Celebrating the Future of Golf: A Look Ahead to 2026
As we embark on a new year, it’s time to raise a glass to all the dreamers, early risers at the driving range, and weekend warriors who keep the beauty of golf alive. As a PGA Professional dedicated to this great game, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you.
I also want to take a moment to acknowledge the Athlon Sports team for welcoming me as their Senior Golf Writer in 2025. It has been a privilege to share stories about the sport I love, and I am excited about what 2026 holds for all of us.
2025: A Year of Highlights and Milestones
The year 2025 brought us unforgettable moments in professional golf:
Scottie Scheffler’s Dominance: With six victories, including the PGA Championship and The Open at Royal Portrush, Scheffler raised the bar. Yet, it was not the trophies that struck a chord, but his profound statement: "My identity isn’t a golf score." This insight reminds us that golf is an activity we engage in, not a measure of who we are.
Rory McIlroy’s Triumph: Finally completing his career Grand Slam with a victory at The Masters, McIlroy showcased that perseverance and belief ultimately pay off. His journey serves as a reminder that breakthroughs often come at their own pace.
- Women’s Golf Thrives: Jeeno Thitikul led the charge, achieving three victories and back-to-back CME Group Tour Championships. An impressive 29 different winners on the LPGA Tour highlight the unprecedented talent and opportunity currently fueling women’s golf.
Emerging Talent
2025 also showcased the rise of remarkable newcomers:
- Aldrich Potgieter: The former wrestler, at just 20 years old, became the ninth-youngest PGA Tour winner since 1983.
- Marco Penge: Achieving three wins on the DP World Tour, Penge demonstrated that the game is truly open to anyone willing to put in the effort.
Looking Forward: 2026 and Beyond
As we set our sights on 2026, the PGA Tour is streamlining its structure by limiting full status to the top 100 players. This might seem harsh to some, but it emphasizes golf’s foundation on meritocracy. Staying at the top will require consistent performance week in and week out.
Upcoming Major Events
- PGA Championship: Aronimink
- U.S. Open: Shinnecock Hills
- The Open Championship: Royal Birkdale
- Presidents Cup: Medinah
- Solheim Cup: Netherlands
Expect fierce competition as players like Thitikul and Korda vie for top honors on the LPGA Tour, and watch to see if Scheffler can sustain his remarkable journey or if a new challenger will emerge.
A Commitment to the Game
As we enter 2026, my hope for all of you is to play more golf, take more walks on the course, and introduce someone new to the game. Remember, every shot is just one shot, and another opportunity lies ahead.
Golf is a the ultimate teacher—it instills patience, humility, and resilience. It rewards those who prepare and challenges those who do not. From quiet mornings on the course to friendships forged over 18 holes, golf connects us to history while propelling us forward.
So, let’s toast to 2026—a year where the game challenges us, humbles us, and invites us back time and again. To the professionals who inspire us, the friendships that bring us joy, and every moment from early tee times to thrilling putts.
Happy New Year, golfers! May your drives be long, your putts true, and your passion for the game flourish with each round.
This article originally debuted in the Athlon Sports Golf section on January 1, 2026.
