The game of golf is a nerve-wracking test of skill, precision and strategy. One aspect of the sport that separates the amateurs from the professionals is the art of bunker play, particularly when the bunker shot is between 40 to 75 yards from the green. This shot, according to many PGA Tour players, is arguably the toughest in golf. Amidst this challenging scenario, Justin Thomas, the two-time PGA Champion, revealed who he believes excels at this critical skill.
In a recent match with Grant Horvat, Thomas, who himself executed a spectacular approach from a 60-yard bunker, delved into the intricacies of these shots. He acknowledged the difficulty of getting it right, with the potential for error being alarmingly high. A slight miscalculation can result in an embarrassing situation, as the ball merely travels a fraction of the intended distance.
However, there’s one player who Thomas believes consistently nails these tricky shots – Jordan Spieth. He lauded Spieth’s ability to make ideal contact with the ball, even from a difficult bunker position. “It’s like the hardest shot ever and you kind of almost play a blade,” Thomas remarked. “But Jordan is the best out of bunkers. He’s so good at hitting on the back of the ball.”
Spieth, a three-time major champion, is no stranger to performing under pressure. His bunker plays are a testament to his skill and expertise, and significantly contribute to his entertaining style on the course. Although his form has been inconsistent lately, Spieth’s incredible bunker shots make for an exciting spectacle, offering fans more than their money’s worth.
When asked about his close comrades on the PGA Tour, Thomas unsurprisingly mentioned Spieth, along with Rickie Fowler. The bond between Thomas and Spieth extends beyond the golf course, with the latter having been the best man at Thomas’s wedding.
While no player covets the title of ‘best out of bunkers’ – a distinction that might suggest a need for frequent recovery from poor shots – Spieth’s prowess in this area is commendable. His ability to turn challenging bunker shots into opportunities is a testament to his skill and a major part of his appeal. It’s these moments under duress that make the sport of golf an exhilarating watch for spectators and a test of mettle for players.
