Sweden’s Ryder Cup star Ludvig Åberg, is one of the favorites heading into this week’s Masters Tournament at Augusta National. But question marks may be raised after recent Sunday finishes.
Nothing is harder than holding onto a lead. A few weeks back it was showcased at TPC Sawgrass where Åberg saw three strokes disappear during the final round. In fact the lead could, and perhaps should, have been even bigger, given an uncharacteristic three put from short distance on the last green Saturday.
A new chance of glory arose in Texas. Early on during the final round Åberg again found himself in the lead – but again all four tires went flat.
After a weak start to the season there is now no doubt Ludvig Åberg is in great form heading into one of the biggest tournaments of the year. The Swede has recorded top 5 finishes in his last three starts on the PGA Tour. However, one may wonder what scars those Sundays have left and what emotions may show up when an even bigger trophy is on the line.
Not many players have a game better shaped for Augusta National than Ludvig Åberg. Except for the recent Sundays, he is one of the best drivers on tour. His high towering iron shots are a huge advantage when taking aim at Augusta’s tucked away pins. And when looking at what held Sweden’s best male golfer of all time, Henrik Stenson, back from winning The Masters, Ludvig Åberg is much better with putter in hand.
This year’s Masters will be Åberg’s third. In his debut he led the tournament heading into the back nine. A overdrawn 5-iron found the pond on 11 and his hopes for a green jacket disappeared with that ball, eventually Åberg finished in tied for second. Last year he ended up in 7th, meaning he has yet to finish outside the top 10.
His humble and positive approach makes him very likeable and I am still convinced his grounded personality is a big part of his golfing success.
It is also there for everyone to see that Ludvig Åberg has the golf skills to win at Augusta. But after recent Sunday finishes, should we worry whether he is currently mentally ready?