Copy these tour pro approved hacks to deal with golf course nerves

Pressure and nerves are challenges that we all have to deal with on the golf course.

No matter what level you play at, we have all felt that sensation where your arms are heavy and your stomach is doing front flips.

It could be a tight tee shot, an approach shot where water surrounds the green, or a four foot putt to win a match. Regardless, nerves are something a lot of players struggle to keep under control

So, how do the best golfers in the world deal with pressure and nerves? It makes sense to ask, as these are the golfers who need to hit that fairway or make that putt to win huge sums of money.

Thankfully for us, the DP World Tour asked some of their pros at the Soudal Open in Belgium how they cope when they’re feeling the pressure.

Alex Fitzpatrick – Sharpen your focus

The 26-year-old English professional has a crafty way to take your mind away from the shot that is making you nervous.

“My biggest advice for amateurs dealing with pressure is to focus onto something. Maybe on the golf ball, kind of focusing on something like the ‘T’ in Titleist,” he said. “Make sure your focus is there, not on the outcome.”

Thinking about a small detail, rather than everything that could go wrong, is a wise way to zone in.

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Matteo Manassero – Don’t think about the outcome

The Italian star has similar advice to Fitzpatrick on trying to steer your thoughts away from all the potential outcomes.

“My best advice for amateurs when under pressure is to get your thoughts away from the outcome if that’s doable. It’s not easy, but I guess that is the only thing that really helps to free things up.”

As the former phenom says, it’s not easy, but not thinking about where the ball might end up is a great way to let your swing flow.

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Angel Hidalgo – Go to your happy place

It’s advice that made the big screen and it’s something that the charismatic Angel Hidalgo echoes.

“I think the easiest way – well, when you have pressure, it’s never easy – but you need to breathe, much more than normal.

“And, just trust your routine. You need to think that you’re still at your home club or on the driving range. Try to focus on, everyone has an easy tee shot at their home club where they can hit it pretty easy. So, try to focus that you’re on that tee. Then, breathe a lot and pray!”

Dan Bradbury – Stay in your comfort zone

The two-time DP World Tour winner has sage advice that is relevant whether you’re under pressure or not.

“I would say, make sure you hit the shot you’re comfortable with, not one you think you should hit. Only hit a shot if you’re fully confident in it.”

It stands to reason, as if you try and hit a shot you’re not comfortable with, you’re only going to compound those nerves.

Lewis Fraser As bunkered’s Performance Editor, Lewis oversees the content that’s designed to make you a better player. From the latest gear to tuition, nutrition, strategy and more, he’s the man. A graduate of the University of Stirling, Lewis joined bunkered in 2021. Formerly a caddie at Castle Stuart Golf Links, he is a member of Bathgate Golf Club where he plays off four.

Performance Editor