A Bold Move at The Open
Lucas Herbert showed up at The Open Championship with a setup that breaks the mold. He’s leaving his driver at home. In a game where distance is king, that choice stands out. The Australian is relying on a specific set of clubs to navigate the links. According to Golf Monthly, his bag features no driver for this major. This decision signals a shift in strategy for the tough conditions. It forces us to rethink how we view modern equipment trends. Herbert is betting on precision over raw power. 0 drivers. That’s the story.
The Gear Behind the Decision
The details of Herbert’s bag are quite specific. According to Golf Monthly, he carries a Honma TW747 driver in his bag, but it sits unused for this event. Instead, he leans on a Ping G430 LST fairway wood at 15 degrees and a 19-degree version. These clubs provide the length he needs without the risk of a driver. His iron selection is where the story gets even more interesting. The source material notes he uses TaylorMade P7CB irons. While the headline and context suggest a strong focus on Japanese craftsmanship often associated with Miura, the explicit listing in the report confirms the TaylorMade P7CBs are the primary set. He pairs these with Cleveland 588 RTX 2.0 Tour Satin wedges in 50, 56, and 60 degrees. His short game relies on a Cleveland TFI 2135 Satin Cero putter. The ball of choice remains the Titleist Pro V1. According to Golf Monthly, this entire setup is tailored for the Open. The mix of Honma, Ping, TaylorMade, and Cleveland creates a unique profile. It shows that a player can mix brands to find the perfect feel. The absence of the driver in play is the most striking element. It challenges the idea that every pro needs maximum distance off the tee. Herbert’s setup proves that control can beat length on certain courses. 15 degrees is the new weapon.
Why Precision Beats Power
This setup makes sense for the links. The wind at The Open can punish a driver more than any other club. By skipping the driver, Herbert reduces his risk. He can shape shots around the fairway with his 15-degree fairway wood. It’s a calculated risk that pays off when accuracy matters most. The TaylorMade P7CB irons offer a blade-like feel that skilled players love. They allow for workability that game-improvement clubs cannot match. The Cleveland wedges are known for their spin and control around the greens. This is crucial for scoring in major championship conditions. The putter choice also suggests a focus on stability. The 2135 alignment aid helps with reading the fast, undulating greens. Herbert’s strategy is clear. He wants to keep the ball in play. He knows that avoiding big numbers is the fastest way to a low score. This approach appeals to the purists who watch the game. It reminds fans that golf is a game of management, not just power. Big numbers kill scores.
What to Watch Next
Fans should watch how Herbert handles the tee shots. His 15-degree fairway wood will be the key club on long holes. Can he find the fairway consistently without the driver? The success of this strategy will depend on his accuracy. If he misses the fairway, the lack of a driver could hurt his chances. However, if he plays smart, he could contend. This setup might inspire other players to rethink their own bags. The Open always brings out unique strategies. Herbert’s choice is a perfect example of adapting to the course. It will be a fascinating test of skill and nerve. Miss fairway? That’s the danger.
