The Truth About Driving Distance on the PGA Tour

If you’ve ever watched a professional golf tournament, you’ve probably heard commentators marvel at the sheer power some players generate off the tee. The PGA Tour is home to some of the longest drivers in the game, and it’s easy to assume that bombing the ball down the fairway is the key to success. After all, Tiger CHANGED THE GAME with his big drives. Well, as we will see, the TaylorMade Qi10 that Scottie Scheffler uses proves (as the camp counselors at Camp North Star say) “It just doesn’t matter”!

But here’s the thing—driving distance isn’t everything. The best golfers in the world aren’t necessarily the ones hitting the longest drives. Case in point? The current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler, ranks just 78th in driving distance on the PGA Tour according to the PGA Golf Stats and Records website.

Yes, you read that right. The best player in the world isn’t even in the top 50 when it comes to distance. That should tell you something. Golf isn’t just about raw power—it’s about control, precision, and, ultimately, scoring.

The Longest Drivers on the PGA Tour

Before we get into what Scottie Scheffler is playing, let’s take a quick look at the biggest hitters on tour. Year after year, guys like Rory McIlroy, Cameron Champ, and Bryson DeChambeau (when he was on Tour) have led the rankings in driving distance, routinely crushing the ball over 320 yards. (And by the way, we are going to do articles on all these guys).

These power players have redefined how golf is played, turning some courses into pitch-and-putt layouts with their ability to cut down par-5s to mere mid-iron approaches. But despite their massive drives, none of them have dominated the game the way Scottie Scheffler has over the past couple of years.

What Driver Does Scottie Scheffler Use?

Given his status as the No. 1 player in the world, you might assume Scottie Scheffler swings the most cutting-edge, high-end driver on the market. But that’s not quite the case.

Scottie plays the TaylorMade Qi10 driver, a club that isn’t even one of the most expensive options available. While other players are using premium models with every custom fitting tweak possible, Scheffler’s choice is a testament to one simple fact: it’s not the club; it’s the player. Now, I’m not saying it’s “off the rack”, but you get my point.

The Qi10 is known for its forgiveness and consistency, which are exactly what a precision player like Scheffler needs. He may not be the longest off the tee, but he’s consistently in the fairway and setting himself up for approach shots that lead to birdies. Oh, and the putting.

Driving for Show, Putting for Dough

There’s an old saying in golf: “Drive for show, putt for dough.”

And it couldn’t be more true. While blasting a 350-yard drive is exciting, it’s the player who can sink 8-foot putts under pressure that wins tournaments. That’s why Scheffler is world No. 1—not because he outdrives everyone, but because he outplays them where it matters most: on the greens and in scoring situations.

That’s not to say driving distance isn’t fun (or important). It absolutely is. But when it comes to lowering your scores, you’re better off focusing on accuracy and putting rather than just raw power.

What Does This Mean for You? Choosing the Right Driver

So, what can the everyday golfer learn from Scottie Scheffler’s driver choice? Simple: you don’t need the longest or the most expensive driver to play your best golf.

Here’s what you should consider when picking a driver:

1. Forgiveness: Most amateur golfers benefit from a driver with a big sweet spot and high MOI (moment of inertia).
2. Launch & Spin: Some drivers are designed to help players with slower swing speeds launch the ball higher and with less spin, maximizing distance.
3. Accuracy vs. Distance: If you can’t keep the ball in play, adding 10 yards to your drive won’t help your scorecard. A more controlled driver (like the TaylorMade Qi10) can actually help lower your scores.
4. Feel & Confidence: Ultimately, the best driver is the one that makes you feel comfortable standing over the ball.

Final Thoughts

Scottie Scheffler’s success proves that you don’t have to be the longest hitter to be the best golfer. His TaylorMade Qi10 driver isn’t the flashiest or most expensive, but it works for his game because it prioritizes consistency over pure distance.

So, if you’re in the market for a new driver, take a page from Scottie’s book: Find a club that fits your game, not just one that promises the longest drives. Because at the end of the day, golf is about scoring—not just swinging for the fences.

FAQs

1. Why doesn’t Scottie Scheffler use the most expensive driver?
Scottie values consistency and control over raw power, so he chooses a driver that gives him precision rather than just distance.

2. What is the most popular driver on the PGA Tour?
Many players use models from TaylorMade, Callaway, and Titleist, with TaylorMade’s Stealth and Qi10 series being top choices.

3. Is driving distance the most important stat in golf?
Not necessarily. While distance is helpful, accuracy, approach shots, and putting have a bigger impact on scoring. Did you read this article?

4. Can recreational golfers use the same driver as the pros?
Absolutely! Many of the drivers PGA Tour players use are available to everyday golfers, but getting properly fitted is key.

5. How can I hit longer drives without sacrificing accuracy?
Focus on swing mechanics, club fitting, and optimizing launch conditions. A properly fitted driver and a good swing will add both distance and control. And the longer that you swing a particular way, the faster your swing speed will be.