Tyrrell Hatton Intensifies Criticism of Abu Dhabi Golf Hole

Bassyonni

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Tyrrell Hatton Intensifies Criticism of Abu Dhabi Golf Hole

Tyrrell Hatton has sharply criticized the 18th hole at Yas Links, labeling it his least favorite in the Middle East. This sentiment arose after his performance in the penultimate event of the DP World Tour season. The golfer’s frustrations with the challenge presented by this hole have been vocal and unfiltered.

Tyrrell Hatton’s Frustration on the 18th Hole

Hatton expressed his dislike for the hole following his impressive third-round score of 64, which ended with a bogey on the par-5 18th. He previously recorded a double bogey on the same hole, which further fueled his dissatisfaction.

Key Concerns on Course Design

During a post-round interview, Hatton mentioned his disdain for the bunker positioned in the center of the fairway. He described a mishap where his ball plugged in the bunker, leading him to question the quality of the sand used at Yas Links. “It was a perfect tee shot,” he remarked, yet the outcome left him frustrated.

Bunker placement at 280 yards in the fairway.
Water hazard along the left side of the hole.
Challenges in positioning for a comfortable lay-up.

Comparing the 18th Hole to Others

Hatton’s criticism isn’t new. He has characterized the 18th as “one of the worst par-5s I’ve ever seen in my life.” His comments stem from past experiences, including a quadruple-bogey during the 2022 Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. He questioned the logic of the hole’s design, specifically noting its unnecessary bunker and excessive length from the forward tees.

“If you hit a good drive as a pro, you should have a chance to go for the green in two,” Hatton stated. His frustration highlights the complexities players face when tackling this hole, particularly under challenging weather conditions.

Conclusion

Tyrrell Hatton’s critique of the 18th hole at Yas Links underscores broader concerns about golf course design. As the DP World Tour season pushes forward, his candor may resonate with both players and fans, sparking further discussions on what makes a golf hole enjoyable and fair.