Rory McIlroy has decisively ended his brief equipment experiment, reverting to his familiar blade irons ahead of his first PGA Tour appearance of the 2026 season. The Northern Irish golf star will defend his AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am title this weekend armed with what he calls his "trusty irons," the same set he has used throughout most of his professional career.
Equipment Experiment Concluded
McIlroy had ventured into new territory in January, switching from his traditional blade irons to cavity-back models during his Middle Eastern swing. The experiment yielded mixed results: a third-place finish at the Dubai Invitational followed by a disappointing tied-33rd performance at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
"That experiment is over - back to the trusty irons that I have played basically my whole career," McIlroy confirmed during a pre-tournament press conference at Pebble Beach. "My game feels in good shape."
Building Toward Another Successful Campaign
The 36-year-old Masters champion believes returning to his familiar equipment setup can provide the foundation for another strong season. McIlroy enters 2026 with considerable momentum, having completed the career grand slam last year with a dramatic playoff victory over Justin Rose at Augusta National.
"I had a strong finish to the season last year, played well in the Middle East, went on to Australia, which was a great experience," McIlroy reflected. "I sort of messed around with some different iron set-ups and a different ball and a few equipment changes."
After what he described as "two weeks in Dubai to sort of shake the rust off," McIlroy has spent the last fortnight practicing at home and feels prepared for the challenges ahead. "I feel pretty good coming in here," he added.
Defending Champion at Signature Event
The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am represents the PGA Tour's first 'Signature Event' of the season, featuring a limited field of 80 elite players. McIlroy's victory here last year launched a remarkable campaign that included a second Players Championship title before his historic Masters triumph.
"It was a perfect way to start the year here last year," McIlroy noted. "I'm hoping for something similar this week."
Competitive Field Gathers at Pebble Beach
The tournament boasts an impressive lineup, with world number one Scottie Scheffler leading the field. Early FedExCup leader Chris Gotterup arrives fresh from his playoff victory at the Phoenix Open, while Justin Rose comes to Pebble Beach having won the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines with a record 23-under-par performance.
McIlroy's Views on Major Championship Status
During his press conference, McIlroy was asked about whether the Players Championship should be considered a fifth major tournament. The Northern Irishman offered a nuanced perspective, blending appreciation for the event with respect for golf's traditions.
"I think the Players is one of the best golf tournaments in the world, I don't think anyone disputes that or argues that," McIlroy stated. "Player perspective it's amazing. I think from an on-site fan experience it's amazing. It's an amazing golf course, location, venue."
However, McIlroy revealed his traditionalist leanings, adding: "But I'm a traditionalist, I'm a historian of the game. We have four major championships. If you want to see what five major championships looks like, look at the women's game. I don't know how well that's went for them."
As McIlroy prepares to begin his PGA Tour campaign with familiar equipment in hand, golf fans will watch closely to see if his return to trusted technology can spark another championship season for one of the sport's most accomplished players.
