Why did Rory McIlroy switch back to bladed irons?
He preferred the feel and control of blades over the forgiveness of cavity-back irons.
Yanuki
ARTICLE DETAIL
Rory McIlroy Returns to Blades at Pebble Beach Pro-Am; Celebrity Handicaps Revealed | Akshay Bhatia Wins 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational, Claims $4 Million Prize | Tiger Woods' Ryder Cup Captaincy Decision: A Wavering Commitment? | Rickie Fowler's Special Connection to Arnold Palmer at Invitational | Arnold Palmer Invitational: Berger Leads, Bhatia Chases in Sunday Showdown | Understanding Driver Loft: Why Rory McIlroy Uses a 7.75° Driver | Chandler Blanchet Leads Puerto Rico Open as John Daly II Makes PGA Tour Debut | Akshay Bhatia's 2026 WITB & Arnold Palmer Invitational Update | Daniel Berger Leads Arnold Palmer Invitational After Stunning 63 | Rory McIlroy Returns to Blades at Pebble Beach Pro-Am; Celebrity Handicaps Revealed | Akshay Bhatia Wins 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational, Claims $4 Million Prize | Tiger Woods' Ryder Cup Captaincy Decision: A Wavering Commitment? | Rickie Fowler's Special Connection to Arnold Palmer at Invitational | Arnold Palmer Invitational: Berger Leads, Bhatia Chases in Sunday Showdown | Understanding Driver Loft: Why Rory McIlroy Uses a 7.75° Driver | Chandler Blanchet Leads Puerto Rico Open as John Daly II Makes PGA Tour Debut | Akshay Bhatia's 2026 WITB & Arnold Palmer Invitational Update | Daniel Berger Leads Arnold Palmer Invitational After Stunning 63
Golf / PGA Tour
Rory McIlroy Returns to Blades at Pebble Beach Pro-Am; Celebrity Handicaps Revealed
Rory McIlroy is making headlines at the 2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, not just for his title defense, but also for switching back to his preferred bladed irons. The event also draws attention for its celebrity amateur participants, whose h...
Key Insights
- Rory McIlroy has returned to his 'RORS PROTO' muscle-back irons after experimenting with cavity-back irons, citing a preference for feel over forgiveness.
- Ten out of 13 winners on the PGA TOUR and DP World Tour have used bladed irons this season.
- The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am features a mix of professional golfers and amateur celebrities, executives, and politicians.
- Notable celebrity handicaps include Jake Owen (1), Alex Smith (7), Travis Kelce (10), Ron DeSantis (10), and Condoleezza Rice (13).
- Jake Knapp and Pierceson Coody are identified as potential contenders, with Knapp favored for his power and putting, and Coody for his distance and strong performance on Poa annua greens.
In-Depth Analysis
### McIlroy's Iron Decision Rory McIlroy's return to bladed irons marks a shift back to tradition, prioritizing feel and control. While cavity-back irons offer more forgiveness on mishits, McIlroy felt a 'right bias' and preferred the ability to fully release the club with his blades. This decision underscores the importance of comfort and confidence, especially under pressure.
### Celebrity Golfers at Pebble Beach The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am provides a unique blend of professional golf and celebrity involvement. The range of handicaps, from scratch golfers to those playing with a 18-handicap, demonstrates the varying levels of skill among the amateurs. This inclusive format adds to the tournament's appeal, drawing in fans interested in both golf and celebrity culture.
### Betting Insights for Pebble Beach According to ESPN, Jake Knapp and Pierceson Coody are good picks for top 20 finishes. Knapp's power and putting make him a high-ceiling player, while Coody's distance and tee-to-green game give him a solid baseline. Chris Gotterup and Maverick McNealy are also worth considering for fantasy leagues.
FAQ
Who are some of the notable celebrities playing at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am?
Travis Kelce, Ron DeSantis, and Condoleezza Rice are among the participants.
Who are the scratch golfers in the Pro-Am?
Brian Ferris, Johno Harris, and Chris Solomon.
Takeaways
- Rory McIlroy's equipment choices reflect a golfer's personal preference for feel and control.
- The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am combines professional golf with celebrity participation, creating a unique and entertaining event.
- Keep an eye on players like Jake Knapp and Pierceson Coody, who are identified as potential contenders.
- Celebrity handicaps offer a fun glimpse into the golfing abilities of well-known figures.
Discussion
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