Ah, Augusta National. Where the azaleas bloom and grown men weep (or chuck their clubs into the nearest water hazard). But forget the fancy suits and pimento cheese for a sec, folks. Let’s delve into the real nightmare fuel: the 7 most diabolical holes this glorious green torture chamber throws at the world’s best golfers.
1. 10th Hole – Camellia: This long, left-doglegging par 4 is basically a dare wrapped in a fairway. A mishit finds you staring down the abyss of Rae’s Creek, a watery grave that’s claimed dreams and dignity in equal measure.
2. 11th Hole – White Dogwood: Welcome to Amen Corner, the Bermuda Triangle of golf. This monster par 4 demands surgical precision off the tee, with the ever-present threat of Rae’s Creek mocking you from the left. One wrong twitch and your birdie dreams become a watery bogey nightmare.
3. 12th Hole – Golden Bell: Don’t let the quaint name fool you. This par 3 is a tiny island of green surrounded by a sea of white sand. One errant breeze and your ball’s taking a scenic swim. Pressure? You bet your sweet Titleist there is.
4. 13th Hole – Azalea: Don’t be seduced by the beauty of the blooming azaleas, this par 5 is a deceptive beast. A tight tee shot and Rae’s Creek lurking all the way down the fairway make birdies feel like winning the lottery.
5. 15th Hole – Firethorn: Another Amen Corner resident, this par 5 is all risk, reward, and a healthy dose of terror. A daring second shot can set you up for eagle, but a wayward approach finds a watery resting place or a sand trap so deep it should come with a complimentary snorkel.
6. 16th Hole – Redbud: This par 3 might be short, but the elevated green complex and ever-present wind make it feel like putting on a postage stamp atop a skyscraper. Three-putt city, population: you, unless you channel your inner Zen master.
7. 18th Hole – Holly: The final boss of Augusta National. A demanding tee shot, strategically placed bunkers, and a green complex that slopes like a rollercoaster — this par 4 is a pressure cooker designed to separate the champions from the pretenders. Sink your putt here and you’re a legend. Mess up? Well, there’s always next year (or intensive therapy).
So there you have it, folks. The 7 holes at Augusta National that make even the most seasoned golfer whimper. But hey, that’s what makes The Masters so magical (or terrifying, depending on your perspective). Will they conquer these demons or succumb to the pressure? Tune in and find out!
Watch:
Date | Time (ET) | TV/Live stream |
Thursday, April 11 (Round 1) | 3-7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
Friday, April 12 (Round 2) | 3-7:30 p.m. | ESPN, Fubo |
Saturday, April 13 (Round 3) | 3-7 p.m. | CBS, Paramount+ |
Sunday, April 14 (Round 4) | 2-7 p.m. | CBS, Paramount+ |
Odds to win:
Defending champion Jon Rahm is 13-1, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is the 2024 Masters favorite at 5-1. World No. 2 Rory McIlroy is 10-1 among the 2024 Masters contenders.