Someone failed to remember to inform Max Homa concerning the understanding contour that generally exists when transitioning right into a brand-newgolf ball It’s intended to require time to totally rely on something various, specifically in an affordable setup.
In Homa’s situation, he changed from Titleist’s 2021 Pro V1 right into the 2023 variation and also really did not miss a beat, obtaining a mixed 10 strokes on the area, in Strokes Gained, en course to the sixth PGA Tour win of his job at theFarmers Insurance Open
“Ball changes are hard because I always have to ask [Titleist Tour rep J.J. Van Wezenbeeck] what is [the new ball] supposed to do differently because I wouldn’t be able to notice,” Homa stated on GOLF’s Fully Equipped podcast. “I feel like there’s such a fine line when you’re switching within the same model. I’d notice if I switched to a different model completely.”
Coming off a period where he won two times, Homa remained in no thrill to switch over rounds. During screening at the Titleist Performance Institute the week before the Torrey Pines, Homa obtained his very first take a look at the2023 Pro V1 For one of the most component, the brand-new variation had not been all that various from the 2019 variation he was currently playing. According to Homa, it had the very same feeling with the brief irons, around the environment-friendly and also with the putter.
But as Homa remained to go up his iron collection, he saw enhancements that stuck out. While the spin at first went down when he struck the 4- and also 6-iron– something most pros do not intend to see with the lengthy irons– any type of worries were abated as Homa tried to lift the ball right into the air.
“I could see [J.J.] and [my coach Mark Blackburn] were a little concerned [with the spin],” Homa stated. “Then they asked me to try and hit one really high, and once I showed them I could do that, they were good.”
Having the capability to differ the trip on command would certainly become vital as Homa browsed his method aroundTorrey Before he tipped foot on the premises to complete, he made a journey with caddie Joe Greiner and also a number of buddies to Rancho Santa Fe Country Club to play 9 openings and also see just how the equipment stood up.
Max Homa isn’t typical. He’s much more fascinating than that
Dylan Dethier
“I wasn’t really thinking much about the golf ball until I got to 8,” Homa remembered. “I had 230 yards way up a hill to a front pin and hit this big, high 4-iron that stopped really fast. I looked at [my caddie Joe Greiner] and said, ‘Oh, OK!” That was type of the very first examination for me. I called J.J. and also stated, ‘I’m mosting likely to make use of the golf ball.'”
The solitary 4-iron shot would certainly secure the bargain on Homa having fun 2023 Pro V1 throughout the occasion. What Homa really did not recognize was just how vital the 4-iron and also brand-new ball would certainly be down the stretch on Sunday as he managed 2 seriously vital shots on the back 9 with the competition in the equilibrium.
“Lo and behold, I hit two of the best 4-iron of my life on 11 and 16 during the final round,” he stated. “I didn’t think of it while I was playing, but when I was done, I was like, dang that’s pretty ironic and cool. I threw it as high as I could on 11. And then on 16, I wanted it to be kinda flat to get through the wind.”
Having the capability to rely on the equipment guaranteed is critical for any type of Tour pro. For Homa, having the ability to do it in the warm of the fight with something new confirmed his choice to switch over. It likewise verified his idea that the brand-new ball was much better than what he ‘d formerly had in play.
The evidence remains in the equipment (and also check) Homa took house.
Want to revamp your bag for 2022? Find a suitable area near you at GOLF’s associate firm True Spec Golf For much more on the current equipment information and also details, look into our newest Fully Equipped podcast.
