In a thrilling display of skill and determination, young golf prodigy Tom McKibbin emerged victorious at the prestigious Porsche European Open, fending off tough competition from a formidable field and two beloved local players.
Armed with his trusted Stealth 2 fairways and TP5x golf ball, McKibbin showcased his immense talent and secured his first-ever DP World Tour triumph.
McKibbin’s final round of 70 propelled him to a commendable nine-under-par finish, distinguishing him as the sole player to complete all four rounds below par (72-69-72-70).
His outstanding performance culminated in a remarkable moment on the 18th hole, where he expertly found the green from a challenging 203-yard distance out of the semi-rough.
With his TP Bandon putter and reliable TP5x golf ball, McKibbin comfortably secured a two-stroke victory, savouring a well-deserved win.
Notably, McKibbin’s equipment choices played a pivotal role in his success. The introduction of his new TP Bandon putter, featuring a KBS graphite shaft, provided the inspiration and confidence he sought on the greens.
The slight softness in the tip of the graphite shaft aided his pace control, contributing to his outstanding putting performance throughout the tournament.
With only 26 DP World Tour appearances to his name since transitioning from the European Challenge Tour, McKibbin’s achievement carries even greater significance.
He now joins the esteemed ranks of young Irish golfers who have triumphed on the DP World Tour, a group that includes his fellow Team TaylorMade member Rory McIlroy, hailing from Holywood, Northern Ireland, and winner in 2009.
Key Details about Tom McKibbin:
- Adopted a new TP Bandon putter equipped with a KBS graphite shaft, enhancing his pace control on the greens.
- Sole player to complete all four rounds under par (72-69-72-70).
- Led the field in greens hit under regulation, averaging two per round with his trusted Stealth 2 fairway woods.
- Showcased exceptional all-round skills, recording the fewest number of bogeys throughout the tournament (eight).
- Remarkably achieved his maiden DP World Tour victory in just his 26th tour start, making him the youngest Irish golfer to accomplish this feat since fellow Team TaylorMade athlete Rory McIlroy in 2009.
- Projected to climb to approximately World #150 in the Official World Golf Rankings and secure the 33rd spot in the Ryder Cup Europe points list.
Tom McKibbin’s Bag of Choice:
- Stealth Plus 9.0 driver
- Stealth 2 15.0 3-wood
- Stealth 2 21.0 7-wood
- P760 4 iron
- P7MC 5-6 iron
- P7MB 7-9 iron
- MG3 46* wedge
- TP Bandon putter
- TP5x golf ball