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Nick Dunlap has etched his name in golden letters this week. The 20-year-old Alabama sensation made headlines by becoming the first amateur to secure a PGA TOUR victory in 33 years. Yes, you read that right – not since Phil Mickelson's triumph in 1991 had an amateur clinched a PGA TOUR event until Dunlap's historic win at The American Express.
A Record-Breaking Week
Dunlap's path to victory was nothing short of spectacular. As the lone amateur in a competitive 156-player field, he shot a record-breaking 60 on Saturday, entering the final round with a three-stroke lead. Despite the pressure, Dunlap held his ground, securing a one-shot victory over Christiaan Bezuidenhout. His final-round par, complete with a remarkable up and down on the 72nd hole, sealed his fate as a golfing legend in the making.
However, due to his amateur status, Dunlap couldn't claim the $1.5 million first-place prize, which instead went to Bezuidenhout. Still, the victory brings its own rewards, granting Dunlap exemptions into prestigious PGA TOUR events for the rest of 2024, including coveted spots in the 2024 Masters, US Open, and Open Championship.
"If you would have said, ‘Hey, in five days you’re going to have a PGA Tour card or an opportunity for two years,’ I would have looked at you sideways," Dunlap remarked after his extraordinary triumph.
What's In The Bag of Nick Dunlap
Even before his historic win, Dunlap was already making waves in the golfing world. Joining the ranks of legends like Tiger Woods, he had previously clinched both the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Junior Amateur titles in 2023. Now, let's delve into the arsenal that powered this young golfing prodigy to victory.
Driver
At the heart of Dunlap's game is the TaylorMade Qi10 LS driver. With a Project X HZRDUS Green 70 TX Shaft, this driver provides the perfect blend of power and precision. Dunlap's preference for the LS head shape, set to the standard upright position, ensures a consistent left-to-right ball flight – a crucial element of his winning strategy.
Fairway Woods
Dunlap trusts the Ping G425 LST fairway wood to navigate the fairways. Fitted with a Mitsubishi Tensei AV Raw White 85 TX Shaft, this club adds versatility to his game, allowing him to handle various course conditions with ease.
Irons
In the iron department, Dunlap relies on the TaylorMade P7MC Irons, equipped with True Temper Dynamic Gold Tour Issue X100 Shafts. These precision-engineered irons provide the consistency and control needed to conquer any course.
Wedges
Dunlap's wedge game is fortified by the TaylorMade MG3 Wedge (48°) and TaylorMade MG4 Wedges (52°, 56°, 60°), all featuring True Temper Dynamic Gold X100 Shafts. These wedges offer the finesse and spin control required for those critical approach shots.
Putter
When it comes to the flatstick, Dunlap opts for the Odyssey O-Works #7 Tank Putter, complemented by a Winn grip. This putter provides the stability and feel necessary to navigate the greens with confidence.
In the wake of his historic victory, Nick Dunlap's bag tells a tale of precision, power, and unwavering confidence. As he continues to rise in the golfing ranks, one can't help but wonder what incredible feats lie ahead for this young golfing sensation. The world will be watching, and the fairways await the next chapter in the extraordinary journey of Nick Dunlap.
