Bryson DeChambeau Ignites 2024 Masters With 3D Printed Irons

Bryson DeChambeau, nicknamed ‘The Mad Scientist’ for his unconventional approach to the game of golf, has ignited the 2024 Masters Tournament, capturing the attention of fans and experts alike in the sport. While his stellar performance on the course has propelled him to a top position on the leaderboard, his unusual choice of equipment has sparked intrigue and admiration. Integrating a more tailored approach into his golfing arsenal, DeChambeau’s decision to wield a custom set of 3D printed irons from Avoda Golf has generated substantial buzz. These irons, crafted using cutting-edge 3D printing technology, represent a bold departure from traditional club manufacturing methods.

DeChambeau’s gamble on these unorthodox irons has added an exciting layer to his Masters journey, which has been anything but ordinary. Developed in collaboration with his longtime coach, Mike Schy, and Tom Bailey, founder of Avoda Golf, a clubmaker specializing in cutting-edge 3D printing technology, the process began with innovative experimentation. Seeking to complement DeChambeau’s unique playing style, the group began prototyping the clubs.

An Avoda Golf iron wielded by DeChambeau. (Photo Credits: Golf Digest)

The irons’ distinctive design integrates ports in the toe area and a bulge in the face, optimizing performance and forgiveness on off-center strikes. This collaboration between the three, enhanced by the precision of 3D printing technology, has yielded a set of clubs that meticulously align with DeChambeau’s preferences and exact specifications.

Speaking on the advantages these 3D printed clubs offer, Schy stated, “The faces have some bulge to them, they are one-of-a-kind. What happens if you hit it on the toe? It hooks a lot, right? What happens if you hit it on the heel? It cuts a lot. When you have bolts, that offsets that.”

Nonetheless, DeChambeau’s journey to the Masters encountered significant challenges. Initial prototypes sparked scrutiny from the United States Golf Association, with questions arising regarding the conformity of the irons’ grooves. However, DeChambeau and his team refined and re-printed the clubs to ensure adherence to the USGA’s strict regulations. This resulted in an eventual endorsement by the USGA, allowing DeChambeau admittance into the tournament and the opportunity to put these clubs to the test when it truly matters.

The irons have already significantly impacted DeChambeau’s performance, with DeChambeau claiming increased accuracy and consistency due to the clubs’ customizability. “It’s a speed thing,” he stated. “When I miss-hit on the toe or the heel, it seems to fly a lot straighter for me, and that’s what has allowed me to be more comfortable over the ball.”

Bryson DeChambeau’s 3D printed irons in use at the 2024 Masters Tournament. (Photo Credits: Golfweek)

When coupled with DeChambeau’s top performance, the success of these 3D printed irons may likely accelerate the shift in the landscape of sports equipment manufacturing, as many athletes increasingly turn to 3D printing for its improved customizability and personalization.

What do you think about DeChambeau’s 3D printed irons by Avoda Golf? Let us know in a comment below or on our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly newsletter here for the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.

*Cover Photo Credits: Golf WRX