Augusta National Golf Club is defined not only by its iconic landmarks but also by the ambitious visions that never came to fruition. While many early concepts for the property—such as riding trails and real estate developments—have long been forgotten, one specific design remains hidden in plain sight: a secret 19th hole.
The Vision of 'Double or Quits'
In the winter of 1932, while finalizing the blueprints for the course, architect Dr. Alister MacKenzie proposed an additional 19th hole. Spanning approximately 90 yards, the short, strategic hole was intended to be located between the current 9th and 18th greens, running parallel to the clubhouse.
MacKenzie envisioned a challenging layout, which he named "Double or Quits." The concept was rooted in Scottish tradition, serving as a "bye hole" for players to seek redemption after their round. As MacKenzie noted:
«The design featured a plateau green with a punishing, narrow end guarded by two bunkers, alongside a wider, safer approach for those who preferred caution over risk.»
Both Bobby Jones and Clifford Roberts supported the idea, acknowledging that it brought an element of traditional, high-stakes golfing spirit to the club.
Economic Hardships and Abandoned Plans
The failure to construct the 19th hole was primarily driven by the grim financial reality of the era. The club opened during the depths of the Great Depression, and its early years were marked by constant instability. Membership numbers were strikingly low; despite an ambitious goal of 1,800 members, the club had attracted only 76 people after three years of recruitment.
Beyond the lack of funds, there were aesthetic considerations. Officials worried that the 19th hole would disrupt the panoramic view of the course from the clubhouse, compromising the sense of grandeur they were trying to establish. Consequently, the project was scrapped alongside other unrealized plans, such as a secondary golf course.
A Lingering Legacy
Despite being abandoned, the essence of "Double or Quits" has remained part of the club's geography. The site designated for the tee, located just to the left of the 18th fairway, eventually served as the club's original driving range.
Perhaps most intriguingly, the proposed putting surface for the 19th hole occupies the space that is now the club's famous practice putting green. This is the very location where, during the annual Masters ceremonies, the previous champion helps the new winner don the Green Jacket. While the original bet of the 19th hole was never finalized, the spirit of MacKenzie's design remains permanently etched into the site of one of golf's most iconic traditions.