Padraig Harrington still explains the mental game of golf like few others can

Harrington has an invaluable ability to explain the infuriating tribulations that the game guarantees. 

Padraig Harrington of Ireland plays a tee-shot during the final round of the 2024 Mexico Open. Picture: Hector Vivas/Getty Images

Pádraig Harrington was standing on the 15th hole over an eagle putt on his way to a seventh win on the PGA Tour Champions in the Hoag Classic last weekend when his hand slipped and the alarm started sounding.

For the preceding three rounds that grip had been faithfully steady. It was a shot that demanded a right-edged putt, but it scarcely started centre and swept left a foot short of the cup. He settled in that stance familiar to anyone who has swung a club in anger: a hands-on-hips, bowed head with a silent scream and final disappointed glare at the ball before following it and tapping in the birdie.