McIlroy, Fleetwood discover new TaylorMade driver ahead of Abu Dhabi – Golf News
On the eve of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Yas Links, two golf superstars were spotted practicing on the driving range wearing brand new TaylorMade gear. Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood are both using new driver heads that recently appeared on the USGA qualifying list. As these top players transition, golfers and fans alike are asking whether these new drivers are ready to make a change at their own clubs.
New rider sightings on Tour
McIlroy and Fleetwood both have TaylorMade Tour staff status. They were on the practice tee at Yas Links in the first week of November, each using a driver that many had yet to see in competition. McIlroy appears to be using the standard version of TaylorMade’s QiD4, while Fleetwood is using the low-spin (LS) version. These clubs have just entered the qualifying list, meaning they are now eligible to participate in the championship.
The move highlights the intersection of equipment changes, sponsorship and approval. Many golfers adhere to tour-level rules about which clubs are allowed, and the USGA list shows which driver heads are allowed in tournaments. At the same time, some players and fans also track technical announcements and equipment changes to see how they affect tournaments and betting odds. many Safe non-Gamstop betting options Use equipment news like this as part of your research when determining odds for upcoming Tour events. This means bettors get the best odds and the latest updates on their favorite sports.
About the New TaylorMade Driver Series
TaylorMade’s new driver line comes in three models: Standard, LS and Max. These Qi4D driver heads are the next generation following the Qi35 series.
The eligibility list shows the range of tilt options, with the standard version offering 8°, 9°, 10.5° and 12°, while the LS offers 8°, 9° and 10.5°. Visual clues include bottom weight ports and front/rear weight layout, indicating TaylorMade is offering more adjustability for fitters and players alike. So far, news outlets don’t have any technical details.
The trends shaping gear in 2025
A key shift in 2025 is the rise of smart golf equipment. New clubs and training tools are using sensors and artificial intelligence to provide players with real-time swing and ball data. This technology is helping many professionals and amateurs shape their practices. From swing path to ball flight, players now get instant feedback, helping them adjust their game faster than ever before.
TaylorMade’s driver fits that bill. Qi4D club heads may not have built-in sensors, but they are designed to work perfectly with swing data tools.
New materials are also making waves in drive design. Alloys like hot-forged carbon and Z-Alloy are used to transfer weight, change feel and help increase ball speed. They also reduce vibration and improve consistency.
While we’re still waiting for full confirmation, TaylorMade is likely using some of these advanced materials in the Qi4D heads. That might explain why pros like McIlroy and Fleetwood immediately put them to the test.
Why it matters to the Tour
When we see top players like McIlroy and Fleetwood testing new riders during major event weeks, it sends a message. The timing of the list addition and its practical use suggests TaylorMade is gearing up for a full launch of the series.
It’s also an important time for amateur golfers and equipment buyers. When pros switch gears, the new models often trickle down to retail. Golfers who follow equipment trends, take note. If McIlroy or Fleetwood perform well on Yas’s new model, interest in the new driver could surge.
McIlroy’s Equipment History
Rory McIlroy has a history of changing drivers when it feels right. He tried the older Qi35 driver at several events in early 2025 before switching back to the Qi10 series model, which helped him complete the career Grand Slam in April. Now, he appears to be seriously considering the new Qi4D standard for upcoming competitions.
Of course, using it on the driving range is just the first step. The real test will be whether he can keep it in the bag under pressure during games and whether it helps him maintain or improve his performance off the tee.
Fleetwood gear trends
Tommy Fleetwood has also undergone an evolution as a driver this year. Early on, he used the Qi35 LS, then switched to the Dot version of the Qi35. The equipment contributed to his Win first PGA Tour title at Tour Championship and won the DP World Indian Championship. His use of the LS version of the new driver shows that he is fine-tuning his spin, launch and tee shot control. He’s a player who hits the ball cleanly and has a low-spin driver that can unlock extra distance without sacrificing accuracy.
What to see and do in Abu Dhabi
When McIlroy and Fleetwood tee off at the HSBC Championship in Abu Dhabi, fans and golfers should pay close attention to their driving numbers. Will McIlroy carry more than usual? Will Fleetwood reduce his spin rate? Will their serve land in a better position relative to the court? This equipment change provides a test case.
Golf fans should also pay attention to comments made during the press conference. If either player confirms they have made the switch permanently or are just testing, that will indicate the next step.
Impact on club selection and amateurs
If this driver line becomes available to the public, golf clubs and fitters will begin incorporating it into their demo racks. Those players who struggled with earlier versions may decide that now is the time to explore the changes. Fitters will look at launch conditions, spin and dispersion to decide whether the standard, LS or Max variant will fit an individual golfer’s swing.
Now, more club fitters are using launch monitors like GCQuad and TrackMan to help players understand how each club head is performing. These tools display carry distance, spin, angle of attack, and ball speed. It’s changing the way pros and amateurs choose gear.
In the retail space, simulators are now more common as well. Players can test gear in the field, even indoors. This technology allows installers to test how a club head like the Qi4D will perform under real swing conditions.
Global demand for smarter, faster equipment continues to grow
By 2025, global demand for golf equipment will continue to grow. Countries in Asia, the Middle East and Latin America are showing strong buying trends for gear containing new materials or smart features. TaylorMade’s launch may also attract attention in these markets.
As technology continues to advance, the combination of sensors, carbon shells and forged alloys gives players more feedback and feel than ever before. Golfers want speed and control, and the introduction of Qi4D may satisfy that need. As the HSBC Championship in Abu Dhabi begins, all eyes will be on Fleetwood and McIlroy. And their new driver.
