The TOUR Championship is the season-ending finale of the PGA Tour’s FedExCup Playoffs, bringing together the top 30 golfers in the world to compete for one of the sport’s most prestigious titles and a record-breaking prize purse. Held annually at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia, this tournament determines the overall FedExCup champion and marks the culmination of a gruelling season of professional golf.
What Is the TOUR Championship?
The TOUR Championship is the third and final event of the FedExCup Playoffs, serving as the grand finale to the PGA Tour season. Only the top 30 players in the FedExCup standings qualify, making it the most exclusive field in professional golf. Since 2019, the tournament has used a staggered strokes-based starting system, where players begin the event with a score relative to their FedExCup ranking. The leader starts at 10 under par, with the remaining 29 players assigned scores based on their position, ensuring that the tournament winner is also crowned FedExCup champion.
When Is the TOUR Championship?
The 2026 TOUR Championship takes place from 27 to 30 August 2026. The four-day stroke play event runs Thursday through Sunday, with coverage typically beginning in the early afternoon (Eastern Time) and extending into the evening hours.
Where Is the TOUR Championship Held?
East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia, has served as the permanent home of the TOUR Championship since 2004. The historic course, originally designed by Tom Bendelow in 1904 and later redesigned by Donald Ross, underwent a significant renovation by Andrew Green that was completed ahead of the 2024 edition. The par-72 layout stretches over 7,300 yards and is widely regarded as one of the finest championship venues in the United States.
Key Contenders
The field is determined by the FedExCup Playoffs standings, so the 30 players who tee it up at East Lake will have proven themselves across the entire season. Expect the world’s top-ranked players to feature prominently, including past FedExCup champions and major winners. Historically, consistency across the full PGA Tour season is rewarded, with players who have accumulated multiple victories and top finishes earning the most favourable starting positions.
How to Watch the TOUR Championship
In the United States, coverage is split between NBC, Golf Channel, and Peacock. UK viewers can follow the action on Sky Sports Golf, which provides comprehensive live coverage of all four rounds. International broadcast details vary by region, with the PGA Tour’s own streaming platforms also offering coverage in select markets.
History of the TOUR Championship
The TOUR Championship was established in 1987 as the season-ending event on the PGA Tour. It has been held at several prestigious venues over the years, including Champions Golf Club, Olympic Club, and Southern Hills, before settling at East Lake in 2004. The tournament gained even greater significance in 2007 with the introduction of the FedExCup Playoffs system. Notable past champions include Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Scottie Scheffler, each of whom have used the event to cement their status as dominant forces in the sport.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for the TOUR Championship typically go on sale earlier in the season through the PGA Tour’s official website. Options range from single-day general admission to premium hospitality packages. Given the intimate 30-player field, spectators enjoy closer access to the action than at most PGA Tour events. East Lake’s Atlanta location also makes it easily accessible for fans travelling from across the southeastern United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the FedExCup starting strokes system work?
The FedExCup leader begins the TOUR Championship at 10 under par. Players ranked 2nd through 5th start between 8 and 6 under, and the remaining field receives progressively fewer starting strokes. The player who finishes 72 holes with the lowest score wins both the tournament and the FedExCup.
How many players compete in the TOUR Championship?
Only 30 players qualify for the TOUR Championship, making it the smallest and most elite field on the PGA Tour. Qualification is based on cumulative FedExCup points earned throughout the season and the preceding two Playoff events.
What is the prize money for the TOUR Championship?
The TOUR Championship features one of the largest purses in golf. The FedExCup champion receives a bonus of $25 million on top of the tournament prize money, making it the richest single payout in professional golf.
Can I attend the TOUR Championship?
Yes, tickets are available to the public through the PGA Tour’s official ticketing platform. Options include daily grounds passes, weekly badges, and various hospitality experiences at East Lake Golf Club.
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