How did Wayne Rooney help Rory McIlroy with his golf putting?

Wayne Rooney helped Rory McIlroy with his putting by providing inspiration for his mental game, specifically through observing Rooney's pre-penalty routine which McIlroy adapted for his golf strokes.

Who is Rory McIlroy's putting coach?

Rory McIlroy's putting coach is the legendary Brad Faxon, who focused on improving his technique and mental approach.

What is Wayne Rooney known for besides football?

Wayne Rooney is known for his dedication and work ethic, which Rory McIlroy admired and found inspirational for his own sporting performance.

Home / Sports / Rooney's Putting Secret: Golf Legend's Unlikely Coach

Rooney's Putting Secret: Golf Legend's Unlikely Coach

24 Jan

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Summary

Rory McIlroy sought Wayne Rooney's advice for putting mental game.
Rooney's penalty-taking routine inspired McIlroy's golf approach.
Legendary coach Brad Faxon guided McIlroy's putting technique.

Rooney's Putting Secret: Golf Legend's Unlikely Coach

Golfer Rory McIlroy drew inspiration from an unlikely source, football legend Wayne Rooney, to enhance his putting game. While working with renowned putting coach Brad Faxon on technique, McIlroy sought to strengthen the mental aspect of his putting.

McIlroy revealed that Faxon suggested looking at other sports for mental strategies, drawing parallels to basketball free-throw shooting. However, McIlroy found his key insight from observing Rooney's pre-penalty routine. Rooney's habit of tapping his toe before taking a penalty kick provided McIlroy with a distinct trigger.

This routine, observed during a Nike commercial shoot, became instrumental for McIlroy. Faxon often emphasizes avoiding 'paralysis by analysis' on the putting green, advocating for established routines to bypass overthinking mechanics. McIlroy's admiration for Rooney, a Manchester United icon, stemmed from his perceived work ethic and passion for the game.