Tiger
Tiger had a tough go this week on Tour as most of you may have seen. This was his first tournament since the Masters. I think he may have been unsure of how people would respond to him outside the confines of Augusta National where no one would dare say anything that would possibly cause them to have tickets taken away permanently.
In my opinion Tiger may have a very difficult time regaining his intimidation on the golf course. I think he is now seen as even more human to his peers. Even if other players thought he put his pants on one leg at a time just like them, they really believe it now. Is his gave superior? Yes without a doubt Tiger still has the ability to overpower a golf course and pick it apart better than any other player on the planet. Maybe his mind is really not into playing golf, I don’t know how it possibly could be. He even has stated he can’t go anywhere with out paparazzi all over him. Well, that happens to be one of the prices you pay for his position of fame and fortune and certainly scandal.
But let’s talk about the only thing I care about: Tiger’s game. In my opinion his flaws, how small they may be, are finally taking a toll. He may win the Player’s next week, but sooner or later some changes will need to be made to allow him to drive the ball better. I have not ever seen many great driver’s of the golf ball drop down and back through impact (creating the stuck feel Tiger even describes he feels). When the tilts are changed that dramatically and you are producing Tiger like clubhead speed, it doesn’t take much to send the ball 30 yards off line. I hope Tiger gets it together soon..the game needs him, and by the way Tiger I am only a phone call away !
I can see that Tiger’s swing fault is “geeting stuck” and Tiger feels that during his swing and is trying to compensate with his hands at impact. WOW! I have something in common with Tiger! I have played golf all my life as a “feel” golfer. Unfortunately and too often I feel the ball “clanking” off the club at impact. Over the years, (been playing 45 years), I have become a fan of “hit it thin and hope to win”; not anymore! By employing The Impact Method I have been able to consistently hit the ball “flush”. Who doesn’t want to add 10- 15 yards distance? More importantly, I am getting more consistent ball flight that allows me to attack tough pin positions tucked in narrow,tight spots on the green. I play golf for recreation and relaxation and it certainly is more fun and relaxing when I am hitting fairways and greens!
Now, my two cents about Tiger. We have something else in common; lack of focus leading to 3 putt greens. Fortunately for me I think the reasons for lack of concentration are far different. Tiger finished 17 strokes out from the lead and missed the cut by 9. I know what that feels like too! But I must say I feel sorry for him. I dont know if there is anybody else on the tour that could be the headlines and play so poorly. Tiger is trying to take responsibility for his actions and turn his life around. Recently more disturbing news surfaced about Tiger’s relationship with a neighbor’s daughter. I don’t doubt that is in his head and it is only a matter of time before some alcohol inspired fan makes an uncalled for comment. Missing the cut by 17 will certainly help bring out the hecklers. I hope that when it happens, and it will, Tiger will be able to show some love and forgiveness. This is where I am different than Tiger. I am not a Buddhist.
Now my question. When the wheels come off mentally, what are some ways to get on track and finish strong?
Paul,
Good take and I am sure Tiger feels pressure to play well and yet still try to handle all the distractions that will be with him for the rest of his playing days. No pun intended !
As far as what to do when the wheels fall off mentally…I always tried my best even when I was not playing well. I thought I could learn something from every round I played and I feel golfers need to take this approach. Tiger’s personal life is the reason why the wheels are falling off and I personally feel he needs to step far away from the game for a while. His definition of “indefinitely” was not even 6 months ! He is unfocused and that will not come back until he is truly at piece with himself.