The anticipation is palpable as the second major of the golf season, the 2025 PGA Championship, draws near. Following a dramatic finish in the previous year, where Xander Schauffele clinched the Wannamaker Trophy with a final-hole birdie, edging out Bryson DeChambeau, expectations are high for another thrilling tournament. The Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, is set to host a field teeming with talent from both the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, promising a captivating battle for supremacy.
Among the frontrunners are defending Masters champion Rory McIlroy, world number one Scottie Scheffler, and the aforementioned DeChambeau, all poised to make a strong run at the title. The first round is scheduled to commence on Thursday, May 15th, with the final round culminating on Mother’s Day, adding an extra layer of significance to the event.
Quail Hollow boasts a rich history in professional golf, having previously hosted the 2017 PGA Championship, where Justin Thomas emerged victorious. The course has also been a mainstay on the PGA Tour for the past two decades, regularly hosting the Wells Fargo Championship. This familiarity, however, might not necessarily translate into an advantage for seasoned PGA Tour players, as the course undergoes continuous modifications to enhance its challenge and ensure a level playing field for all competitors.
The 2025 field also includes notable exemptions granted by the PGA of America to Dustin Johnson and Rickie Fowler. Johnson, a former world number one and two-time major champion, brings a wealth of experience to the tournament. Fowler, a perennial fan favorite known for his charismatic personality and stylish attire, seeks to rekindle his major championship aspirations. These exemptions add intrigue to the competition, as both players are capable of producing exceptional golf when at their best.
Beyond the headlining contenders, a host of other players are eager to stake their claim for the Wannamaker Trophy. Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion, always poses a threat in major championships, particularly given his proven ability to perform under pressure. Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters champion, is another formidable competitor whose powerful ball-striking and unwavering determination make him a contender on any course.
The format of the PGA Championship remains consistent with other major championships. The field will consist of 156 players, including past champions, major winners from the past five years, leading money winners from the PGA Tour and European Tour, and top finishers from designated PGA of America events. After 36 holes, the field will be cut to the top 70 players and ties, ensuring that only the most consistent performers advance to the weekend rounds.
The purse for the 2025 PGA Championship is expected to be substantial, reflecting the tournament’s prestige and popularity. The winner will not only receive the coveted Wannamaker Trophy but also a significant financial reward and a five-year exemption into all major championships. These incentives motivate players to perform at their peak and leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
As the tournament draws closer, detailed information regarding start times, player groupings, and television coverage schedules becomes readily available. The first and second round tee times will be released closer to the tournament start date, allowing fans to plan their viewing schedules accordingly. Coverage will begin early in the morning, with featured groups streaming on ESPN+ from 7 a.m. ET onwards.
The Quail Hollow Club presents a stern test for all players, with its demanding layout characterized by tight fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens. The course’s signature holes, including the treacherous "Green Mile" closing stretch, have been known to make or break contenders. Players must demonstrate precision, accuracy, and mental fortitude to navigate these challenges successfully.
Scottie Scheffler is currently the bookmakers’ favorite to win the 2025 PGA Championship, closely followed by Rory McIlroy. Bryson DeChambeau is also considered a strong contender, reflecting his recent resurgence in form and his power-packed approach to the game. However, in golf, anything can happen, and upsets are not uncommon. Dark horses and surprise contenders often emerge, adding to the unpredictability and excitement of the tournament.
For those unable to attend the tournament in person, comprehensive television and streaming coverage will be available. ESPN will broadcast the first two rounds on Thursday and Friday, while ESPN and CBS will share the broadcasting duties for the final two rounds on Saturday and Sunday. In addition to traditional television coverage, ESPN+ and Fubo will offer streaming options for all four rounds, allowing fans to watch the action on their computers, tablets, or mobile devices. Paramount+ will also provide streaming coverage during the weekend rounds.
UPDATE: News has emerged that John Daly will be skipping the 2025 PGA Championship to participate in another tournament. While the specific details of the alternative event have not been disclosed, Daly’s absence will undoubtedly be noted by fans, given his status as a former major champion and his enduring popularity.
In conclusion, the 2025 PGA Championship promises to be a captivating event, showcasing the best talent in professional golf. With a star-studded field, a challenging course, and comprehensive television coverage, golf enthusiasts around the world are eagerly anticipating the drama and excitement that awaits. The battle for the Wannamaker Trophy is set to unfold at Quail Hollow Club, and the winner will undoubtedly etch their name into the annals of golf history.
