Scottie Scheffler made a surprising switch to a variation of the claw putting grip during the Hero World Challenge, despite having success with his conventional grip after working with putting coach Phil Kenyon. Since teaming up with Kenyon, Scheffler led the Tour in putting average and increased his strokes gained percentage significantly. This improvement translated to seven wins, including another Masters title, making it his most dominant season since joining the Tour in 2020. In a post-round interview, Scheffler mentioned that the switch to the claw grip was merely an experiment to continue improving his game.
The decision to use the claw grip primarily on shorter putts, specifically inside 15 feet, was motivated by the potential benefits Scheffler could gain. GOLF Top 100 Teacher, Joe Plecker, explains that the claw grip can help players regain feel on the greens by allowing the trail arm to move freely in a pendulum-like motion. This helps players develop a better sense of the weight of the club as it moves back and through the stroke, ultimately enhancing their feel on the greens. Additionally, the claw grip is advantageous for players who tend to twist their trail hand too much or set it too far under the grip, as it eliminates the need for excessive rotation and allows for a smoother stroke.
The claw grip encourages players to focus on creating a longer and more flowing stroke, reducing the likelihood of manipulating the clubface during the putt. This can lead to more consistent strikes, improved rotation, and a decreased risk of developing the yips. By placing the palm on top of the grip, players can effectively remove the trail hand from the equation and concentrate on executing a consistent and controlled pendulum motion. For Scheffler, experimenting with the claw grip during the Hero World Challenge was a strategic move to continue refining his putting technique and exploring new ways to enhance his performance on the greens.
Despite his success with the conventional grip, Scheffler’s willingness to test out new strategies and tools demonstrates his commitment to continuous improvement and growth as a professional golfer. The decision to incorporate the claw grip into his putting arsenal reflects Scheffler’s openness to exploring innovative techniques and adapting his game to achieve better results. As a player with considerable talent and potential, Scheffler’s willingness to embrace change and experiment with different approaches sets him apart as a competitive and forward-thinking athlete on the Tour. By incorporating feedback from his coach and actively seeking ways to elevate his performance, Scheffler positions himself as a formidable contender in the world of professional golf.
