The PGA Tour has announced a significant format change for its season-ending Tour Championship, eliminating the “starting strokes” system introduced in 2019. Beginning with the 2025 tournament, all 30 qualifying players will start at even par, reverting to a traditional 72-hole stroke-play format.
Previously, the starting strokes system awarded players a head start based on their FedEx Cup standings, with the leader beginning at 10 under par. While designed to simplify the points system, this format faced criticism for being confusing and diminishing competitive balance.
The change was influenced by feedback from the PGA Tour’s “Fan Forward” initiative, which highlighted a preference for closer scoring and more straightforward competition. Additionally, the tour plans to implement a tougher course setup at East Lake Golf Club to enhance competition and increase risk/reward moments. (Reuters)
The field size will remain at 30 players in 2025, though the qualification system is under review to ensure it remains highly competitive. Players Advisory Council member Scottie Scheffler, a previous critic of the old format, supported the changes, emphasizing the importance of a fair, engaging, and challenging conclusion to the PGA Tour season. (Reuters)
The 2025 Tour Championship is scheduled for August 21–24 at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia.
