The 2024 PGA Tour season has come to a close, and the stats are in, ranking the most difficult courses played during the past eight months. It comes as no surprise that the top three on the list hosted majors, with Pinehurst No. 2 leading the pack. The top two most difficult courses played more than two shots over par, while the top four all played more than one shot over par. In total, there were 12 golf courses that had an average score of over par for the 2024 season, leaving 30 where the Tour pros averaged below par.
The PGA Tour stats for the most difficult golf courses in 2024 cover a total of 42 courses, starting from The Sentry through the Tour Championship. Among the top challenging courses were Royal Troon, which hosted the 2024 Open Championship, and Augusta National, which presented challenging windy conditions during the second round of the Masters Tournament. Muirfield Village Golf Club, Colonial Country Club, and Quail Hollow Club also proved to be tough tests for the players during the season.
Players faced difficult shots and challenging conditions at TPC San Antonio, Innisbrook Resort, and Torrey Pines Golf Course, among others. The Rink, a hockey-themed hole at the RBC Canadian Open, added to the challenge of the course. PGA Tour pros also had to navigate tough layouts at various courses, including TPC Sawgrass, Riviera Country Club, and Detroit Golf Club, to name a few. Each course presented its own unique set of challenges, testing the skill and strategy of the players.
Pinehurst Resort & Country Club, Royal Troon, and Augusta National Golf Club were among the top venues that hosted majors and proved to be the most difficult for players in 2024. The scoring averages at these prestigious courses were notably higher compared to other regular Tour stops. The length, design, and weather conditions all played a factor in making these courses challenging for even the best players in the world.
The statistics reveal the level of difficulty that players faced throughout the 2024 PGA Tour season, with some courses playing well over par on average. The combination of long yardages, tight fairways, and complex green complexes made scoring challenging for the pros. Despite the tough conditions, players showcased their skills and determination to conquer the challenging courses and compete at the highest level.
As the season comes to an end, players reflect on the memorable moments and challenges they faced on the most difficult courses of the year. Each venue tested their skills and resilience, pushing them to elevate their game and adapt to the unique demands of the course. The PGA Tour season may be over, but the impact of these challenging courses will continue to resonate with players and fans alike as they look ahead to the next season of competitive golf.
