ORLANDO, Fla. – When the prohibition on green-reading books went into effect this year, there was concern that some players, such as Bryson DeChambeau, who had become reliant on the extra knowledge, might suffer.
However, it was unlikely that the prohibition would benefit others.
“I’ve had a lot of fun not having a green book.” “It’s gotten me more into the putts,” McIlroy said after his first round at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. “I’m not going to consult a green book.” To be honest, I think it’s helped me in the previous several weeks.”
Thanks to his play on Bay Hill’s greens, McIlroy started with a 7-under 65 and a three-shot lead. Following his round, he was ranked 13th in strokes gained: putting and one-putted four consecutive holes just before the turn to put himself in contention.
After working with Brad Faxon, who has become one of the Tour’s go-to putting gurus, the Northern Irishman revealed he tweaked his setup early this year.
“I was putting with Fax before heading to the Middle East, and I just felt like I was getting a bit too far away from the ball,” McIlroy explained. “My eye line was a little too far inside, and my right arm left my side as a result.” … Just having that consistency and setting up like that is crucial to me.”
