Key Highlights
- Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood were spotted using new TaylorMade Qi4D drivers at the Abu Dhabi Championship.
- The Qi4D drivers became eligible for use this week, as per USGA conforming list updates.
- McIlroy was seen with the standard version of Qi4D driver, while Fleetwood used the LS version during a practice round.
- GolfWRX will continue to monitor if and how these players incorporate the new drivers into their game for the upcoming tournament.
TaylorMade’s New Driver Arrival
The golfing world took notice this week as TaylorMade’s latest innovation, the Qi4D driver, officially entered the lineup for use in professional tournaments. This update came after the USGA conforming list approved the new drivers, making them eligible for play at significant events like the Abu Dhabi Championship on the DP World Tour. The timing of this approval was particularly noteworthy as it coincided with the upcoming tournament.
Spotlight on Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood
During a practice round ahead of the Abu Dhabi Championship, professional golfers Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood were spotted using these new drivers. McIlroy was observed playing with the standard version of the Qi4D driver during his preparation for the event. Meanwhile, Fleetwood opted to use the LS (Launch Speed) version, highlighting the different preferences players might have within their equipment choices.
Technical Details and Player Feedback
While not many technical details about the new Qi4D drivers are currently available, McIlroy had been using a TaylorMade Qi10 driver in his previous rounds. Similarly, Fleetwood’s recent choice was the TaylorMade Qi35 model. The upcoming Abu Dhabi Championship presents an opportunity for both players to further test and integrate these new drivers into their playing strategies.
Abu Dhabi Championship Preparation
As McIlroy and Fleetwood prepare for the opening round of the Abu Dhabi Championship on Thursday, observers will be keenly watching how they incorporate the Qi4D drivers. This event not only marks a significant milestone in TaylorMade’s product development but also provides a platform for players to experiment with new technology.
Industry Reaction and Future Implications
The adoption of these new drivers by prominent professionals like McIlroy and Fleetwood adds credibility to the Qi4D models. It signals that they are not just theoretical advancements but have practical applications in competitive play. As the Abu Dhabi Championship unfolds, golf enthusiasts will be eager to see how these technological improvements translate on the course. By monitoring the performance of these players with the new equipment, industry experts and fans alike can gain valuable insights into the potential impact of TaylorMade’s latest innovation on professional golf.
