The PGA Tour is embracing the power of YouTube golf by announcing the return of the Creator Classic in the form of three new ‘Creator Series’ events. The Creator Classic, which saw 16 of golf’s biggest YouTubers compete in a nine-hole tournament during Tour Championship week, was a huge success with over 2.6 million views and engagement from almost 60 million fans across social media. Former PGA Tour China winner Luke Kwon emerged victorious in the inaugural Creator Classic and received two invites to the LIV-backed International Series on the Asian Tour.
For 2025, the PGA Tour has confirmed more creator events at The Players Championship, the Truist Championship, and the Tour Championship. These events will feature over 20 ‘fan-favorite creators’ and will have their own format, name, and field. The tournaments will be streamed on YouTube and other platforms and will be produced to the high quality standards of PGA Tour broadcasts, including elements like ShotLink data, shot tracing, and on-screen graphics.
The PGA Tour is making a conscious effort to tap into the YouTube and influencer market by introducing the Creator Council in November, which features many of golf’s biggest creators to help with fan engagement and collaborations. The Creator Series is being organized by Pro Shop Studios, co-founded by Netflix Full Swing producer Chad Mumm. The success of the Creator Classic in 2024 has inspired the expansion of the series to three iconic PGA Tour venues, including TPC Sawgrass and the Philadelphia Cricket Club.
Chris Wandell, PGA Tour SVP, Media, expressed excitement about the expanded Creator Series, stating that it serves as a valuable testing ground to connect with fans and creators in new ways. The partnership between the PGA Tour and Pro Shop Studios aims to showcase the unique power of digital creators in engaging new audiences and solidifying golf’s presence in the cultural mainstream. The success of the Creator Series will help grow the reach and popularity of the sport by leveraging the influence of YouTube and social media personalities.
The schedule for the 2025 Creator Series events includes The Players Championship at the PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass on March 12, the Truist Championship at the Wissahickon Course at The Philadelphia Cricket Club on May 7, and the Tour Championship at East Lake Golf Club on August 20. The events will feature a mix of original Creator Classic contestants and new creators, offering fans a unique and engaging experience both on-site and through digital platforms. With the increasing focus on YouTube golf and influencer collaborations, the PGA Tour is set to expand its reach and appeal to a broader audience.
