Golf has been around for centuries and is one of the most popular sports in the world. Golf is a game of skill, strategy, and precision, and it can be both frustrating and rewarding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, there’s always something new to learn about the game.
To master this game you need patience, practice, and a whole lot of mental toughness. If you want to try your hand at golf, here is one of the most difficult golf holes in the world:
Originally par 5, the 17th hole at St Andrews is notoriously difficult, and many professional golfers have struggled with it over the years. The hole is a par 4 that measures 455 yards from the black tees to the green.
Many like it. Most respect it. All fear it.
Bernhard Darwin
As mentioned in the video below, the Road Hole at a first glance looks harmless enough, it is a long par 4 but there is no heavy rough, no trees, and no water.
The long narrow green is protected by a deep bunker and a huge stone wall at the back. The wind is also often a factor, as it blows off the sea and can be very strong.
The back of the green is also very elevated, making it very difficult to stop the ball close to the hole. If you misjudge your shot you can easily end up in rough gravel, grass fringe or the road.
Your best chance at the Road Hole is to play defensively. The tee shot is one of the most challenging as you have to hit the ball over the wall of the hotel which is not very high but when you stand in front of it, it looks huge.
On the Old Course at St. Andrews: This is the origin of the game, golf in its purest form, and it’s still played that way on a course seemingly untouched by time. Every time I play here, it reminds me that this is still a game.
Arnold Palmer
If you are a drawer, then be careful as your ball could end up in a thick rough on the left side of the fairway, making it very difficult to get out and back onto the fairway.
Ideally, you want to land your ball on the fairway, hit your second shot short of the green, and leave yourself a chip and one put for a par. There is very little room for error on this hole, and even the best golfers have struggled with it over the years.
If you end up on the road there are only two choices, putting or chipping. There is no guarantee that you will make either of these shots, as the road is very hard.
St. Andrews by far is my favorite golf course in the world. It’s where the game all started, it’s why we have 18 holes instead of 22 and I think the history behind St. Andrews is amazing. There is no other golf course in the world that can say that every great player who has ever played the game has played that golf course.
Tiger Woods
The Open Championship is the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament in the world, and it is held at St Andrews every five years. The exciting 150th Open Championship at St Andrews will take place 10 – 17th July 2022 so stay tuned!
Enjoy the short video below on the 17th hole at St Andrews, and good luck if you ever find yourself playing this difficult hole!
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