One of golf’s great axioms – that only repetition in big moments generates comfort – should pay great dividends for Min Woo Lee as he prepares for a massive 2024 campaign.
ISPS Handa ambassador Lee put his name up in global lights when he won the 2021 Scottish Open.
And while more silverware has to date proved elusive, there’s a long and growing list of evidence that something far bigger beckons.
The Australian is fresh from his best year at the world’s biggest events.
Back-to-back top-five finishes in his home Open and PGA championships proved the springboard for a runner-up effort in Abu Dhabi, then an eye-catching share of sixth at the Players Championship.
But as the 25-year-old knows, it’s the majors where people judge careers.
His missed cut at the Masters in April came as something of a shock, but alongside other impressive results on either side of the Atlantic, Lee then showed his major potential.
He was 41st at The Open, 18th at the US PGA and a career-best fifth at the US Open having been prominent throughout without fully challenging at the Los Angeles Country Club.
It’s a progression not lost on Lee as he prepares for the next phase – contention – after only nine career major championships attempts.
“I definitely feel like I’m more comfortable in the majors, just from experience,” Lee revealed exclusively to ISPSGolf.com.
“There’s been some downfalls in there which make me stronger, but I have learned from those situations.”
Never one to reel from the joy of the moment, Lee said he’d loved watching his name on golf’s most famous leaderboards.
“It’s great, it’s what we want to achieve as juniors and at any age,” he beamed.
“It’s been a great start to the big events and I’m excited to compete in more.
“The hype has been unreal, I’ve enjoyed every bit of the support I have received. No doubt I’ve been playing well because of the hype and love.”
Lee said there was always “a lot that goes on behind the scenes” that even his most ardent fan wouldn’t consider.
But he said each time he’s gone through the big weeks, he’d improved his processes to be ready to take the next step if and when it comes around.
“It’s definitely more mental (than physical), but they go hand in hand. I feel like I’ve grown as a player and a person every time I get into contention.”
Lee has committed to his home tour and a start at the ISPS HANDA Australian Open from November 30-December 3 at The Australian Golf Club and The Lakes Golf Club.
He finished third in the event last year. He will also tee up in the Australian PGA a week earlier at Royal Queensland.
Despite the justifiable optimism, Lee remains absolutely grounded in his goals for next season, with one big carrot at year’s end.
“I want to get into every major in 2024, then play well enough to make the International team for the Presidents Cup (at Royal Montreal).
“I just need a few things go my way, then take every opportunity as it comes … I’m still learning to play well when I’m in contention.”
It’s a lesson looking well learnt.
