The PGA Tour's 2025 season continues its roll with the highly anticipated Sony Open, kicking off on Thursday, January 9, at the iconic Waialae Country Club situated in the stunning city of Honolulu, Hawaii. Hosting this tournament since 1965, Waialae has been the scene for many memorable moments, particularly as it prepares to welcome the elite of golf from around the globe.
This year’s Sony Open stands out not only for its competition but also for the poignant memories it evokes. It serves as both a competitive golf event and a tribute to the late Grayson Murray, the 2024 champion who tragically passed away last May. Murray’s memory will be honored throughout the tournament, reminding all of his thrilling playoff victory just before his untimely demise.
With 144 golfers set to tee off, this first full-field event of 2025 includes heavy hitters like Hideki Matsuyama, who recently made headlines with his historic victory at The Sentry, claiming 11 PGA Tour titles and climbing to No. 5 globally. Matsuyama, listed as the favorite at +900, brings momentum and confidence to Waialae, undoubtedly raising the stakes for the competition.
Alongside Matsuyama, the player field includes the likes of Keegan Bradley, who will be battling for victory once again after losing to Murray during last year’s heart-stopping playoff round. Bradley finds himself among the favorites as well, with odds set at +2500. He hopes to channel his frustration from past losses to capture his first Sony Open title, acknowledging the emotional weight this tournament carries.
Others to keep an eye on include rising stars such as Tom Kim and Corey Conners, sitting at +2000 and +1400, respectively. Conners, who has shown impressive performances leading up to this event, is expected to capitalize on his current form as he seeks to secure his place among golf’s elite.
For fans eager to watch the action, ESPN+ will provide comprehensive coverage, complemented by the Golf Channel. Viewers can tune in starting at noon on all four tournament days for live updates and insights on featured groups, as well as dedicated hole streaming to keep the audience engaged.
What makes this event even more engaging is the backdrop of Hawaiian culture and the community’s vibrant spirit, creating not just another golf tournament but rather fostering connections among players and fans alike. This year's event carries the added significance of grieving the loss of Murray, reminding everyone of the fragile nature of life, even as the competition remains fierce.
Track advancements through the Sony Open leaderboard, where updates will be available online and through various sports media outlets. Players will be striving for their shot at the $8.7 million purse, with $1,566,000 awaiting the champion—an appealing opportunity for participants eager to kick off their 2025 campaigns successfully.
Conditions at Waialae may pose challenges, with wind gusts anticipated later in the weekend, reminiscent of the coastal setup many familiar faces thrive on. Navigational skills through these winds will be pivotal for the field, opening up opportunities for surprises from long shots.
By uniting players of varying backgrounds and skills, the Sony Open 2025 promises not only to deliver extraordinary golf but also to continue the legacy of camaraderie and competition. Each swing taken at Waialae will resonate with stories, hopes, and dreams—an unyielding tribute to those who came before.
The golf community looks forward to four exciting days beginning January 9, as fans worldwide gather for this prestigious event. Embrace the spirit of golf and honor Grayson Murray's legacy this tournament. May the best player win!