PGA TOUR’s Back-to-Back Scheduling Mixes Up Pros: ‘Not Ideal’

• Rickie Fowler: Fowler described the scheduling as “not ideal,” particularly noting the challenge of transitioning from the Truist Championship at Philadelphia Cricket Club to the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. He suggested that players generally prefer playing the week before a major rather than the week after, indicating a preference for using Signature Events as preparation despite the demanding schedule.
• Justin Thomas: Thomas was candid about the difficulties, especially regarding the Travelers Championship following the U.S. Open at Oakmont. He stated, “To be perfectly honest, I think playing the week after the U.S. Open at Oakmont is going to really suck,” citing the physical and mental toll of Oakmont’s challenging course. However, he acknowledged the necessity to compete, noting, “We’ll all be more than happy to tee it up, and there will be a winner at the end of the week.”
• Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay: Both players were noted to share similar views on the topic, though specific quotes were not detailed. Posts on X indicate they discussed whether scheduling Signature Events before majors is a smart move, suggesting a critical perspective on the timing.
• Erik Van Rooyen: Van Rooyen expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Signature Event model itself, which indirectly relates to their scheduling. After qualifying for the Truist Championship, he stated he “hates” the $20 million purse, limited-field, no-cut format, suggesting that the structure and timing of these events, especially before majors, may not align with competitive fairness or broader player inclusion.

McIlroy did state that the timing of playing a Signature Event before a Major helps him figure out what to work on going into the following week. However, the general consensus amongst players is that the back-to-back nature of these events with Majors is not the most ideal schedule.

Cover Image via AP