Will Zalatoris has recently become a convert to the broomstick putter, joining the likes of Adam Scott and Lucas Glover in utilizing this unique and effective tool on the greens. After a seven-month layoff due to back surgery, Zalatoris took the opportunity to explore different putting options and found that the broomstick putter, specifically the L.A.B putter Mezz.1 MAX, perfectly suits his game.
Zalatoris expressed his regret at not discovering the broomstick putter earlier, stating, “If I had known about this thing 10 years ago, I would have gone to it (then).” The extended break from competition allowed him to experiment with various weights, lofts, and shafts to find the optimal configuration for his stroke.
The appeal of the broomstick putter for Zalatoris lies in its simplicity and linear nature. He explains, “You rock your shoulders and that’s it. It takes the hands out of it completely. I’ve always been very linear. It feels way more straight back-straight through as opposed to trying to work on an arc. It’s just the best way.”
Zalatoris received recommendations to try the arm-lock model of the broomstick putter from putting expert Brad Faxon and a fellow golfer from his home course in Dallas. Intrigued by their endorsements, he purchased the putter online like any regular customer. To his surprise, someone at L.A.B. recognized his name and comped him the putter, even sending him a couple of additional broomsticks.
Even before Zalatoris was able to return to hitting shots after his surgery, he took to the greens with the broomstick putter to gain familiarity with its mechanics. The positive feedback from his fellow players convinced him that this putting technique could greatly enhance his game.
Prior to his injury, Zalatoris struggled with his putting, particularly on short putts. However, his new approach with the arm-lock style and the broomstick putter has shown promise. In fact, he used the broomstick putter for all four rounds at the Hero World Challenge, an unofficial event in the Bahamas. Although he finished last in the field, he viewed it as a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to refine his technique under competitive conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the advantage of using a broomstick putter?
The broomstick putter offers a unique advantage by promoting a more linear putting stroke. It helps to eliminate hand manipulation and encourages a straight back-straight through motion, which can enhance consistency and accuracy on the greens.
How did Will Zalatoris discover the broomstick putter?
Zalatoris was introduced to the broomstick putter by a college teammate, but it wasn’t until his hiatus due to back surgery that he truly explored its potential benefits. Recommendations from putting expert Brad Faxon and a friend from his home course in Dallas further piqued his interest in the arm-lock model of the broomstick putter.
What adjustments did Will Zalatoris make to optimize his broomstick putter?
During his recovery period, Zalatoris spent time experimenting with different weights, lofts, and shafts to find the ideal configuration for his stroke. This process allowed him to fine-tune his technique and maximize the advantages offered by the broomstick putter.
How has the broomstick putter impacted Will Zalatoris’ putting performance?
While Zalatoris’ long-term performance with the broomstick putter is still unfolding, initial results have been encouraging. Notably, he achieved his first Tour title at the 2022 FedEx St. Jude Invitational after transitioning to the arm-lock style and the broomstick putter. With further refinement and experience, Zalatoris aims to improve his putting statistics and solidify his position among the elite golfers.
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