Pat Perez | WITB - What's In The Bag? | International Series Macau @ Macau Golf and Country Club | Asian Tour

Driver: Ping G430 MAX 10K 9*, Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X shaft

Fairway woods: Ping G430 15* and 18*, Fujikura Ventus Black 7 X, 8 X shafts

Hybrid: PXG Gen2 0317 X 19*, LA Golf Prototype shaft

Irons: PXG Gen4 0311 P Darkness (4-9), LA Golf Prototype shafts

Wedges: PXG 0311T Sierra 46* (10), Sugar Daddy 0311 52* (10), 0311 Milled Sugar Daddy II 60* (10C), LA Golf shafts

Putter: LA Golf Malibu, LA Golf shaft

Ball: Titleist ProV1x

Grips: Golf Pride MCC

Pat Perez, a name synonymous with both flair and controversy in the world of golf, has carved a unique path through the sport, from his early days on the PGA Tour to his recent transition to LIV Golf and participation in Asian Tour events. Perez's career, notable for its longevity and moments of brilliance, also highlights the evolving landscape of professional golf, where loyalty to tours and brands often intersects with personal and financial considerations.

Early PGA Tour Career

Pat Perez turned professional in 1999, and after grinding through the mini-tours, he earned his PGA Tour card in 2001. Over the years, Perez has been known for his fiery temperament and outspoken nature, which, combined with his undeniable talent, has made him a distinctive figure on the tour. He secured three PGA Tour victories: the 2009 Bob Hope Classic, the 2016 OHL Classic at Mayakoba, and the 2017 CIMB Classic. These victories, spaced out over his career, are a testament to his resilience and ability to compete at the highest levels.

Split from PXG

Perez's split from equipment sponsor PXG in 2017 was as outspoken as the golfer himself. The separation came after Perez voiced criticisms of PXG's club performance during a particularly rough patch in his play. This candidness is characteristic of Perez, who has seldom shied away from expressing his opinions, even when they concern his sponsors. The split underscores the sometimes volatile relationship between professional athletes and their equipment sponsors, especially when expectations on both sides are not met.

Move to LIV Golf

In 2022, Pat Perez made headlines by joining LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed golf league challenging the traditional PGA Tour and European Tour dominance. Perez's move was part of a broader trend of players seeking new opportunities outside the established golf circuits, attracted by LIV Golf's lucrative financial incentives and a more relaxed tournament schedule. His decision, like that of other defectors, sparked debates about loyalty, the future of professional golf, and the ethical implications of joining a tour financed by Saudi Arabia amidst its controversial human rights record.

Results Since Joining LIV Golf

Since joining LIV Golf, Perez has participated in a series of events characterized by their team-based format, less traditional rules, and fan-friendly atmosphere. While he hasn't dominated the leaderboard, his performances have been solid, contributing to his team and enjoying the competitive yet less pressurized environment of LIV Golf. These events have allowed Perez to continue competing at a high level while also securing financial benefits that are often greater than what could be achieved at similar points in a PGA Tour career.

Playing in an Asian Tour Event

Perez's participation in an Asian Tour event this week is part of a strategic choice that many LIV Golf players are making to stay competitive and maintain their global golf rankings. The Asian Tour, which has seen increased collaboration with LIV Golf, offers a platform for players to compete in internationally recognized events and earn world ranking points, crucial for qualifying for majors and other prestigious tournaments. This move reflects the interconnectedness of the global golf landscape, where players navigate between tours to maximize their opportunities and maintain their standing in the sport.

Pat Perez's journey through professional golf—from his PGA Tour successes and outspoken departures from traditional norms, to his embrace of LIV Golf and participation in the Asian Tour—illustrates the evolving career paths available to modern golfers. As the sport continues to navigate its future, figures like Perez will likely remain at the forefront of discussions about loyalty, competition, and the global expansion of golf.