Phil Mickelson has never been shy about sharing short game tips. Whether it’s a lob off a cart path or a sand shot off concrete, the guy makes magic look routine. But his latest tip? It comes with a pretty blunt warning: Don’t bother trying this unless you’re a lunatic or Lefty himself.
In a recent YouTube video, Mickelson walked viewers through a shot he admits even he doesn’t like using — the hook chip shot. Yes, a chip that spins right to left. No, we’re not making this up.
“Never, ever do this… unless you want to hit a hook.”
That’s how Phil opens his mini masterclass. With a grin, of course. He explains that putting the ball in the middle of your stance and dragging your hands back can create hook spin — perfect if the slope is working against you and you’re a short-game wizard. For everyone else? It’s a recipe for disaster.
“It’s a very hard shot to hit. I don’t recommend it. It’s not a great shot to hit… but at least you know how.”
Translation: Learn it if you must, but don’t be surprised when you blade it into your buddy’s ankle.
Why This Isn’t a Shot for the Weekend Golfer
Phil’s been honest about this shot taking years of practice to pull off. It’s unpredictable, relies on a perfect lie, and is tough to judge for distance. Even his fans online are split — some appreciate the honesty, while others (including coaching channels like Me and My Golf) argue Phil’s techniques are way too advanced for the average player.
One Redditor summed it up nicely: “Phil’s hinge-and-hold changed my game. This hook shot? Not touching it.”
And Then Came “That” Shot at LIV Virginia
If you thought Phil was exaggerating about needing magic to make that shot work, just look at what he did at LIV Virginia.
On the 17th hole, with the ball buried in rough on a steep slope, Mickelson pulled off what Bryson DeChambeau later called one of the greatest shots he’s ever seen. The ball flew nearly sideways, landed soft, rolled toward the pin… and dropped. Classic Phil.
Bryson’s jaw was on the floor:
“You could just see his wheels turning… and then he hit the shot. I go, oh my gosh, he’s going to make it… that’s got to be one of the greatest shots I’ve ever seen in my entire life.”
It was vintage Lefty — ridiculous creativity, complete disregard for convention, and enough finesse to pull it off while most of us would be looking for the nearest drop zone.
The Verdict: Leave the Hook Chip to the Legend
Phil Mickelson’s short game is part show, part science, and 100% ridiculous. His YouTube tips are worth watching — even if you don’t plan to copy them.
It’s like an F1 driver teaching you to drift at 200mph — thrilling to watch, but not something you try in your driveway.
Fascinating? Absolutely. Practical? Only if your name is Phil.
But hey, at least now we all know how to hit the hook chip shot. And we know not to try it on a Saturday morning scramble unless we’re looking to lose friends.
