A Closer Look at the Men’s Golf Majors: Records and Achievements
Golf has always been a sport steeped in tradition and competition, and the pinnacle of this experience is encapsulated in the four annual majors: The Masters Tournament, the PGA Championship, the U.S. Open, and The Open Championship. Each of these tournaments not only showcases the best of the best in golf but also tells a story of incredible performances, awe-inspiring records, and unforgettable moments on the greens.
The Masters Tournament
The Masters, held annually at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, is the first of the four majors and perhaps the most iconic. Known for its stunning azaleas and the legendary Amen Corner, the tournament has had its share of record-breaking performances.
When it comes to the lowest 72-hole aggregate score, Dustin Johnson etched his name in the record books with an astonishing 268 in 2020. This record was remarkable not only for the total score but also for setting a new mark in relation to par at 20-under. The Masters has also seen thrilling individual rounds, highlighted by the lowest 18-hole scores of 63, achieved twice—once by Greg Norman in the first round of 1996 and again by Nick Price in the third round of 1986.
Interestingly, the 2020 Masters was conducted in November due to the pandemic, showcasing the adaptability of the golf calendar while maintaining the tournament’s revered status.
PGA Championship
Next up is the PGA Championship, which stands out for its ever-changing venues, giving it a unique flavor each year. The 2024 installment at Valhalla is already generating excitement, particularly after Xander Schauffele set the bar incredibly high with the lowest 72-hole aggregate of 263, and a remarkable 21-under par score.
Schauffele wasn’t just dominant over the course of the tournament; he also tied the record for the lowest 18-hole round at the same event with a score of 62. Shane Lowry mirrored this feat during the third round, proving that the 2024 PGA Championship will be remembered for its thrilling performances and incredible scoring.
U.S. Open
Known for its challenging setups and demanding conditions, the U.S. Open has its own set of highs and lows. Rory McIlroy set an impressive benchmark at the 2011 Congressional with the lowest 72-hole aggregate of 268, finishing 16 under par—a remarkable testament to his skill under pressure.
In 2017, Brooks Koepka matched McIlroy’s score in relation to par, reinforcing the idea that excellence is not easily grounded within a single era. The 2023 U.S. Open saw another exhilarating round where both Xander Schauffele and Rickie Fowler delivered exceptional performances, each shooting a blistering 62 in the first round at the Los Angeles Country Club. Such achievements illustrate the competitive spirit that defines this event.
The Open Championship
Last but certainly not least, we have The Open Championship, the oldest of the four majors and a true celebration of links golf. The 2016 championship at Royal Troon was a historic event as Henrik Stenson clinched the lowest 72-hole aggregate score, wrapping up the tournament with a stunning 264 and achieving a 20-under par score.
Furthermore, Branden Grace made headlines during the 2017 Royal Birkdale, where he recorded the lowest 18-hole score in Open Championship history with a round of 62. Such remarkable performances highlight the uniqueness of links courses, where seaside weather can add layers of challenge to even the most skilled golfers.
A Legacy of Excellence
Together, these four tournaments collectively enrich the tapestry of men’s professional golf. Each major not only serves as a platform for incredible talent but also promises thrilling narratives that will be told for generations. From record-breaking scores to incredible individual performances, the major championships remain a cornerstone of golf’s storied legacy, inviting fans worldwide to celebrate the vibrant experience of this time-honored game.
