CHARLOTTE, N.C. – As the 2025 PGA Championship approaches, Quail Hollow Club is set to transform from a member-friendly course into a formidable challenge for the world’s best golfers. Scheduled from May 15-18, the championship will showcase a course that has evolved significantly since its inception in 1961, now measuring 7,626 yards with a par of 71.
Originally designed by George Cobb, Quail Hollow has undergone numerous renovations, most notably by Arnold Palmer in 1986 and Tom Fazio, who has been refining the course since 1997. This year, the greens have been re-grassed with Tif Eagle Bermuda grass, enhancing the playing conditions for the championship.
Keith Wood, Quail Hollow’s Director of Green and Grounds, is tasked with overseeing the transformation. He has successfully managed course conditions for major tournaments in the past, including the 2017 PGA Championship and the 2022 Presidents Cup. Wood emphasized the importance of the Bermuda grass, stating, "Once that Bermuda grass wakes up and starts putting out some roots, it starts using up the moisture in the soil. It’s also providing a denser, tighter surface… Things are going to be firm so that balls can bounce and give people the opportunity to shape the ball versus just hit it long."
The course will present a unique test for players, combining strategic shot-making with the necessity of power. The opening holes, for example, will challenge competitors with their doglegs and varying elevations. The first hole, a par 5 for members, will play as a long par 4 during the championship, setting the tone for the demanding layout ahead.
Quail Hollow is known for its rich history of hosting elite tournaments, including the Kemper Open and the PaineWebber Invitational, and more recently, the Truist Championship, formerly known as the Wells Fargo Championship. The club has seen legendary players like Rory McIlroy, who has won here four times, and Justin Thomas, who claimed the PGA Championship title in 2017.
As the championship draws near, the course is undergoing final preparations. Member play has been suspended to allow Wood and his team to focus on creating optimal conditions. "We’ll do a lot of fertilizing and we’ll do a lot of things in high-traffic areas, really just trying to get the property to start flourishing and really come together," Wood explained.
Expectations are high as the PGA Championship is projected to attract around 200,000 spectators. This year, Championship+ ticket holders will enjoy unlimited food and nonalcoholic beverages, a significant upgrade from previous years. Eric Babcook, general manager of the PGA of America Championship, noted, "The goal is to get people back to watching golf faster."
Food options will be plentiful, with the production kitchen set to operate 24 hours a day, featuring 11 kitchens staffed by 200 cooks and 58 chefs. Babcook anticipates serving 130,000 8-ounce burgers and 90,000 hot dogs throughout the tournament, ensuring fans are well-fed as they enjoy the action on the course.
In terms of logistics, gates will open as early as 6:30 a.m. on tournament days, with public parking available at nearby locations and shuttle services to Quail Hollow. Fans are encouraged to download the PGA Championship App for easy access to tickets and information.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Rory McIlroy, who is aiming for back-to-back major victories after his recent success. He will face stiff competition from the likes of World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who recently equaled the PGA Tour scoring record at TPC Craig Ranch. The field will also include defending champion Xander Schauffele and a strong contingent of LIV players, making this year’s championship one of the most competitive in recent memory.
Looking ahead, the excitement surrounding the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club is palpable. With its storied past and the promise of thrilling competition, the stage is set for an unforgettable week of golf. As Wood aptly put it, "We want a fair course, and a challenge… Honestly, from my point of view, we just want to see a great competition. On Sunday, as the leaders are making the turn to the back nine, you know, we want to have six or seven guys in contention. That’s exciting, a lot of competition, good drama."
