(Chessington, UK – June 30, 2024) Team Callaway stars and Paradym Ai Smoke went head-to-head at the Italian Open with comeback king Marcel Siem claiming a dramatic play-off victory over fellow staffer Tom McKibbin.
Both players relied on the power and accuracy of Callaway’s Paradym Ai Smoke Driver and Fairways, but it was the German’s hot putting with an Odyssey 2-Ball Ten Broomstick that proved the difference, rewarding him with a sixth DP World Tour title over the young Irishman.
In regulation play, both staffers topped the field on -10, but it was Siem’s stellar putt on the final green which secured him a play-off place, and his subsequent birdie on the first extra play-off hole, that proved decisive.
For Tom, after a stunning final day 65 at Adriatic Golf Club Cervia, his Major debut reward was qualification for the 152nd Open at Royal Troon in two weeks’ time. Tom also led the tournament in ‘Scoring-Stroke Average’ and ‘Strokes Gained’ stats.
Speaking immediately after securing a €516,774 winner’s cheque, and competing in only his fourth tournament since returning after hip surgery, a jubilant Marcel (43) said: “It’s just amazing. I love life, I love golf, it can’t get any better at the moment. I love the sport and it’s so much fun to work hard for it.”
Marcel’s immaculate and precision iron play throughout the week came courtesy of Callaway Apex TCB 3- and 4-irons, plus Callaway Apex MB 5-9 irons. In addition, his Paradym Ai Smoke Driver features the Ai Smart Face that uses real player data and advanced machine learning to create a series of sweet spots all over the face.
Ben Sharpe, President and Managing Director of Callaway EMEA, added: “We congratulate Marcel on this landmark victory, so soon after recovering from surgery. It was a fantastic spectacle to see both our players battling for this prestigious title, and we look forward to seeing them competing on golf’s greatest Major stage in Scotland in a few weeks’ time.”
What’s in the Bag – Marcel Siem
Driver: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke Triple Diamond Max 8.5°
Fairway: Callaway Paradym Ai Smoke 15°; Callaway Epic Speed D 18°
Irons: Callaway Apex TCB ’21 3-4; Callaway Apex MB ’24 5-9
Putter: Odyssey 2-Ball Ten Broomstick
For more information about Callaway and Odyssey, visit: eu.callawaygolf.com
CONTACTS:
Jack Seddon: Jack.Seddon@callawaygolf.com
Owen Davies: Owen.Davies@callawaygolf.com
Sue Page: Sue.Page@callawaygolf.com
About Callaway Golf Company
Through an unwavering commitment to innovation, Callaway manufactures and sells premium golf clubs, golf balls, golf and lifestyle bags, golf and lifestyle apparel and other accessories. For more information, please visit eu.callawaygolf.com. Topgolf Callaway Brands (NYSE: MODG), an unrivaled tech-enabled golf company delivering leading golf equipment, apparel, and entertainment, with a portfolio of global brands including Callaway Golf, Topgolf, Odyssey, OGIO, TravisMathew and Jack Wolfskin.
