Arrr! Them last two Open Championship holes be a confoundin' puzzle, makin' scallywags o' the best! Unfair, says I!
2023-07-20
Arrr, mateys! The treacherous holes 17 and 18 at Royal Liverpool Hoylake be true to their reputation in this year's Open Championship. Many a golfer be havin' a hard time finishin' their rounds, for them holes be no friend to those seekin' parrr!
The Open Championship at Royal Liverpool has seen many storylines unfold, with amateur Christo Lamprecht tied for the lead. However, one thing remains clear: Holes 17 and 18 at Royal Liverpool are a "monstrosity," according to Matt Fitzpatrick’s caddie, Billy Foster. These holes have proven to be a nightmare for many golfers, with treacherous bunkers causing trouble left and right.The 17th hole, a brand new short par-3 at 138 yards, requires a precise tee shot. However, with swirling winds, it's challenging to be as accurate as desired. On the 18th hole, a 599-yard monster, golfers must contend with multiple out of bounds areas and more bunkers. These challenging holes have caused struggles for many players, including Lucas Herbert and Phil Mickelson.
While some golfers find the challenge enjoyable, like Brooks Koepka, who appreciates difficult short par-3s, others have faced disastrous outcomes. Rickie Fowler found himself out of bounds twice on the 18th, resulting in a triple bogey, while Justin Thomas had a quadruple bogey after multiple bunker troubles.
Rory McIlroy, trapped in a bunker on the 18th, managed to save par with a remarkable shot, eliciting a fist pump. This shows the difficulty that these golfers face in completing their rounds successfully.
Despite the challenges, these two finishing holes will continue to test both professionals and amateurs alike for the remainder of the tournament. As Jon Rahm remarked before the tournament, it's fair because all players must face the same holes, and the 17th hole, in particular, can be pivotal in determining the outcome of the competition.