Unbelievable Golf Statistics You Won't Believe Your Eyes On
In the world of golf, the difference between a 25 handicap and a scratch player is more than just a few strokes. A 25 handicap, standing just 50 yards from the green, misses the target 3.7 times per round, while a scratch player hits the green on their approach shot every time, suggesting that misses cost you big time in the short game.
When it comes to distance off the tee, scratch golfers have a significant advantage, hitting an average of 80 yards further than their 25 handicap counterparts. However, this superior distance only translates to a 1% increase in fairways hit.
Approach shots are a crucial aspect of the game, and for the average golfer, 54% of these shots come up short of the green. On the other hand, scratch golfers, with their consistent accuracy and distance, are more likely to find the green.
The score difference between players is not just about missed opportunities for birdies. Scratch golfers make around two more birdies than a 20 handicap per round, but they also avoid around six more double bogeys or worse. This indicates that the number of double bogeys or worse is a significant factor in the score difference between players.
While specific data on the professional golfer with the highest number of Greens in Regulation (GIR) on par-4 holes is not readily available, some top players known for excellent GIR rates include Matt Fitzpatrick and Niklas Norgaard. Their impressive GIR rates suggest strong performance on greens, including par-4s.
Short putts can also cost a lot of strokes. A 25 handicap misses 4.3 putts inside 5 feet, while a scratch golfer misses only 1.25, indicating three extra shots left on the table every round due to missed short putts.
Hybrids are a popular choice for many golfers, as they produce around 5% more Greens in Regulation than long irons. This can help a golfer add two more greens in regulation per round, which, as our analysis shows, is on a fast track to dropping from a 10 handicap to single figures.
Finally, it's worth noting that being closer to the hole during approach play is better than playing from the fairway further away, as it takes the same number of shots to finish the hole regardless of the distance from the fairway (150 yards vs 120 yards in the rough). A 15 handicap averages 3.9 on par 3s, implying that par is essentially a birdie for them.
In conclusion, while distance off the tee is important, consistency and accuracy in the short game, as well as putting, play a crucial role in a golfer's performance. Improving these aspects of the game can significantly reduce a player's handicap and improve their score.
