The Zurich Classic of New Orleans, the PGA Tour’s only official team event, is set to take place from Thursday, April 24, to Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the TPC Louisiana in Avondale, Louisiana. This unique tournament, featuring two-man teams, promises an exciting blend of camaraderie and competition as some of the world’s best golfers team up to vie for the $9.2 million purse.
Tournament Format
The Zurich Classic employs a team format, which has been in place since 2017. The 80 two-man teams will compete in alternating formats across the four rounds:
- Rounds 1 and 3: Four-ball (best ball) – Each player plays their own ball, and the team’s best score on each hole is recorded.
- Rounds 2 and 4: Foursomes (alternate shot) – Players alternate shots, with one player teeing off on odd-numbered holes and the other on even-numbered holes.
The cut line will be determined after 36 holes, with the top 33 teams and ties advancing to the weekend rounds. In the event of a tie after 72 holes, a sudden-death playoff will alternate between foursomes and four-ball formats.
Key Teams and Players to Watch
Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
- Defending Champions: McIlroy and Lowry won the 2024 Zurich Classic in a thrilling playoff and are the favorites to repeat this year. McIlroy, fresh off completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters, and Lowry, a steady performer in 2025, bring a mix of power and precision.
Collin Morikawa & Kurt Kitayama
- Top Contenders: Morikawa, a two-time major champion, and Kitayama, known for his consistency, are a formidable duo. They finished T23 last year and are looking to improve on that performance.
Rasmus & Nicolai Højgaard
- Dynamic Twins: The Danish brothers are one of three sibling pairs in the field. Their chemistry and synchronized play make them a team to watch.
Nick Taylor & Adam Hadwin
- Canadian Connection: This duo finished in the top 10 last year and has the potential to contend again with their balanced skill sets.
Thomas Detry & Robert MacIntyre
- European Standouts: Both players bring international experience and strong form into the event, making them a dark horse team.
Course Overview: TPC Louisiana
- Designer: Pete Dye
- Length: 7,425 yards
- Par: 72
- Features: The course is known for its Bermudagrass greens, 106 bunkers, and water hazards on eight holes. It rewards precise iron play and strategic ball placement, especially in the alternate-shot format. The par-5 18th hole often serves as a dramatic finishing stage.
Prize Money and Rewards
- Winning Team: Each player will earn $1,329,400, splitting the first- and second-place prize money.
- Additional Rewards: Winners receive a two-year PGA Tour exemption, spots in the PGA Championship, and entry into next year’s Sentry Tournament of Champions and Players Championship.
What to Expect
The Zurich Classic is renowned for its unique format and festive atmosphere, blending high-stakes golf with the vibrant culture of New Orleans. With a mix of Ryder Cup heroes, major champions, and rising stars, this year’s event promises thrilling action and memorable moments.
