TAILOR YOUR GRIP TO THE LENGTH OF PUTT If you have a sharp eye, you might notice that I alternate between a conventional and lead-hand- low grip. I typically use the conventional grip on longer putts because it gives me a greater feel for the length and pace of the stroke needed to hit the ball the required distance. The lead- hand-low grip gives me more face stability on shorter rolls that require a more precise stroke. In general, I putt with a lead-hand- low grip inside 15 feet and switch to the conventional grip outside of that. See if this strategy helps you with lags and holing the short ones.
TOUR TECHNIQUE
ROLL IT DOWN THE PLANK TO START IT ON LINE Find a flat putt on the practice green and line up a ruler or similar with the hole. Place the ball down towards the back of the ruler, and hit some putts, trying to keep the ball on the ruler (above) all the way to the end. What’s happening if you can’t keep it on the ruler for very long? If it drops off to the left, the putterface is closing through impact (for righties). Con- versely, if it drops off to the right, the face is opening. This drill is one of my favourites because it gives me instant feedback on my face control. You know if your putts are starting on the line you chose.
LYDIA KO, 29, is the youngest tournament winner in LPGA history (age 15). She has 23 wins, including three majors.
86 GOLF DIGEST SOUTH AFRICA
JUNE 2026
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