Son Yujeong's 'Home Training'... "Focuses on 3m Putting"

Setting Reference Points for Putting Practice, Realistic 'Pre-Shot Routine' with Setup Adjustments Every Time, "Correcting Posture by Looking in the Mirror"

Son Yujeong instructed to use the '3m putting' as a reference point to get a sense of distance.

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "Focus on a consistent distance."

The 'home training secret' of 'super rookie' Son Yujeong (19, Volvik) lies in concentrating on 3-meter putting. Last year, she secured two runner-up finishes on the Symetra Tour (LPGA's second-tier tour) in the United States, ranking 20th in the prize money standings, and finished tied for 30th in the October Final Qualifying (Q) Series, earning her 2020 season card. She is currently frustrated as the LPGA Tour has been suspended due to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Son Yujeong moved to the United States with her parents at age 5 and started playing golf at 8. She showed early promise by winning the U.S. Junior Golf World Championship at age 11. She has an impressive 23 wins on the junior circuit. She is evaluated as having "proven skills, including being ranked 2nd in the 2018 American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) rankings, combined with star quality thanks to her charming appearance." Recently, she has been staying in Phoenix, Arizona, to strengthen her short game.

It is interesting that Son Yujeong sets a reference point during putting practice. She explains, "Distance control comes first," followed by "direction." She advises, "Amateur golfers who often three-putt need to develop the ability to accurately putt from 3 meters first." She adds, "You need to be able to perform your own stroke (backswing size) at this distance to build confidence and develop the ability to adjust the stroke size accordingly."

The practice method is simple. Lay down a mat and repeatedly putt from 3 meters. Each time, adjust the setup and go through the same 'pre-shot routine' as in actual play. The sequence is to let both arms hang naturally, grip the putter first with the right hand, align the target, then place the left hand on the putter, and finally set the stance. Maintaining the angle of both arms so that the putter face does not open or close during the takeaway is fundamental. Installing a mirror on the wall to face oneself helps with posture correction.

At the golf course, adjust the stroke size according to the green speed and expand the range to 6 meters, 9 meters, and so on. Lastly, Son Yujeong shares a tip: "Most amateur golfers lift their heads at the moment of impact to look at the ball, which shortens the follow-through and often prevents the ball from rolling enough." She advises, "Even if you look at the ball, keep your head axis steady and turn your head horizontally to avoid this phenomenon."