World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler adopted a new putting grip, the claw grip, in his opening round at the Hero World Challenge. Scheffler, seeking to improve and build on last year’s success, used the unconventional grip on putts within 15 feet of the hole. He shot 5-under 67 Thursday, three strokes behind leader Cameron Young.
Scheffler believes the claw grip offers benefits in his stroke. The change comes after a successful season where he won eight times, including the Olympic gold medal. Scheffler ranked second on the PGA Tour in strokes gained: off the tee and first in strokes gained: total, tee to green and approach to green.
Despite using the claw grip, Scheffler struggled with putting last season, ranking 77th in strokes gained: putting. However, in his Hero World Challenge debut with the new grip, he made 54 feet of putts and ranked 10th among the field in strokes gained: putting, losing only 0.058 shots.
Scheffler doesn’t have a specific distance range for using the claw grip but notes that it benefits him within an 15-foot radius of the hole. His strategy is to practice and refine the technique as he prepares for future competitions.
Source: https://www.nbcsports.com/golf/news/scottie-scheffler-changes-putting-grip-in-opening-round-of-hero-world-challenge