Topping occurs when the clubface strikes the uppermost portion of the ball during a full golf swing, resulting in a minimal roll or travel distance.
This poor shot is the bane of many golfers, as it will likely result in the ball traveling a short distance and not achieving the desired trajectory. It’s important to understand that topping is different from fat shots, where the club hits the ground before the ball, causing the ball to fly higher than intended.
Typical causes of topping can include:
Incorrect ball position
Suboptimal posture
Head movement
Insufficient rotation
Arm and wrist issues
Reverse pivot
By addressing these issues and making the necessary adjustments, golfers can ensure that the club head makes proper contact with the ball on their front foot and avoid the dreaded top.