Shane Lowry’s advice for how to hit the tricky flop shot

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When it comes to the flop shot, few in the professional game handle it better than Shane Lowry.

Shane Lowry is widely regarded as one of the finest short-game players on the PGA Tour, and his ability to execute the flop shot with ease has earned him a reputation few can match. For amateur golfers, that makes any advice from Lowry on this notoriously difficult shot especially valuable.

While the 2019 Open champion believes good setup is the foundation of every part of the game, he insists it becomes even more crucial when attempting a flop. A precise ball position, a controlled clubface and soft hands are key ingredients — and Lowry breaks down exactly how to put them into practice.

Shane Lowry’s essential setup key for the perfect flop shot

Lowry has long relied on his exceptional feel and natural short-game technique, but his guidance for amateurs is surprisingly simple. In an instructional video recorded for Golf Monthly, he explained that mastering the flop shot starts with disciplined fundamentals.

He recommends placing the ball slightly forward in the stance — “three-quarters of the way up… just inside my left heel” — to give the club a chance to slide under the ball. From there, golfers should open the clubface before gripping the club and maintain soft hands throughout the swing. A tight grip, Lowry warns, destroys feel and often leads to bladed or chunked shots.

Using his 58-degree wedge opened to roughly 62–63 degrees, he focuses on hitting down on the back of the ball so it pops up softly. “If you set up properly,” Lowry says, “you’ve got a great chance of hitting a good shot.”

Tiger Woods offers a contrasting technique for the flop shot

Tiger Woods, one of the greatest short-game players in history, recently shared a different perspective. His method centers on accelerating the heel of the club through impact, ensuring the toe never shuts down and the loft stays exposed. Woods describes the feeling as “swinging the hosel,” letting the heel gather speed as it approaches the ball — particularly useful off tight, down-grain lies.

The underlying message from both champions is clear: while their techniques differ, combining Lowry’s disciplined setup with Woods’ precise motion can dramatically improve an amateur’s chances of pulling off the flop shot.