pga senior tour average score

Average Golf Score By Age (With Chart) 

Jake was a competitive golfer for over a decade dating back to the days of being the Captain of his high school golf team. He has played more than 200 courses across 32 different states in the US. Now semi-retired, Jake continues to golf 3-4 days a week with a current 2 handicap, gives golf lessons to his friends and family, and provides a wealth of knowledge to Golf Circuit from his competitive playing days. Jake combines practical expertise with technical knowledge to create golfing strategies and training techniques for both beginners and scratch golfers.

In the words of Lee Trevino , one the most prolific golfers to ever grace the game, the beauty of golf is that you “never really conquer it” because the only person you’re trying to beat is yourself. 

This is why golfers obsess about progress and usually become disheartened by its slow pace.

However, you may be surprised to find out how close your score is to an average golfer your age. With a realistic picture of the average score, you can work on improving your game and realize how age affects your performance.

So, how do you match up with golfers in your age group? Come find out!

Average Golf Score for An Amateur Golfer

According to the data collected by USGA , the average score for an amateur golfer on a par 72 course is 90. 

This is a score for every 18 holes played , which means that if you score a bogey on every hole, you are comparable to an average golfer in the US.

Note: A bogey is one stroke above par. It means sinking a 5-par hole in 6 shots.

However, not all golfers record the scores religiously or consider their handicap (the basis for this average). Thus, it is reasonable to assume that the actual average golf scores are much closer to or higher than 100. 

The National Golf Foundation’s data corroborates with 45% of all golfers unable to break 100 in golf . 

Therefore, scoring in the 90s makes you more than a decent golfer. Also, the average score differs based on the golf course size: the full 18 holes course or the shorter 9 holes one.

For 18 Holes

For a round of 18 holes, the average score is 90 . You can achieve this figure by making 5 strokes for each hole. 

18 holes is the most common golf length of a course used by intermediate and professional players. 

For 9 Holes

If you play golf recreationally, a shorter 9-hole course may be more up your alley. The average score for 9 holes par 3 golf course when scoring a bogey each hole is 36.

This course size allows more opportunity to score a hole-in-one, something every amateur golfer enjoys.  

Average Golf Score By Age: The 3 Phases of A Golfer’s Life

Now that you know what a tentative golf score for an amateur player is, it is time to break it down further based on the golfer’s age. 

Here is a quick comparison chart:

As you can see from the table above, studies have shown that every golfer goes through 3 phases as they grow older.

These phases translate to the first period of constant, usually quick growth when the golfer is still learning the game and improving.

The next phase is a relatively stagnant period where the average score does not change by much, from a stroke every 8 years to a comparatively steeper decline in the last stage. 

Therefore, age affects how much your score varies through the years. Yes, your natural ability, handicap, experience, and dedication also come into play, but as you age, you lack fitness and are more prone to injury.

Another keen observation is that the beginner consistently scores higher than an experienced game player. Remember that the lower your score in golf, the better it is.

6+ to 20 Years 

Junior golfers between the ages of 6+ and 10 have a much higher stroke ratio than older age groups. 

Averaging 144 to 180 strokes on a par 72 course, young golf players can only do their best within their physical limitations. 

According to USA Today Sports, a youngster can only hit the ball 75 yards at most, which comes to 8 strokes per hole on a par 72 course. This results in a 144 score for the course at best. 

Once you determine your handicap, you can subtract it from the gross score to find the net score in stroke play.

In match play, you add the handicap according to each of the holes and play them separately; the one who wins the most holes wins.

Read More: Can You Golf While Pregnant?

After age 10, as younger golfers gain strength, they can score lower, even going down to 89 strokes. Again, however, this will depend on natural ability, practice, and experience.

2 golfers of the same age with the same natural skill level will have scores that differ based on when they started playing, as experience will allow for more improvement. 

20 to 30 Years 

A 20 to 30 years old golfer is usually at the peak of their physical fitness. Therefore, their score by age is the closest to the overall average. 

This also holds for professional golfers since relatively younger players win most tournaments.

However, achieving average scores of 89 – 90 strokes comes with consistency and determination. Many players this age have gathered experience and playing techniques that help them up their game.

30 to 70 Years 

Between 30 and 70 years, the average golf scores do not deviate much, only increasing by a stroke or two. 

This is a plateau phase in a golfer’s life where the general performance remains constant.

There are 2 reasons for this:

The first is that most golfers on the younger side of this age bracket are physically fit and able to keep up with the average. However, they add a stroke every decade or so as they age. 

As we move to the older side of this age bracket, the aging process inevitably results in higher scores, even if they are by a stroke than the national average.

Even wizards of the golf game like Trevino would often joke about playing the “round bellies” instead of the flat ones as he was bound to join the Senior PGA Tour.

Another reason why this age group averages higher than the national average golf score is experience. 

Many people pick up golf as a recreational sport as they hit middle age. Since many of these golfers lack experience, they tend to score higher than average.

70+ Years 

With an average of 93 to 94 strokes on a par 72 course, senior golf players over 70 cannot deny the effect fitness has on their overall game. 

As golfers grow older, they lose muscle mass and dynamic force, increasing strokes every course. 

How Does Handicap Affect Your Golf Score

We have mentioned how handicaps can affect your golf score. According to the USGA , the average handicap index for women is 27.5, and that for men is 14.2 . 

So, how does the handicap index help determine your net score? 

When competing with other golfers, the handicap levels the playing field. For example, despite having fewer strokes, you may receive lower scores because of a handicap difference. 

Once you determine your handicap, you can implement it when playing with others to get a net score.

You can go for stroke play, subtracting your handicap at the end to find your net score. You can also go for match play, where each hole is played separately, and the one winning the most holes wins! These two types of scoring are how they score golf tournaments .

In this video, you can easily find how to implement handicaps to keep score accordingly.

What is A Good Golf Score for An Average Golfer?

The average strokes for a golfer are in the 90s, the same as that of a bogey golfer. 

However, we have discussed how the collected data does not reflect all golf players. Thus, the score looms around or over 100 strokes. 

Keeping this in mind, a score of 108 is a good one for beginner golfers.  

On a par 72 course, you get a 108 score by averaging 6 strokes per hole (2 above par), which is not a bad golf score if you’ve recently picked up the clubs. 

6 Ways to Improve Your Golf Score 

Now that you can compare your scores with the average range by age, you can assess where you stand and how much you can improve to reach a good score. 

The one rule to ensure you start taking fewer strokes to complete a course is to practice religiously. 

However, keeping these 6 pointers in mind, you will be able to lower your score in no time.

1. Aim for Steady Success

For a beginner golfer, to aim for a par in golf would be unrealistic and set you up for disappointment. Instead, it would be best if you sought steady success and only tried to be better than your previous score.

Take on each hole individually and try to sink it in 1 less stroke than before . Such efforts add up over time and help get better slowly but steadily.

2. Fundamentals Matter 

Just owning golf clubs does not make you a golfer. Instead, it is prudent to focus on the fundamentals. Your posture, stance, and grip are pivotal in how well you strike the golf ball.  

Taking time out to learn golf fundamentals will help you get the most out of every shot.  

For example, understanding how to turn correctly when you swing the club eliminates a problem various amateur golfers face. Also, this allows focusing on other aspects of the golf game, like strategy.

3. Lean on Defense: Choose A Smaller Stroke

Choosing a smaller stroke whenever you can lessen the possibility of an error.

All good players know when they should be defensive and when it is time to go all out.

Instead of going big, minimize mistakes by setting up an easier next shot. Putt, chip, flop, or pitch whenever you can. 

Remember: the lesser time the ball will spend in the air, the easier it will be to control and predict. 

Rather than focusing on how much distance you have to cover, focus on staying on the fairway to make for easier shots as the game progresses.  

4. Use Tech to Your Advantage

Technological advancements have changed the game and are likely the reason for decreasing average handicaps. So, use it to your advantage.

For example, getting the exact yardage to hazards can potentially subtract strokes from your scorecard. Get a good rangefinder like the Blue Tees rangefinders .

5. Choose the Right Equipment

Know which club or the type of ball to use. The right kind of equipment can make a massive difference to your score. 

Choosing the right golf ball or advanced practicing with your club of choice can help improve your score drastically.

If you are just beginning, pick a more forgiving ball . You can also choose to use hybrids off the tee to cover more distance. 

Change up the woods, drivers, and irons, and keep practicing to ensure you make the most of your golfing equipment. 

6. Consider the Wind

Keep in mind wind is a huge factor in how the shot plays. 

For example, a 10 mph shot downwind will play 10 yards shorter than the shot into the wind, which will play 20 yards longer. 

Moreover, hitting a shot diagonally into the wind will minimize the curve and grant you more control of the ball. 

The average golf score for amateur players of all ages is 90 strokes. Concerning age, the scores tend to be higher for younger golfers. 

However, those around 20 get equal to or under the average.

From then on, the score does not get much higher until 70, when it rises by approximately 4 strokes. Factors such as experience, ability, dedication, and handicap all play a role in marking down the average score by age.

Learning the fundamentals, choosing the right equipment, using tech to your advantage, and playing safer shots can help improve your score at any age.

FAQs: Average Golf Score By Age

What is the average golf score for amateur players.

The average golf score for amateur golfers is around 90 for a par 72 course. 

Since not all golfers record their scores accurately, the actual average must be around or over 100. 

Does the average golf score improve with age? 

The average golf score is higher for children, but around the age of 20, a skilled, experienced, and physically fit golfer would score around 89 to 90 strokes which is less than the average. 

The score, post 20, remains primarily constant, only increasing by a stroke or two till the age of 70. At 70 and over, golfers score between 93 to 94, 4 strokes higher than average. 

How do you apply handicap to get the net score? 

Similar posts.

Why Are So Many People Against LIV Golf?

LIV Golf is one of the most talked-about topics for golfers all over the world in 2023, and…

Golf Club Distance Charts: How Far Should I Hit Each Club?

If you’re new to golf or looking to improve your game, understanding the distance each club can hit…

What Is A Stimpmeter And How Does It Work?

If you watch golf on television or hang around with golfers that know a lot about the game,…

What is Scrambling in Golf?

Scrambling in golf is a statistic that assesses and calculates a golf player’s short game performance. A successful…

Golfing and Drinking: How It Affects Your Game

Golfing and drinking are wildly popular together, but do you know how it affects your game? Golf is…

Augusta: What Is The Masters Font? 

The Masters tournament, many would argue, is the most special and highly regarded tournament in the United States…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• CBSSports.com
• Fanatics Sportsbook
• CBS Sports Home
• NCAA Tournament
• W. Tournament
• Champions League
• Motor Sports
• High School
• Horse Racing 

Men's Brackets

Women's Brackets

Fantasy Baseball

Fantasy football, football pick'em, college pick'em, fantasy basketball, fantasy hockey, franchise games, 24/7 sports news network.

• CBS Sports Golazo Network
• March Madness Live
• PGA Tour on CBS
• UEFA Champions League
• UEFA Europa League
• Italian Serie A
• Watch CBS Sports Network
• TV Shows & Listings

The Early Edge

A Daily SportsLine Betting Podcast

With the First Pick

NFL Draft is coming up!

• Podcasts Home
• Eye On College Basketball
• The First Cut Golf
• NFL Pick Six
• Cover 3 College Football
• Fantasy Football Today
• Morning Kombat
• My Teams Organize / See All Teams Help Account Settings Log Out

Score Average

Texas Children's Houston Open

Memorial Park Golf Course

What is Phil Mickelson's senior tour future? It's complicated

The most revealing and pivotal moment for Phil Mickelson on the way to shooting the lowest debut round in PGA Tour Champions history on Monday unfolded on the 13th green at Ozarks National Golf Course. The 18-footer he converted ignited a streak of five straight birdies to propel him to a 10-under 61 and the lead, so there was that. But then there was the fist pump that followed. He set his jaw. He dropped his left hand emphatically. It mattered. Him being there. Competing. Vying for a slice of a $3 million purse when he’s used to bellying up to buffets of $9 million or more.

Why it mattered is left to conjecture.

Did he want to impress in his senior debut? Sure. Did he want to make up for the earliest departure of his career in the FedEx Cup Playoffs the week prior? Presumably. Did he have something to prove to himself? Maybe. That he could still shoot some low scores? Yes, yes, and yes. Did he have a burning desire to become the 20th man in PGA Tour Champions history to win in his first start, or does he have bigger things in mind?

Seriously, what do you think?

Phil Mickelson invaded the senior tour this week and left little doubt about the damage he could do if he were to become a regular among the 50-and-older set. A rather perfunctory five-under 66 on Wednesday was enough to secure not only a four-stroke conquest in the Charles Schwab Series at Ozarks National , but also some accompanying psychological reinforcement that he had hoped would be a residue of the experience.

“Who was going to be good enough this week with that rat here?” Rocco Mediate asked after Mickelson finished at 22-under 191, tying the tour’s 54-hole scoring record . “The proof’s in the punishing.”

And that’s what Mickelson was hoping to find, more or less.

After missing the cut Friday at The Northern Trust, the PGA Tour’s opening playoff event, Mickelson, who turned 50 in June , promptly opted for a detour to Ridgedale, Mo., with the expressed purpose of working on some shots in a competitive atmosphere and “building a little momentum.” Reuniting with old friends was fine and all, and Mickelson spoke repeatedly of enjoying the experience, which included the enjoyable addition of $450,000 to his bank account. But the U.S. Open at Winged Foot is three weeks away and the Masters is in November, and the old left-hander wasn’t warming up in the bullpen this week just to go out and win the Charles Schwab Cup.

“I had a lot of fun here, I really did,” Mickelson said. “I’m hopeful to play in some more, too, but I also want to use this as a way to get sharp for the regular tour and for the majors.”

Momentum found.

And now? He’ll tee it up in two weeks in the PGA Tour season opener, the Safeway Open in Napa, Calif., before heading for New York. “I’ll be working on my game the next week and a half, see if I can be really sharp for the U.S. Open,” he said, revealing more of where his head and heart really are. “Obviously, I have a lot of work to do [for] some redemption at Winged Foot, but it’s a great golf course and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

RELATED: Phil Mickleson at 50: A wonderful, wacky ride with one of golf’s great entertainers

Does Phil move a needle? The unequivocal needle-moving champ, Tiger Woods, was asked about the enigmatic left-hander Wednesday morning at the BMW Championship, near Chicago, the event for which Mickelson failed to qualify, thus inducing his decision for less greener but more pluckable pastures these last three days. The BMW is a FedEx Cup Playoff event with a $9.5 million purse, and senior golf is among the menu topics? Only because of Phil.

“Playing unbelievable golf,” said Woods, apparently taking some passing interest in his rival’s pursuits . “He said he’s been close to playing well. I think that he was already one of the longer hitters out here, and now he goes to where he’s going to pick up a huge advantage off the tee, but you have to take advantage of that opportunity off the tee. His wedge game is off the charts, as we all know. … There’s no reason why he can’t win every event he plays out there.”

Not surprisingly, there were a lot of interested parties. Other than TV ratings, Twitter is perhaps the best barometer for gauging interest in a golf tournament, and Mickelson postings multiplied across the social-media platform starting with his Monday salvo. One veteran golf journalist wrote, “Damn you, Phil,” for making him care about senior scores. Well, he wasn’t alone.

Oh, and about those TV ratings. Golf Channel saw ratings increases of 150 percent on Monday and nearly 300 percent on Tuesday for its coverage of the PGA Tour Champions compared to programming in the same time period (6-8 p.m. EDT) the prior four weeks. Tuesday’s coverage was the most-watched Tuesday telecast since Golf Central Live during the 2019 Masters. (Wednesday’s figures weren’t yet available.)

Mickelson shot the tour's lowest score in his senior debut round (61) and matched the tour's 54-hole scoring record.

Brett Carlsen

RELATED: Phil Mickelson gives us a sneak peek at what he’d be like as a TV analyst

No wonder his peers have been eager to see him join the ranks. They recognize that Ernie Els and Jim Furyk and Mike Weir and Rich Beem, major champions all, are terrific additions to the elder statesmen herd this year, but no one ever conjured up an ad campaign entitled, “What will Ernie do next?”

“I’m glad it was sooner rather than later,” said two-time U.S. Open champion Lee Janzen about Mickelson’s appearance. “Obviously his career … stellar. He brings a lot of attention to our tour. He’s also a great presence for pro-ams, in the locker room, talking trash. He’s fun to have around.”

“I think all of us out here would wish he would play out here a lot, because he brings such a presence, but I don’t think any of us would expect him to,” Steve Flesch said. “He gives our tour great exposure, as do a lot of other new guys like a Jim Furyk, Ernie, Retief. But Phil is just another notch higher as far as popularity. That’s just who fans like. And, you saw he just dismantled the golf course here. The rest of us mere mortals have to play it one way. He’s playing on another universe out there.

“He just kind of came in and blew through us. I wish we’d have had a few big names pushing him,” Flesch added. “My worry is he might not find it challenging enough. Not to demean anyone on our tour, but the guy is [ranked] 50-something in the world. We all kind of know where he should be playing.”

RELATED: Our 50 favorite ‘Phil being Phil’ moments

It didn’t even look like a fair fight. The coffee-swilling five-time major winner has no gray hair, stands without slouching, has remained fit and retained his flexibility, and he doesn’t appear particularly interested in giving his driver a respite of appreciable duration. He attacked Ozark National, which, fortuitously, happens to be generous off the tee, with a tournament-leading driving average of 323.7 yards. And he provided one of several highlight-reel shots by using the same club in the second round to escape from under a tree, with the ball perched on pine straw and bark .

Per usual, Phil can thrill.

Not that this necessarily always thrills Phil. Earlier this year he sounded like a man who fancied a little more scoring efficiency.

“I believe I can play at an extremely high level,” he said. “I just need to show it. I need to show what I believe.”

The chance to renew friendships with former competitors might give playing the PGA Tour Champions more appeal for Mickelson.

There have been plenty of accomplished players to join the senior tour in the years since Jack Nicklaus dipped his toe in sporadically in 1990, started collecting senior majors with relative ease and then remained somewhat fixated on winning the only four majors that matter. Since then, it can be argued, no 50-year-old has been more focused on, better prepared for, and seemingly capable of winning a major championship than Mickelson.

At 54th in the World Rankings, he could still be a threat at any major even if he is not a threat in every major.

Only last month Mickelson finished T-2 at the WGC-FedEx St. Jude, where he became the first player age 50 or older to finish in the top five in a WGC event. Last year, he won a record-tying fifth title at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am for his 44th PGA Tour victory, and the year before he broke a winless streak of almost five years by defeating reigning FedEx Cup champion Justin Thomas in a playoff at the WGC-Mexico Championship.

A month before that Pebble triumph, Mickelson opened the American Express with a 60. He can still bring some heat. And he can still flame out, as witnessed from time to time, which only adds to his aura and intensifies the fascination with which fans, both casual and golf-rabid, hold him. Is there another player in the world who advances a golf ball with more abandon and has more fun doing it?

There was once, but Arnold Palmer has left the building.

RELATED: Phil Mickelson’s most memorable equipment moments

Mickelson is the first player since Tom Watson to stick a peg in the forward tees whom we might think of as an authentic “legendary-type” figure. The two guys who maybe came closest in between were Fred Couples and John Daly, for different—and very separate—reasons. And Mickelson, frankly, might be the last, unless Woods decides, five-plus years from now, that he wants to spread a last layer of whoop-ass on his peers.

While still competitive on the PGA Tour, Mickelson has said his starts with the seniors will be sparing.

How much will Mickelson hang around his fellow seniors? That is the real question, and the answer would seem to be not much. At least for the foreseeable future.

In February, before he nearly defended his title at Pebble Beach, Mickelson said he didn’t want to, “hurt the Champions Tour in any way, and if not playing the Champions Tour is going to hurt it, I’ll play a couple of events. I’ll probably play one, two or three events a year because I want to support it; I want it to be successful.”

RELATED: Two things Phil Mickelson surprisingly hasn’t accomplished

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Mickelson was quite enamored with the direction his game was headed, and he was highly motivated about the possibilities ahead. He put down this marker: “This motivates me to compete against the best players in the world. That drives me to get in the gym, it drives me to work hard on the range, it drives me to spend time on the putting green. And I’m not sure I would have the same passion and drive to be my best on the Champions Tour, but I have it out here, and so right now it’s starting to bring out the best in me and I want to play out here.”

The previous three days in Missouri already had been set to give the PGA Tour Champions a spotlight to enjoy, given that there were no other competitive golf events up against it. Then Phil Mickelson swooped in and changed the entire complexion of the thing. It is for that reason that the rest of the senior contingent wishes for his increased attendance, even if it means he is going to throttle them with bombs.

A World Golf Hall-of-Famer, Mickelson could add his name to a long line of fine players who ardently attempted to compete on both tours. But, seriously, what’s the point?

Mediate summed it up best. “Hopefully he’ll play some more, but he’s still fine on the regular tour. He still has big game, as you can see.”

Still has big aspirations, too.

Live Senior PGA Championship leaderboard

Golf Champions Tour

Ultimate Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors [All Skill Levels]

Our website is supported by our readers. We may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. For more details see our disclaimers page .

Table of Contents

Regardless of age, any golfer’s shot distance is a significant concern. So a golf club distance chart for seniors holds the same importance at any age.

As we get older, our performance on the golf course naturally changes. You might control some elements to an extent through exercise and nutrition , but certain factors are part of aging.

So logically, you shouldn’t be comparing how you play to those who don’t experience the same limitations as you.

Senior golf has its standard for what poor or great performances are. You should judge your skill level based on your group. You can look at distance charts to get an idea of the average distance players in your category.

This article will give you the best golf club distance charts for seniors.

🏌️‍♂️ Read Next: 13 Best Golf Clubs for Seniors [Expert Buyers Guide]

Golf Club Distance Chart Utilization

Distance charts essentially give the average distance covered by a club. Different charts focus on variable factors such as gender, age, experience, etc.

A golf club distance chart shouldn’t be viewed as a benchmark. It’s a helpful tool to compare your performance realistically, considering limiting factors. So don’t sweat it if your numbers don’t match the charts.

The better approach is knowing your yardage rather than focusing on how far each club can go. Different people get different numbers for the same club, so while a 7 iron is going far for your friend, maybe your 5 iron covers the same ground.

What I’m stressing about is that it’s all relative. Contrary to popular belief, being a long-hitter doesn’t guarantee a lower score. It’s understandable why people assume that long shots travel a greater distance, possibly lowering your score.

But that’s just not written in stone. A short-hitter could outdo you. It’s just a matter of knowing yourself and your skill.

😂 Read Next: 70+ Super Funny Golf Sayings That Will Keep You Laughing

Golf Distance Charts for Men & Women

First, we will look at the average distance that younger players of both genders cover. This gives an idea of how well a player can perform when all age factors are in their favor. 

You can take these numbers as the upper limit of how much yardage one can achieve.

Golf Club Distance Chart for Men

With experience, male golfers gain decent yardage in their shots. The more players practice, the higher they can take their swing speed, which is critical for covering long distances.

You can compare your performance with the table below (average golfer to pro).

Golf Club Average Distances of Women

For female players, the numbers are lower than for male players. Many factors come into play here, such as thinner and shorter clubs coupled with a slower swing speed. The distances covered are impressive nonetheless.

You can use the table below as a reference point for your yardage.

Golf Club Distance Charts for Seniors

Players who are 50+ in age fall under the Seniors category. They’re eligible to play in the Senior PGA Championship , on top of the PGA Tour .

Although they aren’t required to leave the PGA Tour, it’s clear that their performance will eventually fall behind over time than the younger players on the golf course. But that’s just how life goes.

Nonetheless, here’s a shocking fact. The world record for the longest drive is held by 64-year-old, Mike Austin . He hit a 515-yard drive in 1974! We didn’t even have the TaylorMade SIM 2 back then.

Regardless, there’s a significant gap in golf club distances among senior players. Those who play recreationally are shorter hitters compared to Senior PGA Tour players.

You can make the comparison through the table below.

Golf Club Distance Charts by Age | Drivers, Fairway Woods & Irons

Below you’ll find a breakdown of the average golf distance chart for irons and drivers by age.

While you may notice, there is a stark difference in average club distances between younger and senior players.  Professional golfers don’t rapidly lose their yardage because of old age.

Those who maintain their athleticism and continue playing stay in great shape. As Gary Player would agree, a lot can be done with a solid fitness routine. However, they’ll notice a slow dip in their numbers.

To understand the gradual shift in yardage, the table below shows the age-by-age decrease in shot distances.

Please note this golf club distance chart doesn’t account for whether a player is a professional.

Tips to Improve the Average Distance Golfers Hit

As a golfer, you can’t expect to stay on top of your game if you aren’t consistent. 

Many skills you learn will get rusty as the years go by. If you’re not paying attention, it can become harder to play as you used to.

To help you overcome your short yardage on the golf course, here are a few points you can focus on.

Read Next: Closed Coil Golf Swing for Seniors: 4 Quick Steps & Drills ⛳️

1. Use the Proper Golf Equipment for Senior Golfers

Your golf balls and clubs are both determinants of your performance. You should ensure you’re using the suitable fit for you and the level at which you play.

Sometimes, your previous club preference doesn’t give you the same results as it once did. This may be a sign to try other clubs and see if there is another that suits you better. The same goes for golf balls.

Having the right driver and irons is as important as possessing the right skills.

2. Improve Your Golf Grip & Posture 

To start, it’s essential to have the best golf grips for seniors .

As we age, a golfer’s grip and posture are often neglected parts of physical fitness. 

Players focus more on stamina, strength, and similar capabilities, but other factors equally influence their performance.

A good golf grip helps you transfer strength and control the ball. You may struggle with this at first, but it could be what’s holding you back.

As for posture, ensure that you’re standing as tall as you can and are bending from the waist, not the shoulders. You should also be careful about your alignment, which your posture can throw off.

⛳️ Read Next: 23 Best Golf Tips For Seniors to Enhance Your Game

3. Improve Your Golf Swing Speed

One of the many culprits for a shorter distance on your shots is your swing speed. This is essentially how fast your club moves before it hits the golf ball.

Your swing speed changes over time. In the table below, you can see what male and female golfers average at different ages.

As you can see, as we all age, we tend to have slower swing speeds. However, golf training aids and exercise can help with increasing swing speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far should a 60 year old man hit a golf ball.

According to the senior distance chart, a 60 year old man, should hit approximately 211 yards with his golf driver.

Final Thoughts | Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors

The finest aspect of golf is that age is not a limitation. You grow as you go, adapting your expertise according to your circumstances.

Using a golf club distance chart for seniors as a reference, you can continue enjoying your game and be motivated to progress further.

If you are looking for motivation, check out Gary Player’s amazing fitness routine .

Related Senior Golf Articles

10 Best Golf Swing Tips for Seniors That Actually Work

13 Best Golf Clubs for Seniors in 2023 [Expert Buyers Guide]

Ultimate Guide to the Senior Golf Tour: 5 Major Tournaments

The 6 Best Golf Grips For Seniors In 2022

7 Best Drivers For Senior Women To Increase Distance in 2022

Erin has spent over 17 years as a healthcare executive working with seniors in nursing homes, skilled nursing, assisted living, and independent living communities. She also holds a Masters Degree in Social Work and other advanced degrees related to seniors.

Erin grew up playing golf in a family of golf fanatics. She started this site to help others add more enjoyment to the game of life through golf.

X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

1 thought on “Ultimate Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors [All Skill Levels]”

thank you. some ideas and some information.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

We may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. This does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We aim to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, Amazon Associates, and the eBay Partner Network.

Join Us on Social

© 2024 Senior Golf Source

Who Holds The Record For The Lowest PGA Tour Scoring Average?

Tiger Woods holds the record for the lowest scoring average, and he has six full seasons better than anyone else has ever managed

• Sign up to Golf Monthly Newsletter Newsletter

The list of the top scoring averages in PGA Tour history further underlines Tiger Woods’ dominance in the sport. 

The 15-time Major winner not only holds the record for the best adjusted scoring average ever on Tour, he also owns the top six spots on the list, with his 1999 (68.43), 2000 (67.79), 2002 (68.56), 2003 (68.41), 2007 (67.79) and 2009 (68.05) seasons.

Woods’ best scoring average year was his record-breaking 2000 season. 

In 2000, Woods won nine of the 20 tournaments he entered, including three of the four Majors (he completed the Tiger Slam at the 2021 Masters) and six consecutive PGA Tour events (the longest streak since Ben Hogan in 1948). He also broke or tied nine tournament records in his dominant 15-stroke US Open victory that year.

Every year, the PGA Tour hands out the Byron Nelson award to the player with the lowest adjusted scoring average.

The award was named after Nelson, who held the lowest actual (which differs from adjusted) PGA Tour scoring average record of 68.34 in 1945 for decades before Tiger Woods’ 68.17 in 2000.

Since 1980, scoring average has been weighted to take into account the stroke average of the rest of the field.

Get the Golf Monthly Newsletter

Subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest tour news, equipment news, reviews, head-to-heads and buyer’s guides from our team of experienced experts.

Scottie Scheffler is the next best behind Woods in seventh place, after his incredible display of ball striking in the 2022-2023 PGA Tour season saw him put together an adjusted scoring average of 68.63.

The only other players not named Tiger Woods in the all-time top 10 are Vijay Singh in 2003 (68.65) and Rory McIlroy in 2022 (68.67).

Top 10 PGA Tour adjusted scoring averages

• 1. 67.79 — Tiger Woods, 2000
• 2. 67.79 — Tiger Woods, 2007
• 3. 68.05 — Tiger Woods, 2009
• 4. 68.41 — Tiger Woods, 2003
• 5. 68.43 — Tiger Woods, 1999
• 6. 68.56 — Tiger Woods, 2002
• 7. 68.63 — Scottie Scheffler, 2023
• 8. 68.65 — Vijay Singh, 2003
• 9. 68.66 — Tiger Woods, 2005
• 10. 68.67 — Rory McIlroy, 2022

Byron Nelson award winners

Tiger Woods is the only man to have beaten Scottie Scheffler's 2022-23 PGA Tour scoring average

• 2023 — Scottie Scheffler, 68.63
• 2022 — Rory McIlroy, 68.67
• 2021 — Jon Rahm, 69.30
• 2020 — Webb Simpson, 68.98
• 2019 — Rory McIlroy, 69.06
• 2018 — Dustin Johnson, 68.70
• 2017 — Jordan Spieth, 68.85
• 2016 — Dustin Johnson, 69.17
• 2015 — Jordan Spieth, 68.94
• 2014 — Rory McIlroy, 68.83
• 2013 — Steve Stricker, 68.95
• 2012 — Rory McIlroy, 68.87
• 2011 — Luke Donald, 68.86
• 2010 — Matt Kuchar, 69.61
• 2009 — Tiger Woods, 68.05
• 2008 — Sergio Garcia, 69.12
• 2007 — Tiger Woods, 67.79
• 2006 — Tiger Woods, 68.11
• 2005 — Tiger Woods, 68.66
• 2004 — Vijay Singh, 68.84
• 2003 — Tiger Woods, 68.41
• 2002 — Tiger Woods, 68.56
• 2001 — Tiger Woods, 68.81
• 2000 — Tiger Woods, 67.79
• 1999 — Tiger Woods, 68.43
• 1998 — David Duval, 69.13
• 1997 — Nick Price, 68.98
• 1996 — Tom Lehman, 69.32
• 1995 — Greg Norman, 69.06
• 1994 — Greg Norman, 68.81
• 1993 — Greg Norman, 68.90
• 1992 — Fred Couples, 69.38
• 1991 — Fred Couples, 69.59
• 1990 — Greg Norman, 69.10
• 1989 — Greg Norman, 69.49
• 1988 — Greg Norman, 69.38
• 1987 — David Frost, 70.09
• 1986 — Scott Hoch, 70.08
• 1985 — Don Pooley, 70.36
• 1984 — Calvin Peete, 70.56
• 1983 — Raymond Floyd, 70.61
• 1982 — Tom Kite, 70.21
• 1981 — Tom Kite, 69.80
• 1980 — Lee Trevino, 69.73

What is adjusted scoring average?

Adjusted scoring average, which takes the stroke average of the entire field into account, differs from actual scoring average, which is the mean average of a golfer’s strokes over the course of a season.

According to the PGA Tour, the adjusted scoring average is: “The weighted scoring average which takes the stroke average of the field into account. It is computed by adding a player's total strokes to an adjustment and dividing by the total rounds played. The adjustment is computed by determining the stroke average of the field for each round played. This average is subtracted from par to create an adjustment for each round. A player accumulates these adjustments for each round played. ”

The stat is basically a more accurate representation of scoring average as it takes into account the course, tournament and field.

Joel Kulasingham is freelance writer for Golf Monthly. He has worked as a sports reporter and editor in New Zealand for more than five years, covering a wide range of sports including golf, rugby and football. He moved to London in 2023 and writes for several publications in the UK and abroad. He is a life-long sports nut and has been obsessed with golf since first swinging a club at the age of 13. These days he spends most of his time watching, reading and writing about sports, and playing mediocre golf at courses around London.

Beau Hossler explained how he and the World No.1 almost came to blows at a college event after Scheffler struck the wrong golf ball in a match

By Matt Cradock Published 30 March 24

Having not played since February, it seems that Woods is getting prepared for his next major appearance

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Accessibility statement
• Cookies policy
• Advertise with us

Golf Monthly is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

Search Golf Compendium

Golf compendium, yearly pga tour scoring leaders (byron nelson award).

Scoring Average Leaders on the PGA Tour By Year

Using adjusted scoring average, popular posts from this blog, golfers with the most wins in major championships, 2024 masters tournament dates, schedule, players, 24 famous golfers who were photographed in the nude.

Tee Precision

What Is The Average Swing Speed Of A Senior Golfer By Age

If you are even slightly interested in Golf, you would know that the most common question that almost every golfer asks about his or her swing is “was that good”? This is the most important of questions that go on among the golfers of all age groups.

I have found the best way to maintain and increase my driving distance is with a speed training system. I use the Super Speed system and love it. Super easy, fast to complete and the results are there. Check it out!

On every PGA and LPGA tour, the top earners are always the long hitters. Hence the assumption is popular among amateurs, juniors, and seniors , that the longer you’re hit the better would be your score. So coming to our topic on what is the average golf swing speed  for a senior golfer by  age?

Traditionally the senior golfers would mean golfers who are 50 and above in age . Of course, the average driving distance by age would be different in each gender .

How Much Distance is Lost With Age?

Although there is not much information available on this yet, it is fair to state that the drive distance does decrease with age. The pros who are in their 20’s and in the late ’20s to be specific have the longest drives and also the fastest swings. In the 30’s they were average and by the 40’s the distances began to lower.

After the 50’s there is a significant decline in the distance as well as speed. After crossing 50’s the golfers become seniors and their swing speed and distance are decreased.

The average of about 50 years of age would have a swing speed of 85 to 90 miles per hour. When the golfer reaches 60 years of age there would be loss of another 5 mph speed and another 5 mph when he reaches 70 years of age. After the 70’s the speed reduces exponentially and he would be losing nearly 10 mph speed when he reaches his 80’s.

As for the senior female golfers a 50 years old female golfer would average speed of 70-75 miles per hour. She would be losing nearly 5 mph regularly with each passing decade.

However this data is for average golfers, the PGA members are a class apart from their swing speeds in the range of 110 to 125 miles per hour, which is awesome. So a PGA level senior player would have a swing speed of 105 to 120 mph speed.

Golf Club Distance Chart for Seniors

How Can The Senior Player Improve On The Speed?

It is true that with age our speed and swing distance would decrease, but it is also a fact that with little efforts and discipline this can be increased. To improve on the lost speed and distance the senior players should work on their speed and strength training.

They should indulge in regular eccentric training, this would enhance their mobility and also improve their strength. They should also work on declaration and speed drills (sport-specific, torsional, horizontal, and vertical) which would increase their speed.

 It would be advisable to seek the guidance of a golf teaching, fitness, and medical professional who is trained in this aspect. These trained professionals can help you identify your weak areas and develop training routines that would work on those focus areas and help you in recovering them.

With a proper and tailored training routine and with a balanced and nutritious diet plan, you can greatly improve your swing distance even if the age is not to your favor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a senior golfer’s average swing speed.

According to research, the average speed of golfers in their 50s and 60s is 72-86 mph. It’s between 71 and 79 mph for golfers over 60.

What Type Of Loft Driver Should Senior Citizens Use?

A driver loft of at least 11 degrees is recommended for many seniors. While certain players with a faster swing speed may be able to get away with 10 or 10.5 degrees, many golfers should aim for 11-13 degrees.

What Grip Should A Senior Use?

Huge but soft grips are a great alternative for elderly golfers. In most cases, a Winn grip or something similar will suffice. This sort of gripping makes it simple when your gripping force isn’t very strong, and the softness makes it wonderfully pleasant.

When Should You Start Playing The Senior Tees?

Amateur players aged 60 and up may play from the front ( Senior Tees ) tee marks, as stated on the Tournament Rules Sheet, with applicable handicap adjustments pursuant on USGA rules.

What Is The Longest Senior Golf Ball?

Golfer claims the Duo Soft+ ball is the softest and longest premium two-piece ball on the marketplace, and the VelocitiCOR is the driving force behind its performances. Its low-spin qualities may also help to soften hook and slice spin for straighter shots.

Conclusion:

There is no denying the fact that swing speed decreases with age. A young pro golfer would definitely have the edge when it comes to strength and speed. But that does not mean that the senior golfer is behind, with proper guidance, diet, and training the swing speed and distance both can be increased and you can defeat the age.

• Recent Posts

• Should Tee Boxes Be Level? - January 23, 2024
• 3 Hybrid Distance - November 15, 2023
• Innovations in Golf Mobility: An In-depth Review of Top Golf Scooters - October 12, 2023

• LPGA Newsletters
• LPGA Travel
• Women's Network
• LPGA Professionals
• Members Only
• Lesson Zone
• Membership Information
• Find A Teacher
• Professionals Job Board
• Events Calendar
• LPGA Amateurs
• Become A Member
• Member Login
• LPGA Foundation
• LEADERBOARD
• Changing The Face of Golf
• C-Me Action Plan
• Diversity Policy
• Diverse Supplier Opportunity
• Celebrating the Green
• All Access Series
• Instruction
• Live Stream
• Award Winners
• Hall of Fame
• ROLEX FIRST TIME WINNERS
• ROLEX ANNIKA MAJOR AWARD
• 2024 Player Priority List (PDF)
• TOURNAMENTS
• Download Schedule
• Completed Tournaments
• Drive On Championship
• International Crown
• Solheim Cup
• CME Group Tour Championship
• LPGA Local Qualifying Rounds
• Hilton Grand Vacations TOC
• LPGA Senior Championship
• RACE TO CME GLOBE
• Season Standings
• Past Winners
• Explanation and Points Breakdown
• Projected Points Standing
• CME Group Cares Challenge - Score 1 for St. Jude
• Aon Risk Reward Challenge
• KPMG Performance Insights
• Scoring Average
• Total Played
• AON Risk Reward Challenge
• Rounds Under Par
• Top 10 Finishes %
• Top 10 Finishes
• Career Victories
• Rounds in the 60's
• Sub Par Holes
• Holes in One
• Par 3 Scoring Averages
• Par 4 Scoring Averages
• Par 5 Scoring Averages

• Charitable Solicitation Disclosures
• Corporate Sponsors
• LPGA History
• LPGA International
• Sponsorship Opportunities
• Legends of the LPGA

Fan Feature

• LPGA Women's Network
• ADA Act Request
• Anti-Doping Information
• Feedback Form
• Gender Policy
• Integrity Program Information
• Media - Press Site
• Player Login
• Privacy Policy
• Professionals Member Login
• Terms and Conditions
• Ticket Terms and Conditions

Global Tour

• International TV Distribution

Mobile Apps

• Android App
• Top Stories

2024 Hoag Classic: Prize Money Breakdown and Winner’s Payout

T he Hoag Classic, one of the most anticipated events in the PGA Tour Champions calendar boasts a $2M purse. Padraig Harrington , whose instruction videos have made him a favorite even among amateurs, grabbed the top spot in the second round. Harrington, a three-time Major Champion, is looking for his seventh PGA Tour Champions victory in Newport Beach.

The prize money in the 54-hole no-cut tournament has other perks attached to it. Per the PGA Tour Champions rules, the total earnings get converted to Charles Schwab Cup points ($ 1=1 point). The top 72 players on the rankings get a chance to tee off at the first of the three Charles Schwab Cup playoffs. From there. 54 players will head to the second event, and only the top 36 will move to the final event, the Charles Schwab Cup Championship, a 72-hole tournament.

Purse breakdown of the 2024 Hoag Classic

The $2M purse is $200,000 less than the last event, Cologuard Classic. A standard 15% is reserved for the winner of each event, which translates to $300,000 for the Hoag Classic, again, $30,000 less than what Joe Durant nabbed for his Cologuard Classic triumph last month. Here is the full purse size breakdown for the only PGA Tour Champions event in Orange County.

Stars to watch out for in the final round

Padraig Harrington complemented his first-round 8-under 63 with a 4-under 67 in the second round. The Irishman has the overnight lead with Thongchai Jaidee . The money-list topper of the Asian Tour is giving him a hot chase at 11-under. 

Steve Stricker , who broke Tiger Woods ’s streak of making consecutive cuts last year , is four shots off the lead at 8-under, carding 67 in both rounds. Stricker, a 17 times winner on the Champions Tour, netted six titles, and five runner-ups last season. 

The Jack Nicklaus PGA Tour Champion’s Player of the Year also entered THE PLAYERS Championship last week on the back of his Kaulig Companies Championship triumph. However, the 57-year-old failed to make the cut posting 2-over 146 at TPC Sawgrass. But Stricker already has two top-10s this season in the PGA Tour Champions.

Jim Furyk , a three-time winner in the PGA Tour Champions, sits at the 16th spot with the defending champion, Ernie Els . On the other hand, PGA Tour’s most colorful star, John Daly is languishing at the 77th spot in the leaderboard. Daly withdrew from the Chubb Classic last month after shooting 70 in the first round. Hometown favorite, Fred Couples pulled out after the first round of the Hoag Classic.

Read More: ‘Get This Man a Beer’: Fans Troll John Daly As Unexpected Tee-Off Shank Stuns Hoag Classic

The post 2024 Hoag Classic: Prize Money Breakdown and Winner’s Payout appeared first on EssentiallySports .

PGA Tour Power Rankings: Two stops 'til the Masters

Pat McAfee praises Scottie Scheffler for defending his Players Championship title after Wyndham Clark's heartbreaking putt lipped out on 18. (2:09)

• Senior college football writer
• Author of seven books on college football
• Graduate of the University of Georgia

There are only 15 days remaining before the opening round of the 88th Masters at Augusta National Golf Club, the first major championship of the men's professional golf season.

While defending champion Jon Rahm is playing in the LIV Golf League, world No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler has emerged as a heavy betting favorite after back-to-back victories on the PGA Tour. The 2022 Masters champion also knows his way around Augusta National pretty well.

With the PGA Tour headed to Texas for the last two stops before the Masters, starting with this week's Texas Children's Houston Open, it's a good time for the latest edition of the PGA Tour power rankings.

Of course, there's no surprise at No. 1. But during a season in which rookies and other lesser-known first-timers have won tournaments, you might have to look further down the list for superstars.

1. Scottie Scheffler

The world No. 1 golfer is coming off back-to-back victories at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Players Championship. He has two top-10 finishes at Memorial Park Golf Course, including a tie for second in 2022. He could become the first player since Dustin Johnson in 2017 to win in three straight starts. Rory McIlroy was the last to do it in three consecutive starts in stroke-play events (DJ's streak included the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play).

2. Wyndham Clark

The reigning U.S. Open champion was runner-up to Scheffler in each of his past two starts, finishing 5 strokes back at the API and 1 back at the Players Championship -- after his birdie putt on the 72nd hole cruelly lipped out. He was ranked No. 189 in the Official World Golf Ranking when he played in the 2022 Texas Children's Houston Open. Now, he's one of the best players in the world, ranking third on tour in shots gained: total (1.869), eighth in tee to green (1.214) and 12th in putting (.656).

3. Xander Schauffele

Schauffele couldn't hold a final-round lead at the Players Championship, but there's no question he has played spectacular golf lately. He has already piled up six top-10 finishes in eight starts this season, including top-5s in three of his past four. One of the top golfers in the world without a major championship victory, the former Olympic gold-medal winner will be riding a lot of momentum heading into the Masters, where he'll try to finally bag a big one.

4. Hideki Matsuyama

The 2021 Masters champion picked up his ninth PGA Tour victory at the Genesis Invitational in February. He followed that with a tie for 12th at the API and a tie for sixth at the Players Championship. Despite battling a back injury again, Matsuyama has been great from tee to green and around the green, but he ranks 134th in strokes gained: putting (-.378).

5. Ludvig Åberg

After picking up his first PGA Tour victory in his last start in 2023 at the RSM Classic, the former Texas Tech star hasn't slowed down. He has three top-10s in seven starts, including a runner-up finish at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. He hits it long and straight and doesn't make many mistakes. He'll make his first start in a major championship at the Masters.

6. Will Zalatoris

Zalatoris missed the cut in his most recent start at the Players Championship, but his form has returned after he underwent back surgery in April that sidelined him for the rest of 2023. He had a pair of top-5s against loaded fields in signature events -- a tie for fourth at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and for second at the Genesis Invitational. His ballstriking is as good as ever; he ranks sixth in strokes gained: approach (.789).

7. Rory McIlroy

McIlroy seemed poised for a fast start after he tied for second at the Dubai Invitational and won the Hero Dubai Desert Classic for a record fourth time on Jan. 21. That success hasn't carried over to the PGA Tour, however, as he has just one top-20 finish in five starts so far -- a tie for 19th at the Players Championship. He ranks second in strokes gained: off the tee (.938) but 119th in approach (-.176).

8. Brian Harman

Harman's missed cut at last week's Valspar Championship might have been the result of a hangover from his narrow miss at the Players Championship. He finished 1 stroke behind Scheffler and had a good look for a tying birdie on the 72nd hole. The reigning Open Championship winner tied for 12th at the API.

9. Nick Taylor

The Canadian picked up his fourth PGA Tour victory -- and his second straight in a playoff -- by outlasting Charley Hoffman in two extra holes at the WM Phoenix Open on Feb. 11. Taylor ranks 127th in strokes gained: off the tee (-.158) but makes up for it with stellar iron play (15th in approach) and putting (20th).

10. Matthieu Pavon

On Jan. 27, the 31-year-old became the first golfer from France since 1907 to win on the PGA Tour when he defeated Nicolai Hojgaard by 1 stroke at the Farmers Insurance Open. He also tied for seventh at the Sony Open in Hawaii and was solo third at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

11. Sahith Theegala

Theegala seems close to winning something big. He has four top-10s in eight starts this season, including in each of his past two -- a tie for sixth at the API and for ninth at the Players Championship. He's fourth on tour in shots gained: total (1.446) and seventh in putting (.821).

12. Sam Burns

Burns is tied with Theegala for third-most top-10 finishes on tour this season with four. He tied for third in the WM Phoenix Open and for 10th at the Genesis. He ranks 24th in shots gained: total (.875) and 23rd in putting (.542).

13. Cameron Young

Young narrowly missed out on picking up his elusive first PGA Tour victory again last week, finishing 2 strokes behind Peter Malnati at the Valspar Championship. It was Young's seventh runner-up finish in 60 tour starts, the most of any player without a victory dating back to 1970, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Young is too talented not to end the drought at some point.

14. Patrick Cantlay

The eight-time PGA Tour winner's results have been hit or miss so far this season. He tied for 11th at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and for fourth at the Genesis. Cantlay had four other finishes outside the top 35. His inconsistent play off the tee and iron play are to blame -- he ranks 143rd in strokes gained: approach (-.359) and 135th in driving accuracy (55.2% fairways hit).

15. Viktor Hovland

The reigning FedEx Cup champion, who looked ready to challenge Scheffler for world No. 1 at the end of last season, has limped through the first three months of 2024 with an average finish of 39.4 in five starts. He had just one top-20 -- a tie for 19th at the Genesis Invitational. Hovland has been frustrated with his swing and is working with a new coach, Grant Waite. His chipping woes have reemerged as well.

16. Jake Knapp

A nightclub bouncer just three years ago, Knapp became the third PGA Tour rookie to win this season when he captured the Mexico Open at Vidanta on Feb. 25. The former UCLA golfer has three top-5 finishes in 12 starts.

17. Chris Kirk

Kirk has cooled off a bit after capturing his sixth PGA Tour victory at the season-opening Sentry in Hawaii in January. It was his second win in 11 months after he came out on top at the Honda Classic in February 2023. He's 140th in strokes gained: putting (-.404) but has been more than solid off the tee and on approach.

18. Justin Thomas

JT's struggles seemed to be in the rearview mirror after he had four top-12 finishes in his first five starts this season. He took a couple of steps back with missed cuts at the Genesis Invitational and Players Championship and a tie for 64th at the Valspar Championship. Still, his form seems headed in the right direction again.

19. Shane Lowry

After a slow start to 2024, Lowry has rebounded with three consecutive top-20 finishes, including a tie for fourth at the Cognizant Classic and a solo third at the API. Lowry announced this week that he'll play with McIlroy in next month's Zurich Classic of New Orleans team event.

20. Matt Fitzpatrick

After a so-so start to the 2024 season, Fitzpatrick seems close to putting everything together after a solo-fifth finish at the Players Championship. He had missed cuts at the Sony Open, Genesis Invitational and API before he bounced back at TPC Sawgrass. He is driving the ball better off the tee after removing a 4-gram weight from the grip of the club. Fitzpatrick told PGATour.com that he forgot the weight was even there.

21. Max Homa

Homa came out of the gates well this season, tying for 14th at the Sentry and 13th at the Farmers Insurance Open. He also tied for eighth at the API. Homa has been wildly inconsistent off the tee, ranking 150th in driving accuracy (54.2%) and 115th in strokes gained: off the tee (-.117).

22. Byeong Hun An

The South Korean golfer lost to Grayson Murray in a playoff at the Sony Open in Hawaii and has played consistently well since. He has three top-10s and five top-25s with only one missed cut in eight starts. After losing his PGA Tour card in 2021, he has climbed back to No. 42 in the Official World Golf Ranking.

23. Jason Day

The former world No. 1 golfer played some of his best golf at the tour's biggest stops this season. He had three top-10s against elite fields at signature events, tying for 10th at the Sentry, for sixth at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and had a solo ninth at the Genesis. He has finished 16th or better in two of his three starts at Memorial Park, where his elite short game is a weapon.

24. Tom Hoge

Hoge has been a model of consistency this season, making the cut in nine of 10 starts with a pair of top-10 finishes. He performed well on the West Coast swing with a tie for sixth at Pebble Beach and solo eighth at the Genesis. His iron play continues to be among the best on tour -- he ranks second in shots gained: approach (1.234) and proximity (34 feet, 7 inches).

25. Peter Malnati

Bucket hats off to the PGA Tour policy board director, who picked up his second career PGA Tour victory -- and his first in 3,058 days -- at the Valspar Championship. He earned a two-year exemption, his first invitation to the Masters and a spot in the remaining four signature events of the season. He jumped from 184th to 65th in the world after the win.

Just missed the top 25: Harris English , Tommy Fleetwood , Austin Eckroat , Jordan Spieth , Collin Morikawa , Christiaan Bezuidenhout , J.T. Poston , Erik van Rooyen , Eric Cole , Grayson Murray, Min Woo Lee

Steven Alker, Retief Goosen, Alex Cejka share first-round lead at The Galleri Classic

Daily Wrap Up

Change Text Size

Things to know

• Charles Schwab Cup leader Steven Alker, World Golf Hall of Fame member Retief Goosen and reigning Senior Open champion Alex Cejka share the first-round lead at The Galleri Classic presented by Spotlight 29 Casino.

Steven Alker, 33-33 – 66 (-6)

• Is 4-for-7 converting those into victories
• Last win: 2024 Mitsubishi Electric Championship at Hualalai
• Note: This is the sixth event of the 2024 season
• Making his fifth start of the 2024 season, he has finished in the top 15 in each of his starts
• Has a 67.5 scoring average at Mission Hills (four rounds)
• Has led the Charles Schwab Cup standings for all five weeks during the 2024 season

Alex Cejka, 33-33 – 66 (-6)

• Is 1-for-4 converting those into victories
• Last win: 2023 Senior Open Championship presented by Rolex
• Best finish: T3 (Chubb Classic)
• Making his second appearance at The Galleri Classic, he finished T16 in 2023.
• Entered the week ranked No. 10 in the Charles Schwab Cup standings.

Retief Goosen, 31-35 – 66 (-6)

• Previous instance: Cologuard Classic (second Round)
• Is 0-for-2 converting those into victories
• Last win: 2022 Hoag Classic
• Making his third start of the 2024 season, his best finish is T11 (Hoag Classic).
• Over his last two rounds at Mission Hills, he has played Nos. 1-14 in a combined 16-under and Nos. 15-18 in a combined 3-over

Other notes

• The 60-year-old seeks his fourth win on PGA TOUR Champions (226th start)
• Last win: 2015 Charles Schwab Cup Championship
• Seven players sit T5 at 4-under, including GRAIL ambassador Steve Stricker and World Golf Hall of Fame member Ernie Els.
• Defending champion David Toms sits T12 after shooting 3-under 69.
• World Golf Hall of Fame member Fred Couples withdrew before the start of the first round, and alternate Scott Dunlap (T44) took his spot in the field.

How to watch

• Saturday: 3:30-6 p.m. (Golf Channel)
• Sunday: 2:30-6 p.m. (Golf Channel)