Dates: March 13 – March 16, 2025 Location: TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida Course: Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass Par: 72 Yardage: 7,352 yards Purse: $25 million Winner’s Share: $4.5 million FedExCup Points: 450
Overview
The Players Championship, often referred to as the “fifth major,” is one of the most prestigious events on the PGA Tour. Held annually at TPC Sawgrass, the tournament attracts the world’s best golfers, competing for a significant purse and valuable FedExCup points. The 2025 edition promises to be an exciting event, with a star-studded field and the iconic Stadium Course providing a challenging test for the players.
Field
The 144-player field for the 2025 Players Championship is one of the strongest of the year, featuring 48 of the top 50 players in the world. Notable participants include:
Scottie Scheffler: The world number one and two-time defending champion, Scheffler aims to become the first player to win three consecutive Players Championships since Jack Nicklaus.
Rory McIlroy: The 2019 champion and current world number two, McIlroy is always a threat at TPC Sawgrass.
Xander Schauffele: Ranked third in the world, Schauffele is looking to add a Players Championship title to his impressive resume.
Justin Thomas: The 2021 champion, Thomas is known for his strong performances in big events.
Collin Morikawa: A consistent performer, Morikawa’s accuracy off the tee makes him a strong contender.
Ludvig Aberg: The rising star from Sweden, Aberg has been in excellent form and is one to watch.
Course
TPC Sawgrass’s Stadium Course is renowned for its challenging layout and iconic holes. Designed by Pete Dye, the par-72 course stretches 7,352 yards and features 92 bunkers and water hazards on 17 holes. The course’s signature hole is the par-3 17th, known as the “Island Green,” which measures about 137 yards and is surrounded by water. The 9th hole has been lengthened this year, potentially making it the first 600-yard hole in Players Championship history.
Key Holes
Hole 17 (Island Green): This par-3 hole is one of the most famous in golf, requiring precision and nerves of steel to avoid the water hazard.
Hole 18: A challenging par-4 finishing hole with water along the left side, making it a true test for players under pressure.
Hole 9: The newly lengthened par-5, which could play over 600 yards, adds another layer of difficulty to the course.
History
The Players Championship has a rich history, with past champions including some of the greatest names in golf. Notable winners in the field this year include:
Scottie Scheffler (2023, 2024)
Justin Thomas (2021)
Rory McIlroy (2019)
Si Woo Kim (2017)
Jason Day (2016)
Rickie Fowler (2015)
Matt Kuchar (2012)
Adam Scott (2004)
