When it comes to playing golf, especially around the greens, many amateur golfers tend to make a common mistake of immediately reaching for their wedge. While this strategy may sometimes work out well, more often than not, it results in mishits such as chunks or thinned shots that do not reach the green. However, watching the pros at the recent RBC Heritage tournament, it became evident that many of them were opting to putt from off the green instead of using a wedge. This strategic decision may not be as visually appealing as a high wedge shot, but it is often the smarter play, especially on courses with smaller greens like Harbour Town.
Putting from off the green can help golfers avoid disasters that often come with using a wedge around the greens. By choosing to putt instead of chip, golfers eliminate the risk of chunking or thinning a shot that could potentially lead to a worse outcome. As the saying goes, “Your worst putt is better than your best chip.” The primary goal of any chip shot, whether for tour players or amateur golfers, is simply to hit the green. By rolling the ball up towards the hole instead of trying to get it close, golfers increase their chances of achieving this goal.
Eduardo Molinari, a golf strategy genius, emphasizes the importance of hitting the green with every shot around the green. Whether in a bunker or chipping onto the green, the main priority should always be to ensure the ball lands on the putting surface. This simple but essential goal can help golfers avoid unnecessary mistakes and lost strokes. By focusing on hitting the green with their shots, golfers can improve their overall consistency and performance around the greens.
In terms of effectiveness, putting off the green has been shown to be a more reliable option compared to chipping. While it is challenging to make direct comparisons between putting and chipping from off the green, various pieces of evidence suggest that putting is generally a better choice. When looking at putts and chips hit from similar distances, putting off the green tends to yield more positive results. This disparity may be due to the fact that putting typically involves shorter grass and a smoother surface compared to chipping.
Although there may not always be a perfect comparison between putting and chipping, the preference for putting off the green has been endorsed by many professional golfers. Following the lead of tour players who consistently choose to putt from off the green can be a beneficial strategy for amateur golfers as well. By adopting a putting-first approach around the greens, golfers can simplify their game and improve their scoring opportunities. Ultimately, prioritizing hitting the green with every shot can lead to more consistent and successful outcomes on the golf course.
