Hole 16 at TPC Sawgrass (Dye Valley)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 552 yds
- Stroke index
- 1
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 42 yds deep × 23 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 552 yards
The plan for No. 16
The 552-yard 16th hole at TPC at Sawgrass presents an unusual challenge as golf's longest par 3, demanding both power and precision from the championship tees. This marathon one-shotter stretches across the Stadium Course's signature landscape, requiring golfers to commit fully to their longest iron or hybrid while maintaining pinpoint accuracy to find the small target green. The hole's straight layout offers no hiding places, making club selection and wind assessment critical factors in conquering this beast. As the number one handicap hole, the 16th separates contenders from pretenders, often serving as a pivotal moment where tournaments are won or lost during THE PLAYERS Championship.
Off the tee
Club selection is absolutely critical - take one extra club and swing smoothly rather than forcing a shorter iron. The prevailing wind typically comes from the southeast, but conditions can vary dramatically throughout the day. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the margin for error is minimal. Commit fully to your club choice and target - indecision leads to poor swings and watery graves.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, the tee shot IS the approach. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing with good balance. The green slopes from back to front, so shots landing pin-high or slightly long are preferable to coming up short. Pay careful attention to the wind - what looks calm from the tee can be swirling around the green due to the water and surrounding trees.
On the green
The putting surface features subtle breaks toward the water, particularly on the sides. Lag putting is essential - three-putting is far better than hitting an aggressive putt off the green. Pin positions on the narrow sections require extra caution, as recovery shots from the water are impossible. The green typically runs true but can be lightning-fast during tournament conditions. ## RISK VS REWARD There are no risk/reward options here - it's all risk. The only reward is making par or better, while the penalty for missing is severe. Some players attempt to use the wind to shape shots, but the safer strategy is playing straight at the target with proper club selection. Aggressive pin-hunting is rarely worth the risk unless you're chasing a specific score. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should always aim for the center of the green, take an extra club, and focus on making solid contact. Don't let the intimidation factor affect your pre-shot routine. Consider the drop zone as a viable option if conditions are particularly challenging. **Low-handicap players** can be more aggressive with pin positions, but should still respect the hole's demands. Use course management skills to read wind conditions carefully and adjust for different pin positions. Even tour professionals play conservatively here - there's no shame in aiming for the fat part of the green. The 16th hole at TPC Sawgrass rewards patience, precision, and mental toughness while severely punishing overconfidence and poor execution. Embrace the challenge, trust your yardage, and commit to your shot - this legendary hole will test everything you've learned about golf strategy and course management.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,572 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about TPC Sawgrass (Dye Valley) — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Tournament coverage
The Players Championship highlights
THE PLAYERS Championship | Final Round Highlights
2025
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured TPC Sawgrass (Dye Valley). · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 6d ago
Can We Make Major Cut @ TPC Sawgrass? (Players Edition)
Charlie Woods Mic'd Up 9-Hole Practice Round at TPC Sawgrass
Grant Horvat Vs Garrett Clark @ TPC Sawgrass
The Major Cut @ TPC Sawgrass (Players Edition)
All Pro Tournament @ TPC Sawgrass
The Bob Does Sports Major At TPC Sawgrass
How did Hole 16 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 552 yards.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 16?
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Key hazards include: water at 428.6 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 16?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.