Parents blamed for Ko decision
David Leadbetter feels Lydia Ko’s parents have too much involvement in her career and expressed concern over the unrealistic expectations placed on the Kiwi world No 1.
Renowned English coach Leadbetter announced yesterrday that Ko had ended their hugely successful partnership that began at the end of 2013.
While admitting his desire to continue in the role, Leadbetter said they departed on good terms.
Leadbetter put the split down to a number of factors but admitted he found it difficult dealing with the overbearing influence of the 19-year-old’s parents.
‘‘It’s a bit disconcerting for a coach when you’re working with a player and you’ve got many opinions thrown at them,’’ Leadbetter said.
‘‘I’ve had a lot of experience in working with some of the world’s greatest players through the years and I’ve never had quite as much information thrown at a player as I have [with Ko].
‘‘They’re very nice people and obviously they did a heck of a job in bringing her up and getting to a certain level but Lydia’s at that point now where she’s the world’s best and having too much information thrown at her can be confusing.’’
Leadbetter said he would cherish his time with Ko, who had become ‘‘almost like a second daughter’’.
But his frustration with her family was perhaps best summed up with his parting advice to Ko after they spoke on Wednesday. ’’I said take ownership of your own game, of your own life, you make your own decisions,’’ he added.
The decision to move on from Leadbetter continues a major overhaul by Ko and her team following a disappointing end to the year.
The two-time major winner dumped caddie Jason Hamilton in October and made adjustments to her swing, although she denied making any drastic changes.
Ko enjoyed a meteoric rise under Leadbetter, becoming the youngest ever World No 1 (male or female) and amassing close to US$7.5 million (NZ$10.4M) in prize money, winning 12 LPGA titles, including two majors, an Olympic silver medal and achieving a host of other records.
However, she stumbled to the finish line in 2016 as the long season took its toll, losing out on all the major season-long awards.