Commentators this week explained the work Billy Horschel did this week with his coach, Todd Anderson, during their second-round broadcast of the Phoenix Open. Talking heads said Billy is “Aiming more to the left”. So, I thought, “Billy Ho is setting up OPEN, but nobody can say the word!” What is going on here?!

The Open Stance has essentially become synonymous with low scores on tour. For example, Brooks Koepka hit fairway after fairway in shooting 63-65 in the first two rounds of the 2019 PGA. Then, he squared-up, missed over half his fairways and shot 70, 73 in the final two rounds. He still won. However, Brooksie inadvertently opened himself up to my analysis.

Patrick Reed closed his stance after his Open Stance Masters victory. Then, Pat disappeared for a year and a half until his recent hot putting streak. And, lastly, Ricky Fowler closed up from open, to square, to closed this week. Rick hit his driver everywhere in the desert and missed the cut in Phoenix, where he ususally thrives.

I’ve got to give Anderson credit. At least he is smart enough to recognize that great ball-strikers all set up Open. As a result, he got Billy back in a groove – at a minimum. Ultimately, Billy Horschel HAS started setting up Open… and with his putting, too! Therefore, what’s the problem with saying Open or Open Stance?

Is an Open Stance a mystery? Is setting up Open taboo? Or, is just saying the words Open, Open Stance, or Open Stance set-up taboo? Does my ownership of the space keep them from using the term? I hope not. In fact, I’ll issue the following disclaimer.

Ladies and Gentlemen of PGA, LPGA, and PGA of America and affiliates, I promise I will not litigate for using the word Open, Open Stance, or Open Stance Set-Up, provided you mention the world’s foremost expert in its application, John Wright. Go for it! – J. Wright

Furthermore, You can reach me in Virginia for interviews, public debates, or roundtables. Best Wishes.

Open your stance, and play golf.

John Wright – Founder
The Open Stance Academy

https://www.openstanceacademy.com/golf/percentage-golf-with-an-open-stance/

https://www.openstanceacademy.com/golf/the-open-stance-and-snowflake-swings/

https://www.openstanceacademy.com/golf/open-stance-creates-great-ball-strikers/