Rory may be best known for his booming drives, but you can learn a lot from 3 simple keys in his excellent putting stroke.
The concepts below helped him achieve a #2 ranking in Strokes Gained - Putting at the 2012 Deutsche Bank Championship. Whether you're struggling with distance control or consistency on the greens, these putting fundamentals are worth studying closely:
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- Slightly arcing stroke
- Lower body stability
- Forearm-shaft alignment
Watch the video below now because it will help you incorporate these principles and start putting better immediately! If you want to take your entire ball-striking game to the next level alongside your putting improvement, the AI swing analyzer can reveal exactly where your mechanics break down.
How to Groove a Putting Stroke Like Rory's
One of the most critical elements in Rory's putting technique is the relationship between his forearms and the putter shaft. When your lead arm and the shaft form a consistent, unified unit, you eliminate the independent wrist action that causes missed putts. This forearm-shaft alignment keeps the putter face square through impact and promotes a pure putting stroke.
His lower body stability is equally impressive. By keeping his hips and legs completely quiet, he allows his shoulder rocking motion to control the entire stroke — a true pendulum putting action that produces consistent distance control on the greens. You can train the same movement patterns using the GOAT Drill system, which builds full-body awareness and stability that transfers directly to your short game.
Check out some of the articles and videos we have that cover, in much greater detail, both the good and the bad from this putting stroke analysis:
How to Put Like Rory McIlroy
Learn three key techniques to improve your putting stroke inspired by Rory McIlroy.
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1
Establish Forearm-Shaft Alignment
Focus on the relationship between your forearms and the putter shaft. Ensure that your lead arm and the shaft form a unified unit to eliminate independent wrist action, which can lead to missed putts.
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2
Maintain Lower Body Stability
Keep your hips and legs quiet during the stroke. This stability allows your shoulder motion to control the putting action, creating a pendulum effect that enhances distance control.
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3
Develop a Slightly Arcing Stroke
Practice a putting stroke that has a slight arc. This will help you achieve a more natural motion that can improve your accuracy and consistency on the greens.
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4
Use the GOAT Drill System
Incorporate the GOAT Drill system into your practice routine. This system helps build full-body awareness and stability, which are essential for a consistent putting stroke.
Watch part 2 now to see how you're moving your body in the opposite direction of the pros!
