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The 2023 American Century Golf Championship will include a number of famous athletes, and the event has already begun to gain attention from fans and spectators at Lake Tahoe, Nevada. In a roster that includes Stephen Curry, Dell Curry, Andre Iguodala, Zach LaVine and many more stars, all eyes are on Charles Barkley. Barkley, an NBA icon, has taken some heat for his golfing skills from famous players like Shaquille O’Neal.

His NBA family have also voiced their concerns, saying he may have trouble finishing in the top 70. However, as the competition draws closer, there is rising hope that Barkley would surprise everyone by not only winning but also making a reputation for himself in the golfing world.

Overcoming challenges: Battling the yips and ridicule

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Charles Barkley has improved dramatically in both his physical and mental abilities over the past year because of his rigorous attention to training. Barkley candidly discusses his prior difficulties, including his battle with the yips and the ridicule he received from the likes of Shaq and others.

Barkley’s unrelenting commitment to bettering himself has paid off; he’s lost more than 60 pounds and fixed his fitness issues. In particular, the once-famous hesitation swing has faded into obscurity. “The yips are gone the hesitation swing is a thing of history,” said Joe Buck about him.

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Barkley’s claim that he will place in the top 70 of the tournament is indicative of his renewed faith in his talents and his willingness to show off his strengthened form. “He will finish in the top 70,” Buck believes in the new form Charles has worked on.

As the competition draws closer, everyone is keeping an eye on Barkley, eager to see his reimagined game and possible victory in action.

Also read: “Is That a Stupid Question?”: Despite Burning Bridges With Tiger Woods, Unfiltered Charles Barkley Turned Into an Excited Child Courtesy of Golfing Legend

The Shaq vs. Barkley rivalry meanwhile extends beyond their respective basketball careers and into their golfing pursuits. These two legendary characters have a long history of poking fun at one other and exchanging humorous insults about their respective golfing skills.

Shaquille O’Neal vs Charles Barkley

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Shaq once said, “He’s the worst golf player on the internet, his swing is terrible, form is terrible, but he thinks he can play golf.” 

Shaq has had plenty of opportunities for funny remarks on Charles Barkley’s because of his unconventional golf swing and sometimes difficulty on the course. The on-air banter and online teasing definitely keep viewers engaged and entertained.

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While Barkley works hard to develop his game and disprove his critics, Shaq does everything he can to profit from their friendly rivalry and keep it going.