In a significant shift aimed at enhancing competitiveness and fan engagement, the PGA Tour has announced the elimination of the controversial ‘starting strokes’ format for the Tour Championship. Beginning with the 2025 edition, all 30 qualifying players will commence the tournament at even par, reverting to a traditional 72-hole stroke-play format. This change follows feedback from fans and players seeking a more straightforward and equitable conclusion to the FedEx Cup season.
Background: The ‘Starting Strokes’ Format
Introduced in 2019, the ‘starting strokes’ system was designed to simplify the FedEx Cup Playoffs by assigning players a starting score relative to par based on their standings. The leader began at 10-under par, with subsequent positions receiving staggered advantages down to even par for the lowest qualifiers. While intended to create clarity by ensuring a single winner for both the Tour Championship and the FedEx Cup, the format faced criticism for being confusing and potentially unfair.
Critics argued that the system diminished the competitive balance, as players starting with significant deficits found it challenging to contend for the title. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, a member of the PGA Tour’s Player Advisory Council, previously labeled the format as “silly,” emphasizing the need for a more straightforward approach.
Fan Feedback Drives Change
The decision to revert to a traditional format was influenced by the PGA Tour’s ‘Fan Forward’ initiative, which collected insights from fans regarding the Tour Championship’s structure. Feedback indicated a preference for a more conventional setup that promotes closer competition and is easier to follow.
PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan acknowledged the importance of fan input, stating, “Our Fan Forward initiative has helped us evaluate each part of the PGA Tour season, and today’s announcement is an important first step in the evolution of our postseason.”
Enhancements to Course Setup
In addition to the format change, the PGA Tour plans to implement a more challenging course setup at East Lake Golf Club, the longstanding venue for the Tour Championship. The adjustments aim to encourage risk-reward scenarios and produce winning scores closer to par, enhancing the tournament’s excitement and difficulty.
Scottie Scheffler expressed support for the tougher conditions, noting that the changes would “provide a more challenging test for players—which brings out the best competition.”
Impact on FedEx Cup Bonus Distribution
With the elimination of starting strokes, the PGA Tour is also reviewing the distribution of FedEx Cup bonus money. The goal is to balance rewards for season-long performance with the increased volatility of the Tour Championship’s outcome. This may involve allocating portions of the bonus pool based on regular-season standings or earlier playoff events, ensuring that consistent excellence throughout the season is appropriately recognized.
What’s Next
The 2025 Tour Championship, scheduled for August 21–24 at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, will mark the debut of the revised format. While the field size remains at 30 players for now, the PGA Tour is evaluating the qualification system to maintain the event’s prestige and competitiveness.
As the PGA Tour continues to adapt to feedback and evolving expectations, the return to a traditional stroke-play format for the Tour Championship signifies a commitment to fairness, clarity, and the integrity of competition.
For fans and players alike, these changes promise a more engaging and equitable climax to the PGA Tour season.
