As the winter chill sets in and holiday lights begin to twinkle, there’s something undeniably magical about curling up indoors and tuning into live sports—especially when it’s golf in the sun-soaked Bahamas. But here’s where it gets controversial: while most of us are bundled up against the cold, 20 PGA TOUR pros are teeing off at the Hero World Challenge, a tournament that feels like a tropical escape for both players and viewers alike. Written by Rob Bolton, this event isn’t just another stop on the tour—it’s a high-stakes, no-cut, $5 million extravaganza where every swing counts, and Scottie Scheffler is aiming for his third consecutive win. And this is the part most people miss: while Scheffler’s dominance is undeniable, Albany’s Ernie Els-designed course is no pushover, offering a unique blend of par 3s and 5s that keeps even the best golfers on their toes.
The Hero World Challenge is more than just a tournament; it’s a golfer’s dream. With no cut, a hefty purse, and Official World Golf Ranking points up for grabs, it’s a rare opportunity to shine. But to claim the top prize, contenders must outplay Scottie Scheffler, who’s become Albany’s reigning king. After finishing second to Viktor Hovland in his first two appearances, Scheffler flipped the script, winning the next two tournaments and now gunning for a threepeat. (Hovland, notably, hasn’t qualified for the second year in a row—a detail that’s sure to spark debate among fans.)
Scheffler’s numbers at Albany are staggering. In 16 competitive rounds, he’s averaged an impressive 67.25 on the par-72 course, dipping even lower to 66.38 in his victories. Last year, he tied the tournament record with a 25-under 263, securing a six-stroke win—his ninth worldwide in 2024. Fast forward to 2025, and he’s already notched six wins, proving he’s a force to be reckoned with over 72 holes.
But Albany isn’t just a stage for Scheffler’s brilliance; it’s a course that demands versatility. Stretching 7,449 yards with five par 3s and five par 5s, it offers ample opportunities for risk and reward. Last year’s scoring average of 69.94 mirrored 2023’s, and while it shares similarities with the Grand Reserve Golf Club (home of the Puerto Rico Open), Albany’s Bermuda grass fairways and 2-inch rough add a unique challenge. Precision is key, especially on approach shots to greens averaging just 4,500 square feet.
Here’s the kicker: While Albany’s layout encourages low scores, it’s never seen a playoff. With a small field and only two one-stroke victories since 2015, it’s a course where consistency reigns supreme. But as the winds pick up mid-tournament and temperatures hover around 80 degrees, will Scheffler’s streak continue, or will a new contender rise? Let’s spark some debate—do you think Scheffler’s dominance at Albany is sustainable, or is this the year someone dethrones him? Share your thoughts in the comments!
