When it comes to golf, hitting the ball with the center of the clubface is crucial for optimal performance. However, there are instances where a different part of the club needs to make contact with the ball, such as when the ball is resting on the fringe against the collar, like Rose Zhang experienced during the U.S. Women’s Open. Golf Digest Best Young Teacher Joanna Coe explains that this type of lie can occur when the rough around the green is dense, making solid center-face contact challenging even for professional golfers. In such situations, using the toe of the putter can be more effective than the center of the clubface.
Coe provides guidance on how to execute this shot, advising golfers to flip the putter so that the toe is positioned behind the ball, with the entire putter in line with the target. The toe should be slightly down, and the heel slightly elevated, with the grip remaining the same despite the unconventional setup. The ball should be in the middle, or slightly forward, in the stance, and a normal putting stroke motion should be made. Despite its unconventional appearance, this technique allows the putter to glide through the thick rough with minimal resistance, resulting in cleaner contact than using the center of the putter face.
Using only the toe of the putter reduces the amount of material that can get caught up in the rough, leading to cleaner contact with the ball. This strategy can be particularly useful when the ball is against the collar, as demonstrated by Rose Zhang during the U.S. Women’s Open. Golfers are encouraged to try this technique next time they encounter a similar lie on the course, as it can help navigate challenging situations and improve overall performance.
Overall, mastering the art of using different parts of the clubface to make contact with the ball is a valuable skill for golfers of all levels. While aiming for the center of the clubface is ideal in most situations, there are times when adjustments need to be made based on the lie of the ball. Learning how to effectively use the toe of the putter, as demonstrated by Joanna Coe and Rose Zhang, can help golfers navigate challenging lies and improve their performance on the course. By experimenting with different techniques and staying open to unconventional methods, golfers can expand their skill set and become more versatile players.
Incorporating tips and tricks from experienced golf professionals like Coe and Zhang can enhance a golfer’s overall game and lead to better results on the course. As demonstrated by their success in navigating challenging lies and utilizing innovative techniques, there is always room for growth and improvement in the game of golf. By staying open to new ideas and approaches, golfers can continue to evolve their skills and reach new levels of success in their golfing journey.
