Why Does Chris Gotterup Aim So Far Left? The Surprising Truth Behind His Winning Swing
If you’ve watched Chris Gotterup tee it up lately, you’ve probably noticed something peculiar: his body seems to be aimed way left of the target. It’s almost jarring—like he’s setting himself up for disaster. But here’s the kicker: it’s working. And not just working—it’s helping him dominate on the PGA Tour. But here’s where it gets controversial: Should you try this at home? Let’s break it down.
Chris Gotterup is a force to be reckoned with in golf right now. His confidence and aggression on the course are undeniable, and when he’s in the zone, his game looks almost effortless. Yet, there’s one aspect of his setup that has everyone talking: his alignment. If you’ve tuned into a broadcast, you’ve likely caught him aiming what looks like 20 yards left of the target. It’s counterintuitive, yet it’s the secret sauce behind his controlled fade—a shot that starts left and gently curves back toward the target.
And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about where his body is pointing. Gotterup’s alignment is a deliberate strategy to support his swing path and clubface control. Let’s dive into the mechanics.
Why Aim Left? The Science Behind the Setup
First, let’s clear the air: Gotterup’s body may be aimed left, but his clubface isn’t. This is crucial. His alignment—feet, hips, and shoulders slightly open relative to the target—sets the stage for a swing path that moves left of the target. Meanwhile, his clubface is positioned just a touch right of that path. This combination ensures the ball starts left and gradually fades back, creating his signature shot.
At the top of his backswing, Gotterup’s clubface is square to slightly open relative to his lead forearm. His lead wrist remains neutral or slightly extended, avoiding the risk of a pull-hook. This stability allows him to rotate through the ball with speed and precision. In simpler terms:
- Body: Aligned left
- Path: Slightly left
- Clubface: Just right of the path
This formula produces the controlled fade we see on TV. But why does it work so well for him?
The Role of His Strong Grip and Athletic Turn
Gotterup’s strong grip is a game-changer. It allows his clubface to square naturally without excessive manipulation late in the swing. Unlike many amateurs who rely on their hands to “save” a shot, Gotterup’s club moves in harmony with his body. Pair this with his full, athletic turn—a hard shift into his lead side and a seamless rotation through impact—and you’ve got a recipe for success. There’s no stall, no fighting the clubface. It’s a stark contrast to the average golfer, who often swings across the ball and leaves the face open, leading to inconsistent results.
Bold claim: Gotterup’s alignment isn’t just a quirk—it’s a masterclass in understanding how body positioning and clubface control work together. But should you emulate it?
Should You Try This? The Risks and Rewards
If you’re tempted to aim left after watching Gotterup’s highlight reel, hold on. His alignment is just one piece of the puzzle. For most golfers, copying this without understanding the full picture—like his stable clubface, aggressive rotation, and comfort with starting the ball left—could lead to bigger misses. If you already struggle with a slice or face control, aiming left might exacerbate the problem. The ball will still curve, but not in the way you’re hoping.
However, if you naturally play a controlled fade and want to commit to that shot shape, slightly opening your alignment could help. The key is to focus on the entire system, not just one element.
The Bigger Lesson: Build Your Swing Around You
Here’s the takeaway: Gotterup’s success isn’t about looking textbook—it’s about finding what works for him. He’s not forcing a neutral setup just because it’s conventional. Instead, he’s built a swing that feels natural and trustworthy under pressure. That’s why he’s won multiple times on the PGA Tour.
Think about it: How often do we try to mimic the pros without considering our own strengths and weaknesses? Gotterup’s approach is a reminder that golf is deeply personal. What works for him might not work for you—and that’s okay. The real question is: What works for you?
Controversial question for you: Do you think golfers should prioritize mimicking the pros or focus on developing a swing that suits their natural tendencies? Let’s debate in the comments!
