A Look Ahead: Key Highlights in Professional Golf for 2026
Aronimink’s hosting of the 2026 PGA coincides with the 250th anniversary of America’s founding in 1776 in Philadelphia [Getty Images]
As we look ahead to the golfing season of 2026, the anticipation is palpable. After an eventful 2025, marked by Rory McIlroy’s remarkable completion of the career Grand Slam at Augusta and Europe’s thrilling triumph in the Ryder Cup, the upcoming year promises its own array of excitement.
Here’s an A to Z guide to the major events, courses, players, and issues set to make waves in the world of golf this year.
Majors and Cups: The Power Players
Aronimink, a historic Pennsylvania course, will make headlines as it stages its first men’s major since 1962, the US PGA Championship, scheduled for May. This course has a storied history, previously hosting notable tournaments, including the 2020 Women’s PGA, won by Sei Young Kim.
Key Event: US PGA Championship at Aronimink
- Date: May
- Significance: First men’s major at Aronimink since 1962.
- Notable Past Winners: Gary Player, Justin Rose.
Given Justin Rose’s triumph in the 2013 US Open at nearby Merion Golf Club, he is definitely one to watch at this year’s championship.
In contrast, the Open Championship will take place at a revamped Royal Birkdale, where the seventh hole has been converted into a short par three and enhancements to other holes promise a challenging yet invigorating experience for players.
Notable Cups to Watch
- Solheim Cup: Hosted in the Netherlands, the European team, led by Anna Nordqvist, hopes to reclaim the trophy in September.
- Curtis Cup: Great Britain and Ireland defend their title against the USA at Bel Air Country Club in Los Angeles.
- Walker Cup: The men’s amateurs from Great Britain and Ireland will be led by Dean Robertson at Lahinch in September.
While there won’t be a Ryder Cup this year, the spotlight remains on the various international Cups competing for golf supremacy.
Rising Stars and Grand Slam Aspirations
Scottie Scheffler is on track to become a member of golf’s elite Grand Slam club, needing just a US Open victory to join legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. After winning the Open Championship and PGA Championship in 2025, Scheffler’s form put him at the top of the rankings.
Upcoming Major Events
- Evian Championship: A pivotal women’s major where Grace Kim’s playoff victory last year is still fresh. A strong showing could enhance its prestige.
- Chevron Championship: This major has shifted from Carlton Woods to Memorial Park in Houston. Its recovery will be crucial for hosting top female players.
Off-Course Developments and Leadership Changes
As the golf community anticipates the return of the Ryder Cup, the decision-making around leadership will be critical. An Italian leadership duo of Francesco and Edoardo Molinari could potentially take the reins from Luke Donald, pending the outcome of pending LIV tour disputes affecting DP World Tour memberships.
Brooks Koepka’s Future
Amid uncertainties, Brooks Koepka may be heading back to the European circuit after his departure from LIV Golf, signaling further movement in the golf landscape.
British Players to Watch in 2026
Lottie Woad, an impressive rookie, is making waves in her young career. Ranked 11th in the world, she stands as an exciting emerging talent in British golf.
Major Breakthroughs
- Tommy Fleetwood: Excelling in local Opens and seeking redemption after past performances at major tournaments.
- Charley Hull: Setting her sights on major wins after several close calls.
Currently, Nelly Korda stands strong at number two in the women’s world rankings. With recent challenges in her game, she will be eager to reclaim her spot at the top of the leaderboard.
New Entrants to the PGA Tour
Two Englishmen, Marco Penge and John Parry, will make their professional debuts on the PGA Tour in 2026, adding to the growing talent pool.
The Future of Golf Amid Changing Dynamics
As the golf world navigates through its evolving structure, authority figures must address fan behavior at major events to maintain the sport’s reverent spirit. Amidst this, discussions around the rankings remain contentious as more LIV events emerge.
Looking Ahead: Major Controversies
- The US Open at Shinnecock Hills could again stir debate, given previous memorable incidents at this challenging venue.
- Tiger Woods, still recovering from surgery, remains a crucial figure as he navigates the governance of the PGA Tour and possibly the Ryder Cup captaincy.
Young Talents on the Rise
Notably, Brendan Valdes and Cameron Young are among young players set to watch in the upcoming season as they transition to the PGA Tour.
In conclusion, 2026 offers a robust schedule filled with talent, events, and evolving dynamics within the sport of golf. The challenges and triumphs to come will undoubtedly enrich the history of this beloved sport.
The 2026 season is set to be an exciting chapter in professional golf, with fans eagerly anticipating how these narratives unfold. Keep your eyes on the trends, players, and events that will shape the future of golf.
