Why driver is the most important club in your bag!

Rory Mcilroy Pounding a drive over the water to set himself up for optimal scoring.

Why your DRIVER is the Most Important Club in your Golf Bag

In the world of golf, one club stands out above the rest, both in terms of importance and fascination - the driver. The driver, often known as the "big dog" or "the longest club in your bag," is undeniably the most crucial piece of equipment in any golfer's arsenal. It's the club that sets the tone for your entire round, and its impact goes beyond just hitting the fairway off the tee. In this article, we'll explore why your driver is the most important club in your golf bag and how the longest hitters dominate the top ranks in the golfing world. We'll delve into how hitting the ball further can result in shorter approach shots, leading to closer proximity to the hole and, ultimately, more putts dropping. We'll also discuss how the longest hitters on the PGA Tour are often the highest money earners, highlighting the significance of driving distance in professional golf.

The Driver's Role in Golf

The driver is aptly named because its primary purpose is to "drive" the golf ball from the tee box. It is the longest club in your bag, featuring a large clubhead, a low loft (usually between 8 to 12 degrees), and a long shaft. When used correctly, the driver can launch the ball with maximum distance and accuracy, setting the stage for the rest of the hole. This is one reason why your driver is the most important club in your golf bag 

Distance off the Tee

The ability to hit long, accurate drives is a game-changer in golf. Longer drives set up shorter approach shots into the greens, making it easier to reach the putting surface in fewer strokes. A well-struck drive can shave significant yardage off the total distance you need to cover on each hole, making it one of the most valuable tools in a golfer's arsenal. This is why your driver is the most important club in your golf bag.

Setting the Tone

The first shot of the hole often sets the tone for the entire round. Hitting a booming drive down the middle of the fairway can boost confidence and morale, whereas missing the fairway can lead to frustration and mental pressure. As the saying goes, "Drive for show, putt for dough." Your first impression on the tee can influence the entire hole, and, by extension, your score for the day.

Finding Fairways

While distance is crucial, accuracy cannot be neglected. A driver that combines distance with precision is a powerful asset. Hitting the fairway not only provides a shorter shot into the green but also reduces the risk of hazards and rough that can lead to dropped shots. It is important to note that the rough that the PGA Tour players play out of week to week outside of the major championships is not super penalizing, therefore, it would better suit a player to be further down the hole in the rough vs in the middle of the fairway with a longer approach shot! This is another  reason why your driver is the most important club in your golf bag.

Longest Hitters Dominate the Top Ranks

It's no coincidence that the longest hitters in golf often find themselves at the top of leaderboards and world rankings. Hitting the ball further off the tee has several advantages that can significantly impact a golfer's performance and success.

Shorter Approach Shots

The most apparent advantage of being a long hitter is that it results in shorter approach shots into the greens. A player who consistently drives the ball 300 yards or more can approach the green with a shorter iron in hand, giving them a distinct advantage over competitors who are forced to use longer irons or hybrids. Shorter approach shots are easier to control, and the chance of hitting the green and setting up birdie opportunities increases.

Closer Proximity to the Hole

Hitting the green is only part of the equation. The distance from the pin after your approach shot is crucial for setting up potential birdie putts. Long hitters, with their shorter approach shots, tend to leave themselves with shorter putts. Being closer to the hole means they have a better chance of sinking putts, resulting in more birdies and fewer three-putts.

Putting Advantage

The relationship between driving distance and putting success is often underestimated. When you're closer to the hole, your putts are shorter, and shorter putts are generally easier to make. Proximity to the hole is a significant factor in lowering your putting average. This is why long hitters often lead the putting statistics, as they consistently leave themselves with makeable birdie putts.

Competitive Edge

In professional golf, where the margin of victory can be a single stroke, the benefits of hitting the ball further off the tee cannot be overstated. Long hitters can turn par-5 holes into birdie opportunities and transform challenging par-4s into manageable par-3s. This strategic advantage puts them ahead in the race for titles and prize money.

The Longest Hitters on the PGA Tour

The dominance of long hitters in professional golf is exemplified by the PGA Tour, the highest level of competition in the sport. Let's take a look at some of the longest hitters on the PGA Tour and how they have leveraged their driving ability to become the highest money earners in the game.

Bryson DeChambeau

Bryson DeChambeau, known for his scientific approach to the game, has transformed his body and swing to maximize his driving distance. His sheer power off the tee has led to multiple victories and increased visibility in the golfing world. DeChambeau's aggressive approach off the tee often results in shorter approach shots, and his improved putting has translated into significant success and higher earnings.

Dustin Johnson

Dustin Johnson, one of the most consistent and longest hitters on the PGA Tour, has claimed multiple major championships and enjoyed a lucrative career. Johnson's combination of power and precision off the tee, along with a reliable short game, has contributed to his status as one of the tour's top earners.

Brooks Koepka

Brooks Koepka, another long hitter, has a remarkable record in major championships. His ability to hit the ball a long way has not only provided him with significant advantages in major tournaments but has also propelled him to the top of the money list.

Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy, one of the most beloved figures in golf, is also among the longest hitters in the game. His consistent performance and ability to drive the ball great distances have contributed to his success on both the PGA Tour and the European Tour. His earnings reflect his position among the top earners in golf.

Conclusion

In the world of golf, the driver is the club that reigns supreme. Its importance extends far beyond the first shot of the hole. The longest hitters in golf have recognized the significance of the driver in shaping their careers and dominating the sport. By consistently driving the ball further, they enjoy shorter approach shots, closer proximity to the hole, and a significant advantage on the greens. As a result, the longest hitters often find themselves at the top of leaderboards and earnings lists.

The lessons from professional golfers and their use of the driver are applicable to golfers of all levels. Improving your driving distance and accuracy can lead to lower scores, better performance, and more enjoyable rounds on the course. Remember, while the driver may be the "big dog" in your bag, it can also be your best friend on your journey to becoming a better golfer. So, practice your drives, aim for the fairway, and watch your game soar to new heights, just like the longest hitters on the PGA Tour.

Cheers,

Robbie Potesta

External Focus Golf