Golf Etiquette: Addressing the Ball Explained
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Quick Answer
- Addressing the ball is the deliberate act of preparing to hit a golf shot.
- It involves positioning your club, body, and focus over the ball.
- This is a fundamental part of the game, signaling intent and setting up the swing.
Who This is For
- New golfers trying to get a grip on the basics.
- Anyone curious about what’s happening when they see pros on TV.
- Golfers looking to dial in their pre-shot routine for better consistency.
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What Does it Mean When a Golfer Addresses the Ball: Key Checks
When you see a golfer pause and get set over their ball, they’re not just hanging out. They’re in the “address” position. Here’s what to look for to confirm they’re doing it right.
- Club Position: Is the clubhead behind the ball, or is it hovering just above it? The club should be down, ready to make contact, but not touching the ball yet. This is crucial.
- Stance and Alignment: The golfer should have their feet planted, creating a stable base. Their shoulders, hips, and feet should be aligned towards the intended target. It’s all about setting up for success.
- Body Posture: A good address involves a slight bend at the hips and knees, with arms
Michael Reeves is a PGA Professional with over 20 years of experience in competitive golf and instruction. A former Division I collegiate player at the University of Texas, he competed on the mini-tours before transitioning to full-time coaching and golf journalism. He has been a certified PGA teaching professional since 2005 and has worked with players at every level, from absolute beginners to collegiate champions.
His writing has appeared in Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, and The Left Rough. At GolfHubz, Michael leads the editorial team, overseeing fact-checking and ensuring every answer meets the same standard he demands on the lesson tee: clear, evidence-based, and immediately useful.
When he’s not writing or teaching, Michael plays to a +1.4 handicap at his home club in Austin, Texas. He has attended over 40 major championships as a journalist and fan, and has played more than 200 courses across 15 countries.
You can reach Michael at [email protected] or follow his occasional swing analysis posts on the site.