A Viral Moment on the Course

During the Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA) at Champions Retreat, USC junior Bailey Shoemaker found herself at the center of a social media storm. While preparing for a tee shot on the par-3 eighth hole, Shoemaker engaged in a prolonged pre-shot routine that lasted approximately one minute and 16 seconds, involving multiple waggles and pauses. The spectacle drew immediate criticism online, with many viewers labeling the pace as "brutal" and highlighting the broader issue of slow play in golf.


The Medical Struggle

While the video sparked frustration, it failed to capture the significant health challenges Shoemaker has been navigating. Following the previous year's ANWA, the 21-year-old began experiencing severe pain during her swing, which was later diagnosed as cubital tunnel syndrome—a condition involving nerve irritation in the elbow.


«Once I’d get to the top of my swing, I’d get a shooting pain down my arm, and then in my ring and pinkie finger they’d come up off my club. I lost motor control of them. I didn’t have any function over them, which was scary. It was bleeding into my sleep and just sitting, which was kind of tough. Very scary for a while,» Shoemaker shared.

Though she underwent successful surgery last October to alleviate the physical pain, the experience left a lasting psychological impact.


Overcoming a Mental Battle

Despite being physically recovered, Shoemaker is currently managing a "mental battle" while on the course. Her hesitation during the swing is not a reflection of her natural tempo, but rather a lingering subconscious fear of the pain she previously endured.


USC head coach Justin Silverstein defended his player, noting that she is typically one of the faster golfers he has coached. He explained that her current routine is a result of her brain still anticipating the pain she dealt with all of last spring. Shoemaker herself admits she is "just trying to reassure myself that there isn’t pain anymore," as she works toward becoming fully committed to her shots once again.


A New Perspective on the Game

Despite these challenges, Shoemaker has maintained strong competitive form, securing several top-10 finishes this spring. The experience has profoundly altered her outlook on the sport. Reflecting on the journey, she noted: «I am just glad to be here right now. I have a new perspective on the game for sure, knowing what can happen if I don’t end up playing and it’s taken away from me. I love this game.»