US Open champion Graeme McDowell has officially joined Srixon as a member of their PGA Tour staff. 

The Ulsterman, whose contract with Callaway ended on December 31, will use Srixon irons, Cleveland wedges and Srixon balls, wear a Srixon hat and glove and carry a Srixon bag.

So why change after such an incredible 2010 season? Apart from the money, McDowell was attracted by the ball, according to the Srixon blog.

“I was a Cleveland Wedge player most of my amateur career and my college days.  I had a relationship with the guys on and off throughout the years, it was just the right time.  

“Obviously the Srixon golf ball was a ball that appealed to me, I had heard so many good things about it.  Let’s be honest, nowadays the golf ball is a huge part of the whole deal and it was a ball I wanted to try out.  

It’s the ball, stupid.“Instantly I really loved the ball.  I was at a stage my career where it is great to come on with a company like Cleveland/Srixon and have input of energy into my career.  Obviously, I am trying to get to the next level and become one of the world’s best players.  I just think this equipment is what can get me there.” 

Needless to say, Srixon is delighted to sign the new world No 5 following the departure of Jim Furyk to TaylorMade.

“We are extremely pleased to have Graeme as a member of our PGA Tour staff,” said Greg Hopkins, CEO of Cleveland Golf/Srixon. “Having a world class player such as G·Mac choose to make the switch to Srixon, especially following such a successful 2010 season, not only says a lot about the faith he has in our products but also reflects as to the type of competitor and representative he’ll be for our brands.”

McDowell added: “I am really excited about my decision to sign with Srixon. There is a great energy amongst the team at Srixon regarding my signing with them and I am looking forward to feeding off this energy going into 2011.”

No news yet on which driver McDowell will be using in Hawaii this week but as we await news from his management team, we’re guessing he won’t be changing his Callaway weapon any time soon.