Who holds the largest 54-hole lead in major championship history? I use that performance — 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble, 10 shots — as a reminder that protecting a lead demands the same pre-shot routine, breath, and target focus as chasing; how do you practice staying process-first when you’re comfortably ahead?
I use a 12‑second routine: two breaths, one dimple; ‘10 shots’ focus — unless wind spikes.
When I’m ahead, I run a full nine of “middle number, middle green” in practice — no pin looks, same stock window — and grade myself only on contact and start line, not where it finishes. I’m with you on routine; tiny caveat: I allow one green‑light wedge per side to stay loose — ever tried that?