406 - Eliot Baker

We speak with Eliot Baker about his recent Walker Cup victory and his transition from amateur golf to the professional ranks. He is set to begin his professional career in Australia through the R&A Global Amateur Pathway, with early events in Sydney, Melbourne and Mauritius.

Baker describes himself as a late bloomer who did not compete in major junior events or England’s boys’ teams. After joining Hartpury at 18, he improved through university golf and began to build confidence in his ability. He credits his progress to working consistently with his coach and staying on one development path rather than changing his approach between rounds.

We discuss his rise through the amateur game, including being dropped from England’s training squad in 2024, working part-time as a greenkeeper and responding by focusing on his golf. He won the Portuguese Amateur and Scottish Amateur, earned places in England teams and climbed the amateur rankings. Baker also talks about the pressure of pursuing a DP World Tour card and how expectations affected his play at the Living Trophy.

Baker reflects on competing at Cypress Point and Merion, and describes the Walker Cup as a close contest that became difficult for Great Britain and Ireland on the 18th hole. He explains the team’s preparation for the later Walker Cup at Lahinch, including a greater focus on singles play and short match-play sessions.

We discuss the dramatic comeback at Lahinch, where Great Britain and Ireland recovered from a 4–0 deficit in the Sunday foursomes. Baker recounts his singles match against Stewart Hagestad, the importance of seeing teammates win, and the pressure and emotions surrounding the final hole. He describes the victory as a fitting end to his amateur career.

Baker outlines his expectations as a professional, including adjusting to international travel and aiming to establish himself on tour and retain his card. He also discusses equipment testing ahead of his first events, including choosing a driver head and experimenting with putter alignment lines.

Send us a message if you liked the show

Support the show

If you've enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

You can follow us along below @cookiejargolf
Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Website