Golf Tips » April 1999: How to Stop Topping the Ball

Most times when a golfer tops the ball, their spouse or playing partner will say “You lifted your head!” This is not the case. The most common cause of topping is the collapsing of the left arm ( for right-handed golfers) causing the distance between the golfer and the ball to shorten, and a topped shot is the result. The Drill: Practice pitch shots. 1. Address Position. Ball slightly forward of center, hands ahead of the ball. The butt of the club is on the left thigh. 2. Take the club back to a “9-o-Clock” position keeping the left arm straight. 3. At impact the hands still lead the clubhead. The left arm is straight. 4. The most important position. Arms are extended out in front of you at the finish. At no time should the left arm collapse. After several practice sessions in this manner you’ll h

Most times when a golfer tops the ball, their spouse or playing partner will say “You lifted your head!” This is not the case. The most common cause of topping is the collapsing of the left arm ( for right-handed golfers) causing the distance between the golfer and the ball to shorten, and a topped shot is the result.

The Drill: Practice pitch shots.

1. Address Position. Ball slightly forward of center, hands ahead of the ball. The butt of the club is on the left thigh.

2. Take the club back to a “9-o-Clock” position keeping the left arm straight.

3. At impact the hands still lead the clubhead. The left arm is straight.

4. The most important position. Arms are extended out in front of you at the finish. At no time should the left arm collapse.

After several practice sessions in this manner you’ll have obtained the feeling of straight arms through impact. Do this with all of your clubs and topping the ball will no longer be a problem for you.

ave obtained the feeling of straight arms through impact. Do this with all of your clubs and topping the ball will no longer be a problem for you.