The Masters, a tournament synonymous with golf excellence, has been the stage for many memorable moments. It’s where legends are made, careers are defined and the game of golf is continually redefined. As we look ahead to the 2024 Masters, one of the names that stands out is that of Tony Finau. Known for his powerful drives, consistent play and now his innovative spirit, Finau has always been a contender. But this year, he’s in the spotlight for a different reason.
Finau’s latest patent has added a new dimension to his persona. Working with Ping, a renowned golf equipment manufacturer, Finau helped design a putter so unique that his name is on the patent along with John A. Solheim, the company’s chairman and CEO, and Tony Serrano, Ping’s lead putter designer. This small-headed putter, inspired by Finau’s technique of putting with the toe of his putter out of the rough, is a testament to his innovative approach to the game. It’s a game-changer, not just for Finau, but potentially for golfers everywhere.
Should Finau win the Masters, he would join an exclusive and interesting club. He would become just the fourth Masters winner to have his name on a patent, the other three – George Archer, Nick Faldo and Phil Mickelson – are legends in their own right, each having left an indelible mark on the game.
Archer, known for his putting prowess, patented a “golf putter with training device,” a tool that has helped countless golfers improve their game. Faldo, a three-time Masters Champion, holds a patent for a “Wedge Type Golf Club Tri-Level Sole Configuration,” a design that has influenced the way golf clubs are made today. Mickelson, also a three-time Masters champion, has his name on two patents, both for innovative golf club designs that have revolutionized the sport.
Tony Finau is still using his newly patented putter in practice rounds, but it may not be long before he debuts it in official competition.
Tony Finau: An innovator on and off the green
Tony Finau began his journey at the 2024 Masters on a positive note, finishing the first round at 1 under par. Despite some ups and downs on the front nine (he birdied the second and bogeyed the 5th and the 7th), Finau managed to stay consistent and birdied the par-5 eighth. The back nine went better for Finau with four straight pars followed by a third birdie on the par-5 13th. He closed with five pars to finish at one under.
Finau’s performance on day one showed his consistency. His average drive was 308 yards and he hit the greens 78% of the time. However, there’s room for improvement in his putting as he averaged 1.83 putts per green compared to the field average of 1.64.
As the 2024 Masters unfolds, all eyes will be on Tony Finau. His recent patent and the possibility of joining the exclusive Masters club adds an intriguing subplot to the tournament. Whether he will don the coveted green jacket and join the ranks of Archer, Faldo and Mickelson remains to be seen. But one thing is certain – Tony Finau has already made his mark on the game, both as a player and an innovator. His path to the Masters is a testament to his dedication, skill and innovative spirit. Regardless of the outcome, Finau’s impact on the sport is undeniable.