How Bubba Watson Pulled Off His Legendary Hook Shot at the 2012 Masters
Bubba Watson’s shot from the trees during the 2012 Masters playoff is widely regarded as one of the greatest recovery shots in golf history. With no clear path to the green, he executed a massive right-to-left hook using a 52-degree wedge—an unconventional decision that defied traditional golf strategy.
The Situation: A Difficult Lie in the Trees
- Watson’s drive on Augusta National’s 10th hole (second playoff hole) landed deep in the pine straw.
- He was 164 yards from the flag, with trees obstructing a direct shot.
- A safe punch-out to the fairway was the standard play, but Watson saw an opportunity for something extraordinary.
The Club Selection: A 52-Degree Wedge
- Instead of using a low-lofted club for a controlled punch, Watson opted for a 52-degree wedge.
- The extra loft helped keep the ball from climbing too high while allowing him to generate extreme spin.
The Shot Execution: A Perfect Hook
To curve the ball 40 yards from right to left, Watson used a combination of technique and creativity:
- Aimed far right of his target to allow for the hook.
- Closed the clubface significantly at address to produce side spin.
- Made an aggressive in-to-out swing, exaggerating the curve.
- Released his wrists fully, maximizing the leftward movement of the ball.
The Result: A Championship-Winning Moment
- The ball started low, barely clearing the trees, then made a dramatic left turn.
- It landed softly on the green, 10 feet from the hole.
- Watson calmly two-putted for par, while Louis Oosthuizen failed to match, securing Watson’s first Masters victory.
Why This Shot is Still Talked About
- It was executed under the intense pressure of a Masters playoff.
- The shot required exceptional creativity, precision, and confidence.
- Few players would even attempt such a high-risk shot, let alone execute it to perfection.
Watson’s ability to shape shots in ways few others can remains one of his defining traits. His 2012 Masters hook shot is a perfect example of how feel, instinct, and raw talent can create one of the most iconic moments in golf history.
