Max Homa is showcasing the unreleased Titleist 2-wood prototype at this week's 2024 US PGA Championship. With a solid start of -3, placing him T9 after the first day, there's buzz about whether this new addition to his equipment could be the key to his first major championship win. Despite having claimed six PGA Tour victories, Homa has yet to secure a major, with his closest attempt being a T3 finish at this year’s Masters.
At Valhalla, where players like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy are in top form, Homa's inclusion of the Titleist TSR 2-wood could provide the edge he needs. Homa first tested this club at last week’s Wells Fargo, where he achieved a T8 finish, marking it as one of his season’s best performances.
The prototype, which debuted in Cameron Young’s bag at the Players Championship, has been gaining traction among Titleist staff players, including Webb Simpson and Justin Thomas. Homa discussed how the 2-wood assists in enhancing his ability to draw the ball, a shot shape he struggles with, especially useful against left-to-right winds.
With Homa’s stats showing him ranked 106th in Strokes Gained: Off the Tee and 88th in Driving Accuracy on the PGA TOUR, the 2-wood offers alternative shot shapes off the tee, complementing his preferred Titleist TSR3 driver. This capability to shape shots more effectively is crucial, especially at Valhalla’s lengthy 7,609-yard setup.
Whilst 2-woods are not a new concept, their resurgence in the modern game has been noticeable. The TaylorMade BRNR mini driver, often used by Tommy Fleetwood, exemplifies this trend. Similarly, other brands are exploring comparable models, indicating a potential shift in player preferences on Tour.
Could Max Homa’s integration of the Titleist 2-wood into his game prove pivotal in his quest for a major title at Valhalla? Boy would we love to see it!