Why Do PGA Pros Miss Short 1-3 Putts? Exploring the Secrets of Putting

The common belief is that PGA pros, with their extensive experience and access to professional caddies, should hardly ever miss short putts. However, as Lem Bann points out, even these professionals can sometimes fall short of making a three-foot putt. Letrsquo;s delve into the intricacies of putting and why even the best pros occasionally miss these seemingly straightforward shots.

The Role of Confidence

Confidence plays a pivotal role in making short putts. PGA tour pros are trained to have supreme confidence in their abilities. They know that a three-foot putt, or what Bann calls a "3-foot line to the cup," is a critical spot where they must stay focused and maintain composure. While a coach or caddie may offer guidance, the ultimate decision about how to play the shot typically lies with the player themselves. The key is to trust in your training and the precision of your stroke. Many pros have stories of making identical putts with identical results, yet still occasionally experiencing a slip up.

The Impact of Pressure and Tension

A notable example is the impressive feat of Tiger Woods. During one season, Woods did not miss a putt under three feet. This level of consistency is rarely seen, especially in high-pressure situations. The success rate for professional players on the PGA Tour is remarkably high, with about 99% of three-foot putts being successfully made under tournament conditions. This includes putts on sloped and extremely fast greens, where the challenge lies in matching the speed and direction accurately.

However, even with such high success rates, there are times when professionals do miss these putts. The reasons can be multifaceted. For example, during the 2021 Open Championship at Royal St. Georges, Jordan Spieth missed a two-footer at the end of the third round. Spieth initially attributed the miss to carelessness, as he was tired from a long day of play. Yet, there was likely more to it than simple fatigue.

Psychological factors such as tension and distraction can also play a role. Any tension in the hands and forearms, even if subtle, can cause the putter to deviate from the intended direction. Focus is crucial, and even a brief lapse in concentration can lead to missing the putt. This is an area where amateur golfers often struggle. Just as in any sport, maintaining a steady mind and body is essential for success.

The Value of Practice and Training

For professionals, the importance of practice and drills cannot be overstated. Many top players, like Tiger Woods, dedicate significant time to improving their putting ability. Woods is known for his putting drills, such as making 100 three-foot putts in a row while moving around a complete circle. If he misses one, he starts over, making it clear that even the best golfers recognize the value of consistent practice.

Amateurs who play recreational golf often face greens that are not as challenging as those on the PGA Tour. The greens' characteristics and the surroundings can significantly affect a shot. For instance, greens with more break, slope, or speed require different strategies and techniques. Players need to adapt their approach based on the specific conditions, which can make the difference between a successful and unsuccessful putt.

Conclusion

The occasional missed short putt, even for elite players, is a testament to the complexity of the game of golf. Confidence, control, and mental focus are all critical components of making these putts. While PGA pros have a high success rate, missing a short putt is not uncommon, and when it happens, players often take immediate action to address and correct the issue.

Whether you are a pro or an amateur, understanding these nuances can help improve your game. Focus on your training, stay attuned to your physical and mental state, and practice consistently to minimize the chances of missing those crucial short putts.