Joe Highsmith's journey over the past year has been a rollercoaster, filled with highs and lows that would test any golfer's resolve. After clinching his first PGA Tour victory at the Cognizant Classic in Palm Beach Gardens, Highsmith found himself in unfamiliar territory-a prolonged slump that saw him miss 12 of his final 16 cuts last season. For a player who once felt he'd "figured the game out," this stretch was a harsh reminder of golf's unpredictability.
Returning to PGA National as the defending champion, Highsmith is eager to recapture the magic that propelled him to victory. At just 25, the Northwest native is looking to channel the confidence that allowed him to sink a crucial 5-footer on No. 18 and post back-to-back 64s, setting a course record with a 19-under 265.
Reflecting on his struggles, Highsmith candidly admits, "I've never had this long a stretch of bad golf in my life." Despite a few bright spots, including a T20 at The Players and a T8 at the PGA Championship, the rest of the year was largely forgettable.
However, there are signs of hope. This season, Highsmith has made three cuts in five events, with a T54 at the Phoenix Open marking his best finish. "I feel like I'm closer than I was last year," he says, hinting at a potential turnaround.
The road back hasn't been easy. Highsmith's world ranking has slipped from No. 59 to 126, and he's been working tirelessly with Michael Beard, his former college coach, to address both technical and mental aspects of his game. "You learn a lot when you're playing well, but it's tough when you're struggling," he acknowledges, highlighting the mental challenges that accompany physical slumps.
Highsmith's experience underscores a truth about professional golf: the mental game is as crucial as the physical. Even the best, like world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, face challenges, though Scheffler's struggles occur on a different scale.
Despite the setbacks, Highsmith remains optimistic. With 12 top 25 finishes in his first two years on tour, the talent is undeniable. Now, it's about getting out of his own way and finding that winning formula again.
As he prepares to tee off at a venue filled with positive memories, Highsmith is focused on the future. "It's going to be special to go back to a place where you have such good memories," he says. "Hopefully, I can play well and get back on the right track."
For Joe Highsmith, the journey continues, and the next chapter is waiting to be written.