Ryan Fox Highlights Speed Play at the Open Championship

During the final round of the Open Championship in Southport, England, 39-year-old Ryan Fox executed a 12-foot birdie putt in just 22 seconds. Fox explained that his approach relies on quickly selecting a shot and club, limiting the time for doubt to creep in.

ESPN

Fast play has become a notable trait among several leading golfers in the big-money era. Players such as Joe Ogilvie, Bill Haas, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, Lucas Glover and Matt Jones have been cited for their brisk pace. Fox mentioned Italian pro Renato Paratore as perhaps even quicker, recalling that Paratore would swing while his name was still being announced on the first tee.

ESPN

Fox stressed that his rapid style is intentional, not a by-product of haste. He said the less time he spends thinking, the fewer “bad stuff” can affect his shot. His caddie, Dean Smith, reinforced the consistency of Fox’s tempo, noting that after 250 tournaments together, Fox’s pace has never changed. The comments were delivered on Sunday evening, with Fox taking care to phrase his remarks so they would not offend traditionalists who favor a slower rhythm.

ESPN

• Age: 39 years

ESPN

• Birdie putt distance: 12 feet

ESPN

• Time taken for putt: 22 seconds

ESPN

• Tournaments played with caddie Dean Smith: 250

ESPN

• “I've done 250 tournaments with him, and it's never changed,” — Dean Smith, said dean

ESPN