Causes
The primary cause of a slice ball lies in the swing path being from outside to inside. At the moment of impact, the clubface is open, imparting a side spin force from left to right, causing the ball to initially fly towards the left front. However, once the side spin force exceeds the forward force, the ball will curve sharply to the right.
Check the Grip Style
A weak grip is highly likely to cause a slice ball. During the preparation stage, ensure the grip is standard. Looking from the top down, two to three knuckles of the left hand should be visible, and the V shape formed by the index fingers and thumbs of both hands should point to the center of the chin and the right shoulder. If less than two knuckles are visible and the V shape points to the chin, the grip is too weak. Adjust the grip by turning the left hand slightly to the right.
Choose the Appropriate Club
Determine if the shaft stiffness of the club matches your swing speed. If the shaft is too stiff and your swing speed is insufficient, it can cause the clubface to open at impact, generating a slice. Additionally, confirm the loft angle of the driver's clubface. For amateurs, it is advisable not to choose a club with a loft angle less than 10 degrees, as a lower loft angle generates more side spin, increasing the likelihood of a slice.
Eradicate the "Chicken Wing"
During the top of the backswing, if the right elbow opens outward (the "chicken wing"), it can lead to an outside-to-inside swing path and a slice. Ensure the right elbow points downward at the top of the backswing, with the right forearm and the club shaft forming a right angle, and the clubhead pointing towards the target.
Find a Slope for Practice
Practice swings on a slope where the ball position is higher than the foot position. This helps experience an inside-to-straight-to-inside swing path. An outside-to-inside path will inevitably cause the clubhead to touch the ground before hitting the ball. Multiple practices will help the muscles remember the correct swing path.
Maintain the Correct Swing Plane
An overly shallow swing plane can cause slices. Insert a stick or an old club diagonally on the target line about one club length behind the ball, ensuring it is parallel to your swing plane. This prevents hitting the stick during the backswing and downswing, helping maintain an inside swing path.
Aim the Body to the Right of the Target
To correct an outside-to-inside swing path, align the clubface squarely to the target, then slightly close the body and aim to the right of the target. This can help form an inside-to-outside swing path, potentially transforming a slice into a draw.
Rotate the Right Arm
During the downswing, past the ball position, feel the natural rotation of the right forearm and right hand covering the left forearm and right hand. This prevents the clubhead from opening at impact, reducing the occurrence of slices.