The young golf sensation Elvis Smylie made a breathtaking entrance into the world of professional golf, leaving a lasting impression on his peers and fans alike. But what's in his bag that helped him secure his first-ever LIV Golf title at the ROSHN Group LIV Golf Riyadh?
On February 7, 2026, the 23-year-old rookie from Ripper GC stunned the golf world with a flawless final round. He carded an 8-under 64, finishing one shot ahead of the Legion XIII Captain, Jon Rahm, at the Riyadh Golf Club. Smylie's performance was a testament to his exceptional ball-striking skills and green mastery.
Let's take a closer look at the equipment that contributed to this remarkable victory:
Driver: Smylie trusted the Titleist GT3 driver with a 10° loft, paired with a Fujikura Ventus Blue 6 X shaft, to deliver powerful and accurate drives.
3 Wood: His choice of fairway wood was the Ping G440 MAX with a 15° loft and a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft, ensuring consistent and long-range shots.
Irons: For his irons, Smylie opted for a blend of Titleist models. He carried the T200 (3-iron) and T100 (4-9 irons), fitted with Nippon NS Pro Modus3 Tour 120 shafts in X-Flex for the 3-6 and 8-9 irons, and TX for the 7-iron.
Wedges: The Titleist Vokey SM10 wedges, in lofts of 46°, 56°, 58°, and 60°, provided Smylie with the versatility to execute a range of shots around the green.
Putter: The Titleist Scotty Cameron Newport GSS blade putter was his weapon of choice on the greens, offering precision and control.
Golf Ball: Smylie's ball of choice was the Titleist Pro V1x Plus, a popular model known for its performance and feel.
And here's a fun fact: all this equipment data comes courtesy of the World Tour Survey, providing an insightful glimpse into the tools of a champion.
But here's where it gets intriguing: was it Smylie's raw talent, his strategic club selection, or a combination of both that led to his triumph? The debate is open, and we'd love to hear your thoughts. Do you think the equipment plays a significant role in a golfer's success, or is it primarily about skill and technique? Share your opinions in the comments below!