Masters 2024: This is a hot trend on the Augusta National driving range—here's why

AUGUSTA, Ga.—Glance down the Augusta National driving range, you'll find emerald green grass, bright yellow flags, caddies in white jump suits—and probably a golfer swinging with a ball between their arms. Practice while holding a large ball between your arms isn't a particularly new drill, but it has become an increasing trend on tour recently, and a go-to for many players at Augusta National. "It's a really simple drill that's become a go-to for me,"says Nicolai Hojgaard, who comes into the weekend at four-under and two back of the leaders. "It makes me feel my arms more connected with my body. I can keep the focus on a feeling in my arms which helps me hit good iron shots." The are two main training aids that you'll commonly spot pros use: The Tour Striker Smart Ball, which the likes of Justin Rose and Matt Fitzpatrick have relied on for years; and the ProSendr connection sphere which along with its sister training aid the ProSendr has been spreading like wildfire on tour. Erik van...