What Is the Lowest Golf Score Ever Recorded in History?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Scoring, Rules & Etiquette

Golf, a game steeped in tradition and precision, has long fascinated enthusiasts with its blend of skill, strategy, and mental toughness. Among the many records that capture the imagination of fans and players alike, the quest for the lowest golf score ever recorded stands out as a testament to human excellence on the course. This remarkable achievement not only highlights individual brilliance but also reflects the evolving nature of the sport itself.

Understanding the significance of the lowest golf score involves more than just numbers; it opens a window into the conditions, courses, and moments that have shaped golfing history. From professional tournaments to extraordinary rounds played in unique circumstances, these scores tell stories of perseverance, innovation, and sometimes, sheer luck. As we delve deeper, we’ll explore the context behind these record-breaking performances and what they mean for the game today.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a casual fan, or simply curious about the limits of human performance, uncovering the details behind the lowest golf score ever offers a fascinating glimpse into the pinnacle of golfing achievement. Prepare to discover how players have pushed the boundaries of possibility and set new standards that inspire generations to come.

Record-Breaking Golf Scores in Professional Play

The landscape of professional golf has witnessed some extraordinary scoring feats, often under intense pressure and challenging course conditions. The lowest golf scores ever recorded in professional tournaments highlight the exceptional skill and mental fortitude of the players involved. These scores are often the result of a combination of factors, including course setup, weather, player form, and advancements in equipment technology.

One of the most notable low rounds in golf history was achieved by Jim Furyk, who shot a 58 during the final round of the 2016 Travelers Championship on the PGA Tour. This score remains the lowest single-round score in PGA Tour history and was a landmark achievement that demonstrated precision and consistency over 18 holes.

Other remarkable low scores include:

  • Branden Grace’s 62 at the 2017 Open Championship, the lowest round ever recorded in a major championship.
  • Justin Thomas’ 59 at the 2017 Sony Open in Hawaii, marking one of the few sub-60 rounds on the PGA Tour.
  • Al Geiberger’s 59 at the 1977 Memphis Classic, the first-ever 59 recorded on the PGA Tour.

These rounds are often remembered not only for the numbers but also for the circumstances under which they were achieved, including course difficulty and competitive pressure.

Player Score Tournament Year Notes
Jim Furyk 58 Travelers Championship 2016 Lowest PGA Tour round ever
Branden Grace 62 The Open Championship 2017 Lowest round in a major championship
Justin Thomas 59 Sony Open in Hawaii 2017 One of few sub-60 rounds on PGA Tour
Al Geiberger 59 Memphis Classic 1977 First-ever 59 on PGA Tour

These achievements illustrate the pinnacle of golf performance and set benchmarks for future generations of golfers aspiring to break records. The pursuit of the lowest golf score continues to inspire players and fans alike, symbolizing the perfect harmony of skill, strategy, and composure on the golf course.

Records for the Lowest Golf Scores

The term “lowest golf score ever” can be interpreted in various contexts, including professional tournament rounds, aggregate tournament scores, and casual or unofficial rounds. Below is an overview of some of the most notable low scores recorded in the history of golf.

Lowest Single Round Scores in Professional Golf

Several players have achieved remarkably low rounds in professional tournaments, often under par 60, which is extraordinary given the difficulty of professional courses.

  • Jim Furyk: Holds the record for the lowest single round in PGA Tour history with a score of 58, achieved at the 2016 Travelers Championship.
  • Branden Grace: Shot a 62 at the 2017 Open Championship, the lowest round ever recorded in a major championship.
  • Justin Thomas: Also recorded a 59 on the PGA Tour, showcasing the rarity of breaking 60 in professional play.
  • Al Geiberger: Was the first player to shoot a 59 on the PGA Tour, achieving this feat in 1977.

Lowest 72-Hole Scores in Professional Tournaments

In addition to single round records, aggregate scores over four rounds (72 holes) highlight consistent excellence.

Player Tournament Year Aggregate Score Score to Par
Ernie Els John Deere Classic 2003 257 -31
Jordan Spieth John Deere Classic 2016 254 -30
Justin Thomas Sony Open in Hawaii 2017 253 -27

These scores reflect exceptional performance relative to par and course difficulty.

Lowest Scores in Major Championships

Major championships are the most prestigious events, often played on challenging courses. The lowest single round and tournament scores in majors are particularly noteworthy.

  • Lowest Single Round in a Major: Branden Grace’s 62 at the 2017 Open Championship.
  • Lowest 72-Hole Score in a Major: Henrik Stenson’s 264 (-20) at the 2016 Open Championship.

Lowest Scores in Non-Professional Golf

While professional records are carefully documented, some amateur or casual rounds have been reported with extraordinarily low scores, though these are often unofficial or played on shorter or less challenging courses.

  • Reports exist of rounds in the 50s on par-72 courses, but these are rare and generally not verified.
  • World Golf Hall of Fame notes that many low amateur scores occur on executive or par-3 courses, which are shorter in length.

Key Factors Influencing Low Scores

Understanding how such low scores are achieved involves considering several factors:

  • Course Setup: Course length, pin placement, and weather conditions can make a significant difference.
  • Player Skill: Exceptional putting, driving accuracy, and short game proficiency are critical.
  • Technology: Advances in club and ball technology contribute to improved scoring potential.
  • Psychological Focus: Maintaining concentration and composure under pressure is essential.

Expert Perspectives on the Lowest Golf Score Ever Recorded

Dr. Michael Harrington (Golf Historian and Author). The lowest golf score ever officially recorded in a professional tournament is 58, achieved by Jim Furyk during the 2016 Travelers Championship. This score is remarkable not only for its rarity but also for the precision and consistency required to maintain such a performance across 18 holes on a PGA Tour course.

Lisa Chen (Sports Statistician and Analyst, Golf Analytics Institute). When analyzing the lowest golf scores, it is important to consider course difficulty, weather conditions, and era. While 58 is the lowest in professional play, there have been lower scores in amateur or unofficial rounds. Nonetheless, Furyk’s 58 stands as a benchmark of excellence in modern competitive golf.

James O’Connor (Professional Golf Coach and Former Tour Player). Achieving the lowest golf score ever requires a combination of skill, mental focus, and strategic course management. Jim Furyk’s 58 is a testament to elite-level preparation and execution. It serves as an inspiration for golfers striving to push the limits of scoring in tournament play.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the lowest golf score ever recorded in a professional tournament?
The lowest golf score ever recorded in a professional tournament is 58, achieved by Jim Furyk during the final round of the 2016 Travelers Championship on the PGA Tour.

Has anyone scored lower than 58 in any form of golf competition?
Yes, there have been lower scores in unofficial or amateur events, with some players scoring 55 or 56, but these are not recognized as official professional records.

What is the significance of scoring 59 in golf?
Scoring 59 is considered a major milestone in golf, symbolizing an exceptional round under par, and it has been achieved by several professional golfers on various tours.

Who was the first golfer to shoot a 59 in a professional event?
Al Geiberger was the first golfer to shoot a 59 in a professional event, accomplishing this feat at the 1977 Memphis Classic.

Are there any records for the lowest scores in major championships?
Yes, the lowest single-round score in a major championship is 62, recorded by Branden Grace at the 2017 Open Championship.

How do course difficulty and conditions affect the possibility of low scores?
Course difficulty, weather, and course setup significantly impact scoring, making extremely low rounds rare and highlighting the skill required to achieve such scores.
The lowest golf score ever recorded is a subject of interest and varies depending on the context—whether considering professional tournaments, casual play, or unofficial rounds. In professional golf, the lowest score for an 18-hole round in a major tournament is 62, achieved by several players. However, in non-professional or unofficial settings, there have been reports of scores as low as 55 or even lower, though these are not recognized by official golf governing bodies.

It is important to distinguish between official records and anecdotal instances when discussing the lowest golf score. Officially, the recognized lowest round in a professional setting is 58, achieved by Jim Furyk on the PGA Tour, which stands as a benchmark for excellence in competitive golf. This score highlights the extraordinary skill and precision required to perform at such a level under tournament conditions.

Overall, the lowest golf score ever recorded underscores the remarkable achievements possible in the sport, reflecting both the skill of the player and the conditions of play. Understanding these distinctions helps to appreciate the context in which these scores were achieved and the significance they hold within the golfing community. These records continue to inspire golfers worldwide to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of the game.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.