Had a similar approach a few years back. Windy but not much turbulence. BUT dramatic speed loss in the flair. Touch down fairly hard but went around, trouble was we nearly hit the ground again. If we had it would have been very hard. I believe ground effect saved the day. Didn't have any more attitude available or I would have hit the tail. Speed loss if I remember was in excess of 25 knots.
I have much sympathy for the crew.