What does the game of golf mean to you?
Determination, perseverance, patience, frustration. It’s a game that plays with your emotions and I think that is why it remains such a challenge – you will never conquer it.
What is your practice routine? Does your routine change for majors?
Gym 3-5 times a week and practice golf every day when preparing for tournaments. For majors, I will start a month in advance, trying to get my body to peak on the week of play, and obviously I will try make sure that every part of my game is in top shape.
What part of your game do you enjoy practicing most?
Chipping, because of the variety of shots there are to play with different clubs. You have to use so much imagination, it requires so much feel, and it’s a lot of fun!
How competitive are you when you play with your dad and brother?
All I wanted to do was to beat my dad as a junior – he was a scratch player, so it took me some time. My brother still plays really good golf and every time we play we play for something. It’s a good rivalry.
What is the best golf tip you were ever given?
Grip, stance, posture, rhythm, balance. It is the 5 basics that I have built my whole game around, and still do.
What performance stat do you pay the most attention to?
I look at all of them, for the simple reason of trying to see which one is the worst so that I can improve.
For golfers looking to improve their game, how important is being fitted for clubs?
Very. Every person swings the club different. With modern technology you can make the clubs fit your game and not have to change your game to fit your clubs.
Are there any specific performance indicators that you look for when being fitted for new clubs?
With drivers, I look at spin rate and launch angle, because if I get the right spin and launch I will get my maximum distance and accuracy.
Irons need to look good and feel good first, and then I look at consistency, which comes from a good ball flight.
What was it like to win the Masters?
A dream come true! It is one of those things you can’t really describe to someone.
How do you pass the time during a weather delay?
Most of the time you end up talking a lot of nonsense with the guys, and if we are at Muirfield village I’ll drink a few milkshakes 😁
Is there one par-3 you’ve played that stands out as a favorite?
16 at Augusta is super special, and it’s been good to me.
Knowing what you know now about the game of golf, what advice would you give your younger self?
Go find a less stressful job 😂
What is your favorite golf movie of all time?
Caddy shack
What do you think about when you are alone on your farm in South Africa?
It’s the only place I shutdown completely, golf doesn’t even cross my mind. I love being out in the middle of nowhere just being in nature, it’s a very peaceful feeling.
You have a new collection of sauces. What is your favorite flavor and why?
I obviously like all of them, but the Monkey gland is fantastic over meat.
