Golf fans around the world were surprised to see Tiger Woods make a significant change to his equipment setup at the U.S. Open. Known for his consistent use of a 5-wood in recent years, Woods opted to replace it with a 2-iron for this particular tournament. This shift in his bag setup raised eyebrows among spectators and analysts alike, prompting speculation about the reasoning behind this decision.
In 2024, Woods has been experimenting with a mixed set of irons, including a TaylorMade P770 3-iron from 2023 and TaylorMade P7TW blades (4-PW). These irons are equipped with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 shafts, providing Woods with the performance and feel he desires. With the addition of the 2-iron at the U.S. Open, Woods is aiming to fine-tune his game and adapt to the challenges presented by the course at Pinehurst No. 2.
The 2-iron that Woods introduced to his bag is a 2021 version of TaylorMade’s P770 iron model, complemented by a True Temper Dynamic Gold MID X100 shaft. This shaft is designed to offer a lighter feel and promote a slightly higher launch compared to his standard iron shafts. Woods previously used this 2-iron setup at the 2022 PGA Championship at Southern Hills, demonstrating his trust in this configuration under challenging conditions.
While the absence of the 5-wood in Woods’ bag may seem curious to some, the strategic nature of the Pinehurst No. 2 course could be a factor influencing his decision. With a layout that leans towards a links-style setup and strategic bunkering around landing areas off the tee, Woods may have opted for the versatility and control offered by the 2-iron. This adjustment reflects Woods’ meticulous approach to course management and his willingness to adapt to varying playing conditions.
In addition to the changes in Woods’ long game setup, he has also introduced two new TaylorMade MG4 “Proto” wedges to his bag. These wedges feature unique sole grinds tailored to the challenging chipping areas and ultradwarf bermudagrass greens at Pinehurst No. 2. By equipping himself with specialized wedges, Woods is preparing to tackle the distinct short game challenges presented by the course and elevate his performance in critical scoring situations.
As golf enthusiasts eagerly follow Woods’ performance at the U.S. Open, the adjustments to his equipment setup offer a glimpse into his strategic mindset and commitment to optimizing his game. With a focus on precision, control, and adaptability, Woods continues to push the boundaries of equipment customization and innovation, setting the stage for an exciting display of skill and strategy on the challenging terrain of Pinehurst No. 2.
