Xander Schauffele’s 3 Keys for Putting Killer Backspin on a Golf Ball

In order to put spin on the golf ball, Schauffele reminds players that good contact is essential. That’s why he suggests cleaning your grooves, using a quality golf ball, and, most importantly, finding the center of the clubface.

“A lot of it is contact,” Schauffele stresses. “We have new wedges because our [sponsors] give them to us, we have really good golf balls, we hit off really good grass, and we hit the center of the clubface.”

In addition to using good, clean equipment, Schauffele says adding speed will produce backspin on the golf ball — but it needs to be controlled speed so you avoid sailing your shot over the landing area. This is why opening the clubface is key.

“If you swing harder, the ball’s going to go farther. So if you open up the clubface, then you can swing with the same speed for the ball to come up shorter,” he adds. “That allows you to get more of a slicing motion [across the ball, which will create spin on the golf ball].”

Finally, Schauffele says using just a little bit of shaft lean at address will help get your club in the proper position to hit down on the ball. It’s that descending blow mixed with added speed and clean grooves that can help generate backspin.

“To hit a stock wedge, use a little bit of shaft lean, make sure your clubface is clean — since just a little dirt [or water] won’t allow the ball to catch at all and it’ll just run up the clubface. So make sure your club is clean and dry,” Schauffele instructs.