Golf is often seen as a sport of precision, patience, and strategy. But for many, the golf course has been more than just a field of play—it has been a setting for romance, a backdrop to chance encounters, and a place where love has blossomed amidst the rolling greens and sand traps. From serendipitous meetings to long-lasting partnerships, love stories on the golf course are as varied as the game itself.

One of the most well-known golf love stories is that of Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll. The two first crossed paths at the 2012 Ryder Cup, where Stoll, then working for the PGA of America, played a key role in ensuring McIlroy made it to his tee time on time after a scheduling mishap. What began as a simple act of kindness blossomed into a deep friendship and eventually a romance. The couple tied the knot in a stunning ceremony in 2017, but sadly ended their relationship recently.

For some, the golf course has set the stage for unforgettable romantic gestures. Dustin Johnson, one of the most dominant players in professional golf, found love with Paulina Gretzky, daughter of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. The couple first met in 2009 but didn’t start dating until 2013. Johnson proposed later that year, and they have since built a family together. Paulina has been a constant presence at tournaments, supporting Johnson as he has claimed major victories, including his 2020 Masters triumph.

Beyond proposals, many professional golfers have incorporated golf into their weddings. Brooks Koepka and actress Jena Sims, for example, have been an inseparable couple since they began dating in 2017. Known for their playful chemistry, Koepka and Sims tied the knot in a lavish beachside wedding in 2022. Jena, a passionate golfer herself, frequently accompanies Brooks to tournaments and has been a source of motivation through his career highs and lows.

Golf can be a competitive game, but for many professional players, it has also been a source of love and companionship. Tiger Woods, one of the greatest golfers of all time, has had a well-documented personal life. His relationship with former ski racer Lindsey Vonn was one of the most high-profile pairings in sports. Although they eventually parted ways, their shared passion for competition and mutual respect demonstrated how athletes from different disciplines can find common ground and support one another.

Love stories on the golf course are not just for young couples. Many senior golfers have found lasting love through the sport. Take two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer and his wife, Vikki Carol. Married for over 35 years, the couple has built a life together centered around faith, family, and golf. Vikki has been a steadfast supporter of Langer’s career, traveling with him across the globe as he continues to dominate the PGA Tour Champions circuit.

There’s something about the golf course that lends itself to romance. Perhaps it’s the tranquil setting, the shared moments of triumph and frustration, or the simple joy of spending hours together in a relaxed and beautiful environment. Whether it’s a first date, a proposal, a wedding, or decades of companionship, the golf course has played a pivotal role in many love stories, including those of PGA professionals.

So the next time you tee off, take a moment to appreciate the connections that golf fosters—not just between club and ball, but between people. You never know if your next round might lead to a love story of your own.

Florida is a favorite among golf lovers with 1,154 courses and 101 sunny days each year. The state also boasts the most rounds played, the most new courses opened, and the most courses under construction or in planning.

Several of its major cities offer top-notch golf experiences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best public golf courses in Florida:

Orange County National Golf Center
Features two championship courses, Panther Lake and Crooked Cat, and a 9-hole short course called “The Tooth.” Renowned for its exceptional practice facilities and hosting the PGA Merchandise Show Demo Day.

Copperhead Course at Innisbrook Golf Resort
This Larry Packard-designed course is a favorite among PGA Tour players, known for its challenging layout and natural beauty. It hosts the Valspar Championship annually.

Old Corkscrew Golf Club
A Jack Nicklaus-designed championship course, it offers a scenic and challenging experience with firm greens and abundant wildlife. It consistently ranks among Florida’s top public courses.

Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne: Located just 10 minutes from downtown Miami, this unique public course offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It features challenging bunkering, mangrove thickets, and seven saltwater lakes.

PGA Golf Club: Located in Port St. Lucie, about an hour north of West Palm Beach, this club offers three distinct 18-hole courses: the Dye, Ryder, and Wanamaker. It will host the 2025 PGA Professional Championship.

Diverse and Exceptional Courses

Iconic Venues: Florida boasts several legendary golf courses that offer unforgettable experiences:

Unique Course Characteristics

Varied Landscapes: Florida golf courses offer remarkable diversity:

• Links-style experiences
• Coastal views with ocean breezes
• Courses with dramatic elevation changes
• Layouts featuring water hazards, strategic bunkers, and challenging greens

World-Class Amenities

Most top Florida courses provide:

• Luxury resort accommodations
• Professional-level practice facilities
• Top-tier caddies and service
• Stunning natural scenery

Pro Tip: Bring your best game and be prepared for challenging, memorable golf experiences across Florida’s diverse courses.

For amateur golfers seeking to enhance their game, stay updated on golf news, or simply enjoy engaging discussions, podcasts offer a convenient and informative medium. Based on recommendations from reputable sources and golf communities, here are some top golf podcasts tailored for non-professional enthusiasts:

Hosted by CBS commentator Mark Immelman, this podcast features weekly interviews with instructors, coaches, players, and other golf experts. With over 700 episodes, it provides in-depth discussions aimed at helping golfers improve their skills.

A favorite among golf enthusiasts, No Laying Up offers a mix of tour coverage, player interviews, and discussions on various golf topics. It’s known for its insightful commentary and engaging content.

Featuring European Tour player Eddie Pepperell, this podcast provides a blend of tour insights and personal experiences, offering listeners a unique perspective on the professional golf scene.

This podcast chronicles the journey of two amateur golfers striving to achieve a scratch handicap. It’s relatable for many non-professional players and offers both entertainment and insights into the challenges of improving one’s game.

Hosted by golf coach Mark Crossfield, this podcast delves into various aspects of the game, from equipment reviews to swing techniques, providing practical advice for amateur golfers.

Hosted by Rick Shiels, a former golf teaching professional from Bolton, this podcast covers a wide range of topics, including equipment reviews, interviews with golf personalities, and discussions on current events in the golf world.

Hosted by popular golfer Andrew “Beef” Johnston and comedian John Robins, this podcast offers a light-hearted take on the game, discussing various golf topics and sharing personal anecdotes.

This podcast explores the highs and lows of being a golf enthusiast, sharing stories and experiences that many amateur golfers can relate to.

Featuring instructors Mark Crossfield, Greg Chalmers, and Lou Stagner, this podcast discusses various aspects of the game, offering insights and tips to help golfers improve.

Hosted by Peter Finch, this podcast features discussions with various guests, covering a wide range of golf-related topics, from equipment to personal experiences.

These podcasts offer a variety of content tailored to amateur golfers, from instructional advice to entertaining discussions. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy golf-related conversations, there’s likely a podcast on this list that suits your interests.