The PGA Tour is fundamentally overhauling its season playoffs starting in 2028: What was previously a stroke-play showdown is set to culminate in a two-week match play final, crowning the FedExCup champion. A Championship Series that will leave you breathless and add much-needed drama to the season's end. Bye-bye East Lake as the exclusive venue, hello rotating, prestigious courses!
The new format is incredibly strong. It kicks off with a 72-hole stroke-play final featuring 90 players. The top 32 from the season standings will then advance to the match play postseason. This is a significant cut that builds tension from the outset, before the real head-to-head duels begin.
Duel on the Course
The first week of the newly structured Tour Championship features 32 players, divided into eight groups of four. They will compete in a three-round group stage – only the top two from each group will advance. In the second week, it's down to a fierce 16-player match play bracket over four rounds. Whoever triumphs here will claim victory and the coveted FedExCup title.
Match Play is Back
This would mark the first time a PGA Tour champion is crowned through match play since the WGC-Match Play Championship disappeared in 2023. With this move, the Tour is betting on more volatility and direct confrontations that the audience will love. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp is expected to officially unveil the plans this week at the 2026 Tour Championship in East Lake. A groundbreaking development for golf that adds a new dimension to the finale.
