Well, here we are. It's Ryder Cup week! After what feels like an eternity, the greatest event in golf, other than the Solheim Cup, is finally upon us. There's nothing in the world quite like it. The atmosphere on that first tee is going to be something else, a lot of noise, a cauldron of nerves, and a whole lot of energy.
The Ryder Cup is a completely different animal from any other tournament, isn't it? The individual pressure is immense, but it's wrapped up in the shared purpose of a team, and that's what makes it so special.
It's incredible how these players manage to control their emotions out there. The European team will certainly be up against it in New York, playing in front of a partisan home crowd.
How do they handle those moments when everything is on the line, when a single shot could change the entire momentum of a match? It makes me nervous just thinking about it! Whether we're on the golf course or simply navigating life's challenges, how do we find that inner calm when the pressure is on?
Golf is a lot like life, it’s full of highs and lows, successes and failures. How we react to a bad bounce or a missed putt says a lot about our character. In this article, Katie Dawkins explores the idea that a deeper sense of purpose can help. It's not about believing a hand is guiding your ball, but about having a constant feeling of reassurance.
Take World No 1 Scottie Scheffler, for example. He's known for his incredible calm, and it's something he's been very open about. He's said that his faith and his family are his top priorities, with golf coming in third.
This perspective seems to give him a huge advantage. It takes the pressure off because his self-worth isn't tied to a leaderboard or a trophy. He's playing to glorify something bigger than himself, and that allows him to accept both the good and the bad with grace. He's not chasing fame or trophies, he's focused on what he believes is most important.
The idea of finding an inner strength to handle tough shots, both in golf and in life, is a powerful one. I'll admit, I'm not a religious person, but I do wish a similar sense of calm was the 15th club in my bag! I know I put too much importance on how I play and what I score, which doesn't help my game at all. My own priorities need a major re-evaluation!
So, as you watch the Ryder Cup this week, think about what drives these players. And as you get out for your next round, remember that the golfing Gods are always at work, and sometimes, a little perspective is the best club in the bag.
By Alison Root, Women's Editor Golf Monthly
