When facing a hole with hazards like OB or ponds on both sides, the last thing you want is to curve the ball. In such situations, tour pros adjust their technique to improve direction without altering their swing. Here’s how you can reliably keep the fairway.
To reduce ball curvature, tee shots are often played with a lower trajectory. The shorter airtime means the ball lands before it can hook or slice badly, and it is less affected by wind.
However, the key is not to change your swing intentionally. Trying to force a lower ball flight often disrupts swing rhythm and path, leading to mis-hits.
Hitting the ball slightly lower on the face than usual is crucial for producing a low shot. Photo: Sho Suzuki
The secret to hitting low shots with the same swing lies in two adjustments: teeing the ball lower or gripping down on the club. Normally, I tee the ball so that a small portion of the clubhead is visible above the ball. But when I want to avoid curving it, I tee it lower—roughly below the top of the clubhead.
Even with a lower tee, I still catch the ball on a slight upswing, so the impact feels like it occurs just after the lowest point of the swing arc. Never try to chop down on the ball from above.
When you need to avoid curve, a low ball flight is effective, so lower the tee. Additionally, gripping down on the club (by about two fingers’ width from the end) shortens the swing arc and further drops the trajectory. Photo: Sho Suzuki
The contact point on the clubface shifts slightly. Normally, it’s a bit above center; with a lower tee, it becomes near the center. There’s no forward or backward change, only vertical.
If you need an extremely low shot, combine both methods: lower tee plus gripping down. Also, stand a little closer to the ball when you grip down.
When you grip down, naturally stand slightly closer to the ball. Photo: Sho Suzuki
There’s no need to consciously make a compact swing. Gripping down automatically reduces swing size. As a result, your strike consistency increases and left-right dispersion decreases.
Cooperation: Toshoen Golf Club (Tochigi Prefecture)
Lesson by Kotoko Uchida
Kotoko Uchida. Photo: Sho Suzuki
Born October 4, 2002, in Namporo, Hokkaido. Started golf at age 6, passed the pro test in 2021, and earned her first tour win at the 2025 MinebeaMitsumi Ladies. Her offseason focus on physical strength aims to carry her through the season and secure a second title.
