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The PGA Tour is one of the most-watched golf events in the world, with around two million viewers catching the action and watching top players navigate some of the sport’s toughest holes. The TPC Sawgrass (Stadium Course) for instance, is “rock-star famous” because it carries the highest difficulty rating in golf from back tees. Pot bunkers, palm trees blocking a shot, fast greens, and pot bunkers work together to create an experience that has been described as pleasurable and excruciating. Of course one of its most famous challenges is its Hole 17. If you want to know more about this and other tough holes on the PGA, read on!
Hole 17, TPC Sawgrass (Stadium Course)
This hole is a short par-3 that is completely surrounded by water, leaving a very small error margin. Fast winds can also make club selection a challenge, despite the short distance involved. If even the best players in the world were given the opportunity to hit a shot off 137 yards from the middle of the fairway, they would probably be setting up for a birdie but this hole challenges their mindset and is known to be incredibly intimidating.
Hole 3, Oakmont Country Club
This hold is guarded by the famous “church pews” (small elevations in the greens) and deep bunkers to the right. It requires players to hit uphill, demanding excellent distance control. This hole is also famous for Tiger Woods’ double-bogey in the 2007 US Open, in which he finished tied for second, one stroke behind Angel Cabrera.
Hole 8, Pebble Beach Golf Links
If you’re the type of golfer who loves golf carts and all the fancy extras that come with the game of golf, don’t head to Pebble Beach Golf Links. This course is one that strongly encourages walking since even new golf carts are not permitted close to all holes. In fact, most PGA players ask a caddie to take their bag. Hole 8 is one you definitely will need to walk to. It boasts a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean along the left side and requires a very precise drive followed by a fear-inducing second shot over a cliff to a tiny, sloped green. Many balls have been lost on this hole so make sure to stock up on new sets to replace them!
Hole 18, Whistling Straits (Straits Course)
This course was once ranked as the sixth toughest golf course in the US by Golf Digest. The par-4, 515-yard Hole 18 is considered devastating for average golfers, many of whom are forced to lay back to 150 or more yards on their second attempts. It has a sharp dogleg left and the stately Lake Michigan to the left. A sizeable bunker, tall grass, and narrow green add to the challenge.
We have mentioned just four of many incredibly tough holes to complete by PGA players. Obstacles, slopes, and winds make these holes extra-challenging. This is the case not only for beginners but also for seasoned players and champs.
