How Scottie Scheffler’s not-so-secret weapon got him out of a putting rut
In the world of professional golf, success often hinges on a single factor: putting. For Scottie Scheffler, a once-struggling pro turned phenom, the transformative power of mastering the greens has been nothing short of miraculous. And at the heart of this transformation lies Phil Kenyon, a sought-after golf coach whose expertise has elevated Scheffler’s game…
In the world of professional golf, success often hinges on a single factor: putting. For Scottie Scheffler, a once-struggling pro turned phenom, the transformative power of mastering the greens has been nothing short of miraculous. And at the heart of this transformation lies Phil Kenyon, a sought-after golf coach whose expertise has elevated Scheffler’s game to new heights.
Tiger Woods, a legend in his own right, simplifies Scheffler’s equation for victory at the 106th US PGA Championship: “If he putts decent, he wins.” Indeed, Scheffler’s recent dominance on the course, with four wins and a second-place finish in his last five tournaments, including a coveted Masters victory, speaks volumes about his prowess.
But behind Scheffler’s meteoric rise lies a partnership forged in dedication and trust. Phil Kenyon, a 50-year-old coach from Southport, England, has been instrumental in Scheffler’s journey. Their bond, born out of Scheffler’s search for a solution to his putting struggles, has blossomed into a formidable alliance.
Scheffler’s introduction to Kenyon came at a pivotal moment. Frustrated by his inconsistency on the greens, Scheffler sought out Kenyon’s expertise last summer. The results were immediate and profound. With Kenyon’s guidance, Scheffler adopted a mallet putter in March, a seemingly minor adjustment that yielded significant improvements.
The switch to the mallet putter provided Scheffler with the forgiveness and confidence he needed to excel under pressure. No longer plagued by mishits and doubts, Scheffler’s putting game soared, propelling him from 162nd in the PGA Tour’s putting standings to the upper echelons of the leaderboard.
But Kenyon’s impact extends beyond mere technical adjustments. As Scheffler attests, Kenyon’s coaching philosophy transcends ego, emphasizing the mental aspect of putting as much as the physical. Through their collaboration, Scheffler learned to accept the nuances of putting, separating the quality of his strokes from the outcome.
In a sport where success is measured by fractions of inches and strokes, Kenyon’s approach has resonated with players across the spectrum. From seasoned veterans like Rory McIlroy to rising stars like Scheffler, Kenyon’s teachings have left an indelible mark on the game.
Yet, Kenyon’s journey from struggling pro to sought-after coach is a testament to his resilience and passion for the sport. From the European Tour to the PGA Tour, Kenyon’s influence knows no bounds. His state-of-the-art academies and innovative approach to coaching have revolutionized putting instruction, attracting players from around the globe.
As Scheffler prepares to compete for his third major title, the spotlight shines brightly on both player and coach. Together, they embody the essence of golf’s relentless pursuit of excellence. And for Phil Kenyon, each victory is not just a testament to his coaching prowess but a reminder of the profound impact he has had on the game he loves.