The Memorial Tournament will join the brand-new PGA Tour Championship Series starting in 2028, securing its place among golf's absolute elite. Jack Nicklaus' legendary event will become a cornerstone of the new Tour model, which is set to revitalize professional golf from 2028. This move is a significant honor, underscoring the importance of tradition even in the modern golf world.
This step is part of a massive Tour overhaul that, starting in 2028, will divide the competitive landscape into a Championship Series and a Challenger Series – including highly anticipated promotion and relegation elements. While The Memorial was already a "Signature Event," this current announcement solidifies its top-tier status for years to come. Things are looking very strong for the tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club.
Championship Series: What to Expect
The Championship Series will become home to approximately 23 to 24 top events, including, of course, the Major Championships, The Players, and team spectacles like the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. Fields will be limited to a tight 120 players, a 36-hole cut will provide extra drama, and sponsor invitations or alternate lists? None at all! This series is exclusively for the best of the best. With a minimum of $20 million in prize money per event, the Tour is making a clear statement. The Memorial, with its $20 million purse in recent years, was already very well positioned.
The Calendar Takes Shape
While the complete 2028 Championship Series calendar – including all dates, venues, and event names – will only be revealed later, the puzzle is slowly coming together. Insiders expect the announcement of the seventh confirmed Championship Series event to take place in August. The countdown is on until we have the full plan for golf's future in our hands.
