Understanding Scottie Scheffler’s Golf Course Preferences
By: Nick Piastowski
Date: May 21, 2025
In the realm of professional golf, Scottie Scheffler stands out not only for his skills on the course but also for his insightful perspectives on golf course design. As the current world No. 1 and the recent winner of the PGA Championship, Scheffler has a unique authority on the subject. During a recent interview with YouTube golf influencer Grant Horvat, he openly shared both his likes and dislikes regarding golf course layouts. For fans and aspiring designers alike, understanding his preferences can offer valuable insights into what makes a golf course truly great.
Scottie Scheffler’s Course Design Preferences
Scottie Scheffler is candid about his fairly conventional approach to golf course design. “If I ever design a golf course, it might be boring,” he confessed. Yet, his take on course elements reveals quite a bit about what makes a golf course enjoyable for players at all levels. Scheffler appreciates strategic variety, elements that challenge golfers to think rather than merely hit as hard as they can.
When asked to name specific courses that embody his vision of strategic excellence, Scheffler immediately highlighted three standout locations: Augusta National, TPC Sawgrass, and Harbour Town. Each of these courses presents a distinct set of challenges that appeal to his competitive nature.
Why Augusta National?
Augusta National is celebrated as one of the most revered golf courses in the world, and Scheffler is no stranger to its allure. He remarked, “Strategically, Augusta is really good.” The course’s elevation changes, strategic bunkers, and small greens require precision, positioning it as a unique challenge for even the most skilled golfers. According to Scheffler, the ability to hit the ball far is still beneficial, but the course’s nuanced layout makes shot-placement critical. The ample runoff areas adjacent to the greens promote creativity and strategic shot-making rather than turning the game into a simple long-drive contest.
The Variety at TPC Sawgrass and Harbour Town
Scheffler isn’t merely satisfied with tight fairways and small greens; he craves diversity in golf shots. At TPC Sawgrass, famous for its challenging 17th hole, Scheffler emphasized the course’s need for different types of shots. “If you look at Sawgrass,” he explained, “the first hole challenges you to cut off a tee; the second demands a draw. Each hole presents a different requirement, from cuts to draws.” This unpredictability not only tests a golfer’s full range of skills but also enhances the overall experience of playing the course.
Harbour Town exhibits similar diversity. The charming yet challenging course forces players to adapt to changing shot requirements, ensuring that no two holes feel alike. For Scheffler, this variety enhances the competitive spirit of the game, making it more engaging and enjoyable.
Winning Strategies on Challenging Courses
It’s no coincidence that Scheffler has excelled at Augusta, Sawgrass, and Harbour Town—he has emerged victorious on these challenging layouts in his professional career. “I feel silly for only liking courses I’ve won on,” he admitted, jokingly. However, his wins at these venues highlight a fundamental truth: great golfers often thrive on courses that challenge their strategic thinking and technical prowess.
Critique of Modern Golf Course Design
While Scheffler is quick to commend courses that provide intrigue and challenge, he also expresses concern over current trends in course design. One frequent point of contention for him is the trend of removing trees from golf courses. “One of the reasons I want to get into course design is that I dislike what’s happening now,” he stated. By prioritizing open layouts with fewer natural barriers, designers may unintentionally diminish the challenge faced by professional golfers.
The Role of Trees in Golf Course Design
Scheffler remarks that trees present natural obstacles that can penalize errant shots. He observes that when trees are removed, the fairways become wider, allowing players to miss by larger margins without facing serious consequences. “You just hit it wherever you want,” he said, highlighting a potential flaw in the design. Without trees, a golfer can easily find themselves from a thick rough into the crowd, losing the essence of strategic play.
A Counterargument for Removing Trees
Despite Scheffler’s reservations, there are varying opinions regarding tree removal in course design. In a 2020 article, GOLF.com explored the reasons why some courses opt to remove trees. Clearing out tree cover can help improve air circulation, increase sunlight on the greens, and facilitate easier maintenance. However, the debate continues on whether the strategic disadvantages counterbalance these advantages.
Concluding Thoughts: The Future of Golf Course Design
As Scheffler contemplates a future in golf course design, his reflections warrant serious consideration. Both players and fans alike stand to gain from understanding his preferences, which emphasize strategy, variety, and natural obstacles like trees. As the golfing community continues to evolve, it’s essential to balance tradition with innovation, and Scheffler’s insights offer a timeless foundation to assess what makes a great golf course.
The Influence of Player Preferences on Golf Course Design
As professional golfers like Scottie Scheffler express their preferences on design elements, it’s clear that player feedback will shape the future of golf course construction. Ideal designs will likely incorporate strategic features that both challenge golfers and celebrate the natural beauty of the landscape. Keeping players’ needs in mind can lead to the creation of courses that remain enjoyable for everyone—from casual enthusiasts to seasoned professionals.
In summary, Scheffler’s thoughts on golf course design highlight the importance of seeking a balance between accessibility and challenge. As his career progresses, fans and fellow golfers look forward to seeing how his vision may come to life in future course designs. Understanding these preferences is crucial for anyone looking to enjoy the game of golf to the fullest. Whether you’re an aspiring designer or simply a fan of the sport, engaging with these insights can enrich your appreciation for the artistry and strategy involved in golf course architecture.
