CHARLOTTE, N.C. — At almost every golf tournament, there’s a steady stream of conversations echoing alongside the competition: the predictable critiques of the course. Even when playing on some of the globe’s most stunning layouts, professional golfers frequently voice concerns about everything from the greens to the rough, and even the overall atmosphere. However, one venue tends to dodge most criticisms.
This week, Quail Hollow, the host of the much-anticipated PGA Championship, has seen the discourse around it grow louder, particularly given the heightened focus that accompanies major events.
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This observation seems likely to resonate with many.
Yet, not everyone is in agreement. Max Homa, defending his past triumph here, stepped up to champion the course. “I’ve always had a soft spot for this venue,” he expressed while relaxing near the T-Mobile “Club Magenta” tent by the 10th green during a chat with Yahoo Sports. “It’s a solid representation of contemporary golf. Unlike many modern courses that simply extend their lengths, this one retains its distinct features. The intricate greens, well-placed bunkers, and breathtaking views are remarkable.”
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Nearby, Wyndham Clark, dressed in bright pink T-Mobile gear, echoed Homa’s positivity. “I can’t comprehend how anyone could have a negative view of it,” he stated. “A fantastic golf course has thrilling par 5s, stunning short par 3s, and captivating dogleg holes. This course checks all those boxes.”
It’s important to point out that both Homa and Clark have previously won at Quail Hollow, capturing the Wells Fargo Championship in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Their positive experiences surely influence their current views.
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Justin Thomas, who won his inaugural PGA Championship at this same location in 2017, added, “The Wells Fargo usually precedes this event, so it tends to feel similar. That’s one thing about this place—you always know what to expect; it’s about adapting to how the course plays each week.”
A panoramic view of the 18th hole ahead of the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
(Warren Little via Getty Images)
Quail Hollow, established in 1959, has been a cornerstone of the PGA Tour since it kicked off its event series in 2003, albeit under various sponsorship banners. It marked its entry into major tournaments in 2017 and hosted the Presidents Cup a few years ago. The familiarity of the course is likely a contributing factor to the varied reactions.
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This sense of familiarity can also be observed at Augusta National each year, where players rarely express similar grievances during Masters Week.
So, what fuels these critiques?
It could be that Quail Hollow has garnered a reputation for prioritizing the visual experience for television audiences and fans rather than catering specifically to the players’ needs. While spectacular drives may enthrall viewers, a layout where nearly all players target similar areas can diminish the strategic element as the tournament progresses.
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