Tournament spotlight: THE PLAYERS Championship

THE PLAYERS Championship stands alone in professional golf - not officially a major, but widely regarded as the most prestigious event outside of them. Held each March at the iconic TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, this tournament consistently attracts the strongest field in the sport and delivers drama, history, and world-class competition.

A Championship With Purpose

First played in 1974 at Atlanta Country Club, THE PLAYERS Championship was created by then-PGA TOUR Commissioner Deane Beman to provide a flagship event owned and operated by the PGA TOUR. After moving venues in its early years, the tournament found its permanent home in 1982 at TPC Sawgrass - a course that would become synonymous with the event itself.

The Venue: TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course

Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, TPC Sawgrass is one of the most recognisable and challenging layouts in golf. Measuring just over 7,200 yards, the Stadium Course demands precision off the tee, sharp iron play, and nerves of steel on its slick, undulating greens. The layout was purpose-built to enhance the spectator experience, creating natural amphitheaters around key holes so fans can watch the action unfold from every angle.

No hole is more famous than the par-3 17th - the iconic island green. One slightly misjudged shot can find the water, and year after year this hole has played a decisive role in crowning the champion. It’s one of the most dramatic scenes in tournament golf.

The Strongest Field in Golf

As the PGA TOUR’s premier event, THE PLAYERS Championship routinely features one of the deepest fields in the game. The world’s top-ranked players compete alongside the season’s leading performers, making it one of the most competitive tournaments on the calendar.

Because it is owned by the TOUR, the event consistently delivers elite competition - a key reason it is often referred to as golf’s “fifth major.”

Prestige and Prize

With one of the largest purses in professional golf, THE PLAYERS offers more than just a trophy. The champion earns a significant winner’s check, valuable world ranking points, and exemptions into other major championships and PGA TOUR events. Winning here elevates a player’s career and cements their name among the game’s elite.

A Roll Call of Champions

Over the years, THE PLAYERS Championship has crowned some of the greatest players in history. Legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Rory McIlroy have all lifted the trophy at TPC Sawgrass - a testament to the caliber of champion this course demands.

The Spectator Experience

Attending THE PLAYERS Championship is about more than watching golf - it’s about immersing yourself in one of the sport’s most electric atmospheres. From walking the fairways alongside the world’s best players to securing prime viewing spots around the 17th green, every day brings unforgettable moments.

Whether you’re a lifelong golf fan or experiencing your first professional tournament, THE PLAYERS Championship delivers excitement, tension, and world-class sport in equal measure.

While at the tournament, there are a few things that you need to do to get the full experience:

• See the 17th hole – you’ve seen the images and watched it on TV, but nothing compares to being there in person
• Visit the Fan Shop – buy THE PLAYERS branded merchandise and show it off proudly when you return home. Make this one of the first stops when you arrive to ensure you get exactly what you want. They also offer international shipping.
• Follow your favorite golfer – while the terrain is hilly, the course is very walkable so following your favorite player around is very easy. Make sure to pack an extra pair of shoes if you’re going for multiple days
• Head to the practice facilities – enjoy watching the pros practice their craft on the huge driving range and immaculate putting/chipping areas located next to each other by the Clubhouse.
• Stop into the tents – throughout the course, there are smaller hospitality areas with games, couches, tables, and food & drink for purchase.
• Upgrade to Hospitality – there are several full-scale hospitality tent options throughout the course offering covered seating, food and beverages, and more! If going for multiple days, make sure to get hospitality for at least one day to get the full experience at THE PLAYERS

Check out some of our packages for the 2026 PLAYERS championship:

• 3 night Deck package at Marriott Jacksonville Downtown
• 4 night package at Marriott Jacksonville Downtown
• 5 night Hospitality Package in downtown Jacksonville