If you watched the FedEx Cup finals, you might remember Scottie Scheffler’s surprising shank out of the bunker on the eighth hole. While it was a rare moment, it reminded us all that even the pros are human. The shanked bunker or wedge shot is likely something you’ve encountered far too often in your own game. If wedge shanks are ruining your scorecard, you’re not alone. Here are three simple tips to ensure you get rid of the shanks for good.
Maintain a more vertical swing path
One of the main causes of a shanked wedge is swinging the club too flat. For many players, this feels and looks like a club that comes inside as the very first move away from the ball. Once the club is that far inside, it is difficult to get it back on plane.
This exaggerated out-to-in path on the downswing leaves the hosel as the first point of contact instead of the clubface.
The result is an ugly shank.
You’ll notice this not just in bunker shots but with any wedge shots around the green. Players have a tendency to do it more often when they are taking a half swing.
