GOLF.AI • Feb 23, 2026

A Putter Switch Forged a Victory

Jacob Bridgeman's victory at The Genesis Invitational wasn't just a story of grit; it was a masterclass in equipment optimization. After a challenging 2025 season marked by struggles on the greens, Bridgeman made a pivotal change that would redefine his game at Riviera.

The key was a switch to a TaylorMade Spider Tour putter. This wasn't just any putter; it was customized with a single white dot on the crown, a specific modification designed to perfect his alignment. The turnaround was immediate and dramatic. At Riviera, a course notorious for its tricky Poa annua greens, Bridgeman didn't just survive—he dominated, leading the entire field in Strokes Gained: Putting.

While his dazzling 7-wood play built his commanding lead through Saturday, it was the new putter that saved his victory on a nervy Sunday. As pressure mounted and his lead shrank, the flatstick held firm, allowing him to secure the career-changing win. This triumph was further supported by a move to the new 2026 TaylorMade TP5x golf ball, proving that a fully optimized bag, from driver to putter, can be the deciding factor between contention and a championship.