Did you know only a handful of golfers have ever made a double eagle in tournament play? That’s right, out of all the professional and amateur golfers in the world, only a select few have accomplished this rare feat. A double eagle, also known as an albatross, is when a player completes a hole in three shots under par.
Although the double eagle isn’t as well-known as the hole-in-one, it’s a highly impressive accomplishment for any golfer. The rarity of the double eagle can be attributed to the difficulty of even getting a hole-in-one, let alone two in a row. In fact, some golf courses, such as Augusta National, make it nearly impossible to achieve a double eagle due to the complexity of the terrain.
To put it into perspective, as of 2021, only 33 double eagles have been recorded in major championship history. The most recent occurrence was at the 2021 Masters Tournament, where Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama made history by nailing a double eagle on the par-5 15th hole. This impressive feat is a testament to just how challenging it is to achieve a double eagle and how few golfers are capable of doing so.
What Is a Double Eagle in Golf?
A double eagle in golf is a rare and remarkable achievement that occurs when a golfer completes a hole two shots under par. This accomplishment is also referred to as an albatross, and it is one of the most elusive feats in the sport.
For reference, a hole is considered par when a golfer completes it in the expected number of shots. A par-4 hole, for example, is meant to be completed in four strokes. If a golfer completes the hole in fewer shots than expected, that is considered a birdie or eagle, depending on how many strokes under par they are. However, completing the hole two shots under par is a remarkable accomplishment and merits a special designation: the double eagle.
Double eagles are so rare that they are hardly seen in professional golf, let alone amateur play. According to the PGA Tour, there have only been 18 double eagles in PGA Tour history. To put that into perspective, over 1.6 million rounds of PGA Tour golf have been played since the tour’s inception in 1929.
Other Names for Double Eagle in Golf
- Albatross: This name is more common in Europe and Asia than it is in the United States.
- Three-Under: This term may be used in informal settings, as it reflects the number of strokes under par that the golfer achieved.
- Double Albatross: This name is less common, but it accurately reflects the rarity and impressiveness of the accomplishment.
How to Score a Double Eagle in Golf
To score a double eagle in golf, a golfer must complete a par-5 hole in three shots or a par-4 hole in two shots. Achieving this feat usually requires a combination of exceptional skill, strategy, and luck. For example, a golfer may need to make a long putt or hit a rare shot from the fairway to get within striking distance of the hole. Then, they must sink their final shot in as few strokes as possible.
Scoring a double eagle is a remarkable accomplishment in golf, one that few golfers ever achieve. It requires a combination of skill, strategy, and luck, and it is a testament to the golfer’s ability to play at an incredibly high level.
| Player | PGA Tour Event | Year | Hole | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gene Sarazen | Augusta National Invitational (Now the Masters) | 1935 | 15th Hole | 485 Yards |
| Lee Trevino | Andy Williams-San Diego Open Invitational | 1975 | 5th Hole | 493 Yards |
| Phil Mickelson | Masters Tournament | 2010 | 13th Hole | 510 Yards |
Some of the most memorable double eagles in golf history have come in major tournaments, where the stakes are highest. These shots have often played a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the tournament. Regardless of the setting, however, every double eagle is a testament to the golfer’s exceptional skill, patience, and perseverance.
The History of Double Eagles in Golf
Double eagles, also known as albatrosses, are one of the rarest feats in golf. A double eagle is achieved when a golfer scores three under par on a single hole. It requires two exceptional shots, and a bit of luck, to pull off such a feat. Double eagles are so rare that only a few players have achieved this feat in professional golf tournaments, and the odds of making one are estimated to be around 6 million to 1.
- The first recorded double eagle was made by Jack Hobens in 1899 at the Open Championship.
- The first double eagle at the Masters Tournament was made by Gene Sarazen in 1935, where he holed out from 235 yards on the par-5 15th hole with a 4-wood.
- The most famous double eagle in history is arguably the shot made by Phil Mickelson at the 2010 Masters Tournament. He hit a 6-iron from 207 yards on the par-5 13th hole, which bounced off the green, hit the flagstick, and went into the hole. The shot helped him win his third Masters title.
Despite the rarity of double eagles, some courses have been known to be more susceptible to them than others. The 13th hole at Augusta National, where Mickelson made his shot, has seen five double eagles in Masters history. The 2nd hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links and the 4th hole at Kapalua’s Plantation Course in Hawaii are also known for producing double eagles.
Although double eagles are uncommon, they are a thrilling feat for any golfer to achieve. Whether made by a top professional or an amateur, the rarity and excitement of a double eagle will always captivate those who love the game of golf.
| Tournament | Number of Double Eagles |
|---|---|
| The Masters Tournament | 23 |
| U.S. Open | 4 |
| Open Championship | 5 |
| PGA Championship | 2 |
Overall, double eagles remain one of the rarest and most exciting achievements in the sport of golf. They require incredible skill, precision, and some good luck, and are sure to leave any golfer feeling elated if they are lucky enough to make one.
Famous Golfers Who Have Made a Double Eagle
A double eagle, or an albatross, is one of the rarest achievements in golf, as it is a feat that is only achieved by a few players. It is considered a hole-in-one on a par-five, as it requires the golfer to complete the hole in three strokes: the first stroke to tee off, the second stroke to get close to the green, and the third stroke to putt the ball into the hole.
- Gene Sarazen
- Jeff Maggert
- Shaun Micheel
There have been several famous golfers who have made a double eagle throughout history that has helped solidify their legacy in the sport. Here are three notable players who have achieved this rare feat:
Gene Sarazen: Sarazen was a legendary golfer and one of the greatest players of his time. He is credited with inventing the modern sand wedge, which revolutionized the short game. Sarazen made his double eagle at the 15th hole of the Augusta National Golf Club during the 1935 Masters Tournament, which is now known as the “shot heard ’round the world.”
Jeff Maggert: Maggert made his double eagle at the sixth hole of the Augusta National Golf Club during the 1994 Masters Tournament. He hit a five-iron from 222 yards to record this rare achievement.
Shaun Micheel: Micheel made his double eagle at the fourth hole of the Oakmont Country Club during the 2007 U.S. Open. This was a historic achievement, as it was the first double eagle ever recorded in the history of the U.S. Open.
Although these three players are not the only ones who have achieved this rare feat, they are the most famous golfers known for making a double eagle. Their shots have not only amazed the golfing community but have also made history in the sport.
| Golfer | Tournament | Hole | Yards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gene Sarazen | 1935 Masters | 15th | 235 yards |
| Jeff Maggert | 1994 Masters | 6th | 222 yards |
| Shaun Micheel | 2007 U.S. Open | 4th | 292 yards |
If you are a golf enthusiast, you know how rare it is to make a double eagle. Not only does it require skill and precision, but it also requires a bit of luck. These famous golfers who have made a double eagle prove that anything is possible in the sport of golf.
How rare is it to make a double eagle in golf?
As any avid golfer knows, making an eagle is pretty challenging. So it goes without saying that a double eagle, also known as an albatross, is an even rarer feat. Here are some statistics to put it in perspective:
- According to the National Hole-in-One Registry, the probability of an amateur golfer making a double eagle is 6 million to 1.
- Professional golfers have a slightly better chance at 1 million to 1, according to Golf Digest.
- Since 1983, there have been a total of 26 double eagles recorded in PGA Tour history.
So while making a double eagle may seem like a far-fetched dream for most golfers, it’s not entirely impossible. In fact, with the right combination of skill, luck, and timing, anyone can achieve this rare feat.
But what exactly does it take to make a double eagle? Let’s take a closer look:
| Shot | Description |
|---|---|
| First shot | A long and accurate tee shot to land on or near the green. |
| Second shot | A well-placed approach shot that lands on the green and rolls into the hole. |
As you can see, making a double eagle requires not only accuracy but also a bit of luck. But for those who are able to achieve it, the feeling of elation and accomplishment is truly unparalleled.
How does making a double eagle affect a golfer’s score?
Making a double eagle, also known as an albatross, is one of the rarest and most prestigious achievements in golf. It occurs when a player hits their ball into the hole in three strokes less than par. For example, if the hole is a par 5, making a double eagle would mean hitting the ball in the hole in only two strokes, resulting in a score of -3 for that particular hole.
- Double eagles are extremely rare- According to the National Hole-in-One Registry, the odds of making a double eagle are approximately 1 in 1 million.
- Double eagles can significantly lower a golfer’s score- As previously mentioned, making a double eagle results in a score of -3 for that particular hole. This can have a huge impact on a golfer’s overall score, as it lowers their total score by three strokes.
- Double eagles can lead to career-defining moments- Many professional golfers have had career-defining moments after making a double eagle. For example, Louis Oosthuizen made a double eagle at the 2012 Masters Tournament, which helped him finish in second place.
It’s important to note that making a double eagle alone won’t guarantee a golfer’s success. However, it can certainly give them an edge and a boost of confidence that can help them perform better in future rounds.
Below is a list of some of the most famous double eagles in golf history:
| Golfer | Tournament | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Gene Sarazen | Masters Tournament | 1935 |
| Al Geiberger | Memphis Open | 1977 |
| Phil Mickelson | WGC-Mexico Championship | 2018 |
Although making a double eagle is incredibly rare, it remains an outstanding achievement for any golfer. It can significantly impact their score, lead to career-defining moments, and ultimately give them an edge in future rounds.
Common misconceptions about double eagles in golf
Double eagles are one of those rare feats in golf that even the most seasoned players seldom achieve. A double eagle, also known as an albatross, occurs when a player scores three under par on a single hole. As mesmerizingly rare as this shot is, there are several misconceptions surrounding this golfing wonder. Below are some of the most common:
- Double eagles are more common than holes-in-one.
- Double eagles only occur on par-5 holes.
- Double eagles require perfect shots from tee to green.
However, the truth is:
A double eagle is exceedingly rare. In fact, it is more elusive than a hole-in-one. Since every hole except par-3s can be played as a par-5 with two strokes added to the scorecard, the double eagle can be scored on any hole. Making a double eagle involves a combination of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck. While hitting a perfect shot is necessary, it is not always sufficient to achieve a double eagle.
Achieving a double eagle requires extreme precision
The reason double eagles are so rare is that they require a player to hit an eagle putt from the fairway. The feat is so rare that it has only been achieved 32 times in the major championships. To achieve an albatross, a player must hit an exceptional shot from at least 200 yards out, with pin-perfect precision, and hope that the ball rolls into the hole in less than three strokes. This level of precision can only be achieved by some of the world’s best golfers, and it is often regarded as the highest form of achievement in the game.
However, it is worth noting that a double eagle isn’t always necessary to win a golf tournament. While the achievement is impressive, it often occurs in situations where the score differential is already overwhelming. A double eagle can thus be a measure of the player’s skill, but it’s not necessarily a measure of their performance in the tournament as a whole.
The chances of achieving a double eagle
The odds of making a double eagle vary depending on the golfer’s skill level and the course’s difficulty. The most recent estimates suggest that the odds of an average golfer making a double eagle are around 1 in 6 million. However, for the most skilled golfers, the odds can be as low as 1 in 1 million. Additionally, the odds of a double eagle decrease as a player’s handicap increases. On average, a PGA tour player makes a double eagle once every 3 years, which gives some idea of just how rare it is to achieve this feat.
| Player | Number of Double Eagles |
|---|---|
| Phil Mickelson | 4 |
| Tiger Woods | 3 |
| Ernie Els | 1 |
| Jordan Spieth | 1 |
The bottom line is that a double eagle is a rare and spectacular achievement that requires exceptional skill and a bit of luck. Whether you are an amateur or a professional golfer, it’s worth trying for this elusive feat to test your skills and push your limits. Just remember, it’s not all about the scorecard, and making par or birdie on every hole is just as impressive.
Tips for increasing your chances of making a double eagle in golf
Scoring a double eagle, also known as an albatross, in golf is one of the rarest and most remarkable achievements in the sport. This impressive feat requires an exceptional combination of skill, accuracy, and luck. In fact, only a handful of golfers have ever made a double eagle in a professional tournament. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to increase your chances of making this rare shot. Here are some tips to help you get closer to accomplishing this elusive goal:
- Know the distance: To make a double eagle, you need to hit a shot that travels an extraordinary distance. Therefore, it’s critical to know the exact yardage to your target so that you can calculate the required power and trajectory for your shot accurately. Utilize your range finder to gather essential yardage information.
- Consider the wind: Wind is a factor that can influence your shot’s distance, direction, and trajectory. Make sure to assess the wind conditions before taking your shot and adjust your trajectory to compensate to ensure you have more precise control on your shot.
- Use the right club: Choosing the correct club is crucial for any golf shot. However, in the case of attempting a double eagle, it’s vital to use the right club with confidence. Select the club that allows you to generate maximum power while maintaining high accuracy.
Along with these fundamental tips, there are some other strategies that you can use to improve your chances of making a double eagle. These include:
- Master your swing: The better your swing, the higher the chances of making the best shot. Work on your swinging technique regularly, both in training and on the course.
- Visualize: Before striking your shot, take a moment to visualize the ball’s trajectory and path. This visualization helps you feel confident and relaxed throughout the shot.
- Be patient: Scoring a double eagle is rare and can take multiple attempts. Stay patient, and don’t get frustrated with yourself if you do not succeed the first time around. Practice builds confidence, and with enough practice, you can increase your chances of making the shot.
Lastly, it is worth noting that double eagles are exceptionally rare. There have only been 28 double eagles made in the history of the Masters tournament. So, while these tips can help you increase your chances of hitting one, it is the joy of trying that makes golf so enjoyable.
Conclusion
Knowing the essentials and improving your ability to make long shots are the keys to increasing your chances of making a double eagle in golf. Keep these tips in mind, work hard, practice regularly, and remember that at the end of the day, it’s not just about setting records, but also enjoying golf.
FAQs: How Many Golfers Have Made a Double Eagle?
Q: What is a double eagle in golf?
A: A double eagle, also known as an albatross, is a rare score in golf where a player completes a hole with two strokes less than par.
Q: How many golfers have ever made a double eagle?
A: As of 2021, there have been only 29 recorded double eagles in PGA Tour history.
Q: Who was the first golfer to make a double eagle in a major championship?
A: Gene Sarazen was the first golfer to achieve a double eagle in a major championship, at the 1935 Masters Tournament.
Q: Which hole is the most common for a double eagle?
A: The 2nd hole is the most common hole to make a double eagle, accounting for seven of the 29 total recorded double eagles.
Q: How rare is it to make a double eagle?
A: Making a double eagle is incredibly rare. It is estimated that a professional golfer has a 1 in 6,000 chance of achieving it during a round.
Q: What is the highest number of double eagles made by a single golfer?
A: Four golfers have made two double eagles in their PGA Tour careers. They are Jeff Maggert, Shaun Micheel, Joey Sindelar, and Bruce Zabriski.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!
Well, there you have it – the facts and figures surrounding the elusive double eagle in golf. With only 29 recorded in PGA Tour history, it’s safe to say that this is one of the rarest achievements in the sport. Gene Sarazen may have paved the way in 1935, but even now, fewer golfers can say that they’ve made a double eagle than a hole-in-one. We hope you enjoyed learning more about this incredible feat, and we look forward to seeing you again soon. Thank you for reading!