Scottie Scheffler showcased a new putting grip at the Hero World Challenge, aiming to refine his performance despite trailing Cameron Young by three strokes in the first round.
Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked as the number one player in the world, demonstrated a notable adaptation in his playing technique during the initial round of the Hero World Challenge at Albany Golf Club in the Bahamas. Scheffler’s experimentation with a ‘saw’ putting grip highlighted his ongoing pursuit of improvement, resulting in a commendable 5-under 67. His approach contrasted with Cameron Young’s stunning performance, leading the field with a 64.
While Scheffler has consistently excelled with his iron play, his putting has occasionally hindered his chances of securing more victories. His latest alteration involves allowing the putter to rest between his right thumb and fingers, with his left index finger extending along the shaft. ‘I’m always looking for ways to improve,’ Scheffler remarked, addressing his commitment to refining his skills.
The adjustment was inspired by discussions with renowned putting instructor Phil Kenyon, who initially suggested the grip last year. Scheffler elaborated on his decision, explaining that it was the right time to trial the change, seeing it as a potential game-changer. His performance included a series of successful putts, notably a 12-foot birdie on the closing hole, which reflected his satisfaction with the grip’s impact.
Cameron Young, on the other hand, approached the tournament as an opportunity to capitalize on his strengths, notably his powerful swing and short game. Young, who has yet to secure a PGA Tour victory, executed a bogey-free round, emphasizing his progress and adaptability on a day marked by ideal playing conditions. His performance left his competitors with a challenging benchmark.
Meanwhile, Justin Thomas, who was returning to the course following the birth of his child, implemented his own experimental strategy. Opting for a 46-inch driver, Thomas aimed to increase his ball speed and extend his drive distance by approximately 10 yards. ‘I drove the hell out of it on the back,’ Thomas noted, expressing the success of his trial.
Patrick Cantlay, Ludvig Aberg, Akshay Bhatia, and Sahith Theegala joined Scheffler at 67, showcasing the intense competition and level of skill among the participants. The conditions, described as relatively stress-free by Young, allowed most players to produce impressive rounds, with only a few failing to break par.
The Hero World Challenge revealed innovatory strategies among top golfers, with Scottie Scheffler and Cameron Young at the forefront of this dynamic field. As the tournament progressed, the athletes demonstrated continuous adaptation and competitiveness, marking an engaging start to the event.
