Bryson de Chambeau, the 2020 U.S. Open winner, caused a stir among golf equipment enthusiasts when he used a TaylorMade 2 Plus+ driver at the Asian Tour’s PIF Saudi International at Royal Greens Golf & Country Club, Saudi Arabia. DeChambeau is a member of the 2018 and 2021 United States Ryder Cup team. He has been a brand ambassador and staff player for Cobra Puma Golf ever since he became a pro at 2016’s PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage.
Golfweek attempted to reach out to representatives from Cobra Puma Golf in order for them to comment on the story about DeChambeau and the TaylorMade driver. However, they did not receive an answer. A Cobra executive sent a text message late Thursday night stating that Bryant was not on staff at Cobra Puma Golf because his contract expired in 2022. We are currently in discussions about the future and 2023.
DeChambeau’s agreement with Cobra Puma Golf ends in 2022. In that case, he becomes an equipment ‘free agent’ who is not bound to use any brands’ clubs. Bridgestone, DeChambeau and also parted ways last July after they joined LIV Golf.
Titleist confirmed to Golfweek that DeChambeau will be using a Titleist Pro V1x left dash ball this week in Saudi Arabia.
American golfer Bryson de Chambeau plays during the PIF Saudi international in King Abdullah Economic City. This event is north of Jeddah’s Red Sea coast city of Jeddah. (Photo taken by Amer Hilabi / AFP). (Photo taken by Amer Hilabi/AFP via Getty Images).
Two important points should be noted when discussing the future of Bryson de Chambeau’s golf equipment.
First, what is Bryson de Chambeau’s value to golf equipment manufacturers? He is now exempt from golf’s major championships until 2025, thanks to his win in Winged Foot 2020. However, he has been suspended from PGA Tour events. This means that he won’t be able to participate in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. DeChambeau will not be visible to golf fans if he plays in LIV Series events, which stream on The CW app mid-week and The CW channel on weekends.
Bryson de Chambeau’s 6-degree Cobra driver at 2019 Arnold Palmer Invitational. (David Dusek/Golfweek)
DeChambeau also uses high-end equipment that few golfers would buy. DeChambeau’s drivers have five to six degrees of loft, while recreational golfers require nine to ten degrees. He has also been vocal about his use of custom-made equipment at several events, including the 2021 British Open.
After a round of 71 at Royal St. George’s Golf Club, he stated, “If I can hit the ball down the fairway, it’s great. But with the driver right now. The driver sucks.” It’s not a good look for me and we’re still trying out ways to make the most of the mis-hits. “I’m living on the razor’s edge,” I tell people.
This outburst provoked criticism from Cobra, and prompted internal discussions within Cobra Puma Golf regarding Bryson’s future relationship with the brand.
Bryson de Chambeau’s 55 degree Cobra wedge at 2019 Arnold Palmer Invitational. (David Dusek/Golfweek)
When discussing DeChambeau’s equipment, the second thing to consider is whether he wants an endorsement deal with any company.
DeChambeau confirmed he had signed with LIV in July. He said it was for four years and that the deal was worth more that $125 million. He has also signed endorsement deals with Bridgestone and Cobra Puma Golf. His total career earnings on the PGA Tour are $26,519 235. On his website, he lists LA Golf as a partner, Rolex and NetJets. He also has localiQ, NetReturn, Zen WTR and LocaliQ on his website. Over the years, he has also carried Veritex Bank, Microsoft and Club Champion on his golf bag.
DeChambeau might be motivated to sign an equipment deal worth a few millions of dollars per year by a brand.
Apart from losing revenue, the downside to remaining an equipment-free agent for DeChambeau would be that you wouldn’t get the same level of service as Cobra for six years.
Ben Schomin, a Cobra PGA Tour representative, said that in 2021, the brand was constantly designing and manufacturing custom driver heads for Bryson. He also uses one-length irons. Each club is approximately the same length as a 7-iron (37 1/2 ”).). Schomin made many modifications to Bryson’s clubs over time.
It will be difficult to find equipment that suits his style and swing without being associated with a major manufacturer.
DeChambeau has had a different view of the golf world for many years. However, moving forward as an equipment-free agent might make it more difficult to get things in order.
