The FedEx St. Jude Championship is the opening event of the PGA Tour’s FedExCup Playoffs, marking the start of the most intense stretch of the professional golf season. Held at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, this tournament narrows the field from the top 70 players to 50 as the race for the FedExCup title begins in earnest. The 2026 edition takes place from 13 to 16 August.
What is the FedEx St. Jude Championship?
The FedEx St. Jude Championship is the first of three FedExCup Playoff events on the PGA Tour. Only the top 70 players in the FedExCup standings qualify to compete, making for one of the strongest fields of the entire season. After this tournament, the field is cut to 50 for the BMW Championship. The event also serves as a significant fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, with millions of dollars raised through tournament activities each year. It is a 72-hole stroke play competition held over four days.
When is the FedEx St. Jude Championship 2026?
The 2026 FedEx St. Jude Championship runs from Thursday 13 August to Sunday 16 August. The first and second rounds take place on Thursday and Friday, with the weekend rounds on Saturday and Sunday determining the final standings.
Where is the FedEx St. Jude Championship held?
The tournament is held at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee. The course is a par-70 layout measuring approximately 7,200 yards, known for its tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging green complexes. The closing stretch, particularly the par-4 18th with water guarding the green, has produced dramatic finishes in previous editions. Memphis offers warm August conditions that test players’ stamina and course management.
Key Contenders
As the first playoff event, the FedEx St. Jude Championship features the top performers from the regular PGA Tour season. Scottie Scheffler, the dominant force in world golf, will be among the favourites, alongside Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy, and Collin Morikawa. Players who enter the playoffs with strong FedExCup points standings have the advantage, but the reset format means a single strong week can dramatically change a player’s position heading into the BMW Championship. Past champions at TPC Southwind include Hideki Matsuyama, Lucas Glover, and Will Zalatoris.
How to Watch
In the United Kingdom, the FedEx St. Jude Championship is broadcast on Sky Sports Golf. In the United States, coverage is shared between ESPN, CBS, and the PGA Tour’s own streaming platforms. Featured group coverage and early-round streaming are typically available through PGA Tour Live on ESPN+. International viewers should check local broadcast listings for availability.
History
The Memphis tournament dates back to 1958, making it one of the longest-running events on the PGA Tour. It was elevated to FedExCup Playoff status in 2019, significantly raising its profile. The event has been played at TPC Southwind since 1989, and the course has become synonymous with the tournament. The charitable partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has been a defining feature, with the tournament consistently ranking among the PGA Tour’s top fundraising events.
Tickets
Tickets for the FedEx St. Jude Championship are available through the tournament’s official website. Options include daily grounds passes, weekly badges, and premium hospitality packages. The Birdies for St. Jude programme allows fans to contribute to the charitable mission alongside their ticket purchase. Juniors aged 15 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a ticketed adult.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the FedExCup Playoffs?
The FedExCup Playoffs are a three-tournament series at the end of the PGA Tour season that determines the overall FedExCup champion. The FedEx St. Jude Championship is the first event, followed by the BMW Championship and the Tour Championship.
How many players compete in the FedEx St. Jude Championship?
The top 70 players in the FedExCup standings qualify for the FedEx St. Jude Championship. After the tournament, the field is reduced to 50 for the BMW Championship.
Is TPC Southwind a difficult course?
Yes, TPC Southwind is considered one of the toughest tests on the PGA Tour. Its tight fairways, strategic water hazards, and slick greens demand accuracy and patience, with winning scores typically in the low teens under par.
Can children attend the tournament?
Yes, juniors aged 15 and under are admitted free of charge when accompanied by a ticketed adult, making it a family-friendly event.
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