ?

pic.twitter.com/qWVs5xUOPO

— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) July 14, 2024

More from the 19th Hole

Viktor Hovland is among the stars who chose to stay on the PGA Tour. While speaking with The Times, the Norwegian explained his decision.

“I have no hard feelings against the guys that went. I completely understand because there are a lot of grey areas at the moment but, for me, I did not think their product was appealing enough to go. Obviously, they’re throwing out a lot of money, but I’ve already made a lot of money. I’m not a very materialistic person. It’s nice to make life easier for yourself, but that’s not what gets me up in the morning.”

“At the end of the day, the question is ‘What’s going to make me a better player?’ And hey, in 20 years, if I’m on the back end of my career, playing LIV Golf wouldn’t be too bad. It might have been a pretty cool opportunity but, right now, it’s something I think I’d probably look back [on] and regret.”

Hovland seems content with his decision to stay on the PGA Tour but added that he does wish the PGA Tour was more transparent with the players when the LIV threat surfaced.

“A lot of the players I’ve talked to want more transparency. And if you claim you’re representing our best interests, you at least meet with the people involved.

“Now we’re in this stalemate or whatever you want to call it, but it’s not something that required the prediction of 20 different chess moves.

“I’m not a guy that just wants to blindly follow people and be told what to do,” he said. “I want to understand everything.”

Hovland will tee it up this week at Royal Troon with sights set on his first major championship.

More from the 19th Hole

To say that the drama was real is an understatement. Eagles and birdies won two tournaments on the final hole, and one event finished with a five-golfer playoff that lasted three holes and 36 shots. The one competition that concluded with a four-shot win was tame by comparison. It’s mid-season and it’s total tour golf. Time for another Tour Rundown.

LPGA @ Evian Championship: Furious Finish from Furue

Ayaka Furue made a run at the past two US Open championships, finishing T6 at both tournaments. She made an even bigger run at the fourth LPGA major championship of 2024, the Evian. Furue held the lead after two rounds, only to find herself one behind Stephanie Kyriacou through the end of day three. The top pair did mighty battle on day four, with Kyriacou closing with 67 to reach 18 under par. Her finish included three birdies over the final four holes, marred only by a bogey at the penultimate green.

Unfortunately for Kyriacou, Furue made a trio of birdies of her own down the stretch, made a par at 17, then closed with a thunderous eagle at the last, to win the title by one slim stroke. The win was Furue’s second on the LPGA circuit, coming nearly two years after her inaugural win, at the 2022 Scottish Open. For Kyriacou, the Evian was a painful step closer to her first LPGA win. The solo second represents her first top-five finish on the tour.

An incredible eagle finish for @kodebuchanayaka to win her first major at @EvianChamp ? pic.twitter.com/gNZ5BhFM07

— LPGA (@LPGA) July 14, 2024

DP World Tour/PGA Tour @ Scottish Open: Mighty Mac wins Scottish for country

Adam Scott appeared to have his hands around a comeback victory at the Rennaissance Club in North Berwick, Scotland. The Australian held the lead in the closing moments, but Robert MacIntyre came from nearly nowhere, to bring victory to his countrymen.

Scott teed off in the penultimate pairing, with American Collin Morikawa, and posted 67 to reach 17 under par. The final duo contained MacIntyre, who electrified the assemblage with a 16th-hole eagle, surging into a tie with Scott. On the 18th hole, the same one that Rory McIlroy birdied last year for victory, MacIntyre ripped driver into the right rough, then ripped his approach to 22 feet. With nothing but homeland glory on the line, the lefty dropped his putt for three and a one-shot win over Scott. In the space of two months, MacIntyre has climbed from the ranks of decent tour players to proven winners. He certainly emerges as one of the favorites for this week’s Open Championship at Royal Troon.

What a shot @robert1lefty!! ???????

After a lucky break, MacIntyre joins the lead after an eagle on the 16th.#GenesisScottishOpen | #RolexSeries pic.twitter.com/jBRJS6mAdA

— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) July 14, 2024

Korn Ferry Tour @ The Ascendant: Del Solar is no longer “just” Mr. 57

Cristobal Del Solar is a mighty talent from the world’s thinnest country. The Chilean was known best for his four PGA Tour Americas titles, and the 57 that he shot in February of 2024, at the Colombian stop on the Korn Ferry Tour. After a 22-under-par performance at TPC Colorado this week, Del Solar now adds another line to his Wikipedia entry: tour champion. Del Solar outpaced runners-up Brian Campbell and Matthew Riedel by four shots, to win for the first time on the KFT.

Del Solar had just four bogeys on the week in the elite air of the Rocky Mountains. He nearly matched that number with eagles, including two on the closing day. The champion reached the 646-yard fifth in two mighty strokes, then holed a 33-foot putt for the rare bird. He followed that master sequence with another, at the 585-yard 15th. Despite the watery beckons on the right, Del Solar again reached the putting surface in two, then sent a 40-foot effort to the bottom of the tin. He added birdies at 16 and 18, turning a compelling finish into a runaway victory.

Cristobal Del Solar is back on top??

A 39-foot eagle gives him a two-stroke lead @AscendantGolf. pic.twitter.com/LsJa0htlMB

— Korn Ferry Tour (@KornFerryTour) July 14, 2024

PGA Tour Champions @ Kaulig: With no Bert in sight, Ernie takes care of business

Since he turned 50 in 2020, Theodore Ernie Els had finished inside the top ten in 12 senior major events. Until Sunday the 14th of July, he had not hoisted a single, senior major trophy. That all ended when he outlasted a field at the Kaulig (nee Senior Players) Championship at Firestone. Els was pitted in a duel with perennial finisher Steve Stricker, until the Wisconsin stalwart went bogey-triple at the 14th and 15th holes on day four. The path to the top was cleared a bit for Els, but then Y.E. Yang arrived on the scene. The 2009 PGA Champion reached 10-under on the week at the 69th hole, but bogeyed number 72 to finish at nine deep.

Els appeared to not want the title that much when he made bogey at the par-five 16th hole, falling to minus ten. He dug deep himself, however, and managed a pair of pars to hold off Yang by one shot. Jerry Kelly finished third on minus-seven, while Stricker and K.J. Choi finished T4 at six under par.

A perfect drive on 18 from @TheBig_Easy ?

Ernie Els needs a par to secure the win @KauligChamp. pic.twitter.com/KuFFgTz6nR

— PGA TOUR Champions (@ChampionsTour) July 14, 2024

PGA Tour @ ISCO: Hall (no Oates) emerges from crowd with win

No true fan of golf considers the Open Championship to be THE event of July. It’s tournaments like the ISCO, where the grinders and journeymen find salvation, security, glory, and truth, that define the essence of professional sport. Once again on Sunday, the fairway fighters of men’s professional golf took to the corridors of Keene Trace to find the magic that extends careers, defines them, and encourages their inauguration.

Harry Hall is a 26-year-old competitor from England. Before he could consider the football match between his home country and Spain, the UNLV alumnus had other business to sort. Hall found himself in second place after 54 holes, one shot out of the lead. Trouble was, a number of other, hungry golfers also posed a challenge. Among them were leader Pierceson Coody, golfer-turned-architect-turned-golfer Zac Blair, Rico Hoey, and Matt NeSmith. Four golfers would reach 20-under par, but that labor would earn them but a four-way tie for sixth.

The aforementioned quintet, with Sunday numbers like 69, 64, 64, 69, and 70, would meet at the crossroads of 22-under and tied for first. Hoey and NeSmith each made bogey at the last, to fall to that status, while Coody and Blair made closing birdies to rise up. Only Hall made par at the final, regulation green. Three holes later, he would also stand alone. Bogeys at the 18th in overtime meant a farewell cap tip for Hoey and Blair. After the surviving triumvirate again made pars during round two at the watery closer, the playoff shifted to the par-three ninth. Both Coody and NeSmith missed the green left, then pitched within ten feet for par. They never had a chance to hit their putts.

With all the improbability that a 45-feet chip brings, Hall found landing spot, line, and pace, then merged the three for the perfect stroke. He drained the recovery shot for a deuce and a first PGA Tour victory. On to Royal Troon!

One of the shots of the year! ?
@HarryHall just chipped in for his first career PGA TOUR win @ISCOChamp! pic.twitter.com/B8PpxmYGbh

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) July 15, 2024