What Is An Eagle in Golf?

Date Published: 14/01/2025

An ‘eagle’ is a highly sought-after achievement in golf, representing a score two strokes under par on a single hole. For example, completing a par-5 hole in just three strokes is classified as an eagle.

 Scoring an eagle is a testament to a golfer’s skill, strategy, and precision.

How to get an eagle in golf​?

While achieving an eagle in golf is challenging, there are steps you can take to improve your chances. Below are some practical tips to help you aim for this remarkable feat:

Pick the right golf club  

Choosing the appropriate golf club is essential for achieving the accuracy and distance needed for an eagle. Here’s a breakdown of some key clubs and their uses:

  • Driver – Ideal for long distances, drivers are excellent for tee shots on par-5 holes, allowing you to cover significant ground with your first stroke.
  • Fairway woods and hybrids – These are great for long second shots, giving you a better chance of reaching the green in fewer strokes. 
  • Irons – Known for their precision, irons help control approach shots and position the golf ball closer to the hole. 
  • Putter – Crucial for accuracy on the green, putters can help secure the final stroke needed for an eagle.

Read more advice in our blog ‘golf club types’

Perfect your swing 

Perfecting your swing is key to consistently delivering powerful and accurate shots. Here are some tips to enhance your swing:

  • Practicing regularly – Use golf simulators or driving ranges to refine your technique in a controlled environment.
  • Focus on your techniques – Work on your grip, stance, and follow-through to achieve a smooth, powerful swing.
  • Obtain professional guidance – Lessons from a golf coach or professional player can provide invaluable personalised advice to improve your game.

For more tips read our blog on ‘How to swing a golf club’

View the course and plan your shots

Understanding the layout of your course and planning your shots can significantly improve your chances of scoring an eagle. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Studying your course beforehand – Familiarise yourself with the distance markers, hazards, and optimal landing spots.
  • Plan your shots – Develop a strategy to avoid bunkers, water hazards, and other obstacles. 
  • Adjust your strategy based on different conditions – Adjust your strategy for different weather conditions and the firmness of the greens to optimise your performance.

Eagle in golf scoring

On a scorecard, an ‘eagle’ is recorded as a -2.  This impressive score signifies that you’ve completed the hole in two fewer strokes than par, showcasing exceptional skill and strategy.

FAQs

What is a double eagle?

A double eagle, also known as an  albatross, occurs when a hole is completed three strokes under par. For example, scoring a 2 on a par-5 hole is classified as a double eagle.

What is a triple eagle in golf?

A triple eagle, also referred to as a condor or double albatross, happens when a hole is completed four strokes under par. This is an extraordinarily rare achievement, with only a handful of recorded cases.

What’s the difference between eagle and birdie in golf?

The difference lies in the number of strokes under par:

  • A birdie is a score of one under par.
  • An eagle is a score of two under par.

The term ‘eagle’ was coined after the term ‘birdie,’ with ‘eagle’ symbolising an even greater achievement.

How hard is it to get an eagle in golf​?

Scoring an eagle is exceptionally difficult, with odds estimated at around 12,000 to 1. However, with consistent practice, strategy, and perseverance, it is not unattainable.