Thick rough is tricky to play from — even for the best golfers in the world. When the grass is thick just off fairways and greens, things can go awry quickly, as we’ll see at the U.S. Open next week.

If it’s tough for the best of the best, then you can imagine how difficult it is for us weekend warriors. I know when I find the deep stuff, my main goal becomes just finding the green rather than sticking it close.

The thing about playing from the deep rough — especially around the greens — is that it takes tons of commitment to hit a solid shot. To get the clubhead through the thick rough, you’ve got to make a big swing. But with most recreational players not even knowing the proper technique for these shots, they end up making an uncommitted pass at the ball that results in a poor shot.

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