'The 5th Major' The Players: "Tough Course and Bad Weather?"

Florida Ponte Vedra Beach Sawgrass TPC "Rain, Strong Winds, Lightning, and Cold Weather Forecasted During Tournament"

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "The probability of heavy rain in rounds 1 and 2 is up to 90%."

On the night of the 10th (Korean time), a new winning variable has emerged for the PGA Tour's "fifth major," The Players Championship (total prize money $20 million), which kicks off at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA (par 72, 7,256 yards). The variable is severe weather. According to meteorological authorities, "rain, strong winds, lightning, and cold will strike during the tournament." The probability of rain accompanied by lightning on the first and second days reaches 80 to 90%.

The expected rainfall is also considerable, around 30mm, and on the third day, about 25mm of rain in the morning will be accompanied by strong winds reaching up to 48 km/h in the afternoon. While the final day is expected to be free of rain and wind, the weather will turn cold. Daytime temperatures for rounds 1 and 2 will be around 25°C, dropping below 20°C on round 3, and down to 10°C on round 4. This is why the tournament committee is already busy preparing contingency plans for postponements during the first two days. Adjustments to pin positions and green speeds are also being discussed.

Players naturally view "overcoming the chaotic atmosphere caused by repeated suspensions and resumptions of play due to rain and wind" as an urgent priority. The score on the 17th hole (par 3), the most critical point at TPC Sawgrass, has become even more important. Although the hole is only 137 yards long, the wind, which changes direction and strength moment by moment over the island green, poses a challenge. Defending champion Justin Thomas (USA) explained, "When the north wind blows, you have to hit a 5-iron or 6-iron."

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