Ryan Fox’s Memorable Win at the 2025 Canadian Open: Mastering the Power Fade
By: Joe Plecker, Top 100 Teacher
June 9, 2025
Ryan Fox delivered a performance to remember at the 2025 Canadian Open, clinching his first PGA Tour victory with a playoff win against Sam Burns. The defining moment came on the 18th hole, where Fox executed a breathtaking high, soft 3-wood shot. This remarkable endeavor nipped tensions in the air, sealing the victory and cementing Fox’s status as a strong competitor in the golf world.
The Shot Heard Round the Course
Fox’s final shot was not just significant for its execution but for the sheer artistry involved. After playing the 18th hole multiple times—once in regulation and thrice in the playoff—Fox launched a power fade that seemed to float in slow motion before landing gracefully roughly seven feet away from the cup. "Probably the best shot I’ve ever hit," Fox humbly acknowledged. This shot not only highlighted his skill but also demonstrated how crucial shot selection is, especially in high-pressure situations.
Understanding the Power Fade
The power fade is a challenging shot to master, often regarded as a hallmark of professional golfers. Ryan Fox has honed this skill onto his repertoire, and it has become one of his trademarks. A power fade typically facilitates greater distance and accuracy, creating the ability to navigate various course layouts. Fox’s swing mechanics are specifically tailored for such shots, boasting three essential components: turn, tuck, and tilt.
The Art of the Turn
To initiate a power fade, the first pivotal element is the "turn." The lower body rotation plays a vital role in powering through the shot. When viewed from the downswing angle, Fox demonstrates a remarkable difference between his upper and lower body alignment—his shoulders aim toward the right while his hips angle left. This configuration allows for a more dynamic swing. Golfers looking to emulate this should focus on their hip movements during practice.
Drill for Improvement:
Home Exercise: Position yourself facing a wall, staying close enough to place your hands at shoulder height. Gradually twist your hips towards your lead foot while holding the position. This drill significantly enhances the dynamic between your upper and lower body, facilitating a more powerful swing.
Perfecting the Tuck
The second must-have element in Fox’s arsenal is the "tuck." As Fox swings, his right elbow remains close to his side, allowing for a shallower angle to the ball while keeping the clubface open. This technique is vital for maintaining control, especially with long clubs like the 3-wood.
Drill for Improvement:
Home Exercise: Grip a club in front of you. Without rotating your shoulders, practice tucking your elbow to your side. This exercise will naturally open the clubface while helping reduce a steep swing path.
Mastering the Tilt
Finally, we arrive at the third element: the "tilt." This technique involves angling the body away from the target, with the degree of side bend providing better club delivery, especially with longer clubs. Tilting away ensures that the golfer consistently makes clean contact with the ball, delivering the precision needed for a successful fade.
Drill for Improvement:
Home Exercise: Set a shaft between your feet aimed at the ball. As you practice, maintain a backward tilt with your upper body away from the target side. This exercise helps foster the correct posture and feel for longer swings at impact.
Putting It All Together
To effectively execute Fox’s signature power fade, it’s essential to integrate these three concepts in your practice routine: turn, tuck, and tilt. Like Fox, golfers aspiring to hit controlled power fades must become comfortable in their swings by repeating these fundamentals until they become second nature.
The Road Ahead for Ryan Fox
This victory at the Canadian Open is monumental for Fox, potentially signaling the start of an illustrious career on the PGA Tour. As he continues to refine his skills, this win may serve as a cornerstone in his journey. The golf community will undoubtedly be watching to see how he builds on this achievement.
A Lesson for Aspiring Golfers
For aspiring golfers, the story of Ryan Fox offers valuable insights. The importance of technique cannot be overstated. While natural talent plays a role, consistent practice and mastery of fundamental skills ultimately govern success on the course. Those aiming for golfing excellence would do well to incorporate Fox’s approach into their own training regimens.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Skill and Precision
Ryan Fox’s unforgettable performance at the 2025 Canadian Open not only showcases the importance of individual skill but emphasizes the need for precision in golf. As he continues to make headlines with his competitive spirit and growing skills, one thing is certain: Ryan Fox has solidified his place in the golf world, inspiring countless enthusiasts.
Golfers around the globe will undoubtedly continue to learn from this talented player, picking up tips and techniques to help elevate their own game. Mastery of the fundamentals combined with a relentless will to succeed like Fox’s is what leads to greatness in the majestic world of golf.
