How Golf Helps Saul Alvarez Strengthen His Patience and Mentality

In the world of sports, athletes often seek unconventional methods to enhance their skills and find inner tranquility. For Saúl "Canelo" Alvarez, the Mexican boxing sensation from Jalisco, that journey led him to the serene world of golf. Yes, you read that right. Canelo, the fierce warrior of the ring, has discovered solace and mental fortitude on the sprawling greens of the golf course.

Now, you might be wondering, how did Canelo, a man known for his lightning-fast punches and relentless aggression, find himself attracted to a sport typically associated with "grown-up" individuals? Well, it turns out that life has a funny way of surprising us.

In an Instagram confession, Canelo recounted his initial disdain for golf. "I used to live here in San Diego, next to a field, and I used to say, 'That game is very boring, it's for people who are already old,'" he revealed. But fate had other plans. In 2019, a friend convinced him to give golf a try, and from that moment, a spark was ignited within the pugilistic superstar.

"Golf is a very zealous sport," Canelo explained. "If you don't practice for a week, you lose your swing, your timing, everything." Recognizing the importance of regular training, Canelo committed himself to the fairways. He practices twice a week, dedicating a whopping four hours to each session. And when he's not in training for a fight, he ups the ante, spending a remarkable four hours on the golf course every single day.

What benefits does Canelo derive from this seemingly unlikely pairing of golf and boxing? According to the man himself, it all comes down to focus and mental calmness. "It has helped me a lot to stay focused, to calm down," he confessed. "With the routine every day, golf helps me distract myself a little bit from that." In a world that demands relentless dedication, Canelo has found respite in the peaceful greens, where he can momentarily escape the pressures of his intense training regimen.

As with any passionate golfer, Canelo has developed a deep admiration for some of the game's finest talents. Among his favorites are the likes of Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Justin Thomas, and two esteemed Mexican golfers, Carlos Ortiz and Abraham Ancer. It seems Canelo's love for golf extends beyond his personal growth; he takes joy in watching the professionals and learning from their exceptional skills.

But let's not forget the peculiar nature of golf itself. A game of precision and patience, golf demands undivided attention on every shot. One day you're on top of the world, sinking putts with ease, and the next day, you can't seem to find your rhythm. This constant fluctuation keeps Canelo engaged, always striving to better himself. "One day you're good, the other bad, then that makes you practice more and compete with yourself, and that's what I like," Canelo admitted.

While golf may seem like an unconventional choice for a boxer, the sport offers a myriad of health benefits that align perfectly with Canelo's athletic aspirations. Regular participation in golf is associated with longevity and reduced risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Moreover, the game contributes to increased strength and balance. Of course, like any outdoor activity, golf does come with its risks, with players potentially facing an increased susceptibility to skin cancer. However, when compared to other sports, the risk of injury in golf is moderate.

Beyond personal advantages, golf is a sport that encourages socialization and connects individuals with the great outdoors. It provides an opportunity to appreciate and engage with nature, as golfers navigate lush fairways and picturesque landscapes. The benefits extend beyond physical well-being, as the social aspect of golf fosters camaraderie and a sense of community among players.

Interestingly, research suggests that the health advantages of golf are amplified for those who choose to walk the course rather than rely on a golf cart. Walking while playing golf provides a moderate-intensity aerobic workout, promoting cardiovascular fitness and contributing to overall endurance. So, it's no surprise that Canelo, with his unwavering dedication to his craft, opts to traverse the course on foot, extracting every possible benefit from his golfing endeavors.

Not content with simply honing his skills in solitude, Canelo has also embraced the competitive nature of golf. Every shot becomes a personal challenge, pushing him to maintain unwavering focus and dedication. In this sport of precision, Canelo competes not against others, but against himself, constantly striving for improvement and growth. And for a man who thrives in the high-pressure environment of boxing, the mental fortitude developed through golf serves as an invaluable asset in his pursuit of greatness.

While some may raise an eyebrow at Canelo's unconventional choice of leisure activity, the truth is that he has discovered a sanctuary within the world of golf—a sanctuary that offers him peace of mind, focus, and an avenue for self-improvement. It's a testament to the multifaceted nature of athletes and the diverse paths they traverse in search of greatness.

So, the next time you watch Canelo Alvarez step into the ring, remember that behind those explosive punches and unyielding determination lies a golfer who finds solace in the quiet rhythm of the game. And perhaps, just perhaps, his love for golf is what fuels his fire and propels him to new heights of success in the squared circle. After all, in the ever-surprising world of sports, anything is possible, even the fusion of boxing and golf in the enigmatic persona of Canelo Alvarez.