Expert: Skip Ward - 4/1/2002

Question
Why do Prof. golfers put backspin on a ball when approching a green? Can't they just hit a high shot and make it stop or hit it short and roll it up?

  Thanks,
    Joe C.

Answer
Dear Joe C...thanks for the question...this is always a source of interesting discussion.  The real reason is simple physics...you see, to hit a really high shot, you need a very lofted club like a sand or flop wedge.  And therein lies the conflict...the higher the loft of the club the more spin it will impart on the ball, thus the back ward draw of the ball when it lands.  It is very difficult for a professional to NOT put this spin on a high shot...THAT would truly require a lesser grooved wedge, which would then require them to carry another club...because they are not about to give up that spin...it is something they need more often than NOT needing it.  When that high shot with no backspin is required, what would be nice is if the ball is in a small amount of rough...this would trap some grass between the ball and face and take some of the spin off...trouble is...who wants to take a chance on aiming for the rough.  As for hitting it short and rolling it up...many players do  try that...but when a green is surrounding by trouble...you need that high shot...part of the beauty of the game I guess...Good luck and remember...

Love the game,
Skipper