Scottie Scheffler’s recent success in the realm of golf has been truly remarkable, boasting four victories and a second-place finish in his last five tournaments, including a win at the esteemed Masters tournament. This outstanding achievement prompts the question: What has been the key to his recent performance? The answer can be traced to his remarkable improvement in putting, made possible by the expert guidance of his putting coach, Phil Kenyon.
During the 106th US PGA Championship, golf icon Tiger Woods emphasized the importance of Scheffler’s putting skills. It was asserted that Scheffler’s wins are contingent on his putting abilities; a good putting performance results in victories, while a great one puts him ahead of the entire field. Even during weeks of poor putting, his exceptional ball-striking skills allow him to remain competitive. This serves as a strong testament to the significant impact of putting in a golfer’s overall performance.
Scheffler’s putting coach, Phil Kenyon, has played a crucial role in helping the golfer overcome his previous struggles with putting. A 50-year-old from Southport, Kenyon has been working with Scheffler for nine months, and their partnership has proven to be highly impactful. Scheffler’s adoption of a mallet putter in March, under Kenyon’s guidance, marked a significant turning point in his putting performance. This change not only addressed technical issues but also liberated Scheffler’s mindset, enabling remarkable progress in the final stages of his game.
Kenyon’s approach extends beyond mere technical adjustments, as he delves into the psychological aspects of putting. According to Kenyon, putting represents a distinct game in itself, and his role involves helping players to evaluate and gain perspective on their putting performance. This holistic approach has not only benefited Scheffler but has also proven advantageous for other prominent players such as Darren Clarke, Henrik Stenson, and Justin Rose, all of whom have gained from Kenyon’s expertise.
The impact of Kenyon’s coaching extends far beyond his individual players, as he has played a pivotal role in transforming the landscape of putting coaching in golf. Once a struggling touring professional, Kenyon has risen to become one of the most sought-after putting coaches, with a wealth of experience that includes mentoring several players who have gone on to win major tournaments. His influence has also extended to amateur club players who have recognized the importance of putting in their game.
For Kenyon, the success of his players in major tournaments represents a source of immense pride and satisfaction. His accomplishments stand as a testament to his expertise and unwavering dedication to the craft of putting coaching. Despite the demands and pressures that accompany his role, Kenyon acknowledges that there is no greater privilege than having the opportunity to work with the best and be involved at the highest level of the golfing world.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Scottie Scheffler and Phil Kenyon showcases the transformative influence of expert coaching in golf. The focus on both the technical and mental aspects of putting has not only elevated Scheffler’s game but has also led to widespread changes in the approach to putting coaching in the sport. As Scheffler continues his pursuit of golfing excellence, the impact of Phil Kenyon stands as a testament to the crucial role of coaching in shaping the success of elite golfers.