In the world of golf, performance and technique often take center stage—but according to Top 50 coach Katie Dawkins, many male golfers are missing out on a crucial opportunity to improve their game: learning from how women play.
With years of experience coaching players of all levels and both genders, Dawkins has observed key differences in approach, mindset, and execution that could give male golfers a fresh edge. Here, she breaks down the top things men can learn from women to elevate their performance on the course.
- Tempo Over Power
“One of the most consistent differences I see is tempo,” says Dawkins. “Many male golfers are obsessed with hitting the ball as hard as possible. Women, on the other hand, tend to prioritise rhythm and timing.”
Rather than chasing distance, Dawkins recommends that men study the way top female players like Nelly Korda or Minjee Lee swing with smooth, repeatable motions. A controlled swing often leads to better contact—and ultimately, more consistent yardage.
- Short Game Discipline
Women’s short games are often underrated, but Dawkins believes there’s much to admire.
“Female golfers typically put a huge emphasis on finesse shots—wedges, chips, and putting. It’s not about ego; it’s about scoring,” she explains. “A lot of amateur men could benefit from spending more time on touch and less on trying to overpower every hole.”
- Course Management Smarts
According to Dawkins, many of her male clients rely too heavily on brute strength and aggressive play.
“Women tend to plot their way around a course more thoughtfully,” she says. “They’re less likely to take unnecessary risks and more likely to think two or three shots ahead.”
This kind of strategic mindset can be a game-changer for weekend warriors looking to shoot lower scores. Dawkins suggests men take a page from women’s playbooks and focus on playing the course, not just their opponents.
- Humility and Adaptability
Dawkins points out that many of her female students are more open to feedback and quicker to adjust when things aren’t working.
“There’s less ego involved,” she says. “Women will change clubs, adjust grips, or modify their swings if something isn’t right. Men can be more resistant, thinking they know best.”
Being adaptable, rather than stubborn, can lead to faster improvements and fewer rounds derailed by a single poor decision.
- Purposeful Practice
While men may hit more balls at the range, Dawkins says women often practice more intentionally.
“It’s not about quantity; it’s about quality. I see women take time between shots, visualise targets, and simulate pressure,” she explains. “That kind of mindful practice pays off in real situations.”
Final Thoughts
Katie Dawkins isn’t suggesting that men change everything about how they play. But she firmly believes that integrating these key traits—tempo, short-game focus, strategic thinking, humility, and quality practice—can help male golfers play smarter, lower their scores, and enjoy the game even more.
“In the end,” she says, “it’s not about playing like a man or a woman—it’s about playing your best. And there’s always something to learn when you watch how others approach the game.”