Don't call Gulbis the Anna Kournikova of golf -- this blonde has credentials. Since turning pro in 2002, she's notched 25 Top 25 finishes -- and she is still just 21. Burly dad John, a former parole officer, is her constant companion.
Age: 21
Height: 5'9"
Turned Pro: 2002
Career earnings: $627,296
Wins: California Women's Amateur at age 14
"My male pro-am partners always try to outdrive me. Guys, please -- quit trying to kill the ball. With a smoother swing you'll shoot lower scores, even without that one monster drive per round ... Amateurs usually lack confidence. The way to get it is to spend more time on the range."
Do your pro am partners ever try to compete with you?
Oh yeah. They try to hit farther.
How long does it take them to get over it?
As soon as they swing too hard and miss too many shots, it hurts their ego and they get it under control.
Is there one tip you give to a lot of amateurs?
Most guys work so hard to try it hit far that they lose accuracy. I tell them to try a smoother swing, with better timing. They'd be a lot happier doing that and shooting better scores—but maybe not hitting that one good monster ball a round. Everyone likes to hit it long—I love to hit long shots, I love to rip one.
What's good etiquette when a guy is playing with a woman? Is there anything he should never say?
Good shot for a girl! That's terrible.
What's a good way for a guy to compliment a woman on her swing?
Any compliment is great because it's someone reaching out to pay respect to what you do. I'd just avoid the gender references.
Mentally, where are a lot of amateurs weak?
Confidence — they're lacking it.
How do you go about gaining it?
Spend more time on the range, more time practicing, getting out there on the course ... but it's hard because most people don't get a lot of time to play.
What makes a guy look good on the golf course?
Nice, pressed dark pants. I like the Tommy Bahama look on guys. It's so relaxed.
Who are your favorite PGA Tour players? Who looks good out there?
Adam Scott and Darren Clarke. He looks great. Now that he lost that weight he has this new presence. You can tell he feels good about himself. And Greg Norman always carries himself well. It's all about how you carry yourself.
Is it healthy to compete with your significant other on the golf course?
Yeah, absolutely. But it's better if you can compete against other couples and work as a team.
