At the 2024 US Open, Bryson DeChambeau featured what many consider golf’s most difficult shot: a 55-yard bunker shot. But here’s what I tell my players: The long bunker shot isn’t as hard as it looks.
I get asked about this shot all the time. The key? Choice of club. Just because you’re in the bunker doesn’t mean you have to use your highest wedge. Instead, I’m pulling an 8 iron while using the same bunker technique I would around the green.
Placement is everything. If the pin is set short, I shift my weight forward. But for longer bunker shots like this, I like to feel more pressure on my back foot. The goal is to make a full, committed swing with a slightly open face, entering the sand two inches behind the ball—much like a greenside bunker shot.
A big key here is the margin of error. If I make a mistake, I want it to be on the thicker side rather than catching it too cleanly. A light chip provides control and prevents the ball from flying too far.
Mastering this shot depends on knowing your carry distances. The next time you practice, grab four different wedges or short irons and test the results. Get comfortable with different trajectories and soon you won’t be afraid of the long bunker shot.
Learn more from McLachlin at shortgamechef.com.
