Last-Minute Swing Adjustment Fuels Detry's First PGA Tour Win at Phoenix Open
Thomas Detry secured his first PGA Tour victory at the 2024 WM Phoenix Open with a dominant seven-shot win, following a last-minute swing adjustment that transformed his game.
Despite nearly skipping the tournament due to fatigue from playing five events in six weeks, Detry decided to compete. During his Tuesday practice session, he struggled with chunked shots and contacted his coach, who was in Riyadh at 3 a.m.
The game-changing swing tip was remarkably simple: maintain a wide takeaway with a straight left arm. This minor adjustment helped correct Detry's tendency to get long and behind the ball in his backswing.
The results were immediate and impressive. Detry shot consecutive rounds of 66-64-65-65 to secure his breakthrough victory. While he had been playing well in previous weeks, this swing modification provided the confidence boost needed for his commanding performance.
The victory catapulted Detry to 9th in the FedEx Cup standings, though he's experienced mixed results since, missing two cuts after finishing 53rd at the Genesis Invitational.
This success story demonstrates how even small technical adjustments can lead to significant improvements in professional golf, particularly when implemented at crucial moments.