The Evolution of Titleist Pro V1: A Quarter Century of Excellence
A New Chapter Begins in Las Vegas
This week, Las Vegas witnesses the unveiling of the new 2025 Titleist Pro V1 and Pro V1x golf balls, marking a significant milestone in golf ball innovation. These models have become synonymous with excellence over the last 25 years. Introduced on the PGA TOUR, they continue to dominate as the preferred and best-selling golf ball models.
A Revolutionary Debut in 2000
The original Pro V1 debuted in October 2000 at the PGA TOUR’s Invensys Classic in Las Vegas. To say it made an impact would be an understatement. Forty-seven players, including the eventual champion Billy Andrade, opted for the Pro V1 immediately. This marked one of the most significant shifts in equipment usage ever witnessed on the PGA TOUR.
The event showcased the Pro V1’s superior performance, leading to a triumphant 1-2 finish. Billy Andrade, who wasn’t having the best of seasons, attributed his victory to the newfound distance and control the Pro V1 provided. He recalled, “The ball was 20 yards longer than the Tour Prestige. It was like nothing I had ever played.”
The Constant Pursuit of Perfection
Since the year 2000, Pro V1 and Pro V1x have been the overwhelmingly popular choice among PGA TOUR players. From their debut up to last week’s Sanderson Farms Championship, they have been favoured over 97,000 times in competition, surpassing their closest competitors by a wide margin.
The challenge has always been for Titleist’s Golf Ball R&D and Operations teams to enhance an already exceptional product. Their approach involves continuous feedback from golfers, rigorous R&D, testing, and validation by top-tier players.
R&D and the Road to 2025
Prototype golf balls with new technologies are regularly tested by tour players during practice rounds. Fordie Pitts, Titleist’s Director of Tour Validation and Research, provided the final prototypes to PGA TOUR players earlier this season. These selections were subsequently made available to Titleist’s tour representatives following the Tour Championship.
During September, several players tested the 2025 models at Titleist’s Performance Centers. Notably, Hayden Springer and Zac Blair tried out the Pro V1 and Pro V1x models before the Procore Championship. Lee Hodges switched to the 2025 Pro V1 following his visit to Manchester Lane, just before the Sanderson Farms Championship.
The Role of Technology in Performance
The Pro V1’s large solid core, multi-component construction, and urethane elastomer cover deliver phenomenal distance off the tee. They also provide unmatched control around the greens. Players no longer need to compromise distance for control, making it the preferred choice for many.
Mary Lou Bohn, President of Titleist Golf Balls, emphasized, “The Pro V1 responded to the changing nature of the game. The power game required golf balls offering low long-game spin while maintaining premium spin and control.”
Over the years, the Pro V1 has been in the hands of players who consistently achieve record-breaking performances, as evidenced by its widespread acclaim.
Testing Grounds: TPC Summerlin
The Pro V1’s journey began on the ranges of TPC Summerlin, and this week, every Titleist range ball there will be a 2025 Pro V1 or Pro V1x. This allows every player the opportunity to experience the next generation of an already legendary golf ball.
A Storied Legacy Continues
The Pro V1 and Pro V1x models have become more than just golf balls. They symbolize innovation and excellence in the field of golf. The ongoing feedback loop between players and developers, along with state-of-the-art technology, ensures that these balls continue to set the standard.
In their 25th year, the Pro V1 and Pro V1x remain at the top of their game, promising to provide golfers with the reliability and performance they’ve come to expect. And so, the robust legacy of Titleist continues, celebrated on courses around the world, inspiring golfers to achieve their best.