Image Credit: PGA Championship
Alex Noren may have enjoyed his time on the sidelines as a vice captain for Team Europe at the recent Ryder Cup, but the 43-year-old Swede is far from stepping away from competition. After recovering from a hamstring tendon tear earlier this year, Noren is back in action and focused on earning his PGA TOUR card for 2026.
“The older I get, the more I enjoy coaching or helping younger players,” Noren said ahead of his debut at the Bank of Utah Championship. “But as a player, I know what it’s like when you’re just missing putts. Sometimes, it’s about staying patient and trusting the process.”
Climbing Back Up the Rankings
Despite missing more than four months of the 2025 season, Noren has surged to No. 17 in the Official World Golf Ranking, No. 8 in the DP World Tour standings, and No. 5 in the Race to Dubai Rankings – PGA TOUR Eligibility. The top 10 players in that category, not otherwise exempt, will secure dual membership on both the PGA TOUR and DP World Tour next season.
Noren’s determination has been key. “At 25, this would’ve been tougher,” he admitted. “But now I know how to take recovery step by step. You build a plan with your team and keep going, even when it feels tough.”
Returning Stronger Than Ever
Noren made his return in May at the Truist Championship and gradually found his rhythm. By mid-season, his confidence was back, with strong finishes including T7 at the 3M Open, T3 at the Wyndham Championship, and victories at both the Betfred British Masters and the BMW PGA Championship.
“The whole game just got a little better,” he explained. “It’s about good practice, confidence, and momentum. That’s when golf starts to click.”
Refining His Swing and Momentum
Noren credited his turnaround to consistent work with his swing coach Matt Belsham and a renewed focus on maintaining a neutral, balanced swing. “I made an effort to see him more regularly,” Noren said. “That consistency helped me find a better baseline and a more versatile game.”
After finishing T27 at the Baycurrent Classic, Noren now looks to continue his form at Black Desert Resort in Utah. “I’ve learned I play better with a regular schedule,” he added. “I love desert-style and dry courses, they suit my game perfectly.”
