Hole 9 at Hazeltine National Golf Club
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 432 yds
- Stroke index
- 0
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 37 yds deep × 25 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 · 432 yards
The plan for No. 9
Hazeltine's signature 9th hole stands as one of golf's most iconic finishing holes, featuring the legendary Payne Stewart Bridge and creating constant tension with water hazards that threaten from tee to green. This downhill par-4 has witnessed countless dramatic moments in major championships, where champions have hoisted trophies surrounded by thousands of spectators.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy revolves around positioning yourself for the best approach angle while avoiding the fairway bunkers and water hazard. Target the left-center of the fairway to give yourself maximum margin for error away from the lake. A well-positioned drive should carry the fairway bunkers but stay left of the trouble, typically requiring a controlled swing rather than maximum distance. The slight downhill slope will add roll, so club selection should account for extra carry and run-out.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole reveals its true difficulty. The green complex slopes dramatically from back right to front left, with a narrow opening in the front left section. When the pin is positioned on the right side of the green, the water comes directly into play, demanding precision and nerve. Focus on the center-left portion of the green for safer approaches, accepting a longer putt rather than flirting with disaster. Club selection should favor taking enough club to reach the back portion of the green, as short approaches can find the three greenside bunkers.
On the green
The green's back-right to front-left slope creates challenging putting scenarios, especially with pins cut on the right edge. Putts from above the hole can be lightning fast, while uphill putts require firm strikes. The narrow front opening means approach shots must be precise when attacking front pin positions. Read putts carefully, as the slope can cause significant break, particularly on longer putts across the green's width.
Watch for
- Water along the hole
- Fairway bunker crossing the landing zone
- Greenside bunker (greenside)
Hole 9 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,794 sq ft
How did Hole 9 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 432 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 432-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 9?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play, heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 9?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 9?
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This hole is a demanding hole where bogey is not unusual. This longer par 4 will test most golfers. Focus on position over distance.