Can a single hole determine a champion? This week marks the start of the 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, and the course itself is receiving more attention than the players. With previous winning scores of around -25, the tournament is notoriously low-scoring and frequently becomes a birdie-fest. But don’t let that fool you, though; TPC Craig Ranch has some difficulties that might make or ruin a contender’s round.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, reigning winner Taylor Pendrith, and other elite competitors Jordan Spieth, Tom Kim, and Sam Burns are among the 156-player field that will compete in the May 1–May 4, 2025, tournament. They are vying for a purse of $9.9 million, with the winner receiving $1.782 million and 500 FedExCup points.

Since 2021, the tournament has been held at the 7,569-yard par-71 TPC Craig Ranch. Although the course has received modest scores, some holes stand out due to their strategic demands and complexity. Let’s check out the five most difficult holes that might be crucial in choosing this year’s winner.

Inside the 5 most brutal tests at TPC Craig Ranch

TPC Craig Ranch is a mental marathon as well as a test of skill, with several holes known for converting possible wins into surprise losses. Below are some of these holes:

1. 13th Hole: The gauntlet begins

At TPC Craig Ranch, the 13th hole is a challenging par-4 that is 512 yards long. With few choices for a left bailout, players must make a daring tee shot across a creek and a string of bunkers. Due to its considerable narrowing, the fairway requires accuracy and distance off the tee. The water or heavy rough is easy for an errant drive to find, making par difficult. Getting closer to the green doesn’t get any simpler.

Bunkers protect the putting surface, and even the finest putters can be confused by the green’s delicate undulations. To have a genuine chance of making a birdie on this hole, one must drive properly and approach the hole precisely. The 13th hole has frequently been over par and has consistently been rated as one of the most challenging in past tournaments. This is a hole where the leaderboard can change significantly, particularly during the last rounds.

2. 16th Hole: The silent assassin

At 492 yards, the 16th hole is another long par-4. It’s a strategic challenge that puts a player’s course management skills to the test, even though it might not have the 13th’s visual intimidation. The landing area is smaller than it looks from the tee, and bunkers flank the fairway. The approach shot is just as tricky.

The green is sheltered by bunkers on both sides and is somewhat raised. The putting surface has small breaks that, if not handled carefully, can result in three-putts. Missing the green can also cause a difficult up-and-down. The result of the tournament is frequently determined by the 16th. Since ambitious strokes can result in bogeys or worse, playing conservatively may be the wisest course of action on this hole.

3. 14th Hole: Risk and reward

The 14th hole, a 362-yard driveable par-4, presents a tempting opportunity. However, the ultimate in risk and return lies in this hole. With several bunkers encircling the green and water lurking on the left, the tee shot goes downward. The golfers have to choose between laying up to a safer distance or going for the green. Although there is little tolerance for error, going for the green can result in opportunities for an eagle or birdie.

However, a small error in judgment could cause the ball to hit a bunker or water, resulting in a bogey or worse. Controlling distance is essential when laying up, as it requires a crisp wedge shot to a green that slopes gradually. The 14th hole has the power to turn a round around or turn the tide in a player’s favor. It is a little representation of the tactical choices that characterize golf tournaments.

4. 18th Hole: The final test

Depending on where the tee is placed, the 18th hole at TPC Craig Ranch is a par-5 that ranges from 514 to 552 yards in length. It’s a traditional finishing hole that presents a scoring opportunity but requires cautious play. Although the fairway is broad, it features water hazards and bunkers strategically positioned to capture misdirected shots. The 18th is an opportunity for players in the running to gain ground or extend a lead.

Long hitters can reach the green in two, but putting is challenging due to the tricky surface and bunkers that guard the green. To lay up and create a birdie opportunity, a precise third shot is necessary. There have been exciting endings on the 18th in previous tournaments, with players making birdies, bogeys, or even eagles under pressure. It’s a perfect way to end a course that challenges every facet of a player’s skill set.

5. 12th Hole: The hidden challenge

The 12th hole is a 493-yard par-4 that requires precision and foresight. The tee shot must traverse a fairway surrounded by bunkers and trees, and longer hitters may need to cross a river. Setting up a controllable approach shot requires careful positioning off the tee. A bunker protects the green, which slopes gently, necessitating a precise approach to avoid challenging putts. The hole’s challenges are just as significant, even though it lacks the visual intimidation of other holes on the course. Birdies must be gained on this hole when par is a good score. Although it frequently goes unnoticed, the 12th can be a game-changing event.

Without a doubt, these five holes will be crucial in deciding the winner of the 2025 CJ Cup Byron Nelson. Knowing that every mistake could be the difference between winning and losing, players must use skill and strategy to overcome these obstacles.