The Art of Putting: Insights from Brad Faxon at Royal Liverpool
A Gem of a Green
In the world of golf, one aspect of the game that has captivated players and spectators alike is the art of putting. The ability to read the greens, control the speed, and sink crucial putts has always been a defining factor in a golfer’s success. One man who knows a thing or two about the art of putting is Brad Faxon, a former professional golfer turned renowned putting coach.
Faxon, who first played at Royal Liverpool 40 years ago as a member of the U.S. Walker Cup team, has now returned to the esteemed links as a TV commentator for NBC and as a mentor to Rory McIlroy. Throughout his distinguished career, Faxon was widely recognized for his rhythmic and precise putting stroke. Even amidst inconsistent play off the tee, Faxon’s prowess on the greens allowed him to make his mark on the PGA Tour, winning eight times and securing an impressive 451 cuts.
One of the distinguishing features of Royal Liverpool’s greens is their unique texture. As Faxon aptly described, the blades of grass resemble delicate petals on a small flower. This observation speaks to Faxon’s keen eye for detail and his ability to quickly adapt to the intricacies of different putting surfaces. Faxon’s astute observations and analytical approach have undoubtedly played a significant role in his success as both a player and a coach.
The Power of Mindset
When it comes to putting, Faxon encourages his students to tap into their inner athleticism and instinctiveness. He emphasizes that putting should be a source of fun and enjoyment, rather than treating it as a tedious task. One of his regular points of advice is to avoid viewing putting as work. In Faxon’s view, golf should be on the fun-and-games side of the life ledger.
However, this mindset is easier said than done. The pressure and expectations that come with putting can often lead to self-doubt and overthinking. Faxon understands this mental battle all too well. He recalls a reporter once asking him what he was working on during a practice putting session. Faxon simply replied, “Not caring.” This simple yet profound response highlights the importance of maintaining a carefree and lighthearted approach to putting.
Having worked closely with sports psychologist Bob Rotella, Faxon recognizes the significance of mental preparation in achieving consistent putting success. His collaboration with Rotella, the author of “Golf is Not a Game of Perfect,” undoubtedly played a role in Faxon’s ability to thrive on the meticulous greens of the PGA Tour. While PGA Tour greens are often perfect and uniform, British Open greens, such as those at Royal Liverpool, exhibit greater variability, requiring golfers to adapt their mindset to the unpredictable conditions.
The Freedom of Imperfection
In the realm of putting, the pursuit of perfection can often be the biggest obstacle to success. Faxon’s experiences at Royal Liverpool taught him the importance of embracing imperfections and finding freedom within them. McIlroy, a player with a world-class putting game, has also learned this lesson throughout his career.
When faced with slower greens like those at Royal Liverpool, golfers have the luxury of striking the ball harder and playing less break. Faxon advises his students to tap into their creativity and allow themselves to experiment with different approaches when putting. The relaxed, laid-back nature of slower greens should encourage players to abandon their perfectionist tendencies and trust in their instincts.
Slope, speed, and wind are all factors that Faxon took into account when reading putts. The ever-changing conditions of British Open greens demand flexibility and adaptability from golfers. Faxon’s own experiences on these challenging greens have undoubtedly played a role in shaping his approach to coaching. His refusal to hover the putter head over the ball, as Jack Nicklaus famously did, reveals his preference for a lighter, more intuitive touch.
The Guidance for Success
During his time at Royal Liverpool this year, Faxon shared a couple of reminders with McIlroy that resonated with the Northern Irishman. One crucial aspect of McIlroy’s putting stroke is to maintain a slightly tucked right elbow and ensure consistent contact with the center of the putter face. These adjustments help to improve the quality of contact and promote a smoother, more reliable roll.
Ultimately, Faxon’s advice to McIlroy and all golfers is to get lost in the creative process and let instinct take over. Putting should not be hampered by thoughts of failure or missed opportunities. Instead, golfers should embrace the fluidity and artistry of the putting game and let their natural abilities shine through.
As Brad Faxon returns to Royal Liverpool, his timeless wisdom and unique insights into the art of putting continue to inspire players and fans alike. The ability to excel in the game within the game requires a combination of skill, instinct, and a carefree mindset. Faxon’s journey serves as a testament to the enduring appeal and beauty of the art of putting in the world of golf.
<< photo by Jopwell >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
