What Does Amen Corner Mean In Golf?

Amen Corner refers to a section of the Augusta National golf course in Augusta, Georgia, USA, that hosts the Masters Tournament. It technically refers to the second half of the 11th hole, all of the 12th hole, and first half of the 13th hole, although the phrase has become a catch-all term for all three holes in their entirety. Read on to learn more about the Amen Corner, from the origins of its name to why the area is so infamously difficult.

Nickname Origin

The term “Amen Corner” was first coined by Sports Illustrated writer Herbert Warren Wind in 1958. He was inspired by the course’s beauty and nicknamed the area after a favorite jazz song of his called “Shoutin’ in that Amen Corner.” 

Amen Corner at the Masters

Amen Corner is a corner-shaped area covering the most challenging holes at Augusta National Golf Club, the host of the annual Masters Tournament. The holes referred to by the term Amen Corner include the 11th, 12th, and 13th holes at Augusta National.

11th Hole

The 11th hole, known as “White Dogwood,” is a 520-yard long par 4. While it’s mostly a straight shot, the imposing pond makes approach shots to the green extremely difficult. Amen Corner officially starts with the second shot of the 11th hole.

12th Hole

The “Golden Bell” 12th hole is one of the most famous holes in all of golf. Although it is only a 155-yard par 3, the green lies just across a creek, requiring immense control to land a shot in the right spot on the green. The hole itself is gorgeous and offers one of the most picturesque settings in golf.

13th Hole

The 13th hole, also known as “Azalea,” is a 545-yard par 5. It tees off from the far corner behind the 12th hole and stretches down to the left of the tee. Its comparative ease often serves as a chance for players to make up for extra strokes incurred on the first two holes of Amen Corner.

FAQ