Fred Couples reveals why Pebble Beach's 8th hole 'always freaks me out'
Fred Couples provides an insider's perspective on Pebble Beach's challenging 8th hole, describing it as a "freakshow" that can intimidate even professional golfers. While the iconic 7th hole gets much attention, the 8th presents unique challenges that make it one of golf's greatest holes.
The par-4 8th hole features:
- A claustrophobic fairway split by a ravine
- A tiny "Volkswagen-sized" green
- Strategic bunker placement
- Dramatic downhill approach shot of about 190 yards
Couples shares his strategy for playing the hole:
- Uses 5-wood off the tee, favoring the right side
- Hits 6-hybrid for the approach shot (previously used 6-iron before switching to more forgiving clubs)
- Recommends taking photos to capture the hole's dramatic setting
The hole gained additional fame when Jordan Spieth hit a miraculous shot from the edge of the ravine during the 2022 Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Couples remarked that "99.999 percent of golfers have never had a shot on a cliff like that."
Playing partner Jay Haas adds perspective, calling it "the most visually intimidating hole" in golf. Despite its challenges, Couples emphasizes that the hole isn't unfair – it's simply a test that demands respect and precise execution.
This challenging hole continues to be a highlight of professional tournaments at Pebble Beach, including this week's AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, where top players like Scottie Scheffler and Jordan Spieth have praised the course's legendary layout.
"It's probably one of the greatest holes in the world." @FredCouplesGolf takes on No. 8 at Pebble Beach. pic.twitter.com/UkPrxKMj15