Matt Fitzpatrick shows a part of what we have been expecting from him for a long time, and his performance at the Open Championship really arouses optimism in the public. The 30-year-old has had poor releases in recent years, and all of this forced him to make a bizarre decision: Parting with his long-time coach, Mike Walker.
Bizarre decision that caused a public response, probably turned out to be positive for him, as the new collaboration turned out to be fruitful, at least for now.
The 30-year-old started working with the new coach, Mark Blackburn, quite delighted with his approach.
Matt stressed that it was unusual to get used to new methods and a new coach, but it is clear that if you want to progress, it is sometimes necessary to make concrete decisions.
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"It was the first time I've ever had anyone look at my swing, or get a lesson off someone not named Mike Walker or Pete Cowen in 15 years," Fitzpatrick said, as quoted by BBC.
During the first days of cooperation, Blackburn analyzed Fitzpatrick, his physique and abilities, determining that he has unusually long arms.
While some think this could be an advantage, the English golfer stresses that it is mostly a disadvantage for him.
"Which is not great for hitting irons because its harder to control the depth of the club, and you are going to hit it heavier more often than not," he said.
"The other thing was I don't have great shoulder flexion and because of that, as soon as I swing it too long I come out of posture and my swing is all out of whack."
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The famous golfer revealed that he is now changing his body position, pulling his shoulder back and push out his chest.
"It's me trying to pinch my shoulder blades together," he said.
"It is basically to create the radius of my arms, which means I can just rotate there and I don't need to stretch or move my arms."
Methods
Whether the new methods and new coach will turn out to be a good move by Fitzpatrick, time will tell. In the world of sports, including golf, changes usually bring positivities, and some special momentum.
Matt seems to be an optimist, but we will see if his optimism will ultimately pay off.
