Stability, steadiness and length.
Age: 29
Lives: Naples, Florida
Stats (LPGA Tour rank in 2026) Total Driving: 4th; Accuracy: 20th (73.5%); Distance: 43rd (269.6 yards/246.5m)
Need to know: The ‘winningest’ pro golfer in Canadian history with 14 LPGA Tour wins, including two majors (2016 KPMG Women’s PGA; 2022 Evian). She turned pro at 17. Grew up in Smiths Falls, Ontario, where she played ice hockey (goalie) from ages 8 to 14.
1. BUILD A SOLID FOUNDATION
What Henderson lacks in size (163cm/5-foot-4), she makes up for with exceptional core strength, balance and agility, says her dad and swing coach, Dave Henderson. The wide stance (heels outside shoulder-width) is something she developed playing ice hockey, so she would never be knocked off her skates. It might cost her a little distance, Dave says, but it helps ensure solid contact.
2. LEVERAGE YOUR SPEED
She used a 48-inch driver prior to 2022, when the length was capped at 46 inches. She immediately lost 16 metres with the shorter club, Dave says, so they had to find ways to gain back her length. One way is by hinging her wrists earlier on the backswing, creating additional leverage between her lead arm and clubshaft that, when released, transfers more speed at impact.
3. FIND MORE FAIRWAYS
Henderson’s foot action is noticeable (the left heel is off the ground), but she doesn’t lose control of the clubface, Dave says. Just as important for accuracy is her steady head and the extension of the arms in the follow-through. Get the shaft pointing down the line like it’s chasing after the ball. “With that extension there, the ball is going straight as an arrow,” he says.
Photographs by headshot: Kate McShane/Getty Images
