A recent survey conducted by Sports Illustrated earlier this summer sought the opinions of a cohort of PGA Tour players on the topic of golf courses that remain on their bucket lists. The responses gathered were both compelling and diverse, offering golf enthusiasts valuable insight into the courses that even the professionals aspire to play.
Ryan Palmer revealed his aspiration to play at Muirfield in Scotland, whilst Stewart Cink expressed his interest in Bandon Dunes. Meanwhile, Jason Day disclosed that he has been presented with opportunities to play at Pine Valley, but has not yet seized the chance. Other players, including Tony Finau and Matt Kuchar, also highlighted Pine Valley as a top priority on their bucket lists.
For certain players, such as Gary Woodland and Adam Scott, previous dreams have been fulfilled, prompting them to set their sights on new courses. Woodland conveyed a desire to play at Royal County Down in Ireland, whilst Scott articulated his curiosity about Fishers Island in New York. Similarly, Jordan Spieth and Aaron Baddeley both identified Bandon Dunes as a course they are eager to conquer.
Certain players articulated specific desires, with Zach Johnson targeting a visit to Cypress Point and San Francisco Golf Club. Conversely, Keegan Bradley is eager to take on the challenge of Cypress Point, and Akshay Bhatia is fixated on Merion Golf Club.
Francesco Molinari expressed regret at declining an invitation to play at Cypress Point, indicating that the course remains on his list of must-play courses. Tom Hoge and Jimmy Walker similarly prioritised Pine Valley. However, Daniel Berger adopted a different stance by stating his lack of a bucket list, citing his focus on golf within the confines of the Tour.
The responses from the players shed light on the allure and appeal of a diverse array of golf courses, capturing the enthusiasm of professionals eager to experience new challenges. Whether it is the history, prestige, or sheer difficulty of these courses, it is evident that PGA Tour players possess a genuine passion for the sport and an unwavering desire to tackle some of the world’s most renowned courses.
For golf enthusiasts, gaining insight into the aspirations of professional players when it comes to seeking out new golfing experiences is fascinating. The survey is a reminder that the love for the game transcends all levels of play, and that the allure of a challenging and prestigious golf course is a universal desire among golfers, regardless of their skill level.
In conclusion, the survey conducted by Sports Illustrated offered a unique glimpse into the bucket list courses of PGA Tour players. Whether it is the storied history of Pine Valley, the allure of Bandon Dunes, or the timeless appeal of Cypress Point, these courses continue to capture the imaginations of golfers around the world, including those who play at the highest level of the sport.