Ernie Els was crowned the champion of the 2024 American Family Insurance Championship at University Ridge Golf course in Madison, Wisconsin. During the trophy presentation, Els hinted at a potential team event at Steve Stricker’s golf course for the 2025 tournament. However, tournament director Nate Pokrass clarified that no agreements have been signed with the PGA Tour, and everything is still in the planning stages.
The 2025 AmFam Championship is scheduled for the week of June 2-8 at TPC Wisconsin, which has been redesigned by Steve Stricker. Pokrass mentioned that discussions are ongoing with the PGA Tour Champions, and any format changes must be approved by the policy board. The tournament is exploring ways to improve and differentiate itself from other PGA Tour Champions events.
Since its inception in 2016, the AmFam Championship has followed a traditional 54-hole stroke play format. Moving to a new course provides an opportunity to re-evaluate the tournament operations and logistics. The goal is to enhance the overall experience for players, sponsors, and fans and maintain the event’s reputation as one of the best on the PGA Tour Champions.
Ernie Els subtly revealed that his teammate for the 2025 event would be Tim Herron, although no official announcement has been made. The friendly rivalry between Els and Stricker adds excitement to the tournament, as they battled it out in a playoff during the final round. The potential team event in 2025 could bring a new dynamic to the competition and attract more top players to participate.
As discussions continue with the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions, the organizers are focused on securing all necessary approvals and agreements for the 2025 AmFam Championship. The partnership with the PGA Tour is crucial for ensuring the success and sustainability of the tournament for years to come. By exploring new formats and venues, the AmFam Championship aims to stay at the forefront of the PGA Tour Champions circuit.
In conclusion, the 2024 American Family Insurance Championship ended with Ernie Els lifting the winner’s trophy and hinting at a potential team event for the 2025 tournament. While details are still being finalized, the excitement and anticipation for next year’s event are already building. With the support of the PGA Tour and the dedication of the organizers, the AmFam Championship is poised to continue its legacy as a premier golf event in Madison, Wisconsin.
