Tiger Woods’ timeless putting drill helped create his most iconic moments

Throughout Tiger Woods’ legendary career, the putting green was often the backdrop for his most iconic moments — where tournaments were clinched with a single, clutch putt.

It was Woods’ smooth, confident stroke that gave him the uncanny ability to make putts that seemed impossible. But this wasn’t just a byproduct of natural talent. It was the result of thousands of hours of meticulous practice and careful preparation.

Ultimately, it was Woods’ “quiet work” that produced his loudest moments — and there was one drill he trusted above all others. 

Tiger’s favorite putting drill, explained

It goes by many names — the gate drill, the two-tee drill, the one-handed drill — and it’s as easy to set up as it is to execute. 

Start by finding a flat spot about four feet from the hole and set up as if you’re about to hit a putt. Place a tee just in front of the toe of your putter and another directly behind the heel, forming a small “gate.”

The goal of the drill is to pass the putter through the gate without hitting either of the tees. 

You can adjust the size of the gate depending on your skill level. Beginners may want to start with a slightly larger opening and gradually narrow it down to match Woods’ setup. 

Woods begins the drill using only his right, or trail, hand on the grip. If done correctly, the putter should glide through the tees as the face squares at impact — resulting in putts that start on line.

Any face misalignment, however, will cause you to hit one or both tees — giving you immediate feedback about your stroke.

After a few single-handed putts, Woods then adds his top hand, continuing the drill while maintaining the same focus. He then alternates between single-handed and normal grip, maintaining an emphasis on control and consistency.

While this drill will help you learn to find the sweet spot consistently, the real key to holing clutch putts is practice — as evidenced by the unmistakable wear mark on his famous Scotty Cameron putter, a silent record of his thousands of reps.

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