Putting is a crucial element of golf, often determining the outcome of a player’s performance. A strong putting game can significantly influence a golfer’s success, particularly in high-stakes tournaments and major championships. This blog explores the question: Who is the best golf putter of all time? It delves into the skills that define great putters, highlights notable players throughout history, and ultimately seeks to identify the best among them.
Criteria for Determining the Best Golf Putter
To evaluate who stands out as the best putter in golf history, several criteria must be considered:
- Accuracy: The ability to consistently sink putts from various distances.
- Clutch Performance: Success in making critical putts during high-pressure situations in major tournaments.
- Longevity: Sustaining exceptional putting skills over a long career.
- Stats and Records: Analyzing PGA Tour statistics such as strokes gained putting and average putts per round.
These factors help paint a comprehensive picture of what makes a golfer a great putter.
The Best Golf Putters of All Time
Several players have made their mark as exceptional putters throughout golf history:
- Ben Crenshaw: Known as “Gentle Ben,” Crenshaw was celebrated for his smooth stroke and exceptional touch on fast greens. He won the Masters twice (1984, 1995).
- Bobby Locke: Renowned for his unique putting style, Locke was a dominant force in his era, winning four Open Championships.
- Brad Faxon: Famous for his silky stroke, Faxon led the PGA Tour in putting average multiple times and was an influential putting coach.
- Tiger Woods: While primarily known for his all-around game, Woods has made some of the most memorable pressure putts in history, securing 15 major championships.
- Jack Nicklaus: Nicklaus is legendary for sinking crucial putts during major championships, contributing to his record 18 major wins.
- Jordan Spieth: Spieth gained recognition for his long-range putting ability, particularly during his dominant 2015 season when he won three majors.
Who Is the Best Golf Putter of All Time? Ben Crenshaw vs. Bobby Locke
When discussing the greatest putters, a comparison between Ben Crenshaw and Bobby Locke often arises:
- Ben Crenshaw: His legendary touch on fast greens, particularly at Augusta National, where he won two Masters titles, sets him apart. His smooth, flowing stroke is still revered today.
- Bobby Locke: Famous for his “hooked” putting style, Locke was methodical and effective on the greens during the 1940s and 1950s. His innovative techniques have influenced many modern players.
Criteria | Ben Crenshaw | Bobby Locke |
---|---|---|
Putting Technique | Smooth and flowing | Unorthodox “hooked” style |
Major Championships | 2 Masters titles | 4 Open Championships |
Legacy | Influential on modern techniques | Pioneered unique methods |
Modern Masters of Putting
In recent years, several golfers have emerged as top putters:
- Jordan Spieth: Known for his clutch long-range putts during his successful seasons.
- Patrick Reed: Recognized for his short-game skills and putting prowess that helped him win key tournaments like the 2018 Masters.
- Brandt Snedeker: A consistent performer on difficult greens, Snedeker has ranked highly in strokes gained putting.
- Denny McCarthy: Currently leading the PGA Tour in strokes gained putting, McCarthy is regarded as one of today’s best on the greens.
FAQs About the Best Golf Putter of All Time
Who is considered the best putter of all time?
Ben Crenshaw is widely regarded as the best due to his exceptional touch on fast greens and success at Augusta National.
Is Tiger Woods one of the best putters ever?
Yes, Tiger Woods is recognized for his clutch putting ability, which has played a significant role in his numerous major victories.
What made Bobby Locke such a great putter?
Locke’s unorthodox style and accuracy on fast greens made him a standout in his era, earning him four Open Championship titles.
Who is the best modern-day putter?
Jordan Spieth is often cited as one of the best modern-day putters due to his long-range accuracy and clutch performances.
How important is putting in winning major championships?
Putting is critical; many championships are decided on the greens. Legendary putters have made iconic putts that secured their victories.
What are the key skills of a great putter?
Key skills include accuracy from various distances, green reading ability, steady rhythm, and mental toughness under pressure.
Can putting be improved, or is it a natural talent?
While natural feel plays a role, putting can be improved through practice, technique refinement, and mental focus.
Conclusion
In summary, while many golfers have earned reputations as elite putters throughout history, Ben Crenshaw and Bobby Locke stand out as contenders for the title of best golf putter of all time. Crenshaw’s finesse and Locke’s innovative techniques have left enduring legacies within the sport. Ultimately, mastering putting remains essential for achieving success in golf. The greatest putters exemplify not only skill but also remarkable mental fortitude under pressure.