In the world of golf, low scores are not just numbers; they symbolize extraordinary skill and precision that can define a player’s career. Legendary performances, marked by record-breaking scores, have captivated fans and inspired future generations of golfers. This article aims to explore the best golf scores in history, focusing on both professional records and notable amateur achievements.
The Best Round in PGA Tour History: Jim Furyk’s 58
In 2016, Jim Furyk etched his name into the annals of golf history by shooting a remarkable 58 during the final round of the Travelers Championship.
- Date: August 7, 2016
- Course: TPC River Highlands, par 70
- Score Breakdown: Furyk’s round included 10 birdies, one eagle, and only one bogey.
Furyk’s score is historic as he is the only golfer to have ever shot a 58 in PGA Tour history, surpassing the previous record of 59 that had been achieved by multiple players, including Furyk himself in 2013.
The Best 72-Hole Tournament Score in PGA Tour History
Cameron Smith holds the record for the best 72-hole score relative to par, shooting an impressive 34-under-par at the 2022 Sentry Tournament of Champions.
- Course: Plantation Course at Kapalua, par 73
- Total Score: Smith’s rounds were 65, 64, 64, and 65, totaling 258.
This achievement broke Ernie Els’ previous record of 31-under set in 2003 at the same event.
Notable Low Scores in Major Championships
- Henrik Stenson – 20-Under at the 2016 Open Championship
Stenson set the record for the lowest score to par in a major championship with a final score of 20-under-par at Royal Troon. His final round included a stunning 63 that secured his victory over Phil Mickelson. - Dustin Johnson – 20-Under at the 2020 Masters
Johnson matched Stenson’s record at Augusta National, setting a new Masters scoring record with his dominant performance.
Best Golf Scores in Women’s Golf
- Annika Sörenstam – 59 at the 2001 Standard Register Ping
Sörenstam made history as the first woman to shoot a sub-60 round on the LPGA Tour with her incredible performance that featured 13 birdies and no bogeys. - Sei Young Kim – 31-Under at the 2018 Thornberry Creek LPGA Classic
Kim’s score is notable as it represents the lowest total relative to par in LPGA Tour history.
Best Amateur Golf Scores
- Rhein Gibson – 55 in 2012
Gibson shot a staggering 55 during a casual round at River Oaks Golf Club in Oklahoma. This score is recognized as the lowest ever recorded in golf history, consisting of 12 birdies and two eagles on a par-71 course. - David Carey – 57 at the 2019 Cervino Open
Carey achieved a remarkable score of 57 during this Alps Tour event, showcasing that historic rounds can occur outside of major tours.
Comparing the Best Golf Scores
| Category | Score | Player |
|---|---|---|
| Best Single-Round Score | Jim Furyk – 58 | Jim Furyk |
| Best Amateur Score | Rhein Gibson – 55 | Rhein Gibson |
| Best Tournament Score Relative to Par | Cameron Smith -34 | Cameron Smith |
| Major Championships | Henrik Stenson/Dustin Johnson -20 | Stenson/Johson |
FAQs
- What’s the Lowest Score Ever Recorded in Professional Golf?
The lowest score is Rhein Gibson’s unofficial round of 55. In official events, Jim Furyk’s score of 58 stands as the lowest.
- What’s the Best 72-Hole Score in PGA Tour History?
Cameron Smith holds this record with a score of 34-under-par at the Sentry Tournament of Champions.
- Has Anyone Shot 59 in a Major Championship?
No golfer has ever shot a 59 in a major championship; the lowest round recorded is a score of 62.
- What’s the Lowest Score in Women’s Golf?
Annika Sörenstam holds this record with her round of 59.
- How Many Golfers Have Shot 59 on the PGA Tour?
As of now, there are thirteen golfers who have achieved this feat on the PGA Tour.
Conclusion
The milestones achieved by golfers like Jim Furyk, Cameron Smith, and Annika Sörenstam highlight some of the most remarkable performances in golf history. These scores serve as benchmarks for excellence and resilience within the sport. As golf continues to evolve with new talent emerging each year, fans eagerly await future record-breaking performances that will add to this rich legacy.
