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9 Biggest Chokes Of The Past Decade

We look at nine tournaments where one of the leading players looked certain to win until messing up…
The decade is almost up so below we look back on nine tournaments that had dramatic endings. Dramatic because the person who we thought was going to win ended up ‘choking’ so to say and handing the tournament to somebody else.
Dustin Johnson – 2010 US Open
The award for choke of the decade has to go to Dustin Johnson, who imploded during the final round of the 2010 US Open. The American held a three stroke lead over Graeme McDowell but that evaporated very quickly. He made a complete mess of the 2nd hole to triple-bogey it after a left-handed chip and then a near air shot when trying to play a flop shot. He then doubled the next, bogeyed the 3rd and it didn’t get better from there, finally signing for an 11 over par 82.
Rory McIlroy – 2011 Masters
Rory McIlroy held a four-stroke lead heading into the final round at Augusta in 2011 with his first Major victory looking likely. The Northern Irishman got off to a shaky start with a bogey on the opening hole but composed himself to remain in the lead with the back nine to play, where it would all go wrong. He played the back nine in seven over par after beginning it triple-bogey-double to shoot 80. He hooked it left into cabins on the 10th tee and then later hit a tree with a pitch shot before three-putting the 11th and then four-putting the 12th.
Rory bounced back in incredible fashion, however, going on to win the US Open two months on by eight strokes.
Jordan Spieth – 2016 Masters
Another back nine Augusta collapse came five years later in 2016 after Jordan Spieth had just made four birdies in a row to lead by five. However, he began the back nine bogey-bogey-triple after hitting it into the water on the par-3 12th twice. Spieth ultimately lost to Danny Willett by three.
Martin Kaymer – 2015 Abu Dhabi Championship
The German was known as one of the best closers in the game having won two Majors, reached the World Number One position and won 11 European Tour titles.
Kaymer birdied three of the opening four holes to lead the tournament by 10 shots but he then played the remainder of the round in six over to lose to France’s Gary Stal.
He still hasn’t won since the 2014 US Open, so perhaps his Abu Dhabi collapse is the reason why he has gone winless for over five years?
Adam Scott – 2012 Open Championship
The Aussie looked set to finally capture his maiden Major at the 2012 Open Championship with a four shot lead with just four to play. Scott unfolded spectacularly with four straight bogeys to lose out by one after Ernie Els birdied the 18th. Luckily for the Aussie, he won the Masters the following year but this must still sting.
Robert Garrigus – 2010 FedEx St Jude Classic
Garrigus squandered a three stroke lead with just a single hole to play at the FedEx St Jude Classic in 2010. The American pulled his drive left into the water hazard, dropped back with his third and pulled that too across to the other side of the lake before pitching out to the fairway. He hit his fifth shot onto the green to some 35ft before two-putting for a triple-bogey. He fist-pumped after holing his triple-bogey putt but then hit it behind a tree in the playoff with Lee Westwood and Robert Karlsson, ultimately being eliminated on the first extra hole. Westwood prevailed to win his first PGA Tour title in what was despair for Robert Garrigus.
Kyle Stanley – 2012 Farmers Insurance Open
Just like Robert Garrigus, Kyle Stanley had a three stroke advantage with a single hole to play at the 2012 Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines. Luckily for Stanley, he had a par-5 ahead of him so could play it conservatively, laying up to 77 yards. From there it went all wrong. He hit his wedge beyond the hole but it spun back into the water and he then hit his fifth shot onto the green and three-putted for a triple-bogey 8.After holding a six-stroke lead with nine to play, he eventually lost to Brandt Snedeker in a playoff. “I know I’ll be back,” an emotional Stanley said post-round. “It’s tough to swallow right now.” Luckily for Stanley, he was back and went on to win the very next week at the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Dustin Johnson – 2017 WGC-HSBC Champions
The World Number One (at the time) held a six stroke lead after 54 holes but shot five over in the final round to squander the chance of another WGC title. DJ finished two back of Justin Rose who shot five under, after the American made five bogeys and not a single birdie in the final round.
The World Number One (at the time) held a six stroke lead after 54 holes but shot five over in the final round to squander the chance of another WGC title. DJ finished two back of Justin Rose who shot five under, after the American made five bogeys and not a single birdie in the final round.
Bryson DeChambeau – 2018 European Open
The American was playing with Richard McEvoy in the final group at the European Open and had the advantage due to his length with three par-5s in the last four holes. It looked the certain that the Golfing Scientist would go on to lift his first European Tour title. However, he got the hooks and made back-to-back bogeys on the 15th and 16th to drop to +3 for the day and then made a triple-bogey on the last to shoot 78. He was criticised after and later apologised for his handshake with Richard McEvoy on the 18th where he understandably stormed off.
By: Elliott Heath of Golf Monthly


In the ever-evolving world of professional golf, few rivalries capture the contrast of style and substance like Scottie Scheffler versus Bryson DeChambeau. While both have claimed massive wins and global headlines, their paths to success and how they play the game couldn’t be more different. Here’s a deep dive into their strengths, weaknesses, career highlights, and what makes each stand out in today’s competitive landscape.
Backgrounds and Styles
Scottie Scheffler
The Dallas-born Scheffler embodies a classic, workmanlike approach to golf. Known for his calm demeanor, efficient swing, and remarkable consistency, Scheffler has risen to the top of the world rankings with little flash but elite-level substance. His game is built on balance, precision, and one of the most reliable tee-to-green performances the sport has seen in years.
Bryson DeChambeau
Nicknamed “The Scientist,” DeChambeau has taken an analytical and experimental approach to the game. He’s redefined physical fitness in golf, adding serious bulk to increase driving distance. Known for using single-length irons and obsessing over launch angles and biomechanics, Bryson is a true disruptor. His aggressive style polarizes fans and analysts, but it undeniably commands attention.
Strengths
Scheffler
- Tee-to-Green Excellence: Leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained tee-to-green.
- Consistency: Rarely misses cuts and often finishes in the top 10.
- Short Game: Exceptional touch and creativity around the greens.
- Mental Game: Composed under pressure; rarely rattled.
DeChambeau
- Driving Distance: One of the longest hitters in the game; regularly over 320 yards.
- Innovation: Willing to take unconventional approaches for marginal gains.
- Power Play: Dominates par 5s and shortens long courses with his length.
- Confidence: Self-belief and boldness to attempt shots most won’t.
Weaknesses
Scheffler
- Putting: Historically his weakest stat, though he’s shown improvement.
- Media Presence: More reserved; lacks the big personality that moves the needle for fans and brands.
DeChambeau
- Inconsistency: Can be volatile—either dominating or struggling.
- Course Management: Aggressiveness sometimes leads to trouble.
- Injury Risk: His physical transformation has come with some health setbacks.
Biggest Wins
Scottie Scheffler
- The Masters (2022)
- The Players Championship (2023)
- Multiple WGC and Signature Events
As of 2025, Scheffler has claimed over 10 PGA Tour titles and continues to rack up top finishes in majors and elite events.
Bryson DeChambeau
- U.S. Open (2020)
- Arnold Palmer Invitational (2021)
- Multiple LIV Golf Wins
DeChambeau made headlines by joining LIV Golf, where he’s claimed multiple high-stakes victories, including a team championship and a dominant individual LIV win in 2023.
Career Earnings
Scheffler:
Over $50 million in PGA Tour earnings alone, with additional income from endorsements like Nike, TaylorMade, and Rolex.
DeChambeau:
Estimated $60–$80 million, largely boosted by a reported $100+ million LIV Golf contract and additional prize money. His endorsements have shifted due to his controversial LIV move, but he remains a marketable figure.
Similarities
Both are U.S.-born and played collegiate golf (Scheffler at Texas, DeChambeau at SMU).
Each has reached the top 10 in the Official World Golf Ranking.
Both have won majors and represented the U.S. in Ryder Cups.
Each has shown a willingness to be different—Scheffler through quiet dominance, DeChambeau through outspoken innovation.
Key Differences
Trait | Scottie Scheffler | Bryson DeChambeau |
---|---|---|
Playing Style | Traditional, consistent | Aggressive, experimental |
Physical Transformation | Minimal | Extreme (bulk and strength) |
Equipment | Standard setup | Single-length irons |
Public Persona | Reserved, grounded | Outspoken, controversial |
Tour Affiliation | PGA Tour loyalist | LIV Golf convert |
Final Thoughts
Scheffler and DeChambeau represent two archetypes in modern golf: one a quiet technician, the other a showman scientist. Whether you admire Scottie’s stoic efficiency or Bryson’s radical reinvention, both are changing the game in their own way. And in a sport where individuality meets performance, there’s room—and demand—for both.
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Why Proper Club Fitting Is the Real Game Changer

If you’ve ever walked off the 18th green thinking, “It’s not me, it’s the clubs,” well… you might be half right.
As a PGA Professional who’s watched thousands of swings—from scratch players to first-timers—I can tell you that one of the most overlooked keys to better golf is proper club fitting. Not just buying shiny new sticks off the rack, but taking the time to find clubs that are tailored to your swing.
You don’t need a Tour card to get Tour-level precision. Let’s talk about why club fitting matters, what it changes, and how it can truly transform your game from the tee box to the final putt.
The Myth of “Good Enough”
“I’m not good enough to be fit for clubs.”
That’s the most common thing I hear—and it’s completely backwards.
High-handicap golfers have even more to gain from club fitting than low-handicappers. Why? Because the equipment can help you fix ball flight, optimize distance, reduce mis-hits, and build confidence—all without having to reinvent your swing.
Off-the-rack clubs are designed to fit “average” specs. But no two golfers are the same. Length, lie angle, shaft flex, grip size—these all play a massive role in how the club interacts with your body and the ground.
What Happens in a Proper Club Fitting?
At its core, a fitting session is about matching the equipment to your natural swing—not forcing you to swing a certain way to fit the gear.
Here’s what a proper club fitting includes:
1. Interview & Swing Assessment
A certified fitter (or PGA pro like myself) will ask about your current set, ball flight tendencies, common misses, and goals. Then we’ll watch you hit some shots to get a baseline.
2. Launch Monitor Data
Using tools like TrackMan or Foresight, we’ll capture numbers like:
- Ball speed
- Launch angle
- Spin rate
- Club path and face angle
- Carry distance and dispersion
These numbers don’t lie—and they tell us what to tweak.
3. Testing Head & Shaft Combinations
You’ll hit several combinations of club heads and shafts to find what gives you the best performance. One degree of loft or a different shaft flex can make a huge difference.
4. Dialing In Lie Angle & Length
Lie angle affects directional control—too upright, and you might pull shots left; too flat, and you’ll miss right. Club length affects control, consistency, and strike location.
5. Grip Size & Feel
Don’t underestimate this. A grip that’s too thick or too thin can alter your grip pressure and release pattern.
Real Results—Backed by Data
One of my students recently went through a full iron fitting. He was using clubs he bought off the rack 10 years ago. His miss was a push-fade, and he struggled with distance control.
After 90 minutes, a combination of slightly shorter shafts, softer flex, and two degrees more upright lie changed everything. His dispersion tightened by 40%, and he gained an average of 12 yards per club. More importantly—his confidence skyrocketed.
And it wasn’t just him. Across the board, golfers who get fitted:
- Gain more consistent contact
- Reduce directional misses
- Improve distance gapping
- Hit more greens in regulation
- Score better, without changing their swing
The Mental Game Boost
Here’s a secret: it’s not just about numbers. Fitted clubs give you confidence. When you know the tool in your hand is built for you, you swing freer, commit more fully, and stop second-guessing every shot.
Confidence leads to better swings. Better swings lead to better results. It’s a cycle—and it starts with the right equipment.
What About Cost?
Yes, a proper fitting might cost $75–$150 depending on where you go. And yes, custom-fit clubs may be slightly more than what you’d pay at a big box store.
But if you’re already spending time and money on golf, wouldn’t you want to get the most out of it?
A one-time investment in fitting can save you years of frustration—and possibly hundreds spent chasing fixes that won’t work with ill-fitting clubs.
Look—I’ve given thousands of lessons in my career, and nothing changes a golfer’s outlook faster than finally swinging clubs that work with them, not against them.
Whether you’re a 5 handicap trying to fine-tune yardages or a 25 handicap tired of slicing your driver, a proper club fitting can absolutely be a game changer.
You don’t need a new swing—you just need the right tools.
So before you spend another dollar on swing gadgets or tip videos, find your local PGA professional or certified fitter and book a session. Your game (and your sanity) will thank you.
Want more ways to play better without starting over?
Visit ClickItGolf.com every week for practical golf improvement tips, equipment reviews, betting insights, and advice from golfers who live the game every day.
Blog
Zurich Classic 2025: Betting & Fantasy Insights from Kelly Hodgeson
Rory McIlroy returns to the Zurich Classic with Shane Lowry as favorites, but in this unique team event, betting and fantasy success comes down to smart picks and hidden value—here’s how to play it.

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans returns this week, offering a unique team format that challenges both bettors and fantasy players alike. As someone who enjoys the thrill of wagering and the strategy of fantasy golf, I’ve taken a close look at this year’s field to provide insights that could help you make informed decisions.
Understanding the Format
The Zurich Classic is the PGA Tour’s only team event, featuring 80 two-man teams competing over four rounds:
- Rounds 1 & 3: Best Ball (Four-Ball)
- Rounds 2 & 4: Alternate Shot (Foursomes)
This format emphasizes team chemistry and strategy, making it distinct from traditional stroke play events.
Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry enter the tournament as favorites, with odds around +350 to +360 across various sportsbooks. Their victory last year and McIlroy’s recent Masters win contribute to their favored status.
Betting Consideration: While their form is impressive, the low odds may not offer substantial value. In team events with unpredictable dynamics, it’s often prudent to seek teams with higher potential returns.
Teams to Watch
Several pairings present intriguing opportunities:
- Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge (+2200): Horschel’s history at TPC Louisiana, including a previous win, combined with Hoge’s recent top-20 finishes, make them a formidable duo.
- Thomas Detry & Robert MacIntyre (+1800): This European pair has shown consistency, with Detry’s earlier victory this season and MacIntyre’s solid performances leading up to the Masters.
- Patrick Fishburn & Zac Blair (+8000): As longshots, their fourth-place finish last year and recent form suggest they could surprise the field again.
Fantasy Golf Insights
For those setting fantasy lineups, consider the following:
- Nick Taylor & Adam Hadwin: Their past success at TPC Louisiana, including a second-place finish in 2023, indicates strong course compatibility.
- Davis Riley & Nick Hardy: Winners in 2023, their chemistry and experience in this format could translate into valuable fantasy points.
- Alex & Matt Fitzpatrick: The Fitzpatrick brothers have shown steady improvement, with a T11 finish last year, making them a reliable mid-tier option.
Strategic Betting Tips
- Value Over Favorites: In a format prone to variability, consider teams with odds of +1800 or higher that exhibit strong recent form and synergy.
- Monitor Course History: Teams with a track record at TPC Louisiana may have an edge, especially in navigating the unique team dynamics.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather conditions and any last-minute team changes, as these can significantly impact performance.
As the tournament unfolds, the combination of strategic betting and informed fantasy selections can enhance your engagement with the Zurich Classic. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the unique challenges this team event presents.
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