When and where are the 2025 golf majors and can you play the course?
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Watching the majors always piques the interest of novice golfers.
And while the desire to get out and play your local course grows after seeing what's being done well in the world, the serious think twice.
Can you piece together where you've seen Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele and Bryson DeChambeau strut their stuff? Let's find out.
The Masters – Augusta National – April 10-13
Augusta National, the annual home of The Masters, is one of the most exclusive clubs in the world. As with most things in the popular Georgia scene, there is a huge element of privacy but it is understood that there are around 300 members.
So, one way is to befriend one of them. It's easy. Scroll through your phone contacts and give Bill (Gates), Jack (Nicklaus), Peyton (Manning) or Condoleezza (Rice) a voice.
If that seems difficult, there are a few other options. Volunteers at the Masters are invited to play the course on “Thanksgiving Day” in May. Become one… unless there is a long waiting list.
Another is to become a golf writer! Members of the Augusta media can vote to play the course on Monday morning after the Masters is over. About 28 names come out of the hat, although if you win, you can't enter again for seven years.
In short, no, you can't just pony up a bunch of money to the men in the Blue Jackets and get a tee time. It's all about networking and who you know.
PGA Championship – Quail Hollow – May 15-18
Quail Hollow in Charlotte, North Carolina, hosted the 2017 PGA Championship won by Justin Thomas, while also hosting the 2022 Presidents Cup, with Davis Love leading the Americans to a 17.5-12.5 victory at the Internationals. He is also the regular manager of the Wells Fargo Championship, an event that Rory McIlroy has won four times (2010, 2015, 2021 and 2024).
But trying to beat Rory's shots won't be easy. Quail Hollow is a private club with only about 350 members. If you can somehow get a referral from a current member, the initiation fee is reportedly $100,000! It's a little easier – and a lot cheaper – to play as a guest member. Rory is one, along with other experts Webb Simpson and Harold Varner III.
Like Augusta National, your job will be tougher to enjoy the 18th at Quail Hollow.
US Open – Oakmont Country Club – June 12-15
Another country club hosts the third major player of the year so you know where this is going. Yes, Oakmont is a private club reserved for its members and guests so you can't just meet up with your friends and play.
They hold charity events for non-members, but it is still a long shot that you will be able to play the course where Dustin Johnson (2016), Angel Cabrera (2007), Ernie Els (1994), Larry Nelson (1983), Johnny Miller (1973), Jack Nicklaus (1962) ) and Ben Hogan (1953) won the US Open.
Then again, it's probably best to avoid the area if you're a student. Why? It can damage your self-esteem. Here is an update from the last few years. “I've played Oakmont four times, I hate it. It is very difficult for people with six disabilities. If you are 10 or 15 yards away on very narrow fairways, the ball is lost in the high grass. Granted I'll play it again with another one. I refused.”
The Open Championship – Royal Portrush – July 17-20
It looks pretty bad so far for the novice golfer who wants to follow in the footsteps of the legends.
But thankfully good Irish hospitality saves the day as it is possible to book a round at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, site of Shane Lowry's thrilling Open win in 2019.
From their website: “We are delighted to welcome visitors from all over the world to visit Royal Portrush and take part in a world-class round of golf in a warm and welcoming environment against the stunning backdrop of the Causeway Coast & Glens in an area of outstanding natural beauty. . To ensure availability, advance booking for all tee times is essential.
“All green fees are paid in full when you book and are non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Guests are expected to be members of recognized golf clubs and handicap certificates may be requested before playing.”
Green fees for 2024: £340pp (1 May to 30 September)
That's the pay of Dunluce Links, an open course. It is also possible to play at neighboring Valley Links £140pp (1 May to 30 September).
Caddy rentals are also available. Elite Caddies (Blue Bib) will charge £70 + gift, Caddy Trainee (Yellow Bib) £50 + for free.
“As many of our caddies are from the area, they will be able to give you an insight into the wider community history and advice on places to visit to experience Portrush.”
Tee Time Inquiries: [email protected]
Caddy enquiries: [email protected]
Office/Tee Times: +4428 7082 2311
READ NEXT: How to play at Royal Troon – a hole Phil Mickelson says is the best challenge in the world
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