Hideki Matsuyama’s impressive start at the Sentry 2025, highlighted by his switch to the Scotty Cameron center-shafted blade putter, has set the stage for an exciting weekend of golf
With two rounds of 65 under his belt and a one-shot lead, Matsuyama is poised to contend for the title.
Matsuyama’s journey to the pinnacle of golf has been marked by resilience and determination. As the first Japanese player to win the Masters, he has broken barriers and inspired a new generation of golfers.
His success at the Sentry 2025 is a continuation of his remarkable career.
Hideki Matsuyama’s golf bags in 2024 and 2023 reflected a blend of innovation, consistency, and trust in proven technology. While 2023 was a winless year, 2024 saw him return to form with two significant victories.
His equipment choices were integral to his success, showcasing the role of a well-thought-out bag setup in professional golf.
Whether it’s the precision of his irons, the reliability of his wedges, or the cutting-edge technology of his driver, Matsuyama’s tools remain a blueprint for aspiring golfers seeking to elevate their game.
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Hideki Matsuyama’s Stellar Start at the Sentry 2025 with a New Putter
Hideki Matsuyama, the celebrated Japanese golfer and former Masters champion, has started the 2025 Sentry Tournament of Champions with an impressive display of skill and composure.1
The secret behind his stellar performance? A new addition to his arsenal: the Scotty Cameron center-shafted blade putter.
This putter has already made a significant impact on Matsuyama’s game, helping him achieve back-to-back rounds of 65 and secure a one-shot lead over Collin Morikawa.
Collin Morikawa, a two-time major champion, is Matsuyama’s closest competitor heading into the weekend.
Morikawa’s consistent ball-striking and calm demeanor make him a formidable opponent. His ability to navigate the Plantation Course effectively has kept him within striking distance of the lead.
🚨 On top of the board at the halfway stage ✨
Hideki tees off on moving day at 15:00 ET. He will play with Collin Morikawa and Corey Conners ✅ pic.twitter.com/gSYkpyf54A
— Hideki Matsuyama Tracker (@TrackingHideki) January 4, 2025
Conners’ Quiet Determination
Corey Conners, known for his precision and disciplined approach, is another player to watch.
While he may not have the same level of recognition as some of his peers, Conners’ steady play and resilience make him a dark horse in this tournament.
As the tournament heads into the weekend, Matsuyama’s challenge will be to maintain his momentum and fend off strong competition.
The Plantation Course’s demanding layout and unpredictable conditions will test every facet of his game. With Morikawa, Conners, and other contenders in pursuit, Matsuyama’s path to victory is far from guaranteed.
Hideki Matsuyama: Breaking Down His Remarkable Rounds
Round One: A Balanced Attack on the Course
Matsuyama’s opening round was a testament to his precision and strategic play. Starting strong, he shot four birdies on the front nine.2
The back nine featured three more birdies, an eagle, and a single bogey, resulting in a total score of 65. This remarkable round set the tone for what would become an exceptional performance at Kapalua’s Plantation Course.
Despite facing periods of inconsistency, Matsuyama has always demonstrated the ability to bounce back. His performance at Kapalua is a testament to his unwavering focus and adaptability.
The addition of the Scotty Cameron putter is just one example of how Matsuyama continually seeks to refine his game.
Round Two: Building Momentum
The second round saw Matsuyama maintain his consistency. He repeated his front-nine performance with four birdies and followed up with an identical scorecard on the back nine.
His ability to stay composed and execute his game plan flawlessly allowed him to replicate his opening-round score of 65. By the end of Friday’s play, Matsuyama had firmly positioned himself at the top of the leaderboard.
In a separate development, Tiger Woods’ former coach has weighed in on Justin Thomas’ decision to part ways with his father as his coach.
The move has sparked discussions within the golfing community, with varying opinions on its potential impact on Thomas’ career.
While the change represents a significant shift for Thomas, it underscores the evolving dynamics between players and their support teams.
Hideki Matsuyama’s Thoughts on His Performance
After Friday’s round, Matsuyama shared his thoughts with the PGA Tour, offering insights into his mindset and approach.3
“There was (frustration), but I’m definitely satisfied with where I am,” he said. Reflecting on his game, he added, “I was able to add on and play well, and so just everything was okay.”
His comments also highlighted his appreciation for the scenic beauty of Kapalua. “Obviously the views are beautiful here.
I haven’t played well here in a while, so it’s good to get off to a good start,” Matsuyama remarked. His positive outlook and renewed confidence have clearly contributed to his strong performance.
The Role of the Scotty Cameron Putter in Matsuyama’s Success
Switching to the Scotty Cameron center-shafted blade putter appears to have been a pivotal decision for Matsuyama.
Known for its precision and balance, this putter has enhanced his short game, allowing him to sink crucial birdie and eagle putts.
The center-shafted design provides a more stable stroke, which has likely contributed to Matsuyama’s consistent putting performance over the first two rounds.
Kapalua’s Plantation Course, located on the Hawaiian island of Maui, is renowned for its breathtaking views and challenging layout.
Matsuyama’s appreciation for the course’s beauty reflects the unique charm of playing in such an idyllic setting. The undulating fairways and expansive greens offer a stern test for players, making Matsuyama’s achievements even more impressive.
Weekend Pairings and Tee Times
As the tournament progresses, the weekend pairings promise exciting matchups. Matsuyama will begin his third round at 3 p.m. EST from the first tee, alongside Morikawa and Conners. Meanwhile, other notable groups include:
- Brian Harman and Davis Riley: Teeing off from the 10th tee at 3 p.m. EST.
- Patrick Cantlay, Viktor Hovland, and Patton Kizzire: Starting from the first tee at 1:12 p.m. EST.
- Stephan Jaeger, Russell Henley, and Denny McCarthy: Kicking off their round from the 10th tee at the same time.
These pairings set the stage for a thrilling weekend of golf.
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What Was in Hideki Matsuyama’s Golf Bag in 2024 and 2023?
A Look at Matsuyama’s Winning Arsenal
Hideki Matsuyama, a 10-time PGA Tour winner, is known for his meticulous approach to the game. Central to his success are the tools he uses on the course.
Matsuyama’s equipment in 2024 and 2023 highlighted his preference for a mix of trusted and cutting-edge gear. Let’s dive into the details of his bag setup during these years and how it complemented his playing style.
Driver: Srixon ZX5 Mk II LS (9.5°, Graphite Design Tour AD DI 8 TX)
In 2024, Matsuyama chose the Srixon ZX5 Mk II LS as his driver. The 9.5-degree loft paired with the Graphite Design Tour AD DI 8 TX shaft provided optimal control and distance.
This driver was a crucial part of his arsenal, allowing him to maintain accuracy off the tee while maximizing power.
Fairway Woods: TaylorMade Qi10 (3-Wood) and Cobra King RadSpeed Tour (5-Wood)
Matsuyama’s choice of fairway woods blended forgiveness and distance. The TaylorMade Qi10 and Cobra King RadSpeed Tour complemented his aggressive approach to long par 5s and challenging par 4s.
Irons: Srixon ZX5 Mk II and Srixon Z-Forged II
The Srixon ZX5 Mk II irons offered him consistency and forgiveness, while the Srixon Z-Forged II irons provided precision for shot-shaping. This combination allowed Matsuyama to adapt to various course conditions with ease.
Wedges: Cleveland RTX 4 Forged Prototype
Matsuyama relied on the Cleveland RTX 4 Forged Prototype wedges for finesse around the greens. The prototypes gave him the spin and control necessary for tight lies and tricky bunker shots.
Putter: Scotty Cameron Prototype
The Scotty Cameron Prototype putter was pivotal in Matsuyama’s short game. Known for its precision and feel, this putter helped him secure crucial birdies and pars during high-stakes moments.
Golf Ball: Srixon Z-Star XV
A consistent performer, the Srixon Z-Star XV ball complemented Matsuyama’s equipment, ensuring reliable performance across all facets of his game.
Apparel and Footwear
Matsuyama sported Descente apparel, known for its comfort and style, paired with Asics Gel-Ace Pro footwear for stability and traction on the course.
Hideki Matsuyama’s Performance in 2024
Genesis Invitational
In 2024, Matsuyama secured a memorable victory at the Genesis Invitational with a score of 17-under 267.
His equipment played a significant role in achieving this milestone, providing the consistency and precision needed to outplay a competitive field.
Another highlight of Matsuyama’s 2024 season was his triumph at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
With a winning score of 17-under 263, Matsuyama demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, leveraging his well-rounded bag setup to dominate the tournament.
Matsuyama’s Performance in 2023
Unlike 2024, Matsuyama’s 2023 season was devoid of tournament victories. Despite this, his equipment choices remained consistent, showcasing his belief in the tools that had previously brought him success.
The lack of wins in 2023 underscored the unpredictable nature of golf, where even the best players can face challenging seasons.
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Equipment Evolution: A Key to Success
Matsuyama’s transition from the Srixon ZX5 Mk II in 2023 to the ZX5 Mk II LS in 2024 highlighted his desire for incremental improvements. The LS (Low Spin) variant likely contributed to better control and distance, aiding his victories.
The inclusion of the TaylorMade Qi10 3-wood in 2024 marked a shift towards newer technology, while the consistency in his 5-wood and irons reflected his trust in familiar tools.
The Cleveland RTX 4 Forged Prototype wedges and Scotty Cameron putters were constants in Matsuyama’s bag, underscoring their reliability and importance to his short game.
The Role of Apparel and Footwear
Matsuyama’s choice of Descente apparel and Asics footwear may seem like minor details, but these elements contributed to his overall performance. Comfort and stability on the course are crucial, especially during long tournaments.
Matsuyama’s equipment choices demonstrate the importance of tailoring gear to individual playing styles. Every club in his bag served a specific purpose, reflecting his strategic approach to the game.
While some equipment, like his wedges, remained consistent, Matsuyama was not afraid to experiment with new technology, as seen with his driver and 3-wood choices in 2024. This balance of tradition and innovation was key to his success.
From his golf ball to his irons, Matsuyama’s consistent preferences highlight the importance of reliability in a golfer’s equipment.
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