The creation of TPC Sawgrass as host to THE PLAYERS was based on several unique concepts: First, it would be the permanent home of THE PLAYERS, and it would be owned by the player. Second, the course and surrounding areas would be built with spectators in mind. It would be the first true “Stadium Course,” designed and built to improve the overall on-site fan experience. Third, the TPC would be a course of great design and character that would be accessible all all golf fans.

Working with golf course architect Pete Dye, Commissioner Deane Beman wanted a course design that would favor no particular player or style of play. To meet this goal, an extensive effort was made to design a balanced golf course. There had to be a selection of short, medium and long holes within the categories of par-3s, par-4s and par-5s. There had to be both right and left doglegs. The course routing was laid out so no two consecutive holes ever played in the same direction.