The Island Green: TPC Sawgrass' 17th Hole

The 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass, known as the "Island Green" stands as one of the most famous and recognisable holes in golf. This short par-3 measures just 137 yards, but its simplicity belies the psychological challenge it presents to even the world's best players.

❝This is not a particularly intimidating hole, you have a huge green, some 4,000 square feet & it's only 135 yards.❞
Paul McGinley

❝Every course needs a hole that puckers your rear end.❞
Johnny Miller

❝You knew you were in trouble when you got on the tee. No matter what.❞
Jack Nicklaus

❝Oh, that green is enormous. I've made birdie there all the time on the computer.❞
Ian Poulter

Pete Dye's Vision
Renowned golf course architect Pete Dye designed the 17th hole as part of the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course, which opened in 1981. Initially, Dye envisioned a conventional par-3 with a small pond on the right. However, as construction progressed, the excavation for sand created a large cavity around the green area.

Alice Dye's Inspiration
It was Pete's wife, Alice Dye, who suggested keeping the green where it was and making it an island2. This stroke of genius transformed the hole into the iconic challenge we know today.

Alice, a skilled amateur golfer and visionary designer, interrupted: “Why move it? Make it an island!” Her idea solved multiple problems:

• Eliminated Costly Earthmoving: The excavated pit became the water hazard.
• Maximized Drama: Created a “do-or-die” shot with no safe layup option.
• Balanced Gender Play: As a shorter hitter, Alice ensured the hole rewarded precision over power.

Pete initially resisted, arguing island greens were gimmicky. Alice countered: “If you don’t like it, build a bridge!” Her persistence paid off. The hole debuted in 1981, and by 1982, it had decided The Players Championship’s outcome.

The 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass has been the stage for some of golf's most dramatic and memorable moments.

Fred Couples’ hole in three (1999)
In the first round, Fred Couples hit his tee shot on the 17th hole into the water. After re-teeing, he made an incredible shot directly into the hole, achieving a remarkable par in Players Championship history.

Seagull steals Brad Fabel’s golf ball (1998)
A seagull captured everyone's attention after Brad Fabel struck his ball onto the center of the 17th green. A seagull picked the ball up only to drop it a few moments later into the water.

Tiger’s “Better Than Most” Putt (2001)
In his quest for the 2001 Players Championship title, Tiger Woods made history with a legendary 60-foot putt on the 17th hole. Johnny Miller asked Gary Koch how the putt looked he reponded with "Better than most!" until the ball dropped in.

Club Selection:
The 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass typically plays between 120-140 yards, depending on the tee and pin position. Amateurs should consider taking one club more than they think they need, as the psychological pressure often leads to under-clubbing.

Aim & Execution:
Target the center of the green, regardless of pin position. Account for the prevailing wind, which can be deceptive due to the stadium-like setting

Focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to hit it hard. Visualize the ball landing softly on the green, not carrying it all the way to the pin

Mental Approach:
Embrace the challenge rather than fearing it. Commit fully to your shot selection and routine. Block out distractions from the gallery and focus on your process

Additional Tips:
Practice visualization techniques before reaching the 17th tee. If playing multiple rounds, note how the wind affects shots at different times of day. Consider laying up to the front of the green if the pin is in a difficult back position

By approaching the 17th with a clear strategy and calm mindset, you can navigate one of golf's most iconic challenges with confidence.

TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course stands out as a true gem in the realm of American golf. Serving as the prestigious venue for THE PLAYERS Championship each year, this course is celebrated as one of the finest in the country. The iconic par-3 17th hole, featuring its stunning island green, is perhaps the most renowned hole in the sport, ensuring that every golfer who steps onto this course creates unforgettable memories.

Look past the most discussed hole and the TPC Stadium Course presents nearly 7,000 yards, whose fairways and greens are pristine. No less than $30 million has been invested in the course, and the work completed in 2006 has affirmed the amazing Players' Course at the forefront of golf in Florida and beyond.

The trophy and awards cabinet at the Stadium Course is brimming with accolades and it has earned a spot as the 5th best course in Golf Magazine's ‘Top 100 Courses You Can Play’. This recognition solidifies the Stadium Course's reputation as one of the best golf destinations in the USA.

A Florida golf holiday featuring the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course's strategic brilliance becomes truly legendary when paired with Bay Hill, Trump National Doral, and Innisbrook, three iconic courses that collectively showcase the state’s architectural diversity, competitive pedigree, and resort luxury.

By blending TPC Sawgrass’s drama with Bay Hill’s tradition, Doral’s history, and Innisbrook’s terrain, this itinerary captures Florida’s golf soul, a mix of sun-soaked challenge and resort indulgence.

Handicap: 5
Favourite Course: Pebble Beach Golf Links
My 'Expert' areas: USA, UAE, South Africa, Mauritius
Best trip I've done: Monterey, California
Where my next trip is to: New Zealand

Give Simon a call on 0800 043 6644 to arrange your next golf break.

Introducing The Your Golf Travel App; a unique app to make your golf holiday with Your Golf Travel even better.

We’ve listened to our customers and curated a host of amazing golf holiday extras, including pre-trip essentials, bar and restaurant discounts or even half-price TaylorMade TP5 Golf Balls.

With average savings of £500 per group available via The Your Golf Travel app, grab early access today to enjoy more upcoming features for golf’s must have golf holiday app.