Stepping out onto the final two holes of the Albatros course at Le Golf National in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, France can be a daunting task for any golfer. Known for being some of the toughest finishing holes in the game, holes 17 and 18 have the power to terrify even the most experienced players. With only one shot separating the leader from the rest of the field, the stakes are even higher on these treacherous holes. It is widely believed that these two holes will ultimately determine who will take home the gold medal at the Olympics.
Navigating the 17th and 18th holes at Le Golf National with a one-shot lead is a challenge that many players would rather avoid. These holes have proven to be difficult, with only a few players successfully conquering them without any major setbacks. The 17th and 18th holes are the two hardest par fours on the course, with a combined total of 119 scores of bogey or worse. This makes them the most challenging stretch of holes on the entire course, putting extreme pressure on the players as they near the finish line.
The 17th hole, also known as “Le Verdict,” appears deceptively simple at first glance. With no bunkers or water hazards, it may seem like a straightforward hole. However, missing the fairway on this hole can be disastrous, as evidenced by the lack of birdies from the rough. On the other hand, the 18th hole, named “The Crowd,” presents its own set of challenges with water on the left and a series of bunkers on the right. Players must navigate these hazards carefully to avoid ending their round on a sour note.
The difficulty of these final two holes has led to numerous double bogeys or worse being recorded throughout the week. With 26 such scores already on the books, the 17th and 18th holes have proven to be the ultimate test for the players. The pressure of the moment, combined with the challenging layout of these holes, has created a sense of unpredictability that keeps fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Designed by Robert von Hagge and a French architect, the Albatros course at Le Golf National has a reputation for being tough and unforgiving. The finishing two holes embody this sentiment perfectly, testing the skills and nerves of even the most seasoned golfers. Known for its dramatic setting, with grandstands filled with spectators, the 18th hole feels like a final exam where one wrong move could spell disaster.
As players approach the final stretch of their round, anything can happen on the 17th and 18th holes. Scores can fluctuate wildly, turning birdie chances into double bogeys in the blink of an eye. The unpredictability of these holes adds an element of excitement and tension to the tournament, keeping the outcome uncertain until the very last putt drops. In the event of a tie for the gold, silver, or bronze medals, it is fitting that a playoff would begin on the 18th hole, ensuring that the drama continues until the very end.
