After the Xander Schauffele failed driver test debacle at The Open, it would appear that the governing bodies are on a war path this season. They have begun testing 30 drivers at tournaments this season.
Word from the Safeway Open is that multiple players’ drivers failed the CT (characteristic time) test.
Per Reuters, at least five players had drivers that were not-conforming. Brands included were Titleist, TaylorMade, and Cobra.
Reuters went on to list Corey Conners, Robert Streb, Jason Dufner, Michael Thompson and Mark Hubbard as the players whose drivers did not pass the test.
This doesn’t mean that these drivers were manufactured this way. After a lot of use, the face of the driver can change as a result of “creep,” and can easily become non-conforming.
Players were informed of the testing in a memo sent out on September 3rd.
“While this testing program will test the clubs in use by players on the PGA Tour out of necessity, it is important to note that the focus of the program is not on the individual player but rather on ensuring conformity level of each club model and type throughout the season,” the memo read. “We will seek to spread the testing throughout all regular Tour members over the course of a season.”
I don’t believe any player is out there attempting to use a non-conforming club at this point. Club manufacturers have made these drivers so that they get the maximum amount of ball speed and minimum spin on every swing by a professional.
This appears to be all for show at the moment.