A True Golfer’s Sanctuary
Introduction
Nestled in Hobe Sound, Florida, Medalist Golf Club is a revered haven for the world’s greatest golfers. This ultra-exclusive, championship-caliber golf club is known for its challenging design, pristine course conditions, and deep connection with golf legends. Co-founded by Greg Norman and designed in collaboration with Pete Dye, Medalist has evolved into one of the most sought-after courses for PGA Tour professionals and elite amateurs alike.
General Information
- Full Name: Medalist Golf Club
- Location: Hobe Sound, Florida, USA
- Year Established: 1995
- Course Designers: Greg Norman & Pete Dye
- Course Type: Championship-style with links elements
- Par & Yardage: Par 72, stretching over 7,500 yards
What Makes Medalist Golf Club Unique?
Unique Features
Medalist Golf Club is designed to test even the most seasoned golfers with its wind-exposed fairways, deep bunkers, and lightning-fast greens. Unlike many Florida courses, it incorporates a natural, rugged feel, blending sand dunes, native vegetation, and marshlands to create an experience reminiscent of classic links golf.
- Toughest Greens: Firm, undulating surfaces demand precise approach shots and deft touch on the putter.
- Strategic Bunkering: Deep, well-placed bunkers punish errant shots, forcing creative escapes.
- Exposed Wind Conditions: The open layout allows coastal winds to challenge club selection and shot shape.
- Exclusive Membership: One of the most prestigious and private golf clubs in the world.
Signature Holes
- Hole 4 (Par 4): A brutal dogleg that requires a pinpoint drive and an exacting approach to a well-guarded green.
- Hole 7 (Par 3): An island-style green that rewards precision but penalizes misjudged shots.
- Hole 18 (Par 5): A legendary finishing hole, featuring an elevated green and a dramatic risk-reward decision on the second shot.
Tournaments & Legacy
Major Tournaments & Historic Moments
While Medalist Golf Club does not regularly host PGA Tour events due to its private nature, it has been the stage for intense practice rounds, private competitions, and legendary matchups featuring the game’s biggest names.
- 2020 The Match: Champions for Charity – Tiger Woods & Peyton Manning vs. Phil Mickelson & Tom Brady, a star-studded event raising millions for COVID-19 relief efforts.
- Tiger Woods’ Practice Grounds – Medalist is considered Woods’ home course, where he sharpens his game for major championships.
- Frequent PGA Tour Training Ground – Medalist has been the go-to practice facility for tour players preparing for The Masters and other majors.
Champions of the Last Decade
Since Medalist does not host formal professional tournaments, its reputation is built on the elite players who call it home rather than a history of official champions. However, it remains a training ground for Masters, PGA Championship, and U.S. Open winners.
World-Class Facilities & Membership
Clubhouse & Amenities
- Elegant clubhouse offering private dining and elite social experiences.
- Locker rooms adorned with memorabilia from some of golf’s biggest legends.
- Exclusive lounges for members and guests.
Membership & Green Fees
- Strictly Private: Invitation-only membership, reserved for top professionals and well-connected individuals.
- Highly Confidential: Green fees are undisclosed, but rumored to be among the highest in the U.S.
Golf Academy & Practice Facilities
- State-of-the-art driving range with multiple target greens.
- Short game area modeled after major championship conditions.
- Elite coaching and custom club fitting.
Golfing Legends & Course Records
Notable Players
Medalist is home to some of the biggest stars in golf:
- Tiger Woods: Often spotted fine-tuning his game here before major championships.
- Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, Dustin Johnson: Regulars at the club for practice rounds and elite training.
- Greg Norman: The course’s co-founder and one of golf’s most celebrated figures.
Course Records
- Lowest Round: 62 (unofficial, set during a member’s event)
- Longest Drive: 420 yards (wind-assisted)
- Most Birdies in a Single Round: 11
Fascinating Facts & Little-Known Secrets
Fun Facts
- Medalist Golf Club has no tee markers. Instead, players are expected to choose their tees based on skill level and comfort.
- The Match: Champions for Charity raised $20 million for COVID-19 relief efforts, making it one of the most successful charity golf events in history.
- Tiger Woods has used Medalist as his personal testing ground for swing adjustments and course preparation.
Celebrities & Iconic Visitors
Medalist is one of the most star-studded golf clubs in the world, hosting not only elite golfers but also athletes, CEOs, and A-list celebrities who value privacy and exclusivity.
Why Every Golfer Should Play Here
While Medalist Golf Club is out of reach for most golfers due to its exclusivity, its reputation as one of the toughest and most elite private courses in the world makes it a dream destination for many. With challenging layouts, world-class facilities, and a legendary membership roster, Medalist remains a sanctuary for the best of the best in golf.
For those who receive the rare invitation, stepping onto the fairways of Medalist is walking in the footsteps of legends.
