The PGA Tour’s Florida swing kicks off with the highly anticipated Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, set to take place from February 27 to March 2, 2025. This prestigious event, formerly known as the Honda Classic, will be held at the renowned PGA National Resort’s Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. With a rich history and a challenging course, the Cognizant Classic promises to be an exciting tournament for both players and fans alike.
Tournament Overview
- Dates: February 27 – March 2, 2025
- Location: PGA National Resort (The Champion), Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
- Course: Par 71, 7,167 yards
- Purse: $9.2 million
- Defending Champion: Austin Eckroat
Course Details
The Champion Course at PGA National is known for its challenging layout and has hosted several prestigious events, including the Ryder Cup and the PGA Championship. Designed by Tom and George Fazio in 1981 and redesigned by Jack Nicklaus in 1990, the course features ryegrass fairways and larger-than-average Bermuda greens. Water hazards come into play on 15 of the 18 holes, making accuracy and precision crucial for success.
One of the most notable features of the course is “The Bear Trap,” a three-hole stretch (Nos. 15, 16, and 17) named after Jack Nicklaus. This section is known for its difficulty, with two watery par-3s and a tight, water-laden par-4. The Bear Trap often plays a decisive role in the tournament’s outcome and will be a focal point of NBC’s coverage.
Field and Notable Players
The 144-player field for the Cognizant Classic includes 15 of the top 50 players in the world, ensuring a highly competitive tournament. Some of the notable names set to compete include:
- Russell Henley: Ranked 17th in the world, Henley is the highest-ranked player in the field and the 2014 champion of this event.
- Shane Lowry: Known for his excellent ball-striking and ability to handle windy conditions, Lowry has finished second, fifth, and fourth in his last three starts at PGA National.
- Sepp Straka: The 2022 champion, Straka is looking to add another title to his resume.
- Billy Horschel: A consistent performer, Horschel is always a threat in tough conditions.
- Rickie Fowler: The 2017 champion, Fowler is making his return to PGA National.
- Jordan Spieth: Making his first career start at PGA National, Spieth is looking to build his game back up after wrist surgery last year.
Other past champions in the field include Chris Kirk (2023), Sungjae Im (2020), Keith Mitchell (2019), Camilo Villegas (2010), Luke Donald (2006), and Matt Kuchar (2002).
Key Storylines
- Defending Champion: Austin Eckroat returns to defend his title after a record-breaking performance in 2024, where he finished at 17 under par.
- The Bear Trap: This infamous three-hole stretch will test the nerves and skills of the players, potentially determining the tournament’s outcome.
- Weather Conditions: South Florida’s tricky winds can play a significant role, making the course even more challenging.
- Player Comebacks: Jordan Spieth and other players recovering from injuries will be looking to regain their form ahead of the Masters.
How to Watch
The Cognizant Classic will be broadcast live on NBC and the Golf Channel, with coverage of all four rounds. Fans can also follow the action through live streaming on the PGA Tour’s official website and mobile app.
