Rico Hoey's PGA Tour Season Improvement
Rico Hoey has experienced a significant turnaround in his PGA Tour season after changing his putter, boosting his overall performance. This change has allowed him to surpass Rory McIlroy in driving, a notable achievement given McIlroy's status as a five-time major winner and Ryder Cup champion.
Season Highlights
- Hoey is in his second year on the PGA Tour.
- He has recorded two top-10 finishes in his first 24 starts this season.
- Despite finishing 106th in the FedEx Cup regular season and missing the playoffs, his mid-season switch to a long putter sparked improvement.
- Following the putter change at the first FedEx Cup fall event in Napa, Hoey earned three top-10 finishes, including second place at the Bank of Utah Championship behind Michael Brennan.
- This runner-up finish secured his Tour card for 2026.
Rico Hoey’s Reflections
"I did not expect this quick of a return, especially finishing second now. It's been kind of a rough season for me with putting. I've always just been a great ball-striker, and I feel like I drive the ball great, but just putting-wise has always been too streaky. This year, I just didn't make enough putts."
To enhance his putting skills, Hoey sought guidance from several coaches, which contributed to his recent progress.
Significance of the Change
The adjustment to the long putter has clearly transformed Hoey's game, helping him maintain consistency and stand out in the PGA Tour rankings, even surpassing established players like Rory McIlroy in specific areas.
Author's summary: Rico Hoey’s switch to a long putter revitalized his PGA Tour season, leading to multiple top finishes and surpassing Rory McIlroy in driving stats, securing his 2026 Tour card.