In a surprising twist during a recent golf tournament, American golfer Ryan McCormick resorted to an unconventional method to cope with his frustrations on the course: he taped his mouth shut. This peculiar act took place at The Landings Golf and Athletic Club in Savannah, Georgia, where McCormick participated in the US developmental tour. Known for his tenacity and dedication to the sport, McCormick has faced a series of challenging performances this year, prompting him to take drastic measures.

McCormick openly shared his struggles with the tour’s social media platforms, stating, "Been having not-so-fun times this year on the golf course. Pretty angry and mad." His frustration with his performance led him to experiment with various techniques aimed at improving his mindset. Ultimately, he decided that physical restraint might be the key to overcoming his emotional hurdles. "I figured I'd shut myself up. So I put tape over my mouth," he explained, hoping this would provide him with the peace of mind necessary to concentrate on his game.

However, the results were far from what he had hoped. After an opening round of 1-over par 73, McCormick finished with a second-round score of 72, ultimately missing the cut for the tournament. With a total of 1-over after 36 holes, it became clear that the tape did not bring about the magical transformation he sought. Reflecting on his experience, McCormick remarked, "I was hoping maybe it would help me. Can't say that it did or didn't. I’ve run out of ideas.”

Prior to attempting the mouth-taping strategy, the 33-year-old golfer had explored other avenues for improvement. Since turning professional in 2014, McCormick has been dedicated to refining his skills, including reading books on golf psychology and reaching out for advice from fellow players and coaches. Despite his efforts, the results have been disappointing, and he is still in search of a breakthrough.

This incident has sparked conversations among fans and fellow golfers about the mental challenges athletes often face in high-pressure situations. McCormick’s unique approach to managing his emotions raises questions about the boundaries athletes are willing to push in pursuit of success. As golf continues to evolve, mental health and emotional resilience have become crucial topics within the sport, prompting discussions about the importance of mental well-being alongside physical performance.