Brooks Koepka’s Pivotal Putter Switch: Insights from the WM Phoenix Open
Brooks Koepka has a new Spider Tour X putter this week.
Photo Credit: Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Introduction
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — In the world of professional golf, equipment changes can significantly impact performance. This is especially true for Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion, who made a noteworthy switch to the TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-neck putter during the WM Phoenix Open. After a decade of relying on the Scotty Cameron Teryllium blade, this transition is aimed at enhancing his game on the greens.
Struggles on the Greens
Koepka’s decision to switch putters comes in the wake of disappointing performances on the greens. At Torrey Pines, he ranked last in Strokes Gained: Putting among those who made the cut, losing over seven strokes in just three rounds according to Shot Link Data. This prompted Koepka to seek assistance, which led him to the Scotty Cameron Gallery in Encinitas for a weekend session with Paul Vizanko, the director of Player Fitting and Development.
“Trying to get the ball in the hole,” Koepka mentioned after a Monday practice session at TPC Scottsdale. He acknowledged ongoing struggles with putting, stating, “I’ve been putting pretty poorly for the good side of two years. I don’t know what’s going on, but I’ve got to figure it out.”
The New TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-neck Putter
Key Features
- True Path Alignment: This optically-engineered system helps players visualize the line to the hole, improving aim and confidence.
- White TPU Pure Roll Insert: Made from a blend of Surlyn and aluminum, this insert offers a softer feel, promotes optimal forward roll, and enhances overall roll characteristics.
- Precision Weighting and Design: Designed for stability and forgiveness, the putter features a thin wall undercut and steel wireframe for optimal center of gravity placement.
Price: $349.99 at Fairway Jockey
Koepka’s Equipment History
Before this switch, Koepka had been using the Scotty Cameron T22 Teryllium Newport 2 putter. This model has been in his bag since its release in late 2019 and replaced a T10 Newport 2 from his college days at Florida State. While he has experimented with different models, including the Scotty Cameron Phantom X T5.5 during the 2024 Masters, he consistently returned to his beloved T22.
Equipment Snapshot
- Previous Putter: Scotty Cameron T22 Teryllium Newport 2
- New Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-neck
- Years Used: T22 since 2020
The Transition Process
Despite initially bringing four putters to his Monday practice session—two Scotty Camerons and two TaylorMade Spider Tour X models—Koepka opted to stick with his T22 during his Wednesday pro-am. However, later that day, he revealed plans to switch to the Spider Tour X. This marks the first time Koepka will use a putter without a milled face, transitioning from a blade to a more forgiving mallet design.
The Spider Tour X has proven successful for other players as well, notably Scottie Scheffler, who has achieved multiple victories using this putter model.
Performance Update
As of Thursday’s 12 holes at the Phoenix Open, Koepka struggled, finishing the day at four over par and losing two strokes on the greens, placing him 119th among 123 players. The switch has yet to yield the desired results, but it’s early in the tournament.
Conclusion
Brooks Koepka’s putter transition underscores the importance of equipment in achieving peak performance on the PGA Tour. As he adapts to the TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-neck, golf enthusiasts will be watching closely to see if this change revitalizes his game ahead of future tournaments.
For golfers looking to enhance their performance, finding the right equipment is crucial. Explore club-fitting options at True Spec Golf to discover the best putter for your game.
For further updates and news related to professional golf, stay tuned to the latest articles and expert insights.
