Si Woo Kim is a four-time PGA Tour winner known for his aggressive swing through impact that allows the clubface to close without hooking the ball. Working with his coach, Chris Como, they explain how Kim achieves this. As golf season starts, many players may struggle with a ball flight that curves sharply to the left. Kim and Como, who is ranked No. 2 on Golf Digest’s list of the 50 Best Teachers in America, can help players fix this issue.
Kim plays with a “weak” grip, meaning his hands are more on top of the handle with one or two knuckles showing on his gloved hand. This grip allows Kim to rotate his body aggressively in the downswing without fear of closing the clubface at impact, preventing a hook. For amateurs, prematurely stopping body rotation in the downswing can lead to the clubface closing and causing the ball to curve off line. Weakening the grip and focusing on continuing body rotation past impact can prevent a hook.
However, a weak grip can lead to a slice if the clubface is left open relative to the swing path. To prevent this, players can adjust by bowing the lead wrist like Kim does. This prevents the face from opening at impact. Players can also swing down from inside the target line to avoid a slice. By weakening the grip, bowing the lead wrist, keeping body movement, and swinging down from the inside, players can cure their hook forever.
In summary, Si Woo Kim’s aggressive swing through impact and weak grip allows him to prevent hooking the ball. By making adjustments like bowing the lead wrist and swinging down from inside the target line, players can cure their hooking issues. Working with a top teacher like Chris Como can help players refine their techniques to improve their game. As the golf season kicks off, players can use these tips to fix their ball flight and become more consistent on the course. Practice and dedication are key to mastering these techniques and improving overall performance.
