John Daly Sets Unfortunate Record with 19-Stroke Hole as Golf Fans React
Introduction: A Surprising Day on the Course
John Daly has made headlines once again, but this time for an astonishing feat that no golfer wishes to accomplish. Competing in the 2025 Sanford International at Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Daly struggled immensely on the par-5 12th hole, finishing with a staggering 19 strokes. This unprecedented score is a new personal worst for the former major champion.
The 12th Hole Breakdown
- Location: Minnehaha Country Club, Sioux Falls, SD
- Hole Type: Par-5
- Daly’s Score: 19 strokes, 18-over par for the round
Complications Faced by Daly
The 12th hole is notorious for its challenges, primarily due to a creek that stretches along the fairway. Here’s how Daly’s round unfolded:
- Tee Shot Woes: Started with a rough tee shot into the tall grass.
- Out of Bounds: Daly hit the ball out of bounds an astonishing seven times consecutively.
- Water Hits: Several attempts landed in the water and nearby woods before he could finally reach the green.
Remarkably, after countless attempts, Daly only required one putt to finish the hole.
Current Tournament Standing
By the end of the round, Daly finished 18-over par and found himself 24 strokes behind the leader, Angel Cabrera, who was at 6-under par.
Historical Context: Golf’s Toughest Challenges
Daly’s 19-stroke hole manages to outdo his previous record of 18 strokes, set during the 1998 Bay Hill Invitational. Yet, even this staggering score doesn’t quite approach the PGA Tour’s record for the most strokes taken on a single hole. This infamous achievement belongs to Tommy Armour, who took 23 strokes on the 17th hole at the Shawnee Open in 1927.
Notable Previous Scores by Daly:
- U.S. Open 2000: 14 strokes on the 18th hole at Pebble Beach.
- John Deere Classic 2011: 13 strokes on the fourth hole.
Fans’ Reactions and Community Response
Golf fans and commentators have taken to social media to express a mix of disbelief and amusement. Comments range from sympathetic to playful observations about the challenges of golf.
Quotes from the Community
- "Only Daly could turn a golf day into a comedy show!"
- "19 strokes? That’s golf at its most unpredictable."
Final Thoughts: The Resilience of Golf
While John Daly’s round may be a stark reminder of golf’s unpredictability, it also highlights the resilience it takes to play the game. As Daly himself is known for his spirit and tenacity, fans await how he’ll bounce back in the remaining rounds.
For more on Daly’s incredible journey and other golf updates, check out Golf Digest and stay tuned for the latest happenings in the world of golf.
