Exactly! Coaches like Butch Harmon not only teach technique but also instill the mental game, which is just as crucial for success in the short game.
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Iāve noticed tournament strategies have changed as well. Players seem less hesitant to go for aggressive short game plays if they trust their skills, particularly in majors.
For sure! Watching players like Jordan Spieth pull off tricky chips under pressure showcases how crucial a robust short game has become in high-stakes situations.
Itās interesting to see how technology has impacted short game training. Launch monitors and simulators now provide instant feedback, which can drastically improve a playerās feel and touch around the greens.
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True! However, I sometimes think technology can make players overly technical. Sometimes, you just need to feel the shot!
Thereās no doubt that short game proficiency can turn a good player into a great one. Just look at the careers of legends like Seve Ballesteros. He achieved greatness primarily through his short game magic.
Well said! It really puts in perspective the achievements of past players. They didnāt have the same resources as today, yet they still excelled with sheer talent.
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And for many amateurs, focusing on the short game is often overlooked. Itās more fun to hit drives, but the reality is that mastering the short game can significantly lower your scores!
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Thatās hilarious! Watching a 300-yard drive only to see them three-putt is bittersweet. The short game definitely deserves more love from players at all levels.
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I wish we could see more players advocating for short game practice. When was the last time you heard a pro emphasize that in an interview? Itās always about the long game!
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Good point! Maybe itās a product of the current long-drive competition craze. Certainly, the balance between power and precision has shifted in modern golf.
Reflection is important here. The greatest players often had a deep understanding of their short games. It makes you appreciate the artistry involved not just in hitting the ball, but in shaping every shot.
Itās fascinating to look at short game greats like Phil Mickelson. His chipping techniques are really worth studying, especially how he uses different clubs to achieve various shots.
I completely agree! I also love how he incorporates creativity into his shots. It makes short game practice much more enjoyable!
One iconic player to remember is Seve Ballesteros. His vision around the greens was unreal! Any tips from him that you think we can apply today?
Seveās short game was all about feel and intuition. I recommend practicing without a ball sometimes to sharpen those instincts!
I think the best practice routine is to mimic situations you face on the course. Just like Larry Mize did during his career. It builds confidence in pressure situations.
[quote=ānicoleklein, post:5, topic:7413ā]I think the best practice routine is to mimic situationsā¦[quote]Thatās spot on! Itās essential to replicate real-life scenarios. It can take you a long way under pressure!
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Has anyone tried the ladder drill that some pros recommend? It helps with distance control and would be interesting to hear success stories!
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Yes! Iāve tried it and found it really improved my distance control. Such a simple yet effective drill!