Golf enthusiasts were treated to a masterclass in shot-making, strategy, and competitive spirit as two of the world’s premier ball strikers, Collin Morikawa and Tommy Fleetwood, faced off in an exhilarating nine-hole match play at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links. Hosted by TaylorMade Golf, this showcase wasn’t just about friendly competition—it was an opportunity to see two elite pros put the new Qi35 driver to the ultimate test under real course conditions. In this blog post, we’ll break down key moments from the match, explore how Collin and Tommy navigated the legendary Pebble Beach front nine, and provide insights into the equipment choices that made the difference.

Setting the Stage: Pebble Beach’s Iconic Front Nine

Pebble Beach is more than just a golf course; it’s a cathedral of the sport, known for breathtaking ocean views and challenging hole layouts that have humbled even the best players. The front nine features tight fairways, tricky greens, and ever-changing coastal winds that demand precision and adaptability. For Collin and Tommy, this wasn’t just a casual round. They approached each hole with the same focus and strategic thinking they’d bring to a PGA Tour event. Their caddies were heavily involved, offering detailed input on club selection, shot shapes, and wind adjustments—a rare behind-the-scenes look at the mental game of professional golf.

The Qi35 Driver in Action

Both players had the new TaylorMade Qi35 driver in the bag, and the match served as a live testing ground for its performance. Known for its enhanced stability, forgiveness, and distance control, the Qi35 was put to the test in varying conditions—tight landing areas, crosswinds, and the occasional wet fairway from recent rains. Early in the round, both players found fairways with ease, showcasing the driver’s consistency. Collin, known for his ball-striking precision, used the Qi35 to shape shots both ways, controlling trajectory to counteract wind. Tommy, with his signature smooth swing, unleashed powerful drives that carried with effortless distance, proving the club’s versatility for different playing styles.

Strategic Masterclass: Shot Decisions and Caddie Insights

One of the most fascinating aspects of the match was the candid dialogue between players and caddies. Whether debating a pitching wedge vs. a 9-iron from 135 yards out or deciding between a 3-wood and 5-wood off the tee, the decision-making process was meticulous. On one hole, Collin faced a 135-yard approach with the pin tucked in a challenging spot. After some back-and-forth with his caddie about spin rates and wind direction, he opted for a controlled pitching wedge, executing it perfectly to set up a birdie chance. Tommy, on the other hand, showed his creativity with a low, spinning shot that landed soft, demonstrating his finesse around the greens. Another memorable exchange came when Tommy debated hitting a 3-wood vs. a driver over a tree-lined fairway. His caddie suggested a safer route, but Tommy’s confidence in shaping the ball led him to take the aggressive line with a flat-draw 5-wood—a decision that paid off with a perfect position for his next shot.

Momentum Swings and Key Moments

The match wasn’t just a display of technical skill; it was packed with momentum swings and clutch performances. Early on, Collin gained an edge with an outrageous up-and-down to win a hole with a par, showcasing his short-game wizardry. His ability to recover from tough spots kept the pressure on Tommy, even when Fleetwood found himself in better positions off the tee. However, Tommy wasn’t going down without a fight. Known for his resilience, he responded with birdies of his own, including a brilliant approach shot from over 240 yards that set up an easy putt. His calm demeanor under pressure was a testament to his experience in high-stakes matches. As the round progressed, the back-and-forth nature of the contest highlighted the mental toughness required at the highest level. Both players made clutch putts when it mattered, turning the match into a nail-biter that came down to the final hole.

Equipment Insights: Why the Qi35 Stood Out

While the players’ skills were on full display, the performance of the Qi35 driver was equally noteworthy. Both Collin and Tommy commented on the driver’s ability to maintain ball speed even on off-center hits—a crucial factor in competitive golf where every yard counts. The Qi35’s design focuses on stability through impact, reducing dispersion and increasing accuracy. This was evident as both players confidently attacked tight fairways and shaped shots without fear of losing control. The driver’s forgiveness allowed them to stay aggressive, knowing that slight mishits wouldn’t drastically affect their outcomes.

Final Thoughts: What We Can Learn from Collin and Tommy

This nine-hole battle between Collin Morikawa and Tommy Fleetwood wasn’t just entertainment—it was an educational experience for golfers of all skill levels. Here are a few key takeaways:

1. Course Management Is Key: Even the best players rely heavily on strategic planning. Don’t just “grip it and rip it.” Think about shot placement and angles to the green.

2. Trust Your Equipment: Having confidence in your clubs, like Collin and Tommy did with the Qi35, allows you to swing freely and focus on execution.

3. Stay Mentally Tough: Golf is a game of ups and downs. The ability to bounce back from mistakes, as both players did, is what separates good golfers from great ones.

4. Learn from Your Caddie (or Playing Partners): Collaboration and open dialogue about strategy can provide new perspectives that improve your game.