'Short Grass Makes Me Nervous'... 'Then Try a Chip Putt'

Recommended by Golf.com USA: Increasing Success Rate Around the Green
Common Fast Greens with Downhill Approach Behind the Green
Using a 60-Degree Wedge with a Putting Stroke Technique

The score is decided around the green.

Even if you fail to make a par on, if you are good at approach shots, you can avoid losing strokes. However, approach shots around the green are not easy for amateurs. This is because the grass is short, making it difficult to make precise contact. Failing to get the ball close to the hole often results in bogeys. Lu Goochi, a 'Top 100' instructor from the American golf media Golf.com, shared a tip for this situation. He advises trying the 'Chip-Putt' shot when struggling around the green.

Chip putt shot is a technique needed when targeting a downhill green.
[Photo by Golf.com]

The green is generally lower at the front and higher at the back. For amateurs, it is wise to drop the ball in front of the green. Uphill chip shots are relatively easier. Sending the ball behind the green leads to a steep downhill approach. It is even worse if the ball lands on the green. A poorly executed chip shot can send the ball back off the green. Repeated missed shots cause the score to soar. What could have been a bogey can easily turn into a double bogey or worse.

When attacking a downhill green, you can use chipping techniques, but there is risk involved. At this time, take out a 60-degree wedge. Instead of a chip shot, perform a chip putt. Set up in the same way as when putting with a putter. Since the wedge is longer, grip it lower and hold the club more upright to feel like a putter. After a few practice strokes, perform the chip putt. Do not apply too much force; use a smooth stroke.

Various clubs can be used for chip putts. If the grass is a bit longer, players sometimes use woods, hybrids, or long irons. When the ball lands on the fringe, take out the putter. Watching the PGA Tour and LPGA Tour, where top-level players compete, you can occasionally see chip putt shots. Of course, keep in mind that you should practice this technique at the short game practice area before using it in actual play. It is a good technique that can be effective without requiring a lot of time investment.