In the world of golf, even the top players can fall into bad habits that affect their performance on the course. As the 2024 PGA Championship approached, two top players emphasized the importance of focusing on fundamentals to correct any issues in their game. Defending champion Brooks Koepka acknowledged that after a disappointing finish at the 2024 Masters, he spent long hours on the range working on his setup, grip, and ball position to get back to basics.
One common bad habit that coaches often see is players letting their ball position drift too far back in their stance. This can be especially problematic in windy conditions, as Koepka experienced during practice rounds leading up to the championship. When the ball position moves back, it can affect the swing path and impact conditions, leading to missed shots and inconsistent performance.
Golf Digest’s No.1-ranked teacher, Mark Blackburn, explains that every inch the ball position drifts back shifts the swing path to the right, resulting in shots that miss to the right. Butch Harmon advises that players should keep their ball position in the middle of their stance for most wedges and short irons, gradually moving it up until it’s off their left heel with the driver.
To prevent this common mistake, players need to stay disciplined and keep a close eye on their ball position throughout their round. By focusing on fundamentals and maintaining the correct ball position, players can avoid unnecessary errors and ensure a more consistent, effective swing. Top players like Koepka understand the importance of sticking to the basics to maintain their competitive edge on the course.
