to repeat their swings, a set with the same length shafts might make a huge difference, because you’re eliminating one huge variable.” Of course, DeChambeau is a
strapping 6-foot-1 and has the power and latent athleticism that allows him to utilize a swing with very little wrist hinge. That won’t work for a lot of amateurs, just as many won’t have the means (or patience) to dial in the many variables of an unorthodox set of irons. But DeChambeau is certain- ly the best advertisement for what’s possible: his metronomic ballstriking led him past more ballyhooed op- ponents Maverick McNealy and Paul Dunne at the U.S. Amateur, and also earned the approval of Jordan Spieth at the U.S. Open, where DeCham- beau was low amateur. DeChambeau‘s career became
unfortunately complicated when the NCAA imposed a 2016 postseason ban on SMU this fall for infractions committed before he even enrolled in the school. DeChambeau’s U.S. Amateur win earned him exemptions into the upcoming Masters, U.S. and British Opens, which were incentive enough to stay in school, complete his degree and defend his NCAA Cham- pionship. With that dream no longer possible, DeChambeau withdrew from school in October, and plans to play in the Masters in April, but could turn pro shortly after and cash in on up to seven PGA Tour exemptions. (He says he will still come back and complete his degree.) A decision to turn pro before the Masters, U.S. or British Opens would wipe out exemp- tions into those majors. But given DeChambeau’s propensity
to analyze and deconstruct whatever he faces, he’s equipped to take on this new challenge. And any challenge. “Challenging him is a lot of fun,”
Schy told Golf Digest. “While he’s practicing putting, or he’s in his routine for a full shot, I’ll ask him to recite some mathematical formula, or I’ll ask him to spell Utah. OK, now spell it backward.” Ah, yes, that reminds us: DeChambleau is right-handed, but part of his legend is that he can write his name backward using his left hand. It is already the most unusual autograph in golf. At the rate he’s going, someday soon it will be among the most coveted.
ALAN SHIPNUCK is a senior writer for Sports Illustrated. His introduction to golf came as a cart boy at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
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