Hole 17 at TPC Southwind
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 490 yds
- Stroke index
- 2
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 35 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 4 · 490 yards
The plan for No. 17
TPC Southwind hole 17 stands as one of the most demanding par 4 tests on the Memphis layout, stretching 490 yards with the second-lowest handicap rating on the course. This straight, no-nonsense hole requires precision from tee to green, with its deceptively challenging character revealed through length and strategic complexity rather than dramatic hazards. The tee shot demands accuracy to find the optimal position for the lengthy approach shot that follows. With a small green as the target, the approach becomes the critical scoring opportunity, requiring precise distance control and trajectory. As one of TPC Southwind's signature challenges, this hole exemplifies the course's reputation for testing every aspect of a golfer's game, demanding both power and finesse to secure par on this formidable closer.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should focus on maximizing distance while maintaining control. Driver is the recommended club for most golfers, as you'll need every yard you can get to set up a manageable approach to the small green. Aim for the center of the fairway to give yourself the best angle and lie for your approach shot. The straight layout allows for an aggressive target line down the middle, but don't let the lack of obvious hazards fool you - accuracy is still paramount as any wayward tee shot will leave you with a difficult recovery.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole truly shows its teeth. With the green described as small, precision becomes more important than power. Depending on your tee shot, you'll likely face a mid to long iron approach. Focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking pins, as the small target leaves little margin for error. Club selection should err on the side of taking enough club, as being short of a small green often results in a difficult up-and-down opportunity.
On the green
The small green size means putting strategy revolves around getting your first putt close to the hole. Without specific break information, focus on reading the green carefully and making a smooth, confident stroke. Lag putting becomes crucial here - three-putting on a small green after navigating the challenge of reaching it in regulation would be particularly costly. Pay attention to grain direction and any subtle slopes that could affect ball roll. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes with tee shot aggression. While driver gives you the best chance at a shorter approach, it also increases the risk of finding trouble. The reward of a shorter iron into the small green is significant, making the aggressive play worthwhile for most golfers. Conservative players might consider 3-wood off the tee for improved accuracy, but this makes the approach shot considerably more challenging. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicap Players:** Should play aggressively with driver, aiming to get as close to the green as possible for the best approach angle. Focus on precise iron play into the small green, and don't be afraid to attack pins when the conditions are right. **High Handicap Players:** Consider 3-wood or hybrid off the tee for improved accuracy, accepting that the approach will be longer. Focus on hitting the center of the green with your approach shot, taking the safe play rather than attacking difficult pin positions. Make par your target score and avoid the temptation to force birdies on this challenging hole. The key to success on TPC Southwind's 17th is patience and precision. This hole rewards good course management and punishes overly aggressive play, making it a true test of both skill and strategy.
Hole 17 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,581 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 17 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 490 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 490-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 17?
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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, heavily bunkered.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?
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Key hazards include: 6 greenside bunkers; water at 359.6 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 17?
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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 17?
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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.