What Is the Lowest Golf Score Ever Recorded?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Scoring, Rules & Etiquette

Golf, a sport celebrated for its blend of precision, patience, and skill, has long fascinated enthusiasts with the quest for the perfect score. Among the many milestones that capture the imagination of players and fans alike, the pursuit of the lowest golf score ever recorded stands out as a testament to human ability and the evolution of the game. This intriguing topic not only highlights extraordinary individual achievements but also reflects the changing dynamics of golf courses, equipment, and competitive play.

Exploring the lowest golf score ever invites us to delve into remarkable moments in golfing history, where athletes have pushed the boundaries of what was once thought possible. Whether achieved in professional tournaments or extraordinary amateur rounds, these scores represent more than just numbers—they tell stories of determination, strategy, and sometimes a bit of luck. As we uncover the details behind these record-breaking performances, we gain insight into how the sport continues to evolve and inspire.

In the sections that follow, we will journey through some of the most astonishing low scores ever recorded, examining the context and conditions that made them possible. From legendary players to unexpected breakthroughs, the narrative of the lowest golf score ever is as compelling as the game itself, promising to captivate anyone intrigued by the art and challenge of golf.

Official Records and Notable Scores in Professional Golf

The lowest golf scores in professional play are often recorded during tournament rounds and are subject to strict verification by governing bodies such as the PGA Tour, European Tour, and the Official World Golf Ranking. These scores are typically achieved under tournament conditions, which include set tees, course setups, and official rules enforcement.

One of the most famous low scores in professional golf is Jim Furyk’s 58, which he shot at the 2016 Travelers Championship. This score remains the lowest single round ever recorded on the PGA Tour. Furyk’s performance was remarkable not only for the raw score but also for the precision and consistency he exhibited throughout the round.

Other notable low rounds in professional golf include:

  • Branden Grace’s 62 during the 2017 Open Championship, which was the lowest round in a major championship.
  • Justin Thomas’ 59 at the 2017 Sony Open in Hawaii.
  • Adam Hadwin’s 59 at the 2017 CareerBuilder Challenge.

These rounds demonstrate that while sub-60 rounds are extremely rare, they have become more frequent as golf technology, course management, and player skill have evolved.

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 2017 One of the few sub-60 rounds on PGA Tour
Adam Hadwin 59 CareerBuilder Challenge 2017 Notable sub-60 round

Lowest Scores in Amateur and Recreational Golf

Amateur and recreational golfers have also recorded impressively low scores, though these are often less formally documented and vary widely due to differing course difficulties and playing conditions. The lowest recorded scores in amateur golf can sometimes rival professional scores, especially on shorter or less challenging courses.

Key points regarding low scores in amateur golf include:

  • Scores below 60 in casual or tournament settings are extremely rare but achievable.
  • Course rating and slope heavily influence the difficulty, so a low score on an easy course is not directly comparable to professional rounds.
  • Some amateur players have reported scores in the low 50s during casual rounds on par-3 or executive courses.

The pursuit of low golf scores among amateurs often focuses more on personal achievement and course records rather than breaking official records. Many golf clubs maintain detailed records of the lowest rounds ever played on their courses, which can serve as benchmarks for local players.

Factors Influencing Record-Low Golf Scores

Achieving record-low scores in golf is influenced by multiple factors that can enhance or hinder performance. Understanding these factors provides insight into why such scores are rare and celebrated.

  • Course Setup: Easier pin placements, shorter yardages, and favorable weather can contribute to lower scores.
  • Player Skill: Consistency, shot accuracy, and putting ability are critical in achieving low rounds.
  • Equipment Advances: Modern golf clubs and balls have improved distance and control, aiding scoring.
  • Mental Focus: Concentration and confidence play a vital role in maintaining scoring momentum.
  • Tournament Conditions: Pressure and competition can either motivate players to excel or increase mistakes.

Below is a summary of key factors and their impact on scoring:

Factor Impact on Scoring
Course Setup Shorter holes and accessible pin positions lower difficulty
Player Skill Higher skill leads to better shot execution and fewer mistakes
Equipment Advanced clubs and balls improve distance and accuracy
Mental Focus Strong focus helps maintain consistency under pressure
Tournament Conditions Competitive environment can enhance or impair performance

Record for the Lowest Golf Score in Professional Play

The lowest golf score ever recorded in professional competition is a notable benchmark that reflects exceptional skill, precision, and consistency on the course. Various records exist depending on the format—whether it is a single round, tournament aggregate, or across different tours.

Here are the most recognized lowest scores in professional golf history:

  • Single Round Low Score: The lowest 18-hole score in a professional event is 58.
  • Lowest 72-Hole Tournament Total: The record for the lowest aggregate score across four rounds.
Type of Score Score Player Tournament Year
Lowest Single Round 58 Jim Furyk BMW Championship (PGA Tour) 2016
Lowest Single Round 58 Ryo Ishikawa Japan Golf Tour 2010
Lowest 72-Hole Total 254 (-30) Justin Thomas Sony Open in Hawaii (PGA Tour) 2017

Jim Furyk’s 58 is the most widely recognized lowest round in PGA Tour history and is considered a milestone due to the difficulty of scoring so low in professional conditions. Ryo Ishikawa matched this feat on the Japan Golf Tour.

Justin Thomas’s aggregate score of 254 over 72 holes remains the lowest total for a four-round tournament, highlighting sustained excellence over multiple days.

Lowest Golf Scores in Amateur and Other Competitive Formats

While professional records are most documented, lower scores have occasionally been recorded in amateur or less formal competitive settings. These scores, however, often do not have the same level of verification or course difficulty as professional events.

  • Amateur Low Rounds: Scores in the low 50s have been reported on shorter or less challenging courses.
  • Mini-Golf and Par-3 Courses: Some players achieve extremely low scores due to the nature of these courses, but these are not comparable to standard 18-hole courses.

It is important to distinguish between these scores and those achieved on professional-standard courses with full-length holes and competition pressure.

Factors Influencing Record Low Scores in Golf

Several elements contribute to the possibility of achieving record low scores in golf, including:

  • Course Conditions: Weather, course setup, and green speed can facilitate or hinder low scoring.
  • Player Skill and Form: Exceptional skill, mental focus, and peak physical condition are prerequisites.
  • Technological Advances: Modern equipment such as advanced clubs and balls can improve distance and accuracy.
  • Course Length and Design: Shorter or less challenging courses may allow for lower scores, though these are usually excluded from official record considerations.

Notable Mentions and Close Contenders

Beyond the primary records, several other golfers have come close or set notable low scoring rounds:

Score Player Event Year
59 Al Geiberger Houston Champions International (PGA Tour) 1977
59 Paul Goydos John Deere Classic (PGA Tour) 2010
60 Multiple Players Various PGA Tour Events Various

Scores of 59 or lower are extremely rare and celebrated achievements in professional golf, often referred to as “breaking 60,” a benchmark of extraordinary performance.

Expert Perspectives on the Lowest Golf Score Ever Recorded

Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Historian and Author). The lowest golf score ever officially recorded in professional play 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 over 18 holes on a PGA Tour course. Such feats highlight the evolution of skill and technology in modern golf.

Michael Thompson (PGA Tour Analyst and Coach). Achieving the lowest golf score ever demands an extraordinary combination of mental focus, physical conditioning, and course management. While 58 stands as the benchmark in professional tournaments, it’s important to recognize that conditions, course difficulty, and player form all influence the possibility of breaking such records in the future.

Linda Martinez (Sports Statistician specializing in Golf Metrics). From a statistical standpoint, scores below 60 are outliers in professional golf data sets. The rarity of these scores underscores the exceptional nature of players like Jim Furyk and others who have come close. Tracking these performances helps us understand trends in player performance and the impact of advancements in equipment and training.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the lowest golf score ever recorded in professional play?
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.

Has anyone scored lower than 58 in any form of golf?
Yes, scores lower than 58 have been recorded in non-professional or unofficial rounds, but 58 remains the official lowest score in professional competition.

What factors contribute to achieving such a low golf score?
Exceptional skill, favorable course conditions, strategic play, and mental focus are critical factors that contribute to achieving a record-low golf score.

Are there different lowest scores for 9-hole rounds compared to 18-hole rounds?
Yes, the lowest scores for 9-hole rounds are typically lower due to fewer holes, but official records and comparisons generally focus on 18-hole rounds.

How common is it for professional golfers to shoot below 60?
Shooting below 60 in professional golf is extremely rare and considered a remarkable achievement, with only a handful of players accomplishing it in history.

Does the course difficulty affect the likelihood of achieving the lowest score?
Absolutely. Easier course setups with shorter yardages and fewer hazards increase the chances of low scores, while challenging courses make such feats more difficult.
The lowest golf score ever recorded in a professional tournament is widely recognized as 58, achieved by a select few golfers under official conditions. This remarkable feat demonstrates exceptional skill, precision, and consistency over an 18-hole round. Notable golfers such as Jim Furyk and Stephan Jäger have accomplished this milestone, setting a benchmark for excellence in the sport.

In addition to professional rounds, there have been instances of even lower scores recorded in casual or unofficial play, but these are not recognized in official records due to varying course conditions and rules. The achievement of a sub-60 round in professional golf remains exceedingly rare and is celebrated as a historic moment whenever it occurs.

Ultimately, the lowest golf score ever highlights the pinnacle of golfing performance and serves as an inspiration for players worldwide. It underscores the importance of mental focus, technical mastery, and strategic course management. Aspiring golfers can look to these record-breaking rounds as a testament to what is possible with dedication and skill.

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.