Controversial Tree at Players Championship Sparks Strategic Debate Among Golfers
A controversial overhanging tree on TPC Sawgrass's 6th hole has returned after a decade-long absence, sparking debate among players at The Players Championship. This architectural feature, part of Pete Dye's original design, was recently reinstalled to honor his vision of creating visual deception off the tee.
The new tree, weighing over 500,000 pounds, was carefully relocated from about 100 yards away under Davis Love's supervision. While the original tree was removed in 2014 due to disease, this replacement aims to replicate its strategic role in challenging players' decision-making.
Initial results from the tournament's first round showed its impact. While most early players chose driver, some opted for 3-wood, and those who did hit driver were forced to lower their ball flight significantly. The average apex of tee shots dropped from the usual 100+ feet to the 60s, with some players hitting stingers as low as 45 feet.
The modification also included moving the tee box back by 20 yards, adding another layer of strategy to club selection. Player reactions have been mixed, from appreciation of the design element to criticism, with Matt Fitzpatrick notably calling it "the dumbest tree I've ever seen."
Though no balls have struck the tree yet, its presence has already achieved Dye's intended effect of influencing player strategy and shot shape, proving that sometimes the mere suggestion of an obstacle can be as effective as the obstacle itself.