Scottie Scheffler, the world’s number one golfer, is working on improving his putting game by testing out a claw grip at the Hero World Challenge. Despite having an impressive season with eight wins, including The Masters and an Olympic gold, Scheffler struggled with his putting, ranking 77th in Strokes Gained: Putting on the PGA Tour in 2024. Recognizing the need for improvement, Scheffler has teamed up with putting guru Phil Kenyon to work on this aspect of his game.
Scheffler’s decision to experiment with the claw grip at the Hero World Challenge is a strategic move to address his putting woes. He believes that incorporating this new technique, especially for shorter putts, will help him see improvements in his stroke. After a solid start at the tournament, where he shot a five-under 67 and ranked halfway in Strokes Gained: Putting, Scheffler is optimistic about the potential impact of the claw grip on his game.
The golfer’s approach to using the claw grip is based on its effectiveness for shorter range putts, where he feels he can benefit the most from this technique. While he acknowledges that his speed and lag putting have always been strong, Scheffler sees the claw grip as a way to enhance his performance within the 15-foot range. By strategically choosing when to use the conventional grip versus the claw grip based on the distance from the hole, Scheffler aims to optimize his putting game.
Scheffler’s focus on improving his putting game is a testament to his commitment to continuous growth and development as a golfer. By seeking out new techniques and working closely with experts like Phil Kenyon, he is actively looking for ways to elevate his performance on the course. The combination of Scheffler’s exceptional skill set and his dedication to refining his game positions him as a formidable competitor on the PGA Tour.
As the defending champion at the Hero World Challenge, Scheffler’s decision to incorporate the claw grip demonstrates his willingness to experiment and adapt in pursuit of excellence. By using this tournament as a testing ground for the new technique, Scheffler is able to evaluate its effectiveness in a competitive environment. His early success with the claw grip at the event bodes well for his future performance on tour.
With Scheffler’s impressive track record and his ongoing efforts to enhance his game, the rest of the PGA Tour should take notice. If he can maintain his exceptional play from last season while making significant improvements in his putting, Scheffler could pose a serious threat to his competitors in the upcoming year. By combining skill, strategy, and innovation, Scheffler is positioning himself as a force to be reckoned with in professional golf.
