The World Golf Awards, as a part of the World Travel Awards, recognises incredible talent in the Golf Course design industry by giving out the Golf Course Designer Award every year. The award celebrates the game's legacy and acknowledges the individuals or firms behind exceptionally built Golf Courses worldwide.

This award is a legacy that has been around for 10 years now. These awards assess the golf fields based on their visual appeal, aesthetics, accessibility, affordability, unique design, playability, etc. This article highlights the designers who have won prestigious awards for their beautiful creations. So, let’s explore!

1. Golf Course Designer of the Year Award, 2025

The selection of this year's award winner has yet to be made. Nominations have been received, and the voting process is underway. The voting is open till October 2025, and the results will be announced at the 12th annual World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony, scheduled for November 13, 2025, in Madeira, Portugal.

2. Peter Matkovich (1942)

The Award Winner of 2024, Peter Matkovich, is well known for his unique ability to combine natural elements with challenging designs. He masters the art of creating visually stunning golf courses that delight the golfers with their intricate details. His inventive approach inspires and sets standards for eco-friendly course designs.

• Country: Zambia
• Designed Golf Courses: La Réserve Golf Links (Mauritius), Elements Private Golf Reserve (South Africa), and Simbithi Eco-Estate Golf Course (South Africa)
• Other Recognitions: His designs have been among South Africa's top golf courses. In contrast, his courses in Mauritius, Namibia, and Zimbabwe have received international recognition for their design and environmental integration.

3. Greg Norman (1955)

Recognised as the ‘Great White Shark’, he is one of the biggest athletes turned businessmen today. Norman is well known for his mastery in combining bold layouts with natural terrains. He has created some of the most loved courses that influence golfers of all skill levels. His creativity encourages thoughtful shot-making.

• Country: Australia
• Golf Courses Designed: The Norman Golf Course (Florida, USA), Albany Golf Course (Bahamas), and The Els Club (Dubai)
• Other Recognitions: 91 Career Victories (20 PGA TOUR, 71 International and Others); 2009 & 2011 Presidents Cup Captain; First and founding CEO of LIV Golf Investments; Member of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Committee

4. IMG Golf Course Services (Founded in 1998)

Having designed more than 100 courses, IMG Golf Course Services is one of the world’s leading companies in golf. They have built many award-winning venues across Asia, the Middle East, Australia, North America, and Africa. Their projects continue to set high standards, inspiring future designs that balance the sport with environmental care.

• Country: International (based in the USA)
• Founded: 1998
• Golf Courses Designed: The Els Club (Los Angeles, USA), Port Royal Golf Course (Bermuda), and Trump National Doral (Miami, USA)
• Other Recognitions: IMG Golf Course Design has received numerous industry awards for sustainability and innovative solutions.

5. Henrik Stenson (1976)

Stenson is one of the most respected players today. He started early and became a golf professional in 1998. Henrik Stenson's 2021 award recognises his skill in creating courses that balance strategy and beauty. Golfers of all skill levels love his designs because his courses offer natural landscapes and provide user-friendly facilities.

• Country: Sweden
• Golf Courses Designed: Bro Hof Slott Stadium Course (Sweden), Varberg Golf Club (Sweden), and Lake Malaren Golf Club (Sweden)
• Other Recognitions: Olympic Silver Medal, 21 victories in tournaments, PGA Tour winner

6. José María Olazábal (1966)

Known for his elegant and thoughtful golf course designs, he was introduced to golf at a very early age of 2 years. José María Olazábal's 2020 award celebrates his talent in creating courses combining tradition and innovation. He is an inspiration for both golfers and architects through minimalistic designs, subtle colours, and native vegetation.

• Nationality: Spain
• Key Projects: Finca Cortesin Golf Club (Spain), Golf Club de Canarias (Spain), and Valderrama Golf Club (Spain)
• Other Recognitions: World Golf Hall of Fame, Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year,  Prince of Asturias Award

7. Colin Montgomerie (1963)

2019 award winner Colin Montgomerie shows precision in his course designs. He has been a powerful player and has represented his country 10 times in the World Cup. Colin Montgomerie combines thoughtful strategy with an emphasis on playability for all skill levels, ensuring the course offers a fair but challenging experience.

• Country: Scotland
• Key Projects: The Renaissance Club (Scotland), Gullane Golf Club (Scotland), and Craigielaw Golf Club (Scotland)
• Other Recognitions: Asia Pacific Lifetime Achievement Award

8. Gary Player (1935)

Gary Player is a retired professional player who officially started playing when he was 17. The world has given him names like Black Knight, Mr. Fitness, and International Ambassador of Golf as a token of respect and love. Sustainability blended with strategy is the key highlight of his work. They will always be an inspiration for all designers.

• Nationality: South Africa
• Golf Courses Designed: Gary Player Country Club (South Africa), Fancourt Links (South Africa), and Trump National Doral (USA)
• Other Recognitions: Won the Masters Tournament, the PGA Championship, the U.S. Open, and many others

9. Jack Nicklaus (1940)

Also named the ‘Golden Bear’, Jack Nicklaus is a highly respected course designer and one of the best golfers. The award honours his ability to combine strategic fields for smooth shot-making with beautiful, natural settings. Also, he has played multiple tournaments, championships, and tours, winning multiple awards and recognitions.

• Country: USA
• Key Projects: PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament Course) (California, USA), Muirfield Village Golf Club (Ohio, USA), and Harbour Town Golf Links (South Carolina, USA)
• Other Recognitions: World Golf Hall of Fame, PGA Tour money list winner, PGA Player of the Year, Bob Jones Award, PGA Tour Lifetime Achievement Award, and Congressional Gold Medal

10. Sir Nick Faldo (1957)

Sir Nick Faldo's 2016 award highlights his skill in designing courses that balance challenge and enjoyment. He is a retired golfer and TV Commentator who became attached to golf at the age of 14. His remarkable quality is his ability to play in difficult and strategic environments, showcasing his sheer presence of mind.

• Country: Britain
• Golf Courses Designed: The Faldo Course at Concession Golf Club (Florida, USA), TPC Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), and The Montgomerie Maxx Royal (Turkey)
• Other Recognitions: PGA Player of the Year, World Golf Hall of Fame, Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year, and European Tour Golfer of the Year

11. Emie Els (1969)

Ernie Els was the first-ever winner of the Golf Course Designer Award. Ernie Els's 2015 award celebrates his talent in blending nature with playability. His courses inspire designers to create beautiful, challenging, eco-friendly golf experiences.

He became famous after winning the Dubai Desert Classic as part of the European Tour.

• Country: South Africa
• Golf Courses Designed: Els Club Dubai (UAE), Fancourt Golf Estate (South Africa), and Erin Hills (USA)
• Other Recognitions: World Golf Hall of Fame, European Tour Golfer of the Year, Old Tom Morris Award, and PGA Tour Rookie of the Year