Living in Jacksonville, when March arrives, not only golf enthusiasts but also those who usually have little interest in golf hear about THE PLAYERS Championship. If I had to choose the most famous sports event in the Jacksonville area, I couldn't overlook this tournament.

The exact location is not downtown Jacksonville but TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, located to the southeast.

It's within driving distance from Jacksonville, so for local residents, it feels like Jacksonville's representative annual event.

THE PLAYERS Championship is organized by the PGA TOUR and features top players from around the world.

While it is not one of the four major tournaments, due to the prize money, the caliber of players, and the course's reputation, it is regarded as a very important event among golf fans.

The 2026 tournament was held from March 12 to 15, with a total prize pool of a whopping $25 million. The winner, Cameron Young, received $4.5 million, giving you an idea of the tournament's scale. The winner also receives 750 FedExCup points.

However, the true star that has made this tournament world-famous is not just the players. It's the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass.

It's a par 72 course measuring 7,352 yards, and if you've watched even a little golf on TV, you've probably seen the 17th hole.

It's the famous par 3 hole that looks like a small green floating in the middle of the water.

Commonly referred to as the island green, if the ball is even slightly short or off-target, it goes straight into the water. Even professional players show signs of tension when they stand here. During the final round, a player might drop a ball in the water at the 17th hole, causing a shift in rankings.

Seeing it in person is different from watching it on TV. The distance between the players and the audience is closer than you might think, and you can hear the sound of the ball being struck clearly. Especially around holes 16 to 18, where the competition is decided, the atmosphere on the final day is truly electric.

It's not just a quiet event where you follow the players all day. The tournament venue has areas selling food and drinks, as well as various corporate experience facilities and viewing areas. Many people come with friends, couples, or families for a day out. So for Jacksonville residents, it feels like a major spring festival as well as a golf tournament.

During the tournament, traffic patterns change from usual. Roads around Ponte Vedra Beach and TPC Sawgrass get congested, and hotels and restaurants are bustling. If you're coming from out of town to watch, it's best to book accommodations in advance, and it's convenient to check parking and shuttle information before heading to the venue. It's also a good idea to prepare tickets for popular rounds in advance.

This tournament holds special memories for Korean golf fans as well. In 2011, K.J. Choi won THE PLAYERS Championship, and in 2017, Si Woo Kim took the title. Notably, Si Woo became the youngest winner in tournament history at just 21 years old, drawing significant attention.

When people think of Jacksonville, they often first think of the ocean, naval bases, and the Jaguars football team, but living here, you realize that golf is a significant part of the local culture.

So if you're visiting Jacksonville in March, be sure to check the schedule for THE PLAYERS Championship. If you love golf, you can see world-class players right in front of you, and even if you're not familiar with golf, just seeing the famous 17th hole in person is enjoyable.

Once you visit the site, you'll truly understand why golf fans from around the world flock to Jacksonville every year.