Short-Game Mastery and Augusta National

When out of position at Augusta National, players often face dangerous shots, with a safe option available only if you’re not trying to go low. At the Masters, however, you’re always trying to go low.

The 2023 Masters saw wind and rain pummel Augusta National, transforming the tournament’s complexion. The typically scorable course became a lengthy, soggy trial. Over the weekend, even the top players missed numerous greens and confronted a multitude of uneasy recovery scenarios. Many of these called for a shot that terrifies amateur golfers: a delicate chip from a wet lie.

Chip shots at Augusta National are invariably difficult, as big, broad slopes direct balls in various directions and complicate speed control, but wet conditions around the greens demand even more precision. While the bump-and-run is usually a safe option, soft bounces and slower greens this past weekend rendered it risky. Instead, many players opted to carry the ball over slopes, relying on the greens’ receptiveness for check. This shot necessitates an open face, perfect back-of-the-ball contact, and sustained speed through the stroke. A lack of commitment results in either rushing the shot and hitting it too hard or decelerating and digging into the soft turf behind the ball.

Several players executed different versions of this shot remarkably well during the third round:

Justin Rose on No. 10

Sam Bennett on No. 9

Cam Smith on No. 4

While booming tee shots and exceptional iron play off uneven lies often steal the spotlight at Augusta National, a robust short game is crucial for contenders. They must possess a repertoire of high and low shots around the greens, selecting the appropriate one when needed. The 2023 Masters demanded them all, and it was captivating to watch.