Golf Cup Dimensions: What Size Is the Hole and Why It Matters

When you line up a putt, the golf cup, the hole on the green where the ball must drop to complete a hole. Also known as the golf hole, it’s not just a dip in the grass—it’s a precisely engineered part of the game. The standard diameter is 4.25 inches, and the depth must be at least 4 inches. This isn’t random. The golf pin, the flagstick that marks the cup’s location sits right in the center, and the cup’s size has stayed the same since 1891, when the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews made it official. That means every pro on the PGA Tour and every weekend player on the local course is aiming for the exact same target.

Why does this matter? Because even a tiny change in cup size would change how the game is played. A bigger hole would make putting too easy—losing the skill and nerve it takes to sink a 15-footer. A smaller one? You’d need a laser and a crane to get the ball in. The current dimensions strike a balance: challenging enough to reward precision, but wide enough to let good putts drop. The golf green, the closely mowed area surrounding the cup where putting happens is just as important. Its speed, slope, and texture affect how the ball rolls toward the cup. That’s why course maintenance teams spend hours rolling and trimming—they’re fine-tuning the path to that 4.25-inch target.

You’ll find posts here that dig into the history of the golf cup, why some courses tweak the pin placement for tournaments, and how the cup’s depth affects ball behavior. We also cover how equipment like cup liners and hole cutters are used to keep the dimensions perfect. Whether you’re curious about why the hole is that specific size, how it compares to older designs, or what happens when a cup gets worn out, you’ll find real answers—not guesses. This isn’t just about rules. It’s about understanding the quiet details that shape every stroke you take.