It’s not talked about often, but the mechanics of any OEM landing BIG name talent is an interesting topic. I remember the Rahmbo chase in late 2020 with Callaway becoming the eventual home (and the perfect one) for the two-time major champion.
No, it’s not all about money folks. Yes, that’s part of it, but ultimately it comes down to product and personnel. In late 2021, I remember the chatter around who was going to sign Scottie Scheffler as at the time he was the #1 unsigned talent. He had never won but commanded respect among players, caddies and reps. He also performed well in the 2021 Ryder Cup, going 2-0-1 and beating Rahm in singles 4 and 3.
It was shortly after that Ryder Cup that the volume got turned way up.
In this week’s episode of the Fully Equipped Podcast, I went in a little deeper with TaylorMade Sports Marketing Manager Adrian Rietveld on how it all went down, what rumors were true and what was fake news.
To be honest, the difference between what we all thought versus what actually happened is pretty interesting. Truth be told, I had no idea they had signed him long before he actually won. On Tour ranges for those beyond the TM inner circle, that was kind of the perception.
Knowing that, the bet they took on Scottie may go down as the smartest signing in modern history.
Hard to argue with 17 wins and four majors.
Watch the full episode of Fully Equipped on YouTube below.
