Major Player

The secrets to Brooks Koepka’s success.

- Claude Harmon III

Thanks to tiger woods, we know what historic runs in major championships look like. And we’re seeing another one from Brooks Koepka, especially after he won the PGA Championship at Bethpage, his fourth major in eight tries. He’s often thought of as a muscle-bound bomber, but he’s actually a technician and strategist. And he has a complete game—physically and mentally. He’s long off the tee and a good iron player. He has an excellent short game and can putt. With his work in the gym, he has become physically intimidating to some other players. And his mental toughness is another kind of intimidation. Like I said, he’s the total package, and it’s so cool to see what he’s doing up close. If you want to know more about why he’s so hard to beat in the majors, turn the page and I’ll share some of his secrets. —with MATTHEW RUDY

HE TURNS TRIPLE BOGEYS INTO BOGEYS

Brooks is so successful at majors because he understands context. He knows bogeys aren’t that bad. When he gets in trouble, he’s willing to play conservatively (right) and accept a bogey instead of trying for hero shots that could lead to bigger numbers on the scorecard.