The PGA Tour is kicking its eligibility into high gear for 2028, and surprisingly many players are already set for the brand-new Championship Series. It's a real pre-game puzzle, as the Tour has published the criteria for its upcoming two-tier system – and while many are still eyeing the 2027 season, some of the guys have already secured a top spot for the relaunch. The Tour isn't doing things by halves, simply carrying certain exemptions into the new era.
This means: Around 40 players no longer have to worry about playing in the top tier in 2028. Names like Akshay Bhatia, Patrick Cantlay, or Si Woo Kim are already guaranteed spots thanks to existing exemptions. And, of course, Brooks Koepka, who secured a five-year major exemption with his 2023 PGA Championship victory, comfortably carrying him through to 2028. That's quite a statement!
The Pros' New Territory
From 2028, the field in the Championship Series will be limited to around 120 pros. Those who perform among the top 90 at the end of the season will remain. However, those in positions 91 to 120 will find themselves in the Challenger Series. So, things are getting serious, because the fight against relegation is famously not one of golf's favorite disciplines.
The Veteran's Wildcard for 2028
But there's another trick that brings veterans back into play: Any player in the Top 50 of the PGA Tour's Career Money List who plays at least 15 events in 2027 can use a one-time wildcard to also secure a spot in the Championship Series for 2028. This is an opportunity for legends like Jordan Spieth, Jason Day, Rickie Fowler, and many others who want to prove they still have what it takes. For the fans, this means pure excitement as the Tour's grandees give it their all in 2027 to solidify their status.
