What famous golfers are superstitious? Many golfers are superstitious. But, what’s the difference between preference and superstition? And, how do we know which of the world’s most famous golfers’ habits fit into which category? Do you know which of your golf heroes practice superstitious rituals before, during and after their golf games? | | The fact that they’re impossible to prove (or disprove) does little to dissuade golfers from believing in superstitions, or from betters to consider them before placing a bet on a golf tour! Many common superstitions in golf have to do with the coins used to mark ball placements. Some US players refuse to use anything other than nickels (five US cents), and others must use coins that are heads-up. | 
| But what is the difference between preference and ritual? For example, Phil Mickelson uses titleists with high numbers because it helps him to discern his egg from others’. But sometimes, the lines between superstition and preference are very blurry. | John Cook marks his golf ball only with US quarters (25 cent coins that feature different US States) that reflect pictures of states in which he has not only played, but played well. Famous golfer Arnold Palmer’s wife kisses each one of his golf balls before he uses them in a game. Doug Sanders refuses to play golf with white golf tees, as he considers them to be unlucky. | 
| Paul Azinger always marks his golf ball with a US penny, which features the head of Abraham Lincoln. He also makes certain to turn the penny so Lincoln is looking at the hole. He thinks this brings him good luck! Christina Kim doesn’t step on the edge where the fairway meets the green, as she considers this to bring bad luck to her golf game. |  | Whether or not you have your own personal quirks or superstitions, you won’t have trouble finding a golfer who will be at the ready to give you some superstitious tips. Most golfers agree on certain beliefs and will pass along the same advice regarding issues such as:
- Never switch your golf ball midway through a game
- Always start golfing before noon to encourage the best luck
- Keep your guard up when playing on the 13th hole
| | No matter whether or not you’re superstitious, which superstition you choose to believe, or which superstitious ritual you choose to practice, only practice makes perfect. So get out there (but don’t step on the edge of the fairway and the green), wind up your swing (but don’t use a white tee), smack that ball (be you’re your spouse kisses it prior), and become one of golf’s greatest!  |
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Golf Etiquette 
