The 49th Memorial Tournament is set to take place at the iconic Muirfield Village Golf Club, with some significant changes to the event this year. While some aspects of the tournament will remain the same, such as the traditional thunderstorm on Wednesday and the lively atmosphere at the 14th hole, there is one major difference that will impact both players and fans alike.
In the past, fans could spread out across the 220-acre course at Muirfield Village and watch the pros play both the front and back nine simultaneously. With a field of 120 players, the PGA Tour had to send players off No. 1 and No. 10 in threesomes to ensure that everyone finished before dark. This meant that there were golfers everywhere you looked. However, this year, all players will tee off from No. 1 in twosomes, reducing the field to 73 players and creating a more intimate viewing experience for fans.
The smaller field size also means that weather delays will have less of an impact on the tournament, as fewer players will need to finish their rounds after any rain or lightning passes through. Additionally, fans will now be able to focus on fewer holes, leading to a more energized atmosphere around the course. With concession stands expected to be more crowded, fans can expect a lively experience as they race across nine holes to catch the players making the most birdies.
One notable change at this year’s Memorial Tournament is the modifications made to the 16th hole at Muirfield Village. After player feedback, tournament host Jack Nicklaus made changes to the par 3 hole, moving the tee to the players’ right to reduce the impact of the greenside pond and replacing a bunker with a grass slope. Fans will also find a new drinking establishment and seating area at No. 16, providing an enhanced viewing experience at one of the tournament’s most popular holes.
For fans looking to get up close and personal with their favorite PGA Tour players, a new interactive kiosk in the Champions Pavilion and Golden Bear Club allows fans to pose with their favorite pros, albeit in virtual form. Additionally, on Folds of Honor Friday, fans are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue clothing in solidarity with the families of fallen or disabled military members and first responders. The Patriot Parachute Team will also perform a flag jump onto the 18th green, adding a patriotic touch to the tournament.
Overall, the 49th Memorial Tournament promises to be an exciting event for players and fans alike, with changes to the field size and modifications to key holes adding new elements to the tournament experience. From the intimate viewing experience created by the smaller field to the enhanced amenities at popular holes like No. 16, this year’s Memorial Tournament is setting the stage for an unforgettable week of golf at Muirfield Village.
