Collin Morikawa is back on the PGA Tour this week, ready to make waves at the much-anticipated Procore Championship. As one of the most elite players in the field, the two-time major champion is looking to regain his winning form after a T19 finish at the Tour Championship last month.
Now, the spotlight shifts to the picturesque Silverado Resort in California, where a substantial portion of the American Ryder Cup team, including Morikawa, will compete. Despite his last victory coming at the 2023 Zozo Championship, Morikawa is eager to showcase his skills alongside his Ryder Cup teammate Harris English and Webb Simpson, one of Keegan Bradley’s vice captains.
In a candid moment, Morikawa shared his admiration for fellow golfer Sam Burns, who is also competing at the Procore Championship. When asked about Burns’ exceptional putting skills, Morikawa highlighted the difference in their approaches, saying, “I haven’t tapped into his head too much. I’ve loved when I’ve played with him… he makes them all.”
Morikawa’s insights into putting reveal a deep understanding of the game. He recalled listening to Scottie Scheffler praise Burns, emphasizing how Burns excels in the fundamentals of putting. “I think he just does all the basics really good,” Morikawa noted, showcasing his respect for his peers’ expertise.
During a recent practice session, Morikawa had the opportunity to play alongside Taylor Montgomery and Maverick McNealy, both of whom are also renowned for their putting prowess. He observed that although each player has a unique style, they all share a common trait: confidence in their lines and the belief that the ball will go in. “It’s that gut feeling that I think really good putters have in saying no, this is going in,” he explained.
When pressed about any envy towards other players, Morikawa didn’t hold back, expressing a desire to emulate Burns’ putting skills and his ability to drive the ball long. However, he also acknowledged the importance of staying true to oneself as a player. “You have to remember who you are and kind of play your game,” he remarked, adding that the camaraderie and shared knowledge during team events are invaluable for growth.
Reflecting on his experiences, Morikawa recalled a moment at Whistling Straits where he had several vice captains and players scrutinizing his putting. While some might find such attention daunting, Morikawa embraced it: “The more knowledge the better because that makes you a more well-rounded player.”
Statistically, Morikawa has room to improve, especially when compared to Burns, who currently leads in key putting metrics on the PGA Tour. With a strokes gained putting average of 0.924—ranking him first—Burns has clearly set the bar high. In contrast, Morikawa finds himself at 141st in that category, proving there’s a gap to close if he hopes to match his teammate’s success on the greens.
As the Procore Championship unfolds, all eyes will be on Morikawa as he navigates the course, striving to elevate his game and perhaps, someday, master the art of putting like the player he admires most. With the Ryder Cup looming, the pressure is on, and Morikawa is determined to seize every opportunity to learn and excel.
