"Way better swing", "Scottie shuffle": Fans react to now-senior Happy Gilmore's golf swing

The cult classic Happy Gilmore's sequel is set to premiere on Netflix in 2025. Fans received an unexpected present on Christmas day with the release of the first trailer featuring Happy as an older golfer nearly 30 years after the premiere in 1996.

Golf Digest's Luke Kerr Dineen shared a side-by-side comparison on X (formerly known as Twitter) of the former ice hockey player swinging in his iconic jersey while doing his signature run up to the golf ball. The post was captioned:

"Happy Gilmore, 2024 (58 years-old) vs. 1996 (30 years-old)"

One fan in the comments acknowledged the change in mechanics since 1996. The user wrote:

"Way better swing."

In the comparison, one fan was quick to point out a move that resembles Scottie Scheffler's iconic footwork. The World No. 1 golfer's signature trait has been to move both his feet through the ball after impact, a sign that he's using the ground force to his advantage. In the trailer for Happy Gilmore 2, the golfer, played by Adam Sandler, showcases this trait that was absent in 1996. The fan said:

"Scottie shuffle."

Another fan was quick to notice the footwork. They said:

"As a golf newbie, I can immediately notice the much improved footwork," said the fan.

The Golf Digest writer took the analysis one step further as he wrote:

"Older Happy is also moving his upper and lower bodies more together than younger Happy, who creates more upper/lower body separation and therefore more side bend. He's rotating more aggressively, too. Super athletic. Can tell younger Happy was in peak hockey shape," wrote the author of the post.

One fan pointed out that Happy's new swing could be the result of Hollywood star Sandler's personal golf journey through the years.

"Can tell Sandler has played much more golf with his new swing," said the golf enthusiast.

Another X user commented:

"He’s aged *very* well, I must say," commented the user.

While most of the plot remains a mystery, the trailer features some old faces returning to the screen along with some new cameos. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of the sequel sometime next year.

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Happy Gilmore 2 Cast and Cameos Explored

The cast for Happy Gilmore 2 has fans excited. With Adam Sandler returning as the titular former ice hockey player turned golfer, he is accompanied by Julie Bowen, who played his love interest, Virginia Venit.

Christopher McDonald will return as the iconic Shooter McGavin alongside Allen Covert as Otto, Happy's best friend. The Pro Tour's commissioner will continue to be played by Dennis Dugan.

Several PGA Tour stars are set to make their debuts on the big screen with the release of the movie. Some of the stars are: Xander Schauffele, Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, John Daly, Jack Nicklaus, Keegan Bradley, and Corey Pavin. Golf legend Lee Trevino will return to play himself in the movie. LIV Golf's Bryson DeChambeau will also make a cameo. However, their roles remain undisclosed.

Music icons Eminem, Kid Cudi, and Bad Bunny are also confirmed cameos along with NFL star Travis Kelce.