What is a double cross in golf? Exploring the phrase in layman’s terms

Double cross is an unfortunate type of golf shot, which ends up taking the ball in a completely different direction than the player expected. For example, a golfer intends to hit a draw but instead ends up with a push slice.

This is a common mistake for beginners or low-trained amateur players, but it also happens to professionals, although for them it is quite embarrassing. It tends to have frustrating effects and golfers need to have a lot of confidence in their skills and technique so that it affects the whole round as little as possible.

Swing sequence of Rory McIlroy, one of the best swingers in the sport. (Image via Getty)

The technical explanation of a double cross, in layman's terms, is that the trajectory of the swing and the angle of the club face does not coincide at the moment of impact. Let's continue with the example of the player who tries to hit a draw and actually pulls a push slice to explain it practically:

Let's say the golfer is a right-handed player. For the draw he or she needs to move the club from inside to outside the target line and have the clubface slightly closed, pointing to the left, relative to the swing path.

If, on the contrary, he or she hits too much inside out and has the clubface too open, it will ruin the draw and the ball will not only not go left, but will go way off to the right.

The same analysis can be done for any type of shot you intend to hit. The effects of the error depend on the type of stroke, but, basically, it is that the ball will not follow the desired or necessary course.

A good swing technique is essential to avoid the double cross. Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods are excellent role models in this respect among players on both the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

Causes of double cross and how to avoid it

The double cross is caused by a deficit in the execution of the swing. There are several types of errors that produce it:

• Attempting to manipulate the clubface with the hands during the swing.
• Not being correctly aligned with the target, causing the swing out of plane and undue compensations with the club face.
• Hesitating during execution, resulting in an uncontrolled and uncoordinated swing.

Starting to practice at an early age is a good way to avoid swing errors. (Image via Getty).

Avoiding the double cross is possible and there are several measures that can be implemented to correct the error, but the fundamental one is to practice and commit to training.

Some basic tips are:

• Correct alignment with the target. An intermediate target should be chosen to assist in positioning the feet, hips, shoulders and clubface parallel to the target line.
• Swing along the line of the body, not the line of the target. Swinging toward the target depending on the type of stroke will create an unwanted curve and possibly a double cross.
• Light grip pressure and relaxed wrists. The club face is not manipulated during the swing, the natural rotation of the arms and body should adjust the club face at impact.
• Maintain confidence in the swing. A hesitant or fearful swing is sure to be an uncontrolled swing.