This putting guru’s simple drill helped me make more putts immediately

For those looking to improve their game, mastering the putter is a vital skill. Even if you hit long drives or solid iron shots, poor putting makes it impossible to maximize your potential. Zephyr Melton of GOLF.com sought guidance from Stephen Sweeney, a GOLF Top 100 Teacher and PGA Tour putting consultant. During their session, Sweeney corrected Melton’s setup and introduced a simple drill to sharpen his stroke. To perform it, find a dead straight putt on the green. Push a tee into the ground until it is almost entirely submerged, serving as your reference point. Next, place two tees about a foot in front of the ball to create a gate slightly wider than the ball itself. The goal is to roll the ball through these gates on every stroke. Sweeney noted that having a clear, close target helps improve alignment and provides a visual for the intended start line. Melton adopted this strategy on the course by focusing on a spot a foot ahead of his ball, a change that helped him break out of a slump and hole more putts.