Top 100 Courses in the World: GOLF’s 2021-22 ranking of the best designs on the planet

GOLF has been ranking the world’s best courses for the better part of four decades. And I’d wager my finest Pinehurst No. 2 ball marker against whatever you value in your bag that this ranking period (between January 2020 and now) was the most nuanced yet.

GOLF’s 107 raters spread across the globe dealt with Covid restrictions to deliver a comprehensive review of the game’s elite venues — including major renovation projects that demanded full attention in addition to a steady supply of new designs. Kudos to the group.

The result is what we feel is the smartest vote on architecture among the myriad media outlets that also rate courses. Yes, stalwarts remain, but, if you look closely at the list, you’ll notice that what was once considered “great” architecture is taking on a decidedly broader definition.

Scroll down to check out our latest and greatest. Enjoy! — Ran Morrissett, GOLF’s Architecture Editor

Photos in revolving gallery above: Royal County Down (Evan Schiller), Friar’s Head (Jon Cavalier), Baltusrol Lower (Patrick Koenig), Tara Iti (Jacob Sjoman), Ardfin (Konrad Borkowski)

Podcast: What makes a Top 100 course? With GOLF Course Rater Lukas Michel

Methodology: How we rate courses | Meet our expert panelists

More GOLF course rankings: Top 100 Courses in the U.S. | Top 100 Courses You Can Play | Top 100 Value Courses in the U.S. | America’s Best Municipal Courses | Top 100 Short Courses in the World