Two Of A Kind: Tiger Woods & Rory McIlroy

By Jim McLean and Peter Morrice

Photos by J.D. Cuban

Two Of A Kind: Tiger Woods & Rory McIlroy

November 18, 2012

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Both players have ruler-straight spines. No "cupping." This sets up huge shoulder turns.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami. | McLean's Favorite Cause: American Lung Association

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Rory's focus on creating a wide arc is evident here. His lower body is super-stable.Tiger rotates his hips from the get-go. I see this as a natural accommodation to age.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Rory "stands up" the shaft more than Tiger. This no doubt makes the club feel lighter.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Tiger Woods: His club is pointing a bit left at the top. This sets up a fade—his go-to shot these days.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Rory: He's really clearing his hips. His head hangs back so he can power through with his arms.Tiger's swing is steeper. Rory's shaft matches his right forearm, which is considered textbook.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Both players spring up using their legs. It's a driver thing—you don't see this with a wedge.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Rory is swinging out to the right—for a draw; Tiger more to the left—for a fade.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.

Slow-motion video: Rory McIlroy | Tiger Woods

Beautiful balance by both. They're identical here, except Rory flops his right foot out.Analysis by Jim McLean, owner of the Jim McLean Golf Schools, headquartered at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, in Miami.