Imagine a 23-year-old rookie stepping onto the global golf stage and not just competing, but dominating. That's exactly what Elvis Smylie, the newest sensation from Ripper GC, did at the ROSHN Group LIV Golf Riyadh. But here's where it gets even more impressive: in his league debut, Smylie didn't just win—he did it with a bogey-free, final-round 8-under 64, edging out none other than Legion XIII Captain Jon Rahm by a single shot. This wasn't just a victory; it was a statement. And this is the part most people miss: behind every great golfer is a meticulously curated set of equipment that helps them achieve greatness. So, what exactly was in Smylie's bag during this historic win? Let's dive into the details.
Smylie's performance was a masterclass in ball-striking and precision on the greens, leaving fans and critics alike in awe. His breakout win wasn’t just about skill—it was about the tools he trusted to deliver under pressure. Here’s a breakdown of the equipment that helped him clinch his first LIV Golf title:
Driver: Smylie relied on the Titleist GT3 with a 10° loft, paired with a Fujikura Ventus Blue 6 X shaft. This combination provided the power and control needed to dominate off the tee.
3 Wood: His go-to fairway wood was the Ping G440 MAX with a 15° loft, equipped with a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft. This setup ensured consistency and distance on those crucial second shots.
Irons: Smylie’s iron setup was a mix of precision and versatility. He used the Titleist T200 for his 3-iron and the Titleist T100 for irons 4 through 9. The shafts varied, with Nippon NS Pro Modus3 Tour 120 X-Flex for irons 3-6, 8, and 9, and a stiffer Nippon NS Pro Modus3 Tour 120 TX for the 7-iron. This blend allowed him to fine-tune his approach shots with unmatched accuracy.
Wedges: For short-game mastery, Smylie turned to the Titleist Vokey SM10 wedges with lofts of 46°, 56°, 58°, and 60°. These wedges gave him the control needed to navigate the tricky greens of Riyadh Golf Club.
Putter: His flatstick of choice was the Titleist Scotty Cameron Newport GSS, a blade-style putter known for its precision and feel. This putter was the secret weapon behind his clutch putts throughout the tournament.
Golf Ball: Smylie trusted the Titleist Pro V1x Plus to deliver the performance he needed from tee to green. Its design provided the perfect balance of distance and spin, complementing his aggressive yet calculated playing style.
But here's the controversial part: While Smylie's win is undeniable, some critics argue that his equipment played as big a role as his talent. Is it the golfer or the gear that makes the champion? What do you think? Did Smylie's equipment give him an unfair advantage, or was it simply the perfect complement to his natural ability? Let us know in the comments below. One thing’s for sure: Elvis Smylie’s debut has set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying career. Keep an eye on this rising star—he’s just getting started.
