The John Deere Classic is a beloved PGA Tour event held at TPC Deere Run in the Quad Cities community of Silvis, Illinois. Played annually in early July, the tournament is known for producing breakthrough winners and dramatic finishes, including Jordan Spieth’s historic victory as a 19-year-old in 2013. With John Deere’s commitment as title sponsor extending through 2030, the event remains a firm fixture on the Tour calendar.
What is the John Deere Classic?
The John Deere Classic is a PGA Tour event with a purse of approximately $8,400,000 and full FedExCup points on offer. The tournament has a reputation as a launching pad for future stars, with many players using it as a springboard to major championship success. John Deere has been the title sponsor since 1999 and renewed its commitment through 2030, reflecting the deep ties between the Quad Cities community and the event. Proceeds support numerous charitable organisations across the region.
When is the John Deere Classic 2026?
The 2026 John Deere Classic is scheduled for Thursday 2 July to Sunday 5 July 2026. The event is traditionally held the week before The Open Championship, giving players a final competitive tune-up before crossing the Atlantic for the year’s final major. Tournament week activities, including practice rounds and pro-am events, begin earlier in the week.
Where is the John Deere Classic Played?
The tournament is held at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois, in the heart of the Quad Cities metropolitan area. The course was built on land with a direct connection to John Deere’s heritage: the property was once known as Friendship Farms, owned by descendants of company founder John Deere since 1928. TPC Deere Run opened in 2000 and has hosted the event ever since. The par-71 layout is known for producing low scores and exciting leaderboard battles.
Key Contenders
Davis Thompson is the defending champion after winning the 2025 edition. The John Deere Classic has a remarkable history of producing first-time or breakthrough winners. Jordan Spieth won here in 2013 at age 19, becoming the youngest PGA Tour winner in 82 years, and won again in 2015. Steve Stricker holds the record for three consecutive victories (2009, 2010, 2011). The field typically features a mix of rising stars, experienced Tour veterans, and international players seeking to build momentum heading into The Open Championship.
How to Watch
The John Deere Classic is broadcast live on Golf Channel and CBS, with early-round featured group coverage and streaming available through ESPN+. The tournament typically receives four days of comprehensive television coverage across the weekend.
History of the John Deere Classic
The tournament began as the Quad Cities Open in 1971, initially as a satellite event before becoming an official PGA Tour event in 1972. It has been held under various names and sponsors, including Miller Brewing Company (1982 to 1985) and Hardee’s (1986 to 1994), before John Deere took over in 1999. The event was originally played at Crow Valley Country Club in Davenport, Iowa, then at Oakwood Country Club in Coal Valley, Illinois, before moving to its current home at TPC Deere Run in 2000. The tournament has a cherished place in Midwest sporting culture and regularly draws passionate galleries.
Tickets
Tickets for the 2026 John Deere Classic are available through the official tournament website. The event is known for its affordable, family-friendly pricing and welcoming atmosphere. General admission, weekly badges, and hospitality packages are all available, with military personnel typically receiving complimentary admission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the John Deere Classic considered a launching pad for young players?
The tournament has a remarkable track record of early-career victories. Jordan Spieth won here at age 19 in 2013 and went on to win three major championships. Many other future stars have secured important victories at TPC Deere Run.
Is TPC Deere Run connected to John Deere the company?
Yes. The course was built on land known as Friendship Farms, which had been owned by descendants of company founder John Deere since 1928. John Deere also serves as the official golf course equipment supplier for the TPC network.
Does the John Deere Classic take place before The Open Championship?
Yes. The John Deere Classic is traditionally held the week before The Open Championship, making it a popular preparation event for players heading to the UK for the year’s final major.
Who holds the record for most John Deere Classic wins?
Steve Stricker holds the record with three consecutive victories from 2009 to 2011, the first player to achieve that feat in the tournament’s history.
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