8 Easy Ways To Fix Double Cross in Golf Game

Donna F Weiss

1 year ago

Double Cross in Golf – Are you struggling to score well in golf? To achieve success, you need to understand the concept of ‘Double Cross’.

Read this article to find out what it is and how to easily fix it! You’ll be well on your way to mastering this essential element of golfing.

In golf, a double cross is a shot that curves in the opposite direction from what was intended. For example, a right-handed golfer might aim to the left of their target to hit a fade, but the ball curves to the right instead.

Causes of the Double Cross

The double cross in golf occurs when a golfer intends to hit a shot in one direction but unexpectedly sends the ball in the opposite direction. This perplexing occurrence can be attributed to several causes:

Swing Path:

An “over the top” outside-to-in swing path closes the clubface through impact, resulting in a left-to-right shape.
Coming too steep into the ball forces you to flip your hands and hit from out-to-in.

Clubface:

A closed clubface at address makes it more likely the face stays closed through impact.
Flipping or casting the clubhead rapidly closes the face in the downswing.
A strong grip contributes to a closed clubface through impact.

Low Point:

Hitting too far from the inside with a very in-to-out path results in gear effect, closing the face.
Shallowing too early from over the top makes you hit behind the ball.

Weight Shift:

Not transferring weight fully to the front foot keeps the clubhead behind you coming down, promoting an outside-in path.
Sliding the hips laterally encourages an over-the-top move.

Diagnosing these common causes is key to correcting that frustrating double cross!

How To Spot or Identify That Nasty Double Cross

You know it the moment it happens – that low, screaming hook that dives hard left into the trees. Ugh, the dreaded double cross! But before fixing it, you gotta know for sure that’s the beast you’re dealing with. Here are some telltale signs:

Ball rockets low and left, no matter what club. Great for hitting duck hooks!
Your nice power fade suddenly morphs into a snap hook. Dr. Jekyll becomes Mr. Hyde.
Shot shape looks like the letter C. See ya, straight drives!
Ball bruises your ego as it flies sideways. Stings like a bee.
You leave cool divots aimed 30 yards left of target. Nope, not on purpose.

So how do you know it’s a double cross and not some other shot gone wrong? Check for these clues:

Clubface is closed to target line at impact – big hook factor
Swing path is outside-in – inside-out is your money path
Grip feels too strong, leading to closed face
Compression marks on golf ball are left of center – clubhead closed

If you dig those clues, you can bet it’s a double cross making you cross. Now go fix that bad boy! We’ll break it down in the next section.

Tips to Fix a Double Cross in 8 Easy Steps

Check your grip – Make sure your hands are in a neutral position on the club, not too much towards either a strong left-hand grip or weak right-hand grip. If your left hand is rotated too far clockwise at address, it encourages an overly closed clubface through impact.

Slow down the swing – Rushing the transition and downswing can cause you to cast the club (release too early) and flip the clubhead over, closing the face. Maintain tempo, no abrupt movements. Let the club accelerate naturally.
Don’t overswing – Trying to kill the ball often means an overly long, aggressive backswing that gets you off plane. Make a controlled, balanced shoulder turn and let the club do the work. No need to force extra power.
Aim right – Set up with your body, feet and clubface aligned slightly right of the actual target line. This adjustment at address helps compensate for the natural left-to-right ball flight of a snap hook.
Weaken the grip – Reduce the amount of clockwise rotation in your left hand at set up. This lessens the grip strength and allows more natural release and face rotation.
Maintain posture – Don’t allow too much lateral slide or swaying of hips in the backswing. Keep centered over the ball for solid contact.
Align clubface – Make sure the face angle matches your spine angle at address. Don’t allow an open clubface at set up if your shoulders are square.
Swing out-to-in – Make a wide takeaway and backswing, then shallow on the downswing to swing from outside the target line back in. This promotes an in-to-out path.
Check ball position – Ball positioned too far forward encourages an over the top move. Play it slightly back with a driver.

Benefits of Fixing the Double Cross

Fixing the double cross in your golf game can have numerous benefits, including:

✅Improved Accuracy: By addressing the double cross, you’ll gain better control over your shots and enhance your overall accuracy on the course.

✅Consistency: Fixing the double cross helps you establish a more consistent swing, reducing the chances of erratic shots and enhancing your performance.

✅Lower Scores: With improved accuracy and consistency, you’ll be able to hit more precise shots, ultimately leading to lower scores and a more satisfying golf experience.

✅Increased Confidence: Overcoming the double cross and consistently hitting shots on target boosts your confidence and allows you to approach each shot with a positive mindset.

✅Enjoyment of the Game: When you’re able to eliminate the frustration of the double cross and see positive results on the course, your enjoyment of the game will undoubtedly increase.

How to Avoid a Double Cross

Know the Rules Thoroughly

Study and understand the complex rules of golf, especially around scoring, penalties, and etiquette. Ignorance of the rules can allow others to take advantage.
Pay particular attention to rules around provisional balls, out of bounds, hazard relief, preferred lies, and conceded putts, which are areas ripe for exploitation.

Verify Scores Closely

Keep precise scores yourself rather than relying solely on others in your group. Double check math and scoring at the end of each hole.
Require full agreement from all players on final scores before submitting a scorecard. Don’t let small discrepancies slide.

Choose Your Group Carefully

Avoid playing with strangers who may be more prone to dishonesty when money or reputation is on the line.
Stick to playing with trusted friends or colleagues who respect the game’s etiquette.

Finish Holes and Rounds

Don’t pick up on a hole before completion, even if you are out of contention. A double crosser may manipulate or misreport your actual score.
If you start a tournament round, make sure to complete it so your score is verified. Withdrawals can enable score manipulation.

Beware Wagering Issues

Be very clear on all details of any betting – spreads, carryovers, concessions, etc. Vague wager terms can enable double crossing.
Be wary of last minute wager increases or peer pressured bets. Decline if uncomfortable.

Staying vigilant, knowing the rules, and carefully vetting who you play with, especially when betting is involved, can help avoid score manipulation and other forms of double crossing on the golf course. But also keep perspective – golf is a game of honor.

Five Hidden Facts About Double Cross:

🟢 Double crossing dates back to ancient times, with the Trojan Horse being a prime example. The Greeks deceived the Trojans by presenting a wooden horse filled with hidden soldiers, leading to Troy’s downfall.

🟢 Double crossing involves intricate psychological dynamics. The individual committing the double cross may experience conflicting emotions such as guilt, fear, or empowerment, adding depth to the concept.

🟢 Double crosses can lead to surprising alliances. The betrayed party, upon discovering the truth, may form alliances with other deceived parties, shifting power dynamics and creating unforeseen outcomes.

🟢 Double crossing serves as a strategic tool in various contexts. It can confuse enemies, gather vital information, or create diversions in warfare. It requires careful planning, calculated risks, and a thorough understanding of the involved parties.

🟢 The theme of double-crossing has greatly influenced literature and cinema. Countless novels, movies, and TV shows revolve around complex plots involving double crosses, captivating audiences as they unravel webs of deception.

Conclusion – Fixing the Double Cross

The double cross can be a frustrating challenge for golfers, but it’s a hurdle that can be overcome with the right approach and practice. By understanding the causes and implementing the suggested fixes, you’ll be on your way to addressing the double cross and improving your game.

Remember to focus on proper alignment, grip, swing plane, weight distribution, and relaxation to achieve more accurate and controlled shots. Seek professional guidance and be patient with yourself as you work towards rectifying the double cross.

Continue practicing, analyzing your swing, and embracing the process. With determination and effort, you’ll soon find yourself hitting more consistent and on-target shots, taking your golf game to new heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a double cross in golf?

A: A double cross in golf refers to a shot where the ball curves in the opposite direction of the intended target.

Q: What causes a double cross in golf?

A: A double cross in golf is usually caused by a swing path that is too much to the left or right of the target line.

Q: How do I fix a double cross in golf?

A: To fix a double cross in golf, you should focus on your swing path and ensure that it is in line with your target line. You can also try adjusting your grip or stance.

Q: Is a double cross in golf a common problem?

A: Yes, a double cross is a common problem for many golfers, especially those who are new to the game or have a tendency to slice or hook the ball.

Q: Can a golf teacher help me fix my double cross?

A: Yes, a professional golf teacher can help you identify and fix any swing issues that are causing your double cross. They can also provide personalized tips and drills to improve your swing path and accuracy.

Q: How long does it take to fix a double cross in golf?

A: Fixing a double cross in golf can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the issue and your willingness to practice and make changes to your swing.