Collin Morikawa has revealed a game-changing club he describes as “like cheating” for navigating the tough rough at Oakmont during the US Open. This club, a 9-wood, offers advantages that both amateurs and professionals can benefit from, especially in challenging conditions where hitting from the rough becomes essential.
During the US Open, Oakmont’s notoriously thick rough has proven to be a significant hurdle, forcing even top players to temper their usual aggressive strategies. While most professionals are accustomed to powerful drive attempts, they are now finding themselves needing to adapt their game to cope with the dense grass, which can easily impede shots and alter trajectories if they are not careful.
Morikawa, a two-time major champion, provided insights on effectively handling the tough lies in the rough. One critical tip is to resist the temptation to use longer clubs when the grass is particularly thick; instead, opting for a club that offers loft can be more effective. He emphasizes that a 9-iron will often be more advantageous than a 6-iron in these conditions, as it can help elevate the ball out of the heavy grass.
Moreover, Morikawa highlights the importance of considering the lie of the grass behind the ball. Understanding the low point of your swing and maintaining the right angle is crucial for making solid contact. He advises golfers to assess their positioning carefully to avoid getting too steep, which can lead to poor shots.
What makes the 9-wood particularly effective is its design; it combines a larger head with a rearward center of gravity, providing stability and forgiveness. In conditions where the rough can easily grab an iron, the 9-wood helps maintain a consistent launch and spin, allowing players to get out of tricky lies more effectively. This adaptability is why more professional golfers are starting to incorporate high-lofted woods into their arsenal, including the likes of Scottie Scheffler who has praised the 7-wood for its performance from the rough.
The growing acceptance of clubs like the 9-wood among elite players signals a shift in strategy where golfers of all skill levels can benefit from these types of clubs. As more professionals realize the versatility these clubs provide, it may very well redefine how players approach their game, especially in conditions similar to those at the US Open.
Ultimately, for golfers struggling with challenging lies, taking a cue from Morikawa’s equipment choices and techniques may lead to improved performance on the course. It’s a reminder that even in the face of difficulty, there are always innovative solutions and strategies to enhance one’s game.