In a move that has been met with widespread relief across the PGA Tour, the controversial Tour Championship format — long criticized by players and fans alike — has officially been scrapped. The decision marks a significant shift in professional golf’s postseason structure, with players like Scottie Scheffler and other top-ranked stars openly applauding the change.
Since its implementation in 2019, the staggered-start format of the Tour Championship had been a point of contention. Under the old system, players began the tournament with starting strokes based on their FedEx Cup standings — a format intended to reward consistency throughout the season but often criticized for being confusing, unfair, and anti-climactic.
A Victory for Players and Purists
Scottie Scheffler, who had previously voiced concerns about the format’s impact on competitive balance, was among the first to react positively to the news. “This change is something we’ve been asking for,” he said. “We want a championship where every stroke counts the same, and where the best golfer that week wins.”
Scheffler, despite dominating multiple seasons and entering past Tour Championships as the No. 1 seed, had been unable to secure the FedEx Cup title under the staggered scoring system — leading to growing frustrations not only from him but from many within the sport’s inner circle.
The New Format: Back to Basics
The PGA Tour confirmed that beginning with the 2025 season, the Tour Championship will revert to a traditional stroke-play format. All 30 qualifying players will now start at even par, and the tournament will be played over 72 holes with no head starts or handicaps. The winner of the tournament will also be crowned the FedEx Cup Champion.
The format change was announced after months of internal discussions, surveys among players, and feedback from broadcasters and sponsors. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan acknowledged the criticism and framed the decision as a response to evolving fan and player expectations.
Fan Reaction: Overwhelmingly Positive
Golf fans on social media erupted with praise following the announcement. “Finally! It’s about time the Tour listened to its fans and players,” tweeted one user. Hashtags like #TourChampionship and #FedExCupFix quickly began trending, reflecting the public’s excitement.
Analysts say the new format will likely enhance TV ratings and general interest, particularly among casual viewers who were often confused by the previous format’s complexities.
What It Means for the Future of the FedEx Cup
This change is expected to reinvigorate the Tour Championship’s reputation as the season’s most important event. It also reflects a broader trend in professional golf — a growing willingness to evolve in ways that better serve both players and fans.
For players like Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, and others who’ve campaigned for a more straightforward system, this shift represents a long-overdue victory.
