The excitement is building as the 2025 PGA Championship approaches, with the full 156-player field almost finalized. The tournament, set to take place from May 15 to May 18 at the Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, features a mix of past champions, rising stars, and seasoned veterans.
Among the notable names is Dustin Johnson, a two-time major winner, who has received a special invitation to compete in this year’s event. Johnson's exemption from his 2020 Masters victory has expired, making this invitation crucial for his participation. Ranked 751st in the Official World Golf Ranking, Johnson missed the cut at last month’s Masters but has shown flashes of brilliance with two top-10 finishes in seven LIV Golf events this season. His inclusion in the field continues his impressive streak of being eligible for every major since 2009.
Joining Johnson will be 15 other full-time members of the LIV Golf League, representing nearly 28% of the league's roster. This includes players like Bryson DeChambeau, Sergio Garcia, Brooks Koepka, and Patrick Reed, all of whom have made significant impacts in the golfing world. Reed, currently ranked 51st in the OWGR, is also a notable participant, having finished T2 at the last PGA Championship held at Quail Hollow in 2017.
Xander Schauffele, the defending champion, will headline the tournament after his thrilling victory at Valhalla last year, where he shot a closing 65 to edge out Bryson DeChambeau by just one stroke. Schauffele will be among 14 past champions competing this year, including Justin Thomas, who won the last time Quail Hollow hosted the PGA Championship in 2017.
The field is not without its surprises. Notably absent are legends like John Daly, who is missing the PGA for only the second time since his victory in 1991, and Tiger Woods, who continues to recover from Achilles tendon surgery. The tournament will showcase 29 major champions, three World Golf Hall of Famers, and three Ryder Cup Captains, highlighting the depth of talent present.
Among the young talents making their mark, 22-year-old Tom McKibbin and 23-year-old David Puig received special invitations. McKibbin, who has just begun his professional career, is considered one of the most promising golfers from Ireland, having won the Porsche European Open in 2023, making him the youngest winner from Ireland since Rory McIlroy.
Rickie Fowler, another fan favorite, has also been granted a special exemption despite his current ranking of 125th in the OWGR. Fowler's history at Quail Hollow is notable; he claimed his first PGA Tour victory at the 2012 Wells Fargo Championship held at this venue. However, he has yet to secure a top-10 finish in 2025 and did not perform well in the major championships last season.
The PGA of America reserves the right to invite players who do not meet the standard eligibility criteria, and this year’s field reflects that flexibility. The current list includes players from 24 countries and 26 states, showcasing the global appeal of the championship.
As the tournament approaches, two spots remain to be filled by the winners of the Truist Championship and the Myrtle Beach Classic, which are both taking place this week. Additionally, Billy Horschel, who is listed in the field, announced that he will undergo hip surgery, likely opening another spot for a deserving player.
The anticipation for the 2025 PGA Championship is palpable, with the Quail Hollow Club set to host a thrilling week of golf. Fans and players alike are eager to see how the competition unfolds, especially with such a diverse and talented field ready to battle for the Wanamaker Trophy.
As the first round approaches, golf enthusiasts are reminded of the rich history of the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, including memorable moments from past tournaments. With a mix of seasoned champions and emerging talents, this year’s event promises to deliver excitement and drama.
