The PGA TOUR is set for a significant shake-up from 2028 after unveiling a revamped format designed to transform how players secure their status and compete throughout the year.
The overhaul, devised by the PGA TOUR’s Future Competitions Committee under the leadership of chairman Tiger Woods, has been established to alter the pathway players take to earn opportunities and compete on the U.S. based circuit.
Among the most notable changes is the introduction of a “new competitive structure,” which will divide the PGA TOUR into two distinct circuits: the PGA TOUR Championship Series and the PGA TOUR Challenger Series.
This introduces a promotion and relegation system, forcing players to compete throughout the season to retain their place among the sport’s elite.
The PGA TOUR Championship Series will feature the circuit’s highest-ranked players and is expected to consist of approximately 23 to 24 events with fields of 120 players between February and August, including all four majors and The PLAYERS Championship.
The top level competition will also see 20 players promoted from the PGA TOUR Challenger Series each year.
While the PGA TOUR Challenger Series will consist of at least 20 tournaments, each expected to feature full fields of 144 players.
Players who do not maintain their eligibility in the Championship Series, and are at risk of relegation, will have an additional opportunity to compete in a “last chance” playoff series following the regular season. The series, to take place in the fall, is expected to feature four to six events.
Entry fields will be made up of a mix of qualifiers, including top finishers from the Championship Series, players facing relegation, Challenger Series players, and other categories yet to be confirmed.
Those who are unable to reclaim their Championship Series status through this pathway will instead be relegated to the Challenger Series the following season.
In a message to fans, PGA TOUR chief executive officer Brian Rolapp said:”Today marks a pivotal moment for the PGA Tour as we move forward with a new competitive system, starting in the 2028 season.
“Throughout this process, we have listened closely to players, partners and our fans. You told us you wanted to see the best players in the world competing against one another more often.
“You wanted clearer stakes as the season unfolds. And you wanted a more dramatic finish to the season that rewards excellence and makes every tournament matter.
“This new model is our response.”
Woods, chairman of the PGA TOUR’s Future Competitions Committee, said: “This is an exciting moment for the game of golf. It has been a privilege to lead the Future Competition Committee and I am proud of the work we have done to build the best version of the PGA Tour for future generations of players and fans.”
A statement from Grand Slam champion Rory McIlroy, read: “Today’s announcement is a positive step for professional golf.
“As more details emerge, it is encouraging to see the PGA TOUR reaffirming the importance of meritocracy and creating a structure that will serve both players and fans well into the future.”
To learn more about these changes, click here.