Backspin

The rotation of the ball around its horizontal axis, with the top of the ball spinning backward relative to flight direction. Backspin generates lift through the Magnus effect, which is what keeps the ball in the air longer and lets it stop on greens.

Optimal driver backspin is around 2,200–2,800 rpm for most players — too much spin balloons the ball and kills carry; too little spin produces a knuckling, falling trajectory. Wedge backspin typically runs 8,000–11,000 rpm and is what makes a ball check up on the green.

Backspin is reported as part of total spin alongside side spin (which causes curve).