Mastering Your Golf Game: Lessons from ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’

The previous week in Los Angeles featured a plethora of teachable moments in the world of golf, delivered by esteemed golfers such as Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy, and Hideki Matsuyama. However, one of the most notable lessons did not come from a competitor in the Genesis Invitational, but rather from renowned comedy writer and Riviera member Larry David.

Viewers familiar with David’s work are aware that golf often plays a role in “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” the HBO comedy series in which David portrays a character closely resembling himself. In the most recent episode, which aired on Sunday night, David is depicted at his home course, seated on a bench behind the driving range, observing and listening to a club professional delivering a private lesson. What David discovers about the downswing and the movement through impact proves to be a game-changing tip for his golf game.

While David’s conduct on the course in the episode may not serve as an exemplary model, one can certainly glean insight from the “vertical drop, horizontal tug” tip. Is it a valuable addition to one’s game? According to GOLF Magazine’s esteemed Teacher Tony Ruggiero, this tip appears to address the sequence of the downswing by facilitating the arms’ descent from the top and allowing the club to shallow, which may assist in approaching the ball from the inside and potentially rectifying a slice-inducing over-the-top motion.

With regards to golf etiquette, Ruggiero cautions that eavesdropping on a lesson is discourteous and may cause unease to the student. Furthermore, it is not an effective approach to learning as the issue being addressed may not be pertinent to one’s own game. While it is a common practice, it is advisable to allow golfers to concentrate on their lessons without the distraction of onlookers eavesdropping.

In summary, while emulating Larry David’s conduct on the course may not be advisable, mirroring his newfound technique might prove to be beneficial. The outcomes could prove to be quite positive.

Esteemed golf, food, and travel writer Josh Sens has been a distinguished contributor to GOLF Magazine since 2004. His work has been featured in The Best American Sportswriting. Additionally, he is the co-author, alongside Sammy Hagar, of the book “Are We Having Any Fun Yet: the Cooking and Partying Handbook.”

In conclusion, from golf etiquette to refining golf techniques, there are valuable lessons to be gleaned from Larry David’s experiences on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Therefore, it may be worthwhile to draw inspiration from the comedic genius and ascertain if it can enhance one’s golf game.