The Evolution of Golf Course Rankings: A Look Back at GOLF’s 1985 World Top 100

In 1985, the landscape of sports was radically different. The Chicago Bears dominated the NFL, Carl Lewis sprinted to victory as the fastest man alive, and in the realm of golf, El Saler in Valencia, Spain, surprisingly outshone the prestigious Riviera Country Club. This remarkable assertion was made by GOLF’s inaugural World Top 100 list, a pioneering endeavor reflecting the tastes and preferences of that era. Fast forward to today, and it’s clear that time has wrought significant changes on all fronts, including how we assess the world’s best golf courses. Let’s delve into some intriguing insights from that first list and examine how golf course rankings have transformed over the decades.

The Rise of Architectural Influence: The Dawn of Tom Doak

At the helm of GOLF’s original rankings was Tom Doak, a young and ambitious architect fresh out of Cornell University. This ranking marked the inception of design insight in course evaluations, showcasing Doak’s burgeoning influence in the industry. Fast forward to the present day, and Doak has established himself as one of the foremost architects in the golf design world, credited with ten original courses on GOLF’s World Top 100 list—more than any other living architect. His keen eye for aesthetics and usability continues to shape the golfing experience today.

Rating Golf Courses: From Letter Grades to Numbered Systems

Interestingly, GOLF’s initial course raters opted for a school-style grading system, assigning letter grades to various courses. This approach reflected the subjective flavors of the time, painting a vivid picture of each course’s appeal. Today, however, the criteria have evolved into a more standardized numerical grading system ranging from 1 to 100. While the fundamental goal of celebrating exceptional golf remains unchanged, this shift toward quantifiable metrics allows for a more uniform assessment across vastly different course styles and locales.

Landmark Changes in Rankings: Shifts Over Time

The dynamics of golf course ratings have indeed fluctuated over the past four decades. One notable constant is Pine Valley Golf Club, which has consistently secured the top spot in every ranking since 1985. However, numerous other courses have experienced extreme ups and downs. For example, Royal Dar es Salam in Morocco was rated 57th in 1985, just ahead of the prestigious National Golf Links of America, which now ranks 6th globally. In contrast, Royal Dar es Salam has completely vanished from the Top 200, illustrating how tastes and assessments can dramatically shift over time.

Pebble Beach: A Case Study in Consistency and Change

The legendary Pebble Beach Golf Links has seen a similar evolution in its rankings. In 1985, it was considered the second-best golf course globally, nestled between Pine Valley and Muirfield. Fast forward to 2025-26, and Pebble Beach finds itself in the 15th spot—still a remarkable position yet indicative of a more competitive global landscape. This decline highlights the ever-changing perceptions of what constitutes "the best" in the golfing world, where new courses continuously emerge and make their mark.

The Golden Age and Modern Course Designs

When examining the 1985 rankings, it becomes clear that courses from the Golden Age of architecture were dominant. Muirfield Village, the highest-rated modern design at that time, held the 20th position but has since slipped from the Top 100. Fast forward to the 2025-26 rankings—while Golden Age designs continue to flourish, there has been a significant influx of modern courses. For instance, the Sand Hills Golf Club now stands as the highest-ranked modern design at No. 10, whilst Tara Iti also makes its presence known at No. 19. This evolution reflects changing aesthetics and functional preferences among avid golfers.

Global Perspectives: The International Nature of Golf Rankings

As golf has become a more international game, one might assume that the geographical diversity of course rankings would increase. Interestingly, in 1985, there were 17 countries represented in GOLF’s World Top 100. Fast forward to today, and the number has declined to 16. Alarmingly, eight countries that had courses featured in 1985—including Italy, Spain, and Morocco—no longer have a single course making the list. Conversely, seven nations that did not appear on the inaugural list—such as China, Korea, and France—are now home to some of the world’s premier golf courses, showcasing the shifting landscape of golf’s global footprint.

The Evolution of Tour Venues and Their Impact on Rankings

Traditionally, venues hosting PGA Tour events played a significant role in the rankings, oftentimes overshadowing artistic or architectural merit. Today, golf enthusiasts and course raters look at venues through a broader lens, considering the overall golfing experience rather than simply their associations with tour events. While iconic courses like Pebble Beach and Riviera still maintain their positions, others, such as Bay Hill and Harbour Town, have dropped off the radar entirely. This shift emphasizes a growing appreciation for course design beyond just competitive visibility.

Changing Tastes and Preferences Among Golfers

Throughout the years, the preferences of golfers have evolved, reflecting broader societal changes. What may have once been revered—perhaps for its difficulty or historical significance—can easily fall out of favor as new designs are introduced. This continual reshuffling within the Top 100 highlights the dynamics at play in the golfing world. Factors such as increased accessibility, local culture, and even climate have impacted where golfers choose to play. The current rankings thus serve as a fascinating snapshot, encapsulating the unique preferences of contemporary golfers.

Conclusion: Reflection on the Journey of Golf Course Rankings

As we reflect on the changes in golf course rankings since GOLF’s first World Top 100 list, it’s clear that the evolution of tastes, the rise of influential designers like Tom Doak, and a growing international appeal have all contributed to the current state of golf. While we celebrate the consistency of classics like Pine Valley, we also acknowledge the rising stars among today’s golf landscapes. The ever-changing world of golf is not just about courses but also about the experiences they create, the players they host, and the legacies they continue to build.

In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a newcomer drawn to the game, understanding the history and evolution of golf course rankings can deepen your appreciation for the sport. As we look ahead, there’s little doubt that the rankings will continue to shift, reshaping our ideas about what makes a golf course truly exceptional.