Hole 16 at TPC Southwind
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 530 yds
- Stroke index
- 10
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 32 yds deep × 29 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 · 530 yards
The plan for No. 16
TPC Southwind hole 16 presents a compelling 530-yard par 5 that demands both power and precision in the heart of Memphis. This straight-away challenge features a generous fairway off the tee, but the real drama unfolds on the approach to a small, elevated green complex. The hole's defining characteristic is its island green finale, reminiscent of TPC Sawgrass's famous 17th but with its own unique personality. Water surrounds the putting surface, while a small pot bunker guards the front edge, creating an intimidating target for those attempting to reach in two. The green's compact size rewards accurate iron play, making club selection and wind reading crucial for success on this memorable finishing stretch.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should focus on maximum distance while staying in the fairway center. Driver is the optimal club choice for most players, as the straight layout and lack of fairway hazards allow for aggressive play. Target the center of the fairway to provide the best angle for your second shot. The ideal drive should carry past any large trees in the landing zone to open up the green for your approach. Longer hitters may consider the risk/reward of trying to get close enough for a short iron into the green.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole's true character emerges. Based on your tee shot distance, you'll likely face a short iron over water to the island green. The small pot bunker guarding the front edge of the green adds an extra layer of difficulty. Club selection is critical - take enough club to ensure you clear the water and front bunker, even if it means going to the back of the green. Aim for the center or left side of the green, as this provides the safest landing area away from trouble.
On the green
The small green size means precision is paramount in your putting strategy. With limited real estate, most putts will be relatively short, but the green's contours can create challenging reads. Focus on speed control, as the island setting can make distance judgment tricky. When pin positions are tucked behind the front bunker, be especially cautious with your approach to avoid short-siding yourself. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a clear risk/reward scenario. Aggressive players who can reach the green in two shots have excellent eagle opportunities, but the water hazard severely punishes mis-hits. The conservative play is to lay up to your favorite wedge distance, ensuring a comfortable approach over the water. The reward for going for the green in two is significant, but the penalty for failure is equally severe. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low-handicap players** should consider going for the green in two if they have a short iron or wedge for their second shot. Their superior ball-striking ability makes the risk worthwhile. **High-handicap players** should almost always lay up to ensure they have a comfortable approach shot. The key is avoiding big numbers - a strategic layup followed by a well-executed wedge shot can still yield birdie opportunities while minimizing the risk of double bogey or worse. Regardless of skill level, when in doubt, favor the center of the green over chasing tucked pins near the water's edge.
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 3,395 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about TPC Southwind — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Tournament coverage
FedEx St. Jude Championship highlights
FedEx St. Jude Championship | Final Round Highlights
2025
How did Hole 16 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 530 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 530 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How big is the green on hole 16?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 16?
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This hole is a solid birdie opportunity with smart layup strategy. Most golfers can reach in three. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge.