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- Tom McKibbin WITB (18th January 2025) - What's In The Bag? Dubai Desert Classic @ Emirates Golf Club
Tom McKibbin WITB (18th January 2025) - What's In The Bag? Dubai Desert Classic @ Emirates Golf Club
Tom’s driver isn’t just any off-the-shelf club—it’s a finely tuned weapon. The Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond is a low-spin monster that caters to aggressive ball-strikers who like to work the ball both ways.
Driver: Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond 8.5°, Fujikura Ventus TR Red 6X shaft
3 Wood: Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond Prototype 15°, Fujikura Ventus TR Red 7X shaft
5 Wood: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond 18°, Tour AD Graphite Design VF8 TX shaft
Irons: Callaway Apex Pro (4), Callaway X Forged (4&5), Callaway Apex MB (7-PW), True Temper Dynamic Gold X100 shafts
Wedges: Callaway Opus 50° (10S), 54° (12S), 60° (8Z), True Temper Dynamic Gold S400 shafts
Putter: Odyssey Ai One Milled Six-T
Ball: Callaway Chrome Tour
Grips: Golf Pride Multicompound align
What’s In The Bag? Tom McKibbin
If you haven't heard of Tom McKibbin yet, you must have been living under a golf ball. This Northern Irish sensation has been making waves on the DP World Tour, and many have dubbed him "the next Rory McIlroy"—a comparison that comes with both enormous promise and an equal amount of pressure. Born in 2003, McKibbin honed his craft at Holywood Golf Club, the same breeding ground that produced McIlroy. He possesses a fluid swing, ice-cold composure, and the kind of confidence you need to stare down a 15-foot putt for birdie and know it's dropping.
Unlike some young phenoms who fizzle under the weight of expectations, McKibbin has steadily built his resume, grinding through the amateur ranks before turning professional in 2021. He wasted no time making his mark, winning the Porsche European Open in 2023—his maiden DP World Tour victory—and proving that he belongs at the top level. Now, with a PGA Tour card in his back pocket and whispers of a potential LIV Golf switch, his career trajectory is anything but dull.
Tom McKibbin’s Golf Bag & Equipment
McKibbin isn’t just a rising star—he’s also got one of the most enviable golf bags on tour. His setup is dialed in for precision, power, and versatility, with a Callaway-heavy bag that reflects his trust in the brand’s latest innovations. Let’s take a closer look at his clubs and why they work so well for him.
Tom’s driver isn’t just any off-the-shelf club—it’s a finely tuned weapon. The Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond is a low-spin monster that caters to aggressive ball-strikers who like to work the ball both ways. Paired with the Fujikura Ventus TR Red 6X shaft, McKibbin gets a blend of stability and explosive speed, perfect for launching bombs while keeping control off the tee.
Most golfers struggle to find a reliable 3-wood, but McKibbin’s setup is built for consistency. The Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond Prototype delivers a penetrating ball flight with just enough forgiveness to keep the ball in play when he needs a safe fairway finder. His choice of a slightly heavier 7X shaft ensures he gets maximum control and workability.
A modern 5-wood has to be versatile, and McKibbin’s choice of the Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond is no accident. This club allows him to attack long par-5s in two while also serving as a great option from the rough. The VF8 TX shaft is an absolute beast, providing low launch and spin to keep his shots piercing through the wind.
Irons: Callaway Apex Pro (4), Callaway X Forged (4&5), Callaway Apex MB (7-PW), True Temper Dynamic Gold X100 shafts
McKibbin’s iron setup is a carefully blended mix designed for ultimate shot control. His long irons (Callaway Apex Pro and X Forged) give him added forgiveness and launch, while the Apex MB (muscle backs) in the shorter irons ensure pinpoint accuracy and shot-shaping capability. The Dynamic Gold X100 shafts are tour favorites, offering a stable and consistent feel through the swing.
Wedges are a precision game, and McKibbin’s selection allows him to attack pins with confidence. The Callaway Opus wedges provide impeccable spin control, and with a variety of bounce options, he can manipulate trajectory and spin based on course conditions. The S400 shafts add a touch of extra weight, giving him even more control on delicate shots around the green.
Putter: Odyssey Ai One Milled Six-T
If you’ve watched McKibbin roll putts, you know he’s got a smooth stroke. His Odyssey Ai One Milled Six-T putter is designed for precision and feel, and it’s no surprise he’s sticking with it. The AI milling gives consistent roll and feedback, crucial for draining clutch putts under pressure.
Ball: Callaway Chrome Tour
The golf ball is a player's most personal choice, and McKibbin opts for the Callaway Chrome Tour. This ball delivers high spin control, a soft feel, and optimized aerodynamics—everything a precision player like him needs to excel in every phase of the game.
Grip choice may seem minor, but the Golf Pride Multicompound Align grips ensure McKibbin maintains a consistent hand position. These grips offer a perfect balance of tackiness and responsiveness, crucial for precise shot-making.
McKibbin’s Career & Future Prospects
McKibbin has been on a steady rise, and his victory at the Porsche European Open proved he has what it takes to win on the big stage. He has also put in strong performances at events like the Dubai Desert Classic, where he’s shown he can contend against elite fields.
Now, the biggest question looming over his future is whether he’ll stay on the PGA Tour or take the lucrative LIV Golf offer that’s reportedly on the table. With a fresh PGA Tour card and a game built for major championship success, many believe he should stick to traditional tours and chase golf’s biggest prizes. But with LIV’s deep pockets and an appealing schedule, he may have a tough decision ahead.
Regardless of where he plays next, one thing is clear: Tom McKibbin is here to stay. He’s got the talent, the mindset, and a killer bag setup to keep climbing the ranks. Whether he becomes the next McIlroy or carves his own unique legacy, golf fans should buckle up—this kid is just getting started.
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