The USGA and the PGA of America have both established rotas for their major championships, but with different approaches. The USGA has locked down top American courses for the foreseeable future, while the PGA has settled into a loose rota of venues that could host a U.S. Open but won't anytime soon. This article compares each course to a 90s and 00s band, offering a unique perspective on the emerging PGA Championship rota.
Quail Hollow (2017, 2025) - Coldplay
Coldplay's music is like a pleasant, unassuming background track. It's not demanding or rewarding, just nice. Similarly, Quail Hollow is a solid course, but it's not a standout choice for the PGA Championship.
Aronimink (2026) - Weezer
Weezer's early albums are iconic, but their recent struggles mirror the challenges faced by Aronimink. The course has its strengths, but it's not living up to its potential.
The Olympic Club (2028) - Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters are experts in their genre, delivering a consistent and proficient performance. The Olympic Club shares this trait, offering a reliable and well-crafted experience.
PGA Frisco (2027) - O-Town
O-Town was a corporate venture that lacked a unique identity. Similarly, PGA Frisco feels like a generic choice, lacking the excitement and individuality of other venues.
The Ocean Course at Kiawah (2012, 2021, 2031) - Green Day
Green Day's music is like a familiar, comforting radio hit. The Ocean Course at Kiawah has a similar appeal, offering a consistent and enjoyable experience.
Whistling Straits (2010, 2015) - Blink-182
Blink-182 is a solid band, but they're not as iconic as Green Day. Whistling Straits is a strong contender, but it's not the standout choice it once was.
Southern Hills (2022, 2032) - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty's music is crafted with attention to detail, creating timeless American music. Southern Hills shares this quality, offering a rich and rewarding experience.
Bethpage Black (2019, 2033) - Guns N' Roses
Guns N' Roses' live performances have become inconsistent, mirroring the unpredictability of Bethpage Black. The course is a challenge, but it's not the reliable choice it once was.
Oak Hill East (2013, 2023, 2035) - Oasis
Oasis is a well-loved band, but their music doesn't resonate with me. Oak Hill East is a strong course, but it's not the perfect fit for the PGA Championship.
Congressional Blue (2030) - Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots is a solid group, but their music can feel anonymous. Congressional Blue is a reliable choice, but it's not the most exciting option.
Bellerive (2018) - Bush
Bush's music is forgettable, and the same can be said for Bellerive. The course is functional, but it's not the standout choice.
TPC Harding Park (2020) - Dave Matthews Band
Dave Matthews Band is a pleasant presence, but their music doesn't demand a consistent place in my life. TPC Harding Park is a solid course, but it's not the ideal fit.
Baltusrol Lower (2016, 2029) - Metallica
Metallica's greatness is undeniable, but they became a joke in the early 00s. Baltusrol Lower is a strong course, but it's not the perfect choice.
Valhalla (2014, 2024) - Spin Doctors
Spin Doctors' music is a reminder of the 90s, but it's not a consistent presence. Valhalla is a reliable course, but it's not the most exciting option.
In conclusion, this comparison offers a unique perspective on the emerging PGA Championship rota, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each course in relation to their musical counterparts.
