The PGA Tour calendar reaches one of its most prestigious stops this week as the world’s top golfers compete in The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass.
Often referred to as golf’s unofficial fifth major, the tournament delivers one of the strongest fields in the sport alongside one of the most challenging courses on the PGA Tour schedule.
Defending champion Rory McIlroy returns to Ponte Vedra Beach looking to defend his title, while stars including Scottie Scheffler, Tommy Fleetwood, Viktor Hovland and Xander Schauffele are among the leading contenders.
With the iconic island green waiting on the 17th hole, The Players Championship rarely fails to deliver dramatic moments.
While the tournament is not officially classified as a major championship, it is widely regarded as one of the biggest events in golf.
The Players Championship consistently attracts the best golfers in the world and offers one of the largest winner’s prizes on the PGA Tour.
Open Account Offer: Bet £10 Get £30 in Free Bets
Min Deposit: £5 – Expiry: 30 days – Min Odds: 1/5 (1.20)
← CLICK TO COPY
Rory McIlroy enters the 2026 tournament as defending champion after his dramatic victory last year.
The Northern Irishman defeated J.J. Spaun in a playoff after both players finished on 12-under par.
It marked McIlroy’s second victory at Sawgrass.
| Year | Result |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Winner |
| 2019 | Winner |
| Multiple Appearances | Contender |
McIlroy will once again be among the favourites this week.
Winning at TPC Sawgrass requires precision, patience and exceptional shot-making.
Here are some recent winners of the event.
| Year | Champion | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Rory McIlroy | −12 |
| 2024 | Scottie Scheffler | −20 |
| 2023 | Scottie Scheffler | −17 |
| 2022 | Cameron Smith | −13 |
| 2021 | Justin Thomas | −14 |
The tournament’s history includes many of the biggest names in golf.
TPC Sawgrass is widely regarded as one of the most iconic venues in professional golf.
Designed by Pete Dye, the Stadium Course presents a strategic test that rewards precision rather than power.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Par | 72 |
| Length | 7,200+ yards |
| Designer | Pete Dye |
| Location | Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida |
The layout demands accurate driving and precise iron play.
The par-3 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass is one of the most recognisable holes in golf.
The small island green surrounded by water has become synonymous with The Players Championship.
Many tournaments have been won or lost on this hole.
Even experienced professionals admit that standing on the 17th tee with the tournament on the line is one of the most nerve-wracking moments in golf.
Open Account Offer: Bet €10 and get €30 in free bets
Min Deposit: €5 – Expiry: 30 days – Min Odds: 1/5 (1.20)
← CLICK TO COPY
Several players look well positioned to challenge for the title.
The defending champion has proven he can win at Sawgrass.
A two-time recent winner of the event and one of the most consistent players on the PGA Tour.
Rahm’s powerful ball striking makes him a constant threat.
A consistent performer in big tournaments.
One of the most exciting young stars in golf.
The betting markets highlight how competitive the tournament field is.
| Player | Odds |
|---|---|
| Rory McIlroy | 12.00 |
| Scottie Scheffler | 4.75 |
| Collin Morikawa | 21.00 |
| Tommy Fleetwood | 23.00 |
| Xander Schauffele | 23.00 |
| Viktor Hovland | 41.00 |
Scottie Scheffler looks well placed to challenge again at Sawgrass.
Xander Schauffele’s consistency makes him a strong each-way option.
The tournament is held each year in March.
TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
Rory McIlroy.
The island green surrounded entirely by water.
Approximately $25 million.
18+ Always remember to gamble responsibly. Check out bet365’s Safer Gambling page for more details or go to GambleAware.org for advice, tools and support.
#AD Bonus Referrer Code is an affiliate of the brands we promote throughout this site. While we strive to maintain accuracy throughout our content, we do receive compensation for this promotion.
Check out our Premier League Scoreboard – A look back at the key results and games from the last Premier League weekend!
Predict your way to a prize of up to a £250,000 on bet365 6 Scores Challenge game!
Check out the top betting tips for Champions League Matchday 8 for all six English teams participating.
bet365 UCL Tournament Challenge – Get the lowdown on this free to play UCL game at bet365!
Worried about your gambling? When the fun stops – STOP!
