MIAMI — Love or hate LIV Golf, there’s no denying the excitement in the air at Blue Monster with big names like Bryson, Rahm, Brooks, and Niemann gracing the course. LIV brings a unique energy to professional golf events, one that feels both inviting and refreshing for creators. This marks my second LIV event—my first was the LIV Bedminster back in 2023—and I haven’t experienced a dull moment. It’s just plain fun.
Adding to the buzz this week are the YouTube sensations who have taken center stage for LIV’s pre-tournament spectacle, The Duals. Influencers such as Grant Horvat, George and Wesley Bryan, Fat Perez, Luke Kwon, and Rick Shiels are teaming up with pros for a showdown that will be featured on Horvat’s popular YouTube channel, which boasts over a million subscribers.
The teams for this thrilling exhibition are as follows:
– Sergio Garcia paired with George Bryan
– Bubba Watson teaming up with Luke Kwon
– Joaquin Niemann alongside Rick Shiels
– Phil Mickelson with Grant Horvat
– Dustin Johnson and Wesley Bryan
– Cameron Smith streaking out with Fat Perez
The event on Tuesday and Wednesday offers content creators and invited guests a rare chance for close interaction. The atmosphere is relaxed, the golf course is top-notch, and players are in good spirits. As a self-proclaimed gear nerd, I was thrilled to peek into players’ bags and check out some rare clubs. For photos and videos of my finds, check out my Instagram. Among everything I saw, a few clubs really stood out.
#### Bryson DeChambeau’s Avoda and LA Golf Prototype Irons
Bryson’s irons are deserving of their own saga, but for now, let’s focus. Known for his natural draw, Bryson’s goal is to perfect his toe strikes, aligning them with his in-to-out swing path while curbing his tendency to veer left. The irons feature curvature or bulge on the face, allowing Bryson to swing confidently to the right while ensuring even toe shots stay on course. When Bryson’s path is too in-to-out and the handle rises, it can spell disaster without the right gear adjustment. Remember, he’s still using a one-length setup, which plays a crucial role in his unique gameplay style. His unmatched speed is a factor, but his methods could apply to all of us if we take the time to understand and adapt.
Stay tuned—I’ve got a deep dive with Bryson on the agenda soon!
#### Phil Mickelson’s Machine-Milled Callaway X-Forged Irons
For fans of golf equipment, Phil Mickelson’s custom Callaway X-Forged irons are a true masterpiece. Known for persuading Callaway to create exclusive sets for him, he’s at it again with these captivating clubs. These machine-milled sets carry a hefty price tag—enough to buy a nice car or Trackman—but they’re worth the cost. Phil’s unique design includes custom sole grinds for smoother turf interaction. While the basic version of these clubs includes some back edge relief and front bounce, Phil’s customization adds a little extra. His set is completed with MCA MMT Proto 115TX shafts.
#### Joaquin Niemann’s Ping G430 5 Hybrid
Niemann is blazing fast, with a ball speed of 185 mph. Seeing a 5-hybrid where you’d expect a 4-iron is surprising, but it makes sense for him. Ping Tour rep Spencer Rothleubber explains: “Joaco, despite his low launch style, generates mid-spin, contrary to many shaft-leaners who struggle with overspin. His attack angle is downward but remains shallow, resulting in low launch with a need for spin to maintain elevation.” It’s no wonder his longest iron is a 5-iron hybrid, carrying up to 230 yards in the air with a mid-to-high spin rate in the 4000s.
#### Wesley Bryan’s Two 4-Irons
Knowing Wes, his setup of two different 4-irons isn’t a shocker. Since his Takomo deal last year, he discovered a groundbreaking move in his club bag—a 4-iron beautifully suited as a “5-iron” when bent back two degrees, offering forgiveness, height, and distance. But why stick with 4-iron? Because Wesley hits longer with the T200 4-iron, making it an ideal choice, versatile enough to travel 225-240 yards while providing optimal launch and spin. Moral of the story? Get fitted!
My bags are packed with more content from Doral. For real-time updates, follow me on Instagram @Johnny_wunder and @fully_equipped. If you’re planning to upgrade your golf gear for 2025, find a club-fitting spot near you at True Spec Golf.
I’m Johnny Wunder, your guide to all things golf gear. In my pursuit of the ultimate swing, I bring the stories of new and innovative golf equipment to passionate golfers everywhere. Stay tuned for more insights from the world of golf.
