PGA Tour star Max Homa confirms he has split from his swing coach ahead of the Presidents Cup. Despite Homa's recent struggles, he is still playing for Team USA after being awarded one of six captain's picks by Jim Furyk.
The 33-year-old has fallen significantly in the world rankings over the past few months and has not finished in the top 10 in any of his past 10 tournaments. So he decided to make a change and part ways with longtime swing coach Mark Blackburn.
Houma confirmed the news ahead of the Presidents Cup, saying: “It's been a tough year. [and it is] It's time to make a change. Very unfortunate. I love Mark, he's basically part of my family. He is an amazing person.
“Sometimes, communication can be difficult. I think everyone here has been through this at some point. This is one of those things, more so for me. I needed a break.
“Sometimes, I don’t do a good job of controlling my golf swing, so kind of putting the ball in my court, you know, trying to figure it out on my own.
“As great as the coaches can be, and as talented as Mark is, I know my golf swing better than anyone, I can see it and feel it. Just trying to get that ownership.”
Homa teamed up with Blackburn after the U.S. Open four years ago and won a PGA Tour title last year under the coach's guidance. He has yet to name a replacement, meaning he will enter the Presidents Cup without expert help.
His caddy, Joe Greiner, will step up to offer advice this week in Quebec, and Homa believes he can play his best game and help the U.S. win.
Furyk believes Homa will be a big asset to the team despite his poor form, which saw him sit out Thursday's opening game along with last year's Open champion Brian Harman.
“I'm very confident in his game,” Furyk said after the selection for Team USA was announced. “I'm confident in what he brings to our team, not only from a game standpoint but from a team standpoint as well. You're going to see him play a lot of golf this week.”
