PGA Championship 2025: Glory’s Last Shot and the Battle for the Wanamaker Trophy

The PGA Championship has evolved from humble beginnings to become one of golf’s most prestigious events, featuring the strongest field in major championship golf. Known for its blend of traditional challenge and modern excitement, this championship showcases golf’s finest talents competing for the massive Wanamaker Trophy and a place in history.

Quick Takeaways

• The PGA Championship boasts the strongest field in major championship golf, with all of the world’s top 100 players typically competing
• The massive Wanamaker Trophy weighs 27 pounds, making it the largest and heaviest prize in major championship golf
• The championship transitioned from match play to stroke play format in 1958
• Modern venues feature diverse challenges, with a blend of classic and contemporary courses
• The tournament moved from August to May in 2019, creating a major championship in each month from April through July
• Jack Nicklaus and Walter Hagen share the record with five PGA Championship victories
• The championship embraces new ideas, including featuring the best club professionals competing alongside the world’s elite players
• It has produced surprise champions at a higher rate than other majors, earning its reputation for unexpected drama

Evolution of a Major: From Club Pros to Global Stars

The PGA Championship’s journey began in 1916, when department store magnate Rodman Wanamaker gathered a group of professionals to form the Professional Golfers’ Association of America. Wanamaker donated the trophy and prize money for the inaugural championship, which was contested at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, New York, with Jim Barnes claiming the first title.

From 1916 to 1957, the championship utilized a match play format, with competitors facing off in head-to-head elimination matches. During this era, the tournament was dominated by legendary figures like Walter Hagen, who won five times between 1921 and 1927, and Gene Sarazen, who claimed three victories.

The Transition to Stroke Play

As golf’s television presence grew in the 1950s, the match play format became problematic for broadcasters. With star players potentially eliminated early, viewer interest could wane. In 1958, the PGA of America made the pivotal decision to switch to stroke play, transforming the championship into the four-round, 72-hole event we know today.

This transition coincided with the rise of stars like Jack Nicklaus, who would equal Hagen’s record with five PGA Championship victories between 1963 and 1980. The stroke play format also gave rise to some of golf’s most memorable final rounds, establishing the championship’s reputation for Sunday drama.

The Modern Championship: Calendar Changes and Identity

For decades, the PGA Championship occupied August on the golf calendar, leading to its unofficial slogan as “Glory’s Last Shot”the final major championship opportunity of the season. However, in 2019, the championship moved to May, positioning it as the second major of the year between the Masters in April and the U.S. Open in June.

This calendar shift brought several advantages:

1. Avoiding conflicts with the start of the NFL season and Olympics in even-numbered years
2. Enabling the FedEx Cup Playoffs to conclude before football season
3. Allowing for a greater variety of course locations, particularly in the southern United States
4. Creating a rhythmic cadence of one major championship per month from April through July

While no longer the season’s final major, the PGA Championship has embraced a new identity focused on assembling the strongest field in golf, with typically 98-100 of the world’s top 100 players competing annually.

The Wanamaker Trophy: Golf’s Most Imposing Prize

When players hoist the Wanamaker Trophy, they’re lifting golf’s most substantial prizeliterally. The trophy stands 28 inches tall, measures 10.5 inches in diameter, and weighs an impressive 27 pounds. Its massive silver figure makes for one of sports’ most memorable winner’s ceremonies, with many champions commenting on the considerable effort required to lift it in victory.

The trophy bears the name of Rodman Wanamaker, who conceived the championship and commissioned the original trophy. After Walter Hagen’s third consecutive victory in 1925, he was given custody of the trophy, which subsequently disappeared. Hagen claimed he had entrusted it to a taxi driver to deliver to his hotel, but it was never seen again. A replacement was created, which remains the trophy presented today.

Champions receive a smaller replica to keep permanently, while the original returns to PGA of America headquarters. Each year, the champion’s name is engraved on the trophy, connecting them to every winner dating back to Jim Barnes in 1916.

“The Wanamaker is different from other trophies,” explained five-time champion Jack Nicklaus. “It has a presence that commands attention, much like the championship itself.”

The Championship Venues: Diversity of Tests

Unlike the Masters (played annually at Augusta National) or the British Open (played on a small rota of seaside links), the PGA Championship embraces venue diversity, having been contested at more than 70 different courses throughout its history.

Traditional Hosts: The Classic Tests

Several venerable venues have repeatedly hosted the championship:

Southern Hills Country Club (Tulsa, Oklahoma) - With five PGA Championships, Southern Hills epitomizes the classic American championship test. Its Perry Maxwell design features subtle doglegs, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens that have challenged the game’s best. Champions here include Dave Stockton, Raymond Floyd, Nick Price, Tiger Woods, and most recently, Phil Mickelson in his historic 2021 victory.

Oakland Hills Country Club (Bloomfield Hills, Michigan) - Known as “The Monster,” particularly after Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s famous redesign, Oakland Hills has hosted three PGA Championships, with winners including Gary Player, David Graham, and Padraig Harrington. Its demanding layout has also tested players in six U.S. Opens.

Valhalla Golf Club (Louisville, Kentucky) - A modern addition to the championship rota, Valhalla has already created significant history, hosting thrilling PGA Championships won by Mark Brooks (1996), Tiger Woods (2000), and Rory McIlroy (2014). Owned by the PGA of America, Valhalla represents the organization’s commitment to establishing championship traditions.

Modern Innovations: New Directions

The PGA Championship has embraced bold choices in venue selection:

Kiawah Island Golf Resort (Kiawah Island, South Carolina) - The Ocean Course, designed by Pete Dye, delivered unforgettable championships in 1991 (Ryder Cup), 2012 (Rory McIlroy’s eight-stroke victory), and 2021 (Phil Mickelson’s historic win at age 50). Its windswept, links-inspired layout brought a new aesthetic to the championship.

Whistling Straits (Kohler, Wisconsin) - Another Dye creation, this manufactured links-style course along Lake Michigan has hosted the championship three times (2004, 2010, and 2015). Its nearly 1,000 bunkers and dramatic lakeside setting created both spectacle and controversy, particularly when Dustin Johnson grounded his club in an unmarked bunker on the 72nd hole in 2010, incurring a decisive penalty.

TPC Harding Park (San Francisco, California) - As a municipal course hosting the 2020 championship, Harding Park represented the PGA of America’s commitment to public accessibility, similar to the USGA’s philosophy with the U.S. Open.

The championship’s venue diversity allows it to showcase different architectural styles, regional characteristics, and strategic challenges, ensuring players must demonstrate complete games to succeed across various tests.

Memorable Championships: Drama at the PGA

The PGA Championship has delivered some of golf’s most dramatic moments:

Tiger’s Duel with Bob May (2000)

Perhaps the most thrilling PGA Championship finish occurred at Valhalla in 2000, when Tiger Woods and journeyman pro Bob May matched each other shot for shot during an epic final round. Both players finished regulation at 18-under-par, setting up a three-hole playoff that Woods won by a single stroke. Woods’ famous point at his ball as it tracked toward the hole on the first playoff hole remains one of golf’s iconic celebrations.

Y.E. Yang Topples Tiger (2009)

At Hazeltine National, Y.E. Yang accomplished what seemed impossiblecoming from behind to defeat Tiger Woods in the final round of a major championship. With Woods leading by two entering Sunday, conventional wisdom suggested another Woods victory, as he had never surrendered a 54-hole lead in a major. Yang’s chip-in eagle at the 14th hole and brilliant approach on the 18th created one of golf’s greatest upsets and became a watershed moment in Woods’ career.

John Daly’s Improbable Victory (1991)

When Nick Price withdrew from the 1991 championship at Crooked Stick to witness the birth of his child, the ninth alternatea little-known professional named John Dalygot into the field. With his “grip it and rip it” approach and prodigious driving distance, Daly captivated the golf world, winning by three strokes and launching one of golf’s most colorful careers.

Phil Mickelson Makes History (2021)

At age 50, Phil Mickelson defied conventional wisdom at Kiawah Island, becoming the oldest player to win a major championship. His victory, coming eight years after his previous major triumph, showcased his enduring talent and reinvigorated his career, proving that experience and strategic wisdom could still triumph in the modern power game.

Rory’s Back-Nine Rally (2014)

Starting the final round with a one-stroke lead at Valhalla, Rory McIlroy fell three shots behind after a slow start. As darkness approached due to earlier weather delays, McIlroy mounted a spectacular back-nine charge, ultimately winning by one stroke over Phil Mickelson in near-darkness. His eagle at the par-5 10th hole sparked the comeback and cemented his status as the game’s preeminent player at that time.

The Champions: Greats of the Game

The list of PGA Championship winners includes the game’s greatest players, but also features unexpected champions who found their moment of glory:

The Record Holders

Jack Nicklaus (5 wins): 1963, 1971, 1973, 1975, 1980 The Golden Bear’s PGA Championship success spanned three decades, showcasing his unparalleled longevity and adaptability to different courses and conditions.

Walter Hagen (5 wins): 1921, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927 Hagen dominated the match play era, including an unprecedented four consecutive victories from 1924-1927.

Tiger Woods (4 wins): 1999, 2000, 2006, 2007 Woods’ back-to-back victories in 2006 and 2007 at Medinah and Southern Hills reflected his absolute dominance during that period.

Gene Sarazen (3 wins): 1922, 1923, 1933 The Squire’s victories included back-to-back titles in the match play era and another after an impressive 10-year gap.

Sam Snead (3 wins): 1942, 1949, 1951 Snead’s powerful, flowing swing and natural talent translated to success across multiple decades at the PGA Championship.

Recent Champions

Recent winners reflect the global nature of modern golf:

• Brooks Koepka (2018, 2019): The first player since Tiger Woods to win back-to-back PGA Championships in the stroke play era
• Justin Thomas (2017): Emerged from his friend Jordan Spieth’s shadow with his breakthrough major victory at Quail Hollow
• Jimmy Walker (2016): The late-blooming Texan held off a charging Jason Day at Baltusrol
• Jason Day (2015): Set a major championship scoring record of 20-under-par at Whistling Straits
• Phil Mickelson (2005, 2021): Bookended his PGA Championship success with victories 16 years apart at Baltusrol and Kiawah Island

The PGA Championship Experience: What Makes It Unique

The PGA Championship has cultivated several distinctive elements that separate it from other majors:

The Club Professional Legacy

While modern fields are dominated by touring professionals, the PGA Championship maintains its connection to the organization’s roots by reserving 20 spots for PGA club professionals who qualify through the PGA Professional Championship. These working professionalsthe teachers, club managers, and golf directors who grow the game at the local levelbring a unique dimension to the championship.

“Having club professionals in the field reminds everyone of the essence of the PGA of America,” explains Kerry Haigh, Chief Championships Officer of the PGA of America. “These are the men and women who devote their careers to teaching and growing the game.”

Setup Philosophy: Challenging But Fair

The PGA of America approaches course setup with a philosophy that distinguishes it from other majors:

• Flexible teeing grounds that may be adjusted based on weather conditions
• Graduated rough that penalizes wildly errant shots while allowing recovery opportunities
• Diverse hole locations that include both accessible and challenging positions
• Fair testing of all aspects of the game rather than emphasizing any single skill

This approach typically produces winning scores between 8-under and 16-under par, rewarding excellence while maintaining challenge. It contrasts with the USGA’s often more punitive U.S. Open setups and allows for greater scoring variety.

The Strongest Field in Golf

While all majors feature elite fields, the PGA Championship typically assembles the strongest collection of players:

• All top 100 world-ranked players are invited
• Recent tournament winners from the PGA Tour and international tours
• Former PGA Champions of all ages
• 20 club professionals who qualify through the PGA Professional Championship

This inclusive approach creates both the largest field in major championship golf (156 players) and often the most competitive, with nearly every elite player participating.

Inside the Ropes: Player Strategies at the PGA Championship

Conversations with players and coaches reveal specific strategic approaches to the PGA Championship:

Course Management Considerations

Players often adjust their normal tournament strategies for this major:

• Aggressive off the tee: With graduated rough rather than the extreme penalties of a U.S. Open, players can often take more aggressive lines off the tee
• Target hunting: Green complexes at PGA Championship venues typically allow for more direct attacks on pin positions
• Wind adaptation: With many venues featuring open, exposed layouts (Whistling Straits, Kiawah, Southern Hills), wind reading becomes paramount
• Heat management: Until the 2019 schedule change, August dates often meant extreme heat, requiring special attention to hydration and energy conservation

Equipment Tweaks

Players frequently make specific equipment adjustments:

• Driver optimization: Maximizing distance while maintaining adequate accuracy
• Mid-iron focus: Many PGA setups create numerous approach shots from 150-200 yards
• Wedge versatility: Preparing for various lies and recovery options around firm greens
• Putter testing: PGA Championship greens are typically faster than regular tour stops but slightly less severe than Augusta National or U.S. Open venues

Mental Approach

The calendar position and field strength influence player mentality:

• Present opportunity: With three majors played before the schedule change, players often viewed the PGA as the “last chance” for a major that season
• Early season positioning: In its new May date, the championship serves as an important benchmark of form heading into the summer majors
• Elite validation: With nearly every top player competing, a PGA Championship victory leaves no doubts about beating the best

The Future: Vision for the PGA Championship

As the PGA Championship evolves, several trends are shaping its future:

Venue Selection Evolution

The PGA of America has signaled several priorities in future site selection:

• Urban markets: Bringing the championship to major population centers
• International aspirations: Potential for occasional ventures outside the United States
• Diversity of tests: Continuing to alternate between traditional parkland courses and more modern designs
• Public access venues: Increasing opportunities for championship golf on public-accessible courses

Technology and Spectator Experience

The championship continues embracing innovations in how fans experience the event:

• Enhanced mobile applications: Providing shot-by-shot coverage of all groups
• Augmented reality viewing: Developing on-site AR experiences for spectators
• Analytics integration: Offering deeper statistical context during broadcasts
• Interactive fan zones: Creating more immersive on-site experiences beyond watching golf

The Long-Term Schedule

The May date appears firmly established, with announced venues including:

• 2025: Quail Hollow Club (Charlotte, North Carolina)
• 2026: Aronimink Golf Club (Newtown Square, Pennsylvania)
• 2027: PGA Frisco (Frisco, Texas)
• 2028: Olympic Club (San Francisco, California)
• 2029: Baltusrol Golf Club (Springfield, New Jersey)

The championship’s first visit to PGA Friscothe new home of the PGA of America in Texaswill represent a significant milestone, showcasing the association’s headquarters and two championship courses.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow

As the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club approaches, several compelling narratives are emerging:

The Venue: Quail Hollow Club

Quail Hollow has established itself as one of the premier championship venues in the southeastern United States. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, the course features:

• “The Green Mile”: The challenging three-hole closing stretch (16-18) that has created dramatic finishes
• Recent renovations: Significant course changes before its 2017 PGA Championship debut
• Championship pedigree: Regular host of the Wells Fargo Championship on the PGA Tour
• Member support: Strong corporate backing in the Charlotte business community

Having previously hosted the 2017 PGA Championship (won by Justin Thomas), Quail Hollow offers the ideal combination of difficulty, spectator accessibility, and tournament infrastructure.

Key Storylines

Several narratives will dominate the buildup to the 2025 championship:

• The continuing evolution of the power game in professional golf
• The potential emergence of the next generation of stars
• Possible farewell appearances by aging champions
• The quest for history among active multiple major winners
• The course setup balance between challenge and scoring opportunities

As players like Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm, and other current stars continue developing their legacies, the 2025 PGA Championship will serve as a key benchmark in determining the game’s elite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the PGA Championship one of the four majors?
A: The PGA Championship earned its major status through history and significance. Founded in 1916, it has consistently featured the world’s best players competing on challenging courses. Its organization by the PGA of Americaone of golf’s governing bodiesand its rich tradition of identifying worthy champions have cemented its place among golf’s most prestigious events.

Q: How do club professionals qualify for the PGA Championship?
A: The top 20 finishers in the PGA Professional Championship, a national tournament for PGA of America members working as club professionals, earn spots in the PGA Championship field. These individuals represent the thousands of PGA professionals who teach and grow the game at the local level.

Q: Why did the PGA Championship move from August to May?
A: The schedule change in 2019 accomplished several objectives: avoiding conflicts with the start of football season, allowing the FedEx Cup Playoffs to conclude before NFL kickoffs, creating a major championship in each month from April through July, and enabling the championship to visit more southern venues that might be unsuitable in August heat.

Q: What is the playoff format if players tie after 72 holes?
A: Since 2000, the PGA Championship has used a three-hole aggregate playoff. Players compete on three predetermined holes, with the lowest combined score winning. If players remain tied after three holes, they continue in sudden-death format until a champion emerges.

Q: Has any player won the PGA Championship in their first appearance?
A: Yes, several players have won in their PGA Championship debut, including Keegan Bradley (2011), Collin Morikawa (2020), and famously, John Daly as the ninth alternate in 1991. This contrasts with the Masters, which rarely crowns first-time participants as champions.

Final Thoughts: The PGA Championship’s Place in Golf

What elevates the PGA Championship in golf’s major landscape is its combination of inclusivity, challenging but fair setups, and its commitment to assembling the strongest possible field.

For spectators, the PGA Championship offers the opportunity to see virtually every relevant player in world golf competing on courses specifically prepared to create drama and excitement. The balance between difficulty and scoring opportunities typically produces compelling tournaments with multiple players in contention.

For players, winning the PGA Championship represents conquering the most comprehensive examination of competitive merit. While the Masters requires course knowledge, the U.S. Open extreme precision, and The Open adaptability, the PGA Championship demands overall excellence against the deepest field.

As former champion Rory McIlroy expressed, “The PGA tests your complete game while allowing you to play golf the way it’s meant to be played. You need power, accuracy, short game, putting, and mental strengthbut you can also make birdies and eagles when you execute properly.”

In a golfing world increasingly segmented by rival tours and competing interests, the PGA Championship remains one of the few occasions when nearly every elite player participates, creating the purest competitive test in major championship golf. It’s this commitment to identifying the best player under championship conditions that ensures the PGA Championship’s enduring significance.

Your PGA Championship Memories

What’s your most memorable PGA Championship moment? Share your favorite championships, shots, or players in the comments below.

Whether you witnessed Tiger’s playoff victory over Bob May, Y.E. Yang’s historic upset, or Phil Mickelson’s age-defying triumph at Kiawah, we’d love to hear which PGA Championship moments have remained with you through the years.

References

1. PGA of America: “PGA Championship History”

2. Golf Digest: “The Evolution of the PGA Championship”

3. Sports Illustrated: “Major Moments: Greatest PGA Championships”

4. Golf Channel: “PGA Championship Venues: Past and Future”

5. PGA Tour: “PGA Championship Records and Statistics”