American golfer Michael Kim took to X to explain how players’ new club deals work.
It’s the beginning of the year and you’ll see some players with new club deals.
There are a few things you need to know when it comes to new club deals for players, which include a required set of clubs usually at least 10-13 with the driver as a requirement. While some have other requirements like putters or wedges as well, players can fill in the rest however they like.
Back in the day, there used to be a bit more piece-by-piece deals. Meaning woods with one company, but irons with another. Those deals are basically all gone. Companies across the board have all gone to a full line as they call it. Drivers are almost always a must as it is usually their most marketed product.
Golf balls: Most companies now require their full-line players to use their golf balls. Obviously companies that don’t make golf balls don’t have that in their contract.
Golf balls can be tricky because players from my generation have it rooted deep in our minds that the Titleist ProV1 is the best golf ball (and it of course is).
Golf balls are used on every single golf shot, and are the most important equipment. I’ve used the ProV1 since high school and have never looked back. This is the case for many many players.
Changing equipment from a company a player has had success with is really a big commitment. A player can test all they want on a range or on their home course but it is never the same for tournament golf. I’ve heard of many stories where a player loved their new equipment on the range and golf course but during tournament play, it didn’t react the way they wanted and struggled for a while.
The first few tournaments are really important. It becomes an issue if you see a miss you’re not used to seeing with a new club. The thought of “was that me” or “was that the club” inevitably creeps into the player’s mind. It’s a hard feeling to fight off. But if you get off to a good start, those doubts don’t weigh on you nearly as much. I do also firmly believe that the gap between all the companies has lessened.
I remember I played with Maverick Mcnealy at the start of 2024 and mid-2024 and he was struggling with his full swing. He couldn’t figure it out until he tried out a new driver and it fit him perfectly. Everything else fell into place and led to his best year of his career.
Why do players even sign equipment deals?
Unless you’re a top-10 player, the equipment deal will most likely be your biggest sponsor. When most of your income isn’t guaranteed, it’s a comforting feeling to have some guaranteed cash heading into the year. Plus, if you like their clubs, it’s a win win.
A player playing with no deal has no guarantee that mixing club companies will equate to better scores so it’s a no-brainer for some.
Also, the attention to detail when a player is on staff can be different. When a player is a free agent, they naturally get put behind their staffed guys.
It’s the beginning of the year and you’ll see some players with new club deals.
Here’s how club deals work
— Michael S. Kim (@Mike_kim714) January 2, 2025
