This week, the eyes of the golfing world are locked on TPC Sawgrass, where Scottie Scheffler is in the spotlight as he chases an unprecedented third consecutive Players Championship title. The previous two editions saw Scheffler emerge victorious despite contending with an injury in 2024 and clinching a five-shot triumph in 2023. Both events were held at the very same iconic Ponte Vedra Beach course that is currently hosting the PGA tour.
Adding to the challenge of TPC Sawgrass is its infamous finishing trio of holes, particularly the 17th, with its renowned island green. This treacherous stretch, referred to by Tiger Woods as a test of mettle after his own victory in 2013, includes the par-five 16th and par-four 18th, measuring 537 and 462 yards respectively. Yet, it’s the 141-yard par-three 17th that has been the backdrop for countless unforgettable moments in the sport’s history.
Among those braving the notorious 17th this week are top-ranking players Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Xander Schauffele. Captured by the PGA Tour during a practice round, all three golfing giants seemed to have a successful encounter with the hole, judging by their positive reactions. They were joined by other PGA Tour stars including Shane Lowry, Tony Finau, Patrick Cantlay, Keegan Bradley, and Gary Woodland, all of whom are preparing to take on the challenge of the island green.
The season leading up to this point has been an eventful one for Scheffler, McIlroy, and Schauffele. Injury has marked the journeys of the American duo of Scheffler and Schauffele. After undergoing hand surgery, Scheffler has made a promising start to 2025, with finishes of T9, T25, T3, and T11. Schauffele, on the other hand, has been restricted to just two events due to a rib injury, finishing T30 and T40.
Meanwhile, McIlroy has had a gratifying start to the season, securing T17 and T15 finishes, and clinching victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The Northern Irishman has even managed to surpass Schauffele in the world rankings, but Scheffler still holds the top spot.
As the competition heats up at TPC Sawgrass, the key to success could lie in conquering the 17th hole. Even the most elite players are expected to face a few hurdles on the notorious island green. As Scheffler aims for a historic three-peat, the world watches on with bated breath, ready for another exciting chapter in the tale of TPC Sawgrass.
