Tiger Woods has been known for his ability to hit a low-flying tee shot, known as the “stinger,” since the late ’90s. He developed this shot to ensure he could compete in any conditions, particularly on windy days at the Open Championship where controlling a high-flying ball is challenging. Mastering the stinger required Woods to get stronger, especially in his forearms, to cut off the swing just after impact. After extensive range work, he felt comfortable using this shot in competition, and it has been a constant in his game throughout his career, with slight variations.
Interestingly, Woods did not come up with the name “stinger.” Golf Digest actually gets the credit for naming the shot during a photoshoot in 2000. During the shoot, Woods hit a stinger shot that narrowly missed the photographer’s head, prompting the name “Tiger’s Super Stinger.” The name stuck, and the shot has become a trusted go-to for Woods, especially in critical situations where he needs to find the fairway.
The stinger shot is crucial for Woods as a go-to shot off the tee, providing him with more control when hitting down on the ball. He usually turns to a slappy cut with the driver to ensure accuracy, but switches to the stinger on firm courses with nothing to carry. While the stinger sacrifices distance, the shot’s reliability has helped Woods secure victories, such as at the 2006 Open Championship where he used it countless times and won by two shots.
Over the years, Woods’ technique for the stinger has evolved slightly, with changes in club selection and stance adjustments. While he used to exclusively use a 2-iron for the shot, he now sometimes uses a driver to gain extra yards. Woods stands closer to the ball and plays it farther back in his stance than usual, maintaining a through-swing where his chest covers the ball. While hitting down on the ball is essential, it’s crucial to avoid excessive backspin that can cause the ball to balloon in windy conditions.
From the top of the swing, Woods emphasizes getting his left side out of the way quickly due to the closer proximity to the ball. He snaps his left knee straight on the downswing to clear space for the club to move freely through the impact zone. Maintaining a vertical plane with the club approaching the ground, Woods ensures his lower body clears out while his chest remains on top of the ball. Cutting off the follow-through quickly is key to hitting a successful stinger, requiring good forearm strength to control the club and achieve a low ball flight.
Despite minor adjustments over the years, the stinger shot remains a reliable friend to Woods, allowing him to navigate challenging conditions and secure victories on the golf course. Whether using a 2-iron, 3-wood, or driver, Woods’ ability to execute the stinger with precision and control has solidified its place as a signature shot in his arsenal. By standing closer, covering the ball, and cutting off the finish, Woods demonstrates how to sting it effectively in any situation.
