Golf
PGA Tour Championship Reverts to 72-Hole Stroke Play Over Starting Strokes Format In 2025
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Get to know Gia Nguyen betterPublished29 May 2025
In a bold midseason move, the PGA Tour has scrapped its controversial starting strokes format for the Tour Championship, reverting to a traditional 72-hole stroke-play format starting in 2025.
The PGA Tour outlined three key updates: the return to standard scoring, a more challenging course setup at East Lake, and a stricter qualification process, making it the toughest event to reach each year. To boost fan engagement, the competition will focus on the top 30 qualifiers, all starting on equal footing.
PGA Tour Set To Change FedEx Cup Format and Payouts
Based on from the PGA Tour’s “Fan Forward” initiative, key changes have been made to this year’s Tour Championship. In response to fans asking for a more straightforward and competitive format, the PGA Tour has removed the starting strokes system to create a more engaging and fair playing field. The winner of the 72-hole event will now be crowned the FedEx Cup champion.
While it’s still unclear how prize money will be distributed throughout the FedEx Cup Playoffs, a new payout structure will be introduced.
According to the press release: “The FedExCup bonus distributions for the top 30 positions through the TOUR Championship will be balanced for 2025 to for the increased volatility, reward season-long performance, and recognize the significance of the FedExCup.”
Changes will also be made to the course to introduce more risk-reward opportunities for players. Fans have expressed interest in seeing scores closer to par, and course adjustments aim to reflect that. Although East Lake will continue to host the Tour Championship through 2027, there’s a chance the event could move to a new venue that better aligns with what fans want to see.
Players Are Excited About New Adjustments
Many PGA Tour players have voiced for the changes, including positive from Collin Morikawa, Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Max Homa, and others.
The new Tour Championship format allows players to focus on performing their best, creating a more competitive and level playing field.
“At the end of the day, you have to perform when it matters most. I think now, with the format we have, it’s a great setup—just a 72-hole golf tournament. If I want to win the FedEx Cup, I have to play well in the final week of the season. It’s as simple as that,” Scheffler said.
