The key club that each of the last six Masters winners had in their bag played a crucial role in their victory. Pros typically test out various gear throughout the year, but during Masters week, their bags are dialed in with the clubs they trust the most. Each year, the Masters winner has a defining “Masters Moment” that propels them to victory, often with a story behind how that specific club ended up in their bag. Let’s take a look back at the key clubs from each of the last six Masters champions and how they contributed to their wins.
In 2024, Scottie Scheffler’s TaylorMade Spider Tour X putter was instrumental in his victory. Scheffler had struggled with putting earlier in the year, trying out different blades and mallets before settling on the TaylorMade Spider Tour X L-neck. The switch to a mallet putter paid off immediately for Scheffler, helping him secure his first green jacket and go on to win seven PGA Tour titles in 2024. The Spider putter’s stability and performance, along with its True Path Alignment system and White TPU Pure Roll insert, contributed to Scheffler’s success on the greens.
The Callaway Apex ’21 TCB irons played a significant role in Jon Rahm’s victory at the 2023 Masters. Rahm’s ball-striking prowess was on full display, hitting 72% of greens for the week with his irons. The irons featured Project X 6.5 shafts that were soft-stepped one club, providing Rahm with the right amount of spin for his game. The ’24 TCB irons, which Xander Schauffele also uses, offer a tour feel and pro looks, making them popular among top players on the tour.
Scottie Scheffler’s Titleist Vokey WedgeWorks lob wedge was crucial in his victory at the 2022 Masters. Scheffler’s iconic chip-in at the 3rd hole during the final round showcased his short game skills, tying for second in scrambling for the week. The Vokey low bounce K grind on his lob wedge allowed Scheffler to execute tricky shots around the greens with precision. The wedge’s progressive center of gravity and Spin Milled grooves enhanced performance on partial shots, making it a versatile and reliable club for Scheffler.
Hideki Matsuyama’s Scotty Cameron Newport 2 Circle T GSS putter played a key role in his victory at the 2021 Masters. Matsuyama’s familiarity with the putter, along with the Scotty Cameron Studio Carbon Steel face insert and chain-link face milling technology, provided him with the soft feel and precise feedback he needed on the greens. The ace putter, with a length of 34.75 inches and a Lamkin Deep-Etched Full Cord grip, helped Matsuyama secure his first green jacket at Augusta National.
Dustin Johnson’s TaylorMade SIM driver was a crucial club in his victory at the 2020 Masters. Johnson’s driving distance and accuracy off the tee with the SIM driver played a big role in setting the tournament scoring record of 20 under par. Johnson experimented with a longer 47-inch driver build during the tournament but ultimately stuck with a 45.75-inch build to secure his second major title. The driver’s loft of 10.5 degrees and Fujikura Speeder 661 X shaft contributed to Johnson’s success off the tee.
Tiger Woods’ TaylorMade P7TW irons were instrumental in his historic victory at the 2019 Masters. Woods, known for his exacting requirements in equipment, collaborated with TaylorMade to develop a set of irons that matched his preferences. The P7TW irons featured a milled sole and tungsten slugs, providing Woods with the precise feel and performance he needed to navigate Augusta National. Woods’ exceptional ball-striking and approach play with the irons helped him secure his fifth green jacket and complete one of the greatest comebacks in sports history.
In conclusion, the key clubs in a player’s bag often play a significant role in their success at the Masters. From putters to irons to drivers, each club is carefully chosen and customized to meet the player’s specific needs and preferences. The stories behind how these clubs end up in the bag, along with the moments they create during the tournament, add to the magic of the Masters and showcase the importance of having the right equipment for success on the course. As we look ahead to future Masters tournaments, we can expect more players to rely on their key clubs to propel them to victory and etch their names in golfing history.
