‘The golf course is going to get hurt’: A shape-shifting Pebble Beach has players talking

Pebble Beach is showcasing two major changes at this week's Pure Insurance Championship, and players have noticed them.

By Kevin Cunningham · Golf

Published: Saturday, 19 September 2026 at 3:21 AM

Key Things to Know

Pebble Beach removed a diseased fairway tree on the 16th hole, sparking strategic distance debates among players.
Ernie Els warned that increasing hitting distances could significantly alter and hurt the historic championship course.
Course officials removed the fabled cypress for health reasons rather than tactical course redesign.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Pebble Beach Golf Links removed a diseased, fabled cypress tree from the right side of the 16th fairway ahead of the Pure Insurance Championship, sparking debate among players about course setup and driving distance. The tree's absence allows golfers to attempt aggressive driving lines down the right side of the par-4 rather than playing a traditional layup shot.

Ernie Els voiced concern that modern golf ball technology and increased distance could damage the historic integrity of the landlocked course. While Zach Johnson felt the strategic integrity remained intact, course operators have not ruled out replanting a tree on the 16th hole ahead of the U.S. Open.

Read the full article on Golf

‘The golf course is going to get hurt’: A shape-shifting Pebble Beach has players talking

More Golf News

Never Miss a Sports Update