Rolling the Rock 2024: Nelly Korda, Lydia Ko Among Top Putters on LPGA Tour

Putting is often referred to as the “great equalizer” in golf, and on the LPGA Tour in 2024, the flat stick has been the key weapon for several top players. From draining clutch birdies to saving pars under pressure, these players have mastered the art of rolling the rock. Let’s dive into the top performers in putting this year, their strokes gained statistics, and how their skills on the greens are shaping their seasons.

The Best Putters of 2024: Strokes Gained Putting Rankings

1.Jeeno Thitikul – Strokes Gained: 2.30 per round – At just 21 years old, Jeeno Thitikul has already made a name for herself as one of the LPGA Tour’s most consistent and fearless putters. Her strokes gained putting lead the Tour, highlighting her ability to convert opportunities from all ranges. What makes Thitikul stand out is her uncanny ability to handle pressure on the greens, which has been pivotal in several top finishes this season. While her long game occasionally falters, her putting more than compensates, often saving her when accuracy off the tee isn’t at its best.

2.Nelly Korda – Strokes Gained: 2.27 per round – Nelly Korda, a dominant force on the LPGA Tour, is not far behind Thitikul. Known for her fluid putting stroke and incredible focus, Korda has been clutch in big moments this year. Her putting prowess keeps her in contention even when her approach game struggles, showcasing her ability to grind out scores. Despite some challenges with greens-in-regulation stats, Korda’s skill on the greens makes her one of the most formidable competitors in the game.

3. Furue – Strokes Gained: 1.94 per round – Ayaka Furue has quietly risen to become one of the LPGA’s best putters. Averaging nearly two strokes gained per round with the flat stick, Furue excels in converting mid-range putts, a skill that has seen her finish high on leaderboards consistently. While her driving distance sometimes puts her at a disadvantage on longer courses, her precision putting often levels the playing field.

4.Lydia Ko – Strokes Gained: 1.93 per round – Lydia Ko continues to demonstrate why she remains one of the most talented players on the LPGA Tour. Her putting, a cornerstone of her game, ranks among the best this season, helping her capitalize on opportunities and save pars when her ball-striking isn’t sharp. Ko’s ability to adapt her putting to various green speeds and conditions is a testament to her experience and skill.

5.Haeran Ryu – Strokes Gained: 1.90 per round – A rising star on the LPGA Tour, Haeran Ryu has used her exceptional putting to solidify her place among the Tour’s elite. Her short game complements her consistent iron play, making her a threat in any tournament. Ryu’s ability to avoid three-putts and capitalize on birdie chances has been a key factor in her success this season.