A 52-year-old PGA Tour Champions pro’s recent title win at the TimberTech Championship has hiked his momentum big time. His seven-stroke victory sealed by his seven-under score in the fourth round became a buzz last week. This week, the Tour Champions pro is back for the Charles Schwab Cup Championship.

Notably, he is also the defending champion for the event. In a pre-event press conference, the three-time major winner Padraig Harrington opened up on his current mindset. He shared his thoughts on his performance so far in the season. He also spoke about how he handles pressure and how his game varies based on his form and mentality.

Irishman’s perspective on his wins and losses

Padraig Harrington stated that with every event, there is an urge to win. He said that a win in the most recent event, gets the hype amped up for the current event, especially when you are also the defending champion. In his opinion, these are the things that elevate a player’s ability to handle pressure. 

Harrington touched upon the point that one shouldn’t try too hard. He explained how he is focused on not trying too hard and staying normal. Although he said this, he admitted he is “really keen to get another win at this stage.”

Speaking of the judgment a player has about the week while teeing off, Harrington said “No, I don’t think you ever know.” He described his exact mood when he starts off on a tournament, this way. “I’m not trying to go into a tournament without confidence, but I’m not necessarily trying to build myself up.”

Looking back at his wins and losses, the 52-year-old said he had often not won in situations where he was overconfident. He shared his observation that he had won quite a few times when he was a bit off form. “I think when you lower your expectations, it’s a lot easier to handle this game of golf.”

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Harrington recalled his mammoth score last year and spoke about whether a recreation of that magic is possible. 

Padraig Harrington on his score at the Schwab Cup 2022

The defending champion of the Schwab Cup Championship had a remarkable win last year, with a 27-under final score. On the par-71 course, the worst round of the four for Harrington was the one where he scored 5-under. At best, he scored a 9-under in the third round. 

Speaking of recreating that magic, he confessed that the course looks like it has been toughened up a bit. He felt that they probably didn’t want another 27-under score this year. Harrington wondered if the course would play into his hands, but he sounded pleased with the overall conditions and weather. Let’s see if the Irishman grabs another win for the season at this opportune event.

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