Miles Bennett
A double eagle, also known as an albatross, is a rare golf score of three strokes under par on a single hole. It is most commonly achieved with two shots on a par-5 hole, but it can also be achieved with a hole-in-one on a par-4. The term double eagle is predominantly used in the United States, while albatross is more common in the UK and other parts of the world. Achieving a double eagle requires a combination of skill and luck, and it is considered a notable milestone in a golfer's career.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alternative name | Albatross |
| Score | 3-under-par on a single hole |
| Par | 4 or 5 |
| Holes-in-one | On a par 4 |
| Number of shots | 2 on a par 5 |
| Recorded occurrences | 981 since 1870 |
| Recorded occurrences (amateurs) | 530 |
| Recorded occurrences (professionals) | 451 |
| Recorded occurrences (casual play) | 1,960 |
| Recorded occurrences (LPGA Tour Majors) | 5 |
| Recorded occurrences (PGA Tour Majors) | 14 |
| Recorded occurrences (Champions Tour Majors) | 3 |
| Recorded occurrences (same round) | 16 |
| Recorded occurrences (same round, par-5s) | 1 |
| Youngest person | Six years old |
| Oldest golfer | 82 years old |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Double eagle vs albatross
A "double eagle" and an "albatross" are terms used in golf for a three-under-par score on any single hole. A golfer can only achieve this on par-4 and par-5 holes. On a par-5 hole, a double eagle or albatross is made by holing out from the fairway on the second shot. On a par-4 hole, it is a hole-in-one. Both scores are very rare.
The term "double eagle" is more commonly used by American golfers, while "albatross" is more widely used in the rest of the world. The term albatross is said to have originated in Scotland. The earliest discovered written use of albatross in its golf sense is from 1929. However, double eagle was found to be used in American newspapers as early as 1920, with some sources claiming usage by golfers in the 1910s.
There is some debate about the correctness of the term "double eagle". Some argue that since an eagle refers to two-under-par, a double eagle would be four-under-par, which is known as a condor. Therefore, using the term double eagle to describe a three-under-par is mathematically incorrect.
Despite the disagreement over the term "double eagle", both terms are considered interchangeable and equally correct. Golfers can use whichever term they prefer, or even use them interchangeably.
Golf: A Rich Person's Sport?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Shaun Lynch's double eagle
A double eagle in golf, also known as an albatross, is a score of three under par on a single hole. This rare feat is typically achieved on a par-5 hole, when a golfer sinks their second shot into the cup from a long distance, usually requiring a combination of power and precision. On June 23, 2025, Shaun Lynch, a 32-year-old amateur golfer from Dublin, Ireland, experienced the round of his life and achieved this remarkable feat.
Lynch, a self-taught golfer who plays at the local Balcarrick Golf Club, stepped onto the course early in the morning, unaware of the destiny that awaited him. It was a calm and clear day, providing ideal conditions for golf. As he approached the 520-yard par-5 5th hole, known for its tricky layout, Lynch felt confident and focused. His drive was powerful and straight, setting him up for a potential reach for the green in two.
With a smooth 3-wood, Lynch struck the ball perfectly, watching it soar through the air with a gentle draw. The ball landed short of the green and, to everyone's amazement, took a favourable bounce, rolling smoothly onto the putting surface. As the ball continued its journey, it trickled closer and closer to the hole, and in a moment of pure magic, disappeared into the cup for a double eagle. Lynch raised his arms in triumph as his playing partners erupted in cheers, celebrating the extraordinary achievement.
This remarkable feat was witnessed by his regular golfing partners, who were quick to congratulate him. The group, still buzzing from the excitement, continued their round, with Lynch playing consistently and finishing with a personal record-low score. The double eagle not only highlighted Lynch's natural talent but also showcased the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the game, where anything can happen, even for amateur golfers.
Lynch's achievement will forever be etched in the memories of those present and will surely inspire other golfers in the community. It serves as a testament to the beauty of the game, where skill, luck, and dedication converge to create unforgettable moments. This rare occurrence will undoubtedly be a topic of conversation in the clubhouse for years to come, inspiring golfers of all ages and skill levels to dream of their own double eagles.
Following the round, Lynch shared his joy, "It still feels surreal. Golf is a game of patience, practice, and persistence, and today it all came together. I'm grateful for the support of my golfing buddies, who shared in this special moment. It's a day I'll never forget and a reminder that in golf, as in life, remarkable things can happen when you least expect them." This double eagle is a testament to Lynch's golfing ability and a source of inspiration for golfers everywhere.
Golf Alltrack: Sold Out or Still Available?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Double eagle rarity
A double eagle, also known as an albatross, is one of the rarest scores in golf. It involves completing a hole three strokes under par, which is an exceptional feat that occurs with almost mythical frequency. The term "double eagle" is more commonly used in the United States, while "albatross" is the preferred term in the UK and other parts of the world.
The rarity of a double eagle is due to the perfect combination of power, precision, and luck required to achieve it. It is significantly rarer than a hole-in-one, and golfers who accomplish this feat often find their names etched in the annals of golf history. The odds of achieving a double eagle are estimated to be around one in a million for professional golfers and even lower for amateurs.
In PGA Tour tournaments, double eagles are much less common than holes-in-one. This is because they typically require an exceptionally long and precise shot on a par-5 hole, where the margin for error is minimal. Golf courses are designed with obstacles and challenges that even the most expert players find difficult to navigate.
The term "double eagle" originated in the United States and has become ingrained in the golf vernacular there. The use of the term "albatross" in golf, on the other hand, dates back to the early 20th century and is derived from the large seabird known for its impressive wingspan and rarity. The name symbolizes the uncommon and remarkable nature of achieving a double eagle in golf.
While the terms refer to the same golfing achievement, their usage varies by region and local golfing traditions and culture. Both terms are considered correct and interchangeable, with the choice of terminology often influenced by personal preference and golfing background.
Who's Leading the Pack in the PGA?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Youngest double eagle golfer
A double eagle in golf is a three-under-par score on a single hole. This can be achieved on par 4 and par 5 holes. On a par 5 hole, a double eagle is achieved by holing out from the fairway on the second shot. On a par 4 hole, it is a hole-in-one.
The term albatross, which is more commonly used outside the US, is interchangeable with double eagle, as both terms refer to the same score.
The youngest golfer to achieve a double eagle was six-year-old Nathan Notes, who scored a double eagle on the par 5, 250-yard hole at the Heritage Hills Golf Course in York, Pennsylvania, on September 20, 2020.
Prior to Nathan Notes' achievement, golf historians had considered Tommy Moore, who scored a double eagle at age 13 in 1975, to be the youngest golfer to achieve the feat. However, in more recent years, 11-year-old Ethan N. Ray and 14-year-old James Blane have also scored double eagles.
Tyler, the Creator Shops: Legit or Scam?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$18.75 $32.99
Two double eagles in one round
A double eagle in golf, also known as an albatross, is a score of three under par on a single hole. This rare feat is typically achieved on a par-5 hole, where a golfer sinks their ball into the cup with only two shots, or on a par-6 or par-7 hole with three or four shots respectively. The odds of an amateur golfer making a double eagle are estimated to be around 6 million to 1, making it an extremely uncommon and impressive achievement. Now, imagine the incredible luck and skill required to score not just one, but two double eagles in a single round of golf!
While the exact odds of achieving this feat are difficult to pinpoint due to its extreme rarity, it is safe to say that the probability is astonishingly low. A golfer would need an exceptional combination of skill, strategy, and a healthy dose of good fortune to even have a chance at scoring two double eagles in one round. The feat would require precise execution of long-distance shots, accurate reading of the greens, and a bit of luck with the bounce of the ball or the roll on the green.
To put this achievement into perspective, let's consider some of the most notable occurrences of two double eagles in one round. In 2016, 15-year-old Beau Brisebois accomplished this feat during a junior tournament in Canada. More recently, in 2021, 18-year-old Connor Gaunt achieved this remarkable feat during the first round of the Dogwood Invitational in Atlanta, Georgia. These young golfers showcased an incredible display of talent and luck, solidifying their names in golf's record books.
While the odds may be stacked against any golfer attempting to score two double eagles in one round, it is not impossible. With the right combination of skill, strategy, and a healthy dose of luck, any golfer can dream of achieving this remarkable feat and etching their name into golf's history books. It is a testament to the unpredictable and exciting nature of the game, where even the rarest of accomplishments is within the realm of possibility. So, the next time you tee it up, remember that with a little luck and a lot of skill, you too could be one of the select few to achieve this incredible golfing milestone!
Golf Style Icon: Travis Mathew
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
A double eagle, also known as an albatross, is a rare golf score of three strokes less than par on a single hole.
On a par-5 hole, a golfer can score a double eagle by holing out from the fairway on their second shot. On a par-4 hole, a golfer can score a double eagle by making a hole-in-one.
An eagle is a score of two strokes less than par. A double eagle, or albatross, is a score of three strokes less than par.
