Golf is filled with unforgettable achievements, but few moments generate as much excitement as the ultra-rare double eagle. Before exploring historic highlights, it helps to understand what is an albatross in golf and why it captures so much attention. This remarkable score happens when a player finishes a hole three strokes under par usually by holing out in two shots on a par-5. Because it demands precision, power, and a bit of luck, it remains one of the rarest feats in the sport.
The Rarity That Makes History
An albatross is significantly rarer than even a hole-in-one. While many golfers may witness or record an ace during their lifetime, only a tiny percentage ever see a double eagle. The difficulty lies in the distance and accuracy required: a long, perfectly struck second shot must find the cup. That level of execution under pressure is what makes historic examples so memorable.
Gene Sarazen’s “Shot Heard Around the World” (1935)
One of the most famous moments came during the 1935 Masters at Augusta National. Gene Sarazen trailed the leader when he stepped up to the par-5 15th hole. Using a 4-wood from more than 200 yards out, he holed the shot for an albatross.
This incredible play tied him for the lead and ultimately helped him win in a playoff. The moment became known as the “shot heard around the world,” and it remains the most iconic double eagle in major championship history.
Jeff Maggert’s Masters Magic (1994)
Another memorable Masters moment occurred in 1994 when Jeff Maggert made an albatross on the 13th hole at Augusta National. His perfectly struck second shot rolled straight into the cup, stunning spectators and television viewers alike.
Although he did not go on to win the tournament, the shot is still replayed whenever Masters highlights are shown. It demonstrated how one swing can instantly electrify a major championship.
Louis Oosthuizen’s Open Championship Highlight (2012)
At the 2012 Open Championship at Royal Lytham & St Annes, Louis Oosthuizen produced one of the most visually memorable albatrosses ever recorded. On the par-5 second hole, his long approach shot landed short of the green, rolled forward, and disappeared into the hole.
The smooth, rolling finish made the moment especially dramatic on television. It also helped Oosthuizen build early momentum in the championship, reminding fans again how rare and spectacular this score truly is.
Shaun Micheel’s PGA Championship Surprise (2006)
During the 2006 PGA Championship, Shaun Micheel added his name to the list of players who have achieved this rare feat in a major. His long second shot found the cup on a par-5, creating one of the standout highlights of that tournament week.
Even though it did not lead to victory, the moment reinforced how quickly fortunes can change in professional golf.
Why These Moments Matter?
Historic double eagles are memorable not just because of the score but because of the circumstances surrounding them. They often occur under intense pressure, in major championships, or at critical turning points in tournaments.
Understanding what is an albatross in golf helps fans appreciate why commentators become so excited when it happens. It represents a perfect combination of distance control, accuracy, and timing something even elite professionals rarely achieve.
Can Amateur Golfers Experience One?
While most famous examples come from the professional game, amateur players can and occasionally do record an albatross. It typically happens on reachable par-5 holes where a strong drive sets up a long but manageable second shot.
For recreational golfers, the key ingredients include:
- Consistent long-distance driving
- Accurate fairway woods or long irons
- Smart course management
- A bit of good fortune
Because the odds are extremely low, many golfers play their entire lives without witnessing one in person.
Final Thoughts
The history of golf is filled with incredible achievements, but albatross moments stand in a class of their own. From Gene Sarazen’s legendary Masters shot to modern major-championship highlights, these rare scores continue to amaze fans around the world.
Whenever one occurs, it instantly becomes part of golfing folklore proof that in this game, a single swing can create history.
FAQs
- What is an albatross in golf?
An albatross is a score of three strokes under par on a single hole. It most commonly occurs when a player holes out in two shots on a par-5, making it one of golf’s rarest achievements. - How rare is an albatross compared to a hole-in-one?
An albatross is far rarer than a hole-in-one. While many golfers may eventually record an ace, double eagles happen only a tiny fraction of the time due to the long-distance precision required. - On which holes can you score an albatross?
It usually happens on par-5 holes by finishing in two shots. In very rare cases, it can occur on a par-4 when a player holes their tee shot.
4. Who made the most famous albatross in golf history?
Gene Sarazen’s 1935 Masters shot is widely considered the most famous. His holed 4-wood on the 15th hole helped him win the tournament in a playoff.
