Joaquin Niemann, a rising star in professional golf, has captivated audiences with his distinctive swing and impressive skills on the course. Recently, Niemann shared insights from his journey as a golfer during a practice session, shedding light on his approach to the game, personal growth, and the unique elements of his swing.
Niemann, turning 27 soon and entering his eighth year as a professional, has already made a significant mark on the golfing world. He secured five victories on the LIV Golf circuit this season, reinforcing his reputation as one of the sport’s most talented players. Yet, his performance in major tournaments has raised questions about his consistency, with finishes of T29-T8-MC-MC.
Understanding Niemann’s Golfing Philosophy
During a recent practice session, Niemann offered ten key lessons that reveal his golfing philosophy. One notable aspect is how he perceives the pronunciation of his name. While many in the United States shorten “Joaquin” to “Joaco,” Niemann emphasizes the correct pronunciation as “Hwa-go,” highlighting the nuances of language and culture.
Niemann’s warmup routine begins with a 60-degree wedge, a common choice among professional golfers. Interestingly, he no longer adheres strictly to mechanical yardage swings. Instead, he relies on a more intuitive approach. “I feel like I’m better at hitting the number when I see something,” he explains. This shift from a rigid mindset to a more fluid style reflects his growth as a player.
He elaborates on his strategy, stating, “For me, if it’s like, ‘Hey Joaco, throw a ball to the 50-yard target,’ it’s not like I’m going to calculate how far I’m going to throw it. I’m just going to go.” This philosophy reveals a creative and instinctive side of Niemann’s game.
Insights Into Niemann’s Practice Routine
Niemann also discussed his practice habits, explaining that he often gets “stuck” on the 8-iron. He reminisces about his childhood, where he would hit countless shots with this club. “My 8-iron was destroyed,” he recalls, reflecting on the appeal of this versatile iron, which bridges the gap between wedges and long clubs.
Growing up in Chile, Niemann’s introduction to golf came from his father, a former college basketball player. His mother played a pivotal role in his development, rewarding him for maintaining their yard. “I remember my mom used to pay me, I dunno, five bucks to break [weeds],” he says, laughing about how his gardening efforts may have influenced his swing technique.
Beyond the physical aspects of golf, Niemann emphasizes the importance of mental growth. He engages in reading and journaling to reflect on his life, golf, and relationships. “I feel like I’m a big thinker,” he notes, illustrating his commitment to self-improvement.
When discussing shot trajectory, Niemann states, “I lean more on the trajectory.” He prefers to visualize how the ball will interact with the green rather than focusing solely on numerical yardages. This creative thinking allows him to adapt his shots based on the conditions of the course.
Niemann also revealed his preference for a slight cut in his shots. “Every time I ‘miss’ a shot, I want it starting left but cutting,” he explains. His method involves aligning himself a few yards left of his target and rotating through the shot, a technique that has proven effective in his game.
When asked about his favorite golf club, Niemann humorously deflects, stating, “I can’t tell you. They’re here and they listen,” underscoring his lighthearted approach to the game. He carries a 5 hybrid but insists it flies at a 4-iron distance.
As he continues to develop his game and navigate the competitive landscape of professional golf, Joaquin Niemann remains a figure to watch. His blend of talent, creativity, and introspection sets him apart as he progresses through the ranks of the sport.
