Fans left divided over new $350m Tiger Woods-designed golf course with staggering annual member cost

LOS Angeles Angels star Mike Trout has opened a new golf course which has received mixed reaction from fans.

Trout National is an invite-only luxurious course based in Millville, New Jersey near Trout’s hometown Vineland.
Aerial view of a golf course with green fairways, sand traps, and trees with autumn foliage.Baseball star Mike Trout has opened an ultra-exclusive new golf courseCredit: Trout National

Aerial view of a golf course with sandy areas, bunkers, trees, and long shadows from the setting sun.The course is in Millville, New JerseyCredit: Trout National
Trout announced his new golf course on X, “Having Trout National open is a true full circle moment.

“What started as a hometown vision is now a reality, built alongside an incredible group of family, friends, and partners who believed in it from the start.

“Grateful for all of you. Thank you!”

Despite the exact membership fee being unknown at this point – it is believed to be over six figures.

While the course is based in New Jersey, it’s not expected that purely locals will be the main consumers of the bumper course.

Sports business reporter Darren Rovell said that Trout expects “high net worth” golfers to get on a private jet and visit his course.

The course designed by iconic golfer Tiger Woods is described as “more than a golf course” but also a “statement” on the Trout National website.

It says, “This championship layout transforms the region’s natural quarry and farmland into a bold, breathtaking experience.

“Every hole is packed with strategy, challenge, and risk-reward excitement, delivering a round that’s as thrilling as it is unforgettable.”

Rovell put the construction figure at around a staggering $350million.

One fan wrote on social media, “So Mike, you created the most exclusive and expensive (invite only and $100k+) golf course in the area for your hometown that is low to middle class on average( At most, your hometown folks could work at the course, never play it. I wish I was wrong.”

Another said, “What’s the point of building a golf course that no one can play? Only your friends can play is a joke and i hope it fails.”

While a third posted, “I’m sure all 227 people who will ever be members are happy and proud. No one in your hometown will really care as they’ll only see the inside of it if they are carrying another man’s clubs.”

Some praised Trout calling it “beautiful” and congratulated the 11-time All Star player.