I enter the lottery every year, and I've never gotten tickets. Another friend has won it four times, so take your chance I guess. But if you want to go, just bite the bullet and go secondary market. I bought from StubHub, and I had tickets in hand about a week beforehand. No issues.
First day was Monday, and we got about four hours of course time before they blew the weather horn and kicked everyone out. We didn't even try the store because the line was at least 90 minutes long. There were very few players on the course, but having never been before, we planned on our first day being more about the course than the golf. For anyone entering the lottery next year, don't ask for Monday (unless you got them for this year). ANGC announced that Monday ticket holders would be guaranteed Monday for 2026 to make up for the (almost) rain out.
Tuesday was amazing, Chamber of Commerce weather, and most players were on the course. We found two chairs with a front row seat behind 16 green and watched several groups, including many of their caddies, skip their balls across the water. So fun. Best foursome was Freddie, JT, Kopeka, and Adam Scott. Caught up with Jordan and Zach Johnson at Amen Corner. Spent a small fortune in the store, and had several Crows Nests to wash down all those sandwiches. Great fucking day. Still pinching myself that I was there, and I can't wait to get back.