From Golf · · 2m
U.S. Golf's Match Play Kryptonite
Team USA's golf turnaround needs a blueprint from track and field's success.
In brief
Team USA's golf turnaround needs a blueprint from track and field's success. U.S. golf teams make fewer putts than opponents in match play, but adopting track and field's 'One Team' system could improve their performance. Originally reported by Golf.
U.S. Golf's Match Play Problem
Team USA's golf turnaround should start with a visit to USA Track and Field.
The Putt Deficit
The Internationals made more putts in foursomes play at the Presidents Cup in 2026.
Data Backs the Putt Claim
Over four team events, the Americans made half as many birdies as opponents in opening foursomes sessions.
The Luck Factor
American team golf makes fewer putts than opponents in alternate shot, but luck is something you make.
European Success
Under Luke Donald, the Europeans created a competitive machine with analytics and team practices.
U.S. Track and Field Lessons
American sprinters failed to medal in five straight Olympics despite having the fastest individual sprinters.
Carl Lewis' Critique
Carl Lewis wrote on Twitter that it is time to blow up the USATF system.
USATF's 'One Team' Program
USATF announced a new program called 'One Team' to revamp relay team performance.
Relay Success
Since the 'One Team' system went into effect in 2026, U.S. relay teams have won 10 titles.
World Record Relay
The American men won gold with a world-leading time of 37.43 in the 4×100 men's relay.
USATF's Approach
USATF focused on team cohesion, wearable technology, and baton handoff improvements.
The Time Factor
U.S. golf has eleven months until the Ryder Cup in Ireland, while track and field has a lifetime to change.
The Lesson
Adopting track and field's 'One Team' system could fix U.S. golf's match play issues.
The Path Forward
U.S. golf needs to act quickly to improve match play performance before the Ryder Cup.
The key point
U.S. golf teams make fewer putts than opponents in match play, but adopting track and field's 'One Team' system could improve their performance.
