Tom Watson (1) (1949–)

Tom Watson not only has a timeless swing, he's written a timeless instruction book, too. He and collaborator Nick Seitz (along with photographer Dom Furore) have produced a collection of straightforward, clearly illustrated concepts that will help golfers of all levels. It's all packaged in a clean, clever design that makes it a pleasure to thumb through as well as read.

Watson's style as an instructor mirrors his style of play. There's no double-talk or jargon; no overlap between knowledge show more and ego. Watson tells you how to play the game in no uncertain terms. He takes his own swing apart for you, explains how it works, and shows you how to make it work for your game.

The first two concepts, how to find the bottom of the swing arc and how to set and maintain your spine angle from address through impact, form the basis for everything from the grip to the follow-through. It's easy to understand--and remember--what you should do when it's related in that way.

Once Watson gets past the basics, he spends the last half of the book explaining how to apply them in different circumstances for maximum effect. Beginning with Chapter 4, "Be A Shotmaker," he shows how to control and maneuver the ball. The illustrations are particularly useful in understanding how to draw or fade the ball on command as well as how to hit it high, low, or with just the right amount of backspin. The player who takes these lessons to heart--and practices them diligently--will distance himself from the competition.

For those of us of a certain age, Watson includes a great chapter titled "Swing Younger." He begins by telling the reader how he hits the ball farther himself, then gives seven simple techniques that will help you bomb it like the big boys, too.

Golfers of all ages and skill levels will find this book useful. I've had it for several weeks and find myself digging into it again and again. Every time I open it, I find a passage or an illustration that enlightens. show less