When Tiger Woods was considering an endorsement deal with Nike, he took his sweet time in deciding if Nike clubs were right for his game. He ultimately decided they were, as most all of the clubs in his bag are made by Nike. Other professional golfers are no different.
Below are ten of the world's top professionals, including Tiger. Amateur Michelle Wie is also included because she is a standout female player, given her youth. This month, the drivers they have recently used are uncovered. One thing about professionals, they change clubs as often as amateurs.
David Howell (ENG, World #15) - Cleveland Launcher COMP, 9.5 degree
Davis Love, III (USA, World #16) - Titleist Pro Titanium 905R, 7.5 degree loft
Lorena Ochoa (MEX, World #2) - Ping G5, 7.5 degree loft
Phil Mickelson (USA, World #4) - Callaway FT-5, 9.5 degree loft
Annika Sorenstam (SWE, World #1) - Callaway Fusion FT 3, 8.5 degree loft
Adam Scott (AUS, World #3) - Titleist Pro Titanium 905R, 8.5 degree loft
Vijay Singh (FIJ, World #5) - Cleveland HiBORE XL, 9.5 degree loft
Mike Weir (CAN, World #45) - Taylor Made r7 quad HT, 10.5 degree loft
Michelle Wie (USA, World #11) - Nike SasQuatch, 8.5 degree loft
Tiger Woods (USA, Universe #1) - Nike SasQuatch Tour 460cc, 8.5 degree loft
As is shown from this selection of top golfers, there isn't a clear "most popular" brand or style. With amateurs and professionals alike, the decision comes down to the club that fits their game and will produce the best results.
Next month's professional club selection article will focus on ten more top players and their fairway wood choices. With fairway woods, the decision is even tougher. There are a variety of lofts to choose from and the wood selection impacts, or is impacted by, the irons they carry.
It would be naive to think that a sweet endorsement deal doesn't impact the clubs they play; however, choosing the wrong clubs purely for the sake of a contract would negatively impact or derail a career.
For some of this year's hottest clubs and equipment unveiled at the PGA Merchandise Show in January, read New Golf Equipment. Also visit, Suite 101Golf Equipment Index for easy access to all our equipment-related information.