Sawgrass files for bankruptcy

8 March 2010

Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, the site of Tiger Woods' public apology last month, has filed for bankruptcy protection from its lender. According to court documents, the course has been hurt by weak corporate and group bookings, which is another sign of the problems the industry continues to face.

“This action is in response to the current global economic environment and the fact that an agreement on a restructure with the lenders could not be reached,” said Jeff Mayers, general manager of Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. “This process will protect the resort and allow us to continue to operate business as usual. Providing our guests and members with the finest resort-style getaway experience and the highest standards of quality and service they have come to expect is our first priority. We are firmly committed to maintaining our world-class operation and foresee no changes in the day-to-day operations at Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa.”

The resort is the home of the TPC Sawgrass golf club, which plays host to the PGA Tour and the Players Championship. According to president of PGA Tour Golf Course properties David Pillsbury, the announcement will have no effect on the course as it is independently owned.