Imagine a 23-year-old rookie stepping onto the global golf stage and not just competing, but dominating in his very first LIV Golf event. That's exactly what Elvis Smylie of Ripper GC did at the ROSHN Group LIV Golf Riyadh, leaving the golf world in awe. On February 7, 2026, under the evening glow, Smylie clinched his maiden LIV Golf title with a breathtaking performance, carding a bogey-free, final-round 8-under 64 to edge out the seasoned Legion XIII Captain Jon Rahm by a single shot at the Riyadh Golf Club. But here's where it gets even more fascinating: Smylie's victory wasn't just about his score—it was a masterclass in ball-striking precision and green-reading prowess that left spectators and analysts alike scrambling to understand his sudden rise. And this is the part most people miss: the secret weapon behind his success might just be the meticulously curated equipment in his bag. Let's dive into the arsenal that powered this breakout star's triumph.
Driver: Smylie trusts the Titleist GT3 with a 10° loft, paired with a Fujikura Ventus Blue 6 X shaft. This combination offers a perfect blend of distance and control, essential for navigating the challenging fairways of Riyadh Golf Club. But here's a controversial thought: Could this driver be the unsung hero of his long drives, or is it Smylie's natural talent that truly shines? Weigh in below!
3 Wood: His go-to fairway wood is the Ping G440 MAX with a 15° loft and a Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft. This setup ensures versatility and accuracy, whether off the tee or from the turf. Fun fact: This club was his lifeline on several critical shots during the tournament.
Irons: Smylie’s iron setup is a mix of precision and power, featuring Titleist T200 (3) and Titleist T100 (4-9). The shafts vary, with Nippon NS Pro Modus3 Tour 120 X-Flex for the 3-6, 8-9 irons and a Nippon NS Pro Modus3 Tour 120 TX for the 7 iron. This configuration highlights his preference for control in the long irons and maneuverability in the mid-to-short irons. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this iron setup a game-changer, or is it just a reflection of Smylie's adaptability? Share your thoughts!
Wedges: The Titleist Vokey SM10 wedges in 46°, 56°, 58°, and 60° lofts were Smylie’s secret weapons around the greens. These wedges provided the spin and precision needed for those clutch up-and-downs that saved par and secured birdies.
Putter: Smylie’s flatstick of choice is the Titleist Scotty Cameron Newport GSS, a blade-style putter known for its classic design and reliability. This putter was instrumental in his near-flawless putting display throughout the tournament.
Golf Ball: Rounding out his setup is the Titleist Pro V1x Plus, a ball renowned for its distance and spin control. And this is the part most people miss: The Pro V1x Plus might just be the unsung hero of his consistent ball flight and greenside performance.
As Smylie continues to make waves in the LIV Golf circuit, one thing is clear: his equipment is as finely tuned as his talent. But here's the burning question: Is it the clubs that make the player, or the player that makes the clubs? Let us know your take in the comments below! Equipment data, as always, is courtesy of the World Tour Survey.
