RORY MCILROY

(NO.1)

Best 2017 results

T4 Open Championship, 2nd South African Open (Euro Tour)

Driver

TaylorMade M2 with 8.5° loft.

How he does it

The key to any powerful swing is a stable foundation and Rory McIlroy displays all the attributes required to swing with maximum speed.

In 2017, he had an average clubhead speed of 120.03 mph, while his ball speed at impact was, on average, 180.12 mph. This ‘smash factor’ contributed to the Irishman carrying his drives an average 305.1 yards every time with his driver.

Rory’s address position provides a comfortable, tension-free platform for him to swing the club at high speeds. Tension-free hands, arms, shoulders and upper body will also allow your muscles to work together with greater efficiency.

Secondly, it doesn’t matter how relaxed you are over the ball with the ability to swing with great speed if you are not balanced. Good balance is key to getting the clubhead moving at top speed.

If you start the swing with too much weight on your toes or heels, you don’t have a stable platform to get the swing started let alone swing with power. Feel as though your weight and knees are over the balls of your feet at address. By doing this you are giving yourself the best chance of being able to make a balanced, powerful swing.