Yani Tseng, a well-known right-handed golfer, has recently resorted to putting left-handed due to ongoing struggles with her putting game. These struggles were highlighted during the Chevron Championship, the first LPGA major of the season, when Haeran Ryu shot the round of the day and Tseng’s shots were closely scrutinized on TV. Despite being a 5-time major champion, Tseng has been facing difficulties with her putting, leading her to switch to putting left-handed on the greens while remaining right-handed for the rest of her game.
At 36 years old, Tseng has experienced both triumph and challenges throughout her golf career. After dominating the sport in the late 2000s, she went through a slow decline, struggling to regain her former success. Despite her efforts, including taking a break from the sport and focusing on her long game, Tseng continued to face setbacks, particularly in her putting performance. This led her to try putting left-handed as a last resort to address her ongoing putting struggles and strive for improvement in her game.
Tseng’s decision to putt left-handed signifies a drastic measure in her quest to overcome the demons plaguing her game. Her stroke from the left side has been described as more fluid and less prone to hitches compared to her right-handed putting stroke. This unconventional approach reflects Tseng’s determination to find a solution to her putting woes and rediscover her winning form on the golf course. Despite her past achievements and accolades, Tseng’s recent struggles have motivated her to try new techniques and experiment with her game to find success once again.
The pressure of expectations and perfectionism had previously taken a toll on Tseng’s mental and physical well-being, affecting her performance on the course. However, through introspection and self-reflection, Tseng has sought to play for herself and alleviate the burdens of external expectations. This shift in mindset, coupled with her switch to left-handed putting, highlights Tseng’s resilience and willingness to adapt in the face of adversity.
As Tseng competes in the 2025 LPGA season, her journey to reclaim her former glory serves as an inspiration to fellow golfers and sports enthusiasts. By embracing change and challenging herself to try new strategies, Tseng exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and determination in the face of setbacks. Her unconventional approach to putting left-handed showcases her innovative thinking and willingness to explore different paths to success in golf, demonstrating the power of resilience and adaptability in overcoming obstacles in sports and life.
