Top teacher shares 2 ways to hit a flop shot

When you are short-sided around the green with an obstacle between you and the flag, a high, open-faced flop shot can be your best chance to save par. However, for many amateurs, inconsistent contact often ruins the attempt. GOLF Top 100 Teacher Debbie Doniger offers two methods to make this tricky shot manageable. The beginner-friendly option starts with a proper setup: open the clubface slightly, position the ball in the middle to slightly forward in your stance, and raise the handle to make the shaft more upright with the toe sitting down. Doniger emphasizes keeping arms wide throughout the swing. "Maybe it will feel like a half or three-quarter swing," she says. "Let the club glide through the grass." For golfers seeking more height and a softer landing, Doniger suggests an advanced technique. Use a wider stance and bend your lead knee over your lead foot to create an axis for rotation. Open the clubface and lower the handle to increase loft without aiming far right of the target. This shot requires a softer, bigger swing. To improve your release, Doniger suggests a drill where you take your thumbs off the grip; this encourages wrist action and allows the clubhead to release and pass your hands through impact.