The Long and the Short of It

South African legend Ernie Els talks to Lewine Mair about the reasons why he turned to the controversial belly-putter – and why he understands the governing bodies' desire to ban its use

Keegan Bradley

Six of the Best: Players Who Will be Affected

Keegan Bradley

Thongchai JaideeEls aside, the world number 13 is the most recognisable belly putter user – and arguably its biggest defender. This comes as no surprise when you consider he's racked up more than US$7.5 million in earnings in a little over two years on Tour. Bradley, who won the 2011 US PGA Championship in a play-off over Jason Dufner, averages 28.88 putts per round, good enough for 54th place in the putting statistics.

Thongchai Jaidee

The Thai legend made the switch to the belly putter a couple of years ago and, while it took a while for him to become fully adjusted, managed to win the ISPS Handa Wales Open last summer for his first victory outside Asia. Jaidee, who has five European Tour titles to his credit, averaged 29.80 putts per round last season and told HK Golfer he'll be able to make the switch back to the short blade with ease.

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Written by Lewine Mair

Photography by AFP

Click here to see the published article.

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