Hole 18 at TPC at Deere Run
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 463 yds
- Stroke index
- 4
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 39 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 4 · 463 yards
The plan for No. 18
The finishing hole at TPC at Deere Run delivers a classic championship test that has challenged PGA Tour professionals for over two decades. This signature par 4 stretches 463 yards through a straightforward layout that demands both power and precision from the championship tees. The tee shot requires careful placement down a generous fairway, setting up a crucial approach shot to a compact green complex that rewards accuracy over aggression. As one of the course's signature holes alongside the famous 16th "Mother Earth," the 18th embodies the strategic design principles that make TPC at Deere Run a worthy John Deere Classic venue. With its demanding approach shot and unforgiving green, this closing hole has witnessed countless dramatic finishes, making it a memorable conclusion to one of the Midwest's premier golf experiences.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should prioritize finding the optimal position for your approach rather than maximum distance. The fairway offers a generous landing zone, but positioning is critical for the best angle into the small green. Most players will benefit from a controlled driver or strong 3-wood, aiming for the center-left portion of the fairway. This target line provides the ideal approach angle while avoiding any potential trouble areas. For longer hitters, consider throttling back slightly to ensure you stay in the prime landing zone. The key is leaving yourself with a comfortable mid-iron approach shot rather than forcing a difficult short iron from an awkward position.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole reveals its true challenge. The small green demands precision, making club selection and target selection crucial. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the compact putting surface leaves little margin for error. A mid-iron to long-iron approach (depending on conditions and your tee shot position) should be played with a smooth, controlled swing. Pay careful attention to wind conditions, as they can significantly affect club selection on this exposed finishing hole. When in doubt, take one more club and swing easy rather than forcing a shot. The green's small size means that even a well-struck shot can run into trouble if you're between clubs.
On the green
The small green creates interesting putting challenges with subtle breaks that can be deceiving. Focus on lag putting to the correct tier or section of the green, as three-putts can easily ruin a good score here. Read putts carefully from multiple angles, as the green's compact nature can create optical illusions. Pin positions in the corners or edges of the green should be treated with extreme caution. Aim for the fat part of the green and accept a longer putt rather than risk missing the green entirely with an aggressive approach. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a classic risk/reward scenario where aggressive play can yield rewards but conservative strategy often produces better results. The primary risk comes from being too aggressive with approach shots to challenging pin positions. The reward for precise execution is a legitimate birdie opportunity, but the penalty for missing your targets can be severe. Consider the situation in your round when deciding how aggressive to play. If you need a birdie, the hole offers that opportunity, but if you're protecting a good score, conservative play toward the center of the green is the wise choice. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Focus on two solid shots to reach the green in regulation. Use a fairway wood or hybrid off the tee if driver accuracy is inconsistent. On the approach, always aim for the center of the green and take enough club to clear any front-edge trouble. Accept bogey as a reasonable score and avoid the big numbers that can ruin your round. **Low-Handicap Players:** You can be more aggressive with driver off the tee to set up a shorter approach shot. However, respect the small green with your approach shot selection. Consider pin position and wind conditions carefully, but don't be afraid to attack when you have a good angle and comfortable yardage. This hole rewards precision over power, so prioritize accuracy in both your tee shot target line and approach shot execution. The 18th at TPC Deere Run exemplifies championship golf course design, where strategic thinking and precise execution are rewarded while careless play is punished. Treat it with the respect it deserves, and you'll have a great chance to finish your round on a positive note.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 18 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,612 sq ft
How did Hole 18 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 463 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 463-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 18?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 4, water in play.
How big is the green on hole 18?
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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.
What's a good score on hole 18?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes where par feels like birdie. A challenging par 4. Accept that bogey happens and avoid big numbers.