Fun Facts about THE PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass

THE PLAYERS Championship at TPC Sawgrass is more than just a golf tournament; it's a spectacle steeped in unique history and quirky facts. Here's a dive into some of the most intriguing tidbits:

Land of a Dollar:

• Perhaps one of the most famous facts is that the 415 acres that TPC Sawgrass sits on were purchased for a mere $1 in 1978 by then-PGA TOUR Commissioner Deane Beaman. This seemingly worthless swamp land became the home of one of golf's most iconic courses.

Goat Groundskeepers:

• Before the meticulously manicured greens, the land was a wild expanse. To tame it, course designer Pete Dye employed an unconventional grounds crew: goats. These four-legged workers cleared roughly 80% of the underbrush. However, they also had a tendency to cause some trouble, including invading the club house.

The 17th Hole's Watery Grave:

• The iconic island green of the 17th hole is a magnet for golf balls. It's estimated that a staggering number of balls find their way into the surrounding water each year. This hole, originally conceived with input from Pete Dye's wife Alice, provides some of the most dramatic moments in golf.
• It is said that over 100,000 balls a year find the water at the 17th hole.

Stadium Golf's Birthplace:

• TPC Sawgrass is considered the birthplace of "stadium golf." The course was designed with spectators in mind, featuring mounds and viewing areas that provide excellent sightlines, allowing fans to feel immersed in the action.

A History of Movement:

• Before settling at TPC Sawgrass, THE PLAYERS Championship had a nomadic existence, being played at Atlanta Country Club, Colonial Country Club, and Inverrary Country Club.

Overall Purse:

• The overall purse for the 2025 tournament is $25 million, which includes $4.5 million that will go to the winner.
• Compare that to the overall purse of $250,000 for the inaugural Players Championship in 1974 where Jack Nicklaus was the winner, earning a $50,000 payout.

The "Fifth Major":

• While not officially a major championship, THE PLAYERS Championship is often referred to as the "fifth major" due to its prestigious field, high purse, and challenging course. 

These fun facts highlight the unique character of THE PLAYERS Championship and TPC Sawgrass, making it a truly special event in the world of golf.