Golf is a sport that demands precision, skill, and endurance from its players. And when it comes to the highest level of golf tournaments, the stakes are even higher. These tournaments bring together the best golfers from around the world, each vying for the title of champion. But what exactly is the highest level golf tournament? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover the pinnacle of golf and explore the tournament that stands above all others. From its rich history to its prestigious status, we’ll delve into what makes this tournament so special and why it continues to captivate audiences around the globe. So, grab your golf clubs and get ready to tee off into the world of the highest level golf tournament.
The Big Four: A Deep Dive into the Majors
The Masters Tournament
The Masters Tournament, often referred to as simply “The Masters,” is one of the four major championships in professional golf. Held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, it is considered one of the most prestigious events in the sport. Here are some key aspects of The Masters Tournament:
- Historical Significance: The Masters was first held in 1934, making it the oldest of the four major championships. It was founded by Clifford Roberts and Bobby Jones, a golf legend who won 13 major championships in his career. The tournament has been held at Augusta National Golf Club ever since, with a few exceptions during World War II.
- Prestigious Winners: The Masters has a long history of notable winners, including many of the greatest golfers of all time. Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, and Tiger Woods are just a few of the legends who have won the tournament multiple times. More recently, Patrick Reed, Bubba Watson, Adam Scott, and Justin Rose have also claimed victory at Augusta.
- Unique Course Design: Augusta National Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the world. Designed by Alister MacKenzie and Bobby Jones, the course features rolling hills, deep bunkers, and a variety of trees and flowers. The course is also known for its distinctive features, such as the 16th hole’s towering azalea bushes and the treacherous Rae’s Creek, which comes into play on several holes.
The Masters Tournament is not only a showcase of golf’s greatest players but also a celebration of the sport’s rich history and tradition. It is a week-long event that captivates audiences around the world, as fans watch the world’s best golfers compete for the coveted Green Jacket.
The US Open
Grand Slam Status
The US Open is one of the four major championships in professional golf, also known as the “Majors.” This prestigious tournament is recognized as the “Grand Slam” of golf, as winning all four Majors in a single season is considered the pinnacle of achievement in the sport.
Toughest Test in Golf
The US Open is known for its grueling course setups, which test the skill and endurance of even the most accomplished golfers. With narrow fairways, deep roughs, and strategically placed hazards, the course is designed to challenge players both mentally and physically. The tournament is often referred to as the “toughest test in golf,” as it pushes players to their limits and rewards precision and perseverance over power and aggression.
Variety of Courses
Unlike other Majors, which are typically held at the same course each year, the US Open is contested at a different venue annually. This provides a unique opportunity for golfers to showcase their skills on a wide range of courses, each with its own distinct challenges and characteristics. From the lush, tree-lined fairways of a traditional American course to the links-style layouts of the UK, the US Open offers a diverse range of experiences for players and fans alike.
The Open Championship
- Rich Heritage
The Open Championship, commonly referred to as the British Open, is the oldest of the four major championships in golf. Established in 1860, it has a rich history that spans over a century and a half. The tournament has been graced by some of the greatest golfers in history, and it continues to attract the world’s best players to this day.
- Links Golf Showcase
The Open Championship is unique among major championships in that it is contested on links courses, which are characterized by their natural, undulating terrain and rugged, sandy conditions. These courses provide a challenge unlike any other, requiring golfers to use a variety of shots and strategies to navigate the wind, rain, and other elements that Mother Nature throws their way.
- International Flair
As the only major championship held outside of the United States, the Open Championship has a distinctly international feel. Golfers from all over the world come to compete, and the tournament draws a passionate and knowledgeable fan base from the United Kingdom and beyond. The event is steeped in tradition, with a unique set of rules and regulations that add to its charm and appeal.
The PGA Championship
- Final Major of the Year
The PGA Championship is the final major of the year, and it’s always held in the United States, typically in late July or early August. This means that it marks the end of the major championship season, and the players are often exhausted and drained from a long and grueling campaign. However, this also means that the field is generally stronger, as the best players from around the world have had plenty of time to prepare for the event.
- Wide Range of Courses
Unlike the other three majors, the PGA Championship is hosted by different courses each year, with the exception of the Ryder Cup. This means that the players have to be on top of their game and ready to adapt to any course layout, as the challenges can vary greatly from one venue to another. This adds an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, as fans and players alike never know what to expect.
- Youngest Major Winner
The PGA Championship has also been the site of some of the most memorable moments in golf history, including the youngest major winner in the history of the sport. In 1986, 20-year-old David Toms won the PGA Championship, breaking the record previously held by Bobby Jones, who won the U.S. Open at age 21. Since then, several other young players have gone on to win the PGA Championship, including Rory McIlroy, who won in 2012 at the age of 23.
World Golf Championships: Elevating the Game
WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play
The WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play is one of the four World Golf Championships held annually. It is a unique event that showcases the best golfers from around the world in a match play format, as opposed to the traditional stroke play format.
Unique Scoring System
In the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play, the scoring system is different from other golf tournaments. Instead of counting strokes, the scoring is based on the number of holes won. Each hole is worth one point, and the player who wins the hole earns a point for their team. The team that wins the most holes wins the match.
Skill vs. Strategy
The match play format of the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play requires a different set of skills and strategies compared to stroke play. Golfers need to be skilled at executing shots under pressure, as well as being strategic in their shot selection and course management. The format also rewards players who are able to adapt to different conditions and situations, as each match is unique and can be influenced by a variety of factors.
Prestigious Field
The WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play attracts the best golfers in the world, including the top-ranked players in the Official World Golf Rankings. The field is comprised of 64 players, who are divided into 16 four-man groups. The players compete in a round-robin format within their group, with the top two players from each group advancing to the knockout stage. The tournament is held at the Austin Country Club in Texas, and the winner receives a trophy and a significant purse.
WGC-Genesis Invitational
The WGC-Genesis Invitational is one of the four World Golf Championships held annually, and it is considered one of the most prestigious events in golf. It is played at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, and attracts the best golfers from around the world.
Elite Field
The field at the WGC-Genesis Invitational is considered elite, with many of the world’s top-ranked golfers participating. This includes major champions, Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup players, and other top-ranked golfers from around the world. The field is limited to 120 players, making it one of the smaller fields on the PGA Tour.
Strong Field
The field at the WGC-Genesis Invitational is also considered strong, with many of the world’s top-ranked golfers participating. This includes major champions, Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup players, and other top-ranked golfers from around the world. The field is limited to 120 players, making it one of the smaller fields on the PGA Tour.
Riviera Country Club Challenge
The WGC-Genesis Invitational is played at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, and the course presents a unique challenge for golfers. The course is a par-71, 7,228-yard layout that features tight fairways and small greens, making accuracy and precision crucial. The course also has several water hazards and bunkers, which can come into play on many holes. Additionally, the course is known for its challenging 10th hole, which is a 482-yard par-4 that features a narrow fairway and a large bunker that protects the green.
WGC-Mexico Championship
International Flair
The WGC-Mexico Championship, formerly known as the WGC-Cadillac Championship, is one of the four World Golf Championships held annually. Held at the Club de Golf Chapultepec in Mexico City, Mexico, this tournament boasts a unique international flair that sets it apart from other golf events. The tournament is played on a par-70, 7,330-yard course that demands precision and skill from the world’s top golfers.
High Altitude Challenges
The Club de Golf Chapultepec is located at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest courses on the PGA Tour. The high altitude presents several challenges for the players, including less air resistance and a thinner atmosphere, which can affect the distance and trajectory of the golf ball. Players must also contend with the thin air, which can make it more difficult to breathe and can affect their stamina and energy levels during the tournament.
World-Class Field
The WGC-Mexico Championship attracts a world-class field of golfers, including the top-ranked players in the world. The tournament is a key event on the PGA Tour, and many players see it as an opportunity to establish themselves as leaders in the sport. The field is made up of the world’s best golfers, including past champions such as Dustin Johnson, Rory McIlroy, and Patrick Reed. The tournament also attracts a strong international field, with players from over 20 countries competing each year.
The WGC-Mexico Championship is known for its high level of competition and its ability to showcase the best golfers in the world. With its unique international flair, high altitude challenges, and world-class field, this tournament is a must-see event for golf fans and players alike.
WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational
Final WGC Event
The WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational, formerly known as the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, is the final event of the World Golf Championships (WGC) calendar. Established in 1976, the tournament has evolved into one of the most prestigious golf events in the world, attracting top-ranked players from across the globe. The event is hosted annually at the renowned Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio, USA, which features a challenging 7,400-yard, par-70 layout.
TPC Southwind Challenge
The course at Firestone Country Club, designed by legendary golfer and course architect, Bert Way, is renowned for its demanding layout and strategic challenges. The course boasts numerous water hazards, including the infamous “island green” 16th hole, which has become an iconic feature of the tournament. Players must navigate their way through narrow fairways, intricate bunkering, and challenging approach shots to succeed at the WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational.
Phil Mickelson’s Triumph
Phil Mickelson, a four-time major champion and one of the most accomplished golfers in history, has enjoyed significant success at the WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational. In 2018, Mickelson claimed his second title at the event, winning by a single stroke after a thrilling final round duel with fellow golfing great, Justin Rose. Mickelson’s victory was all the more remarkable given his advanced age, as he became the oldest player to win a WGC event at the time. This triumph cemented his reputation as a formidable competitor on the golf course and demonstrated his continued ability to perform at the highest level of the sport.
The Ryder Cup: Golf’s Ultimate Team Challenge
History and Significance
The Ryder Cup is a biennial golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States. The first Ryder Cup was held in 1927 at the Worcester Country Club in Massachusetts, USA. It was initiated by Samuel Ryder, an English businessman and golf enthusiast, who donated the trophy to be awarded to the winning team.
The Ryder Cup was initially a one-off event, but due to its immense success and popularity, it became a biennial competition held every two years. The first European team was formed in 1979, and since then, the Ryder Cup has expanded to include teams from Asia and other parts of the world.
The Ryder Cup is significant because it pits the best golfers from Europe and the United States against each other in a team format. The event brings together some of the most talented golfers in the world, and it is considered one of the most prestigious tournaments in golf.
One of the most significant aspects of the Ryder Cup is the passionate fan base that supports both teams. The fans are known for their enthusiasm and support, which creates an electric atmosphere during the competition. The Ryder Cup is not just a golf tournament; it is a celebration of the sport and a showcase of the best golfers in the world.
In summary, the Ryder Cup is a significant event in the world of golf, bringing together the best golfers from Europe and the United States in a biennial team competition. Its history dates back to 1927, and it has since become one of the most prestigious tournaments in the sport. The passionate fan base that supports both teams adds to the excitement and electric atmosphere of the event.
Team Compositions and Strategies
12-Man Team
The Ryder Cup is contested between two teams, each consisting of 12 players. The team members are selected based on their performance in various tournaments throughout the year. The top 8 players from the United States and Europe are automatically qualified for the team, while the remaining 4 players are chosen as captain’s picks. The team composition is crucial, as it can significantly impact the outcome of the competition.
Foursomes and Fourballs
The Ryder Cup format includes two types of matches: foursomes and fourballs. In foursomes, two players from the same team compete against two players from the opposing team. Each hole, one player from the team plays their ball, while the other player picks the best position for the next shot. In fourballs, each player from the same team plays their own ball, and the best score counts for each hole. This format creates unique strategic challenges and requires players to adapt to different situations.
Continental Challenge
The Ryder Cup is contested between teams from Europe and the United States. The event is known for its intense rivalry and passionate fans. The Continental Challenge adds another layer of excitement to the competition, as players from different continents face off in a battle for golf supremacy. This unique aspect of the Ryder Cup sets it apart from other team competitions and makes it one of the most anticipated events in the golfing world.
Memorable Moments and Rivalries
Miracle at Medinah
In 2012, the Ryder Cup was held at the Medinah Country Club in Illinois. The American team, which had not won on European soil since 1993, was heavily favored to win. However, the European team, led by captain José María Olazábal, produced one of the greatest comebacks in Ryder Cup history.
Trailing 10-4 heading into the final day of play, the European team mounted a stunning rally, winning eight of the twelve singles matches to seal a 14.5-13.5 victory. The miraculous comeback was capped off by the unlikely hero, Italian golfer Francesco Molinari, who won both of his matches to secure the cup for Europe.
1991 “War by the Shore”
The 1991 Ryder Cup, held at the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island in South Carolina, is remembered as the “War by the Shore.” The American team, led by captain Tom Kite, faced a formidable European team captained by Bernard Gallacher.
The matches were marked by intense rivalry and high drama, with both teams trading blows throughout the three days of play. In the end, the American team prevailed, winning 14.5-13.5, but not before the European team mounted a valiant comeback in the final session.
Europe’s Dominance in Recent Years
Since the turn of the century, the European team has dominated the Ryder Cup, winning seven of the last ten editions. Under the leadership of captains such as Sam Torrance, Colin Montgomerie, and Padraig Harrington, the European team has developed a strong team culture and a formidable competitive spirit.
The European team’s recent success can be attributed to a number of factors, including strong leadership, consistent team selection, and a deep pool of talented golfers. The Ryder Cup has become a showcase for European golf, with the European team consistently punching above its weight against the much larger and more resource-rich American team.
The Presidents Cup: A Golfing Showdown
History and Purpose
Response to Ryder Cup Success
The Presidents Cup was established in 1994 as a response to the success of the Ryder Cup, which is a similar international team competition held in Europe. The Ryder Cup had been highly successful in bringing together top golfers from Europe and the United States, and the Presidents Cup was created to replicate this format, but with a more global focus.
International Team Competition
The Presidents Cup is an international team competition that brings together some of the best golfers from around the world. The event is contested every two years, with the most recent edition taking place in 2019 in Melbourne, Australia. The competition pits a team of players from the United States against a team of players from the rest of the world, excluding Europe.
Growing Significance
Over the years, the Presidents Cup has grown in significance, with more and more top golfers participating in the event. The competition has also attracted increased media attention, making it one of the most anticipated events on the golfing calendar. With a total of 30 matches played over four days, the Presidents Cup is a test of skill, endurance, and teamwork, making it a thrilling event for golf fans around the world.
The Presidents Cup features a 12-man team, comprising of four major champions, four world-ranking leaders, and four players selected by the captain. The major champions include winners of the Masters, US Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. These players bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the team, and their performance is often a deciding factor in the outcome of the tournament.
Match Play Format
The Presidents Cup uses a match play format, which means that each match is played between two players from opposing teams. The format includes foursomes matches, where two players from each team play against each other, and fourball matches, where two players from each team play together against a pair from the opposing team. This format adds an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the tournament, as the outcome of each match can significantly impact the overall score.
The Presidents Cup has an international flair, with players from countries around the world competing on opposing teams. This adds to the excitement of the tournament, as fans get to see players from different cultures and backgrounds come together to compete at the highest level. The international aspect of the tournament also adds a unique dynamic to the team compositions, as players must work together to overcome language barriers and cultural differences.
Overall, the team compositions and strategies used in the Presidents Cup are a key factor in the success of each team. The 12-man team, match play format, and international flair all contribute to the excitement and unpredictability of the tournament, making it one of the most highly anticipated events in the golfing world.
Tiger Woods’ Triumph
- Tiger Woods, one of the most iconic golfers in history, achieved a remarkable feat during the 2009 Presidents Cup when he clinched the winning point for the United States team in a sudden-death format.
- This triumph marked a significant comeback for Woods, who had faced numerous personal and professional challenges in the preceding years.
- Woods’ performance at the event not only solidified his status as a golfing legend but also highlighted his unwavering dedication and resilience.
International Pride on the Line
- The Presidents Cup serves as a platform for international golfers to showcase their skills and compete against the strongest American players.
- For many international players, participating in the event represents an opportunity to demonstrate their worth on a global stage and prove their mettle against the best of the best.
- As a result, the competition often fosters a strong sense of pride and camaraderie among the international team, as they strive to upset the heavily favored United States squad.
United States’ Dominance
- Throughout the history of the Presidents Cup, the United States team has maintained a consistent record of success, winning ten out of the thirteen events held to date.
- This dominance can be attributed to the strength of American golf, as well as the deep pool of talent that the country produces.
- Despite this, the international team has occasionally managed to challenge the United States, providing thrilling moments of golf and showcasing the skill and determination of the world’s top golfers.
Other Prestigious Tournaments
The Players Championship
Five Majors for One Week
The Players Championship, often referred to as the “Fifth Major,” is a prestigious golf tournament that takes place annually at the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. This unique event brings together the world’s top golfers to compete in a highly anticipated, action-packed competition.
TPC Sawgrass Challenge
The TPC Sawgrass Challenge is a demanding test of skill and endurance, as players navigate the course’s notorious 18th hole, known as the “Island Green.” Measuring just 167 yards from the tee, this par-3 features a small, sand-covered island as its target, with water surrounding it on all sides. Only the boldest and most precise shots can find the putting surface, leaving players and spectators alike on the edge of their seats.
Rare Double-Crossfield Design
The TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course boasts a rare double-crossfield design, featuring two major crossings of the Players Stadium Course, with each crossing containing two holes that intersect, creating a nine-hole loop. This design is a unique feature among modern golf courses, making The Players Championship a one-of-a-kind golfing experience.
The BMW Championship
The BMW Championship is the final tournament of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, which is a series of golf tournaments that culminate in the BMW Championship. The tournament is played annually and features a world-class field of professional golfers. The event has elevated status and is considered one of the most prestigious tournaments on the PGA Tour.
Elevated Status
The BMW Championship is considered an elevated status event because it is the final tournament of the FedEx Cup Playoffs. The FedEx Cup is a season-long competition that awards a $10 million bonus to the winner. The BMW Championship is the last chance for golfers to qualify for the FedEx Cup Playoffs and win the bonus. As a result, the tournament attracts the best golfers in the world who are looking to win the largest prize in golf.
The BMW Championship attracts a world-class field of professional golfers. The tournament is limited to 70 players, which ensures that the best golfers in the world are able to participate. The field includes major champions, Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup players, and other top-ranked golfers from around the world. The BMW Championship is known for its competitive nature and exciting finishes, which have made it one of the most popular tournaments on the PGA Tour.
The WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship
The WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship is a prestigious golf tournament that is held annually and is part of the World Golf Championships (WGC) series. It is unique among other WGC events in that it is the only match play event on the PGA Tour schedule.
This tournament features the world’s top golfers competing against each other in a one-on-one showdown format. The event consists of 16 players who are divided into eight matches, with each match consisting of 18 holes. The winners of each match move on to the next round until the final match is played, where the winner is crowned the champion.
The WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship is known for its high level of skill and strategy required to win. Golfers must not only have the physical ability to hit the ball long and accurately, but they must also have the mental fortitude to outsmart their opponents in a match play format.
One of the key aspects of this tournament is the pressure that comes with the one-on-one format. Each golfer is responsible for not only their own play, but also their opponent’s play. This can lead to a high level of stress and pressure, as golfers must constantly adjust their strategy based on their opponent’s play.
The WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship is also known for its unique atmosphere, with many of the world’s top golfers and their fans gathering to watch the event. The tournament is held at a different location each year, with past hosts including Arizona, California, and Texas.
Overall, the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship is a highly anticipated event on the PGA Tour schedule, featuring some of the world’s top golfers competing in a unique and challenging format.
The Tour Championship
- Final Event of the PGA Tour Season
The Tour Championship is the final event of the PGA Tour season, and it is played in Atlanta, Georgia at the East Lake Golf Club. This prestigious tournament brings together the top 30 players in the FedEx Cup standings, and it is a no-cut event, meaning that all players compete in the entire tournament. - No Cut
Since it is the final event of the season, the Tour Championship does not have a cut after the second round. Instead, all 30 players compete in the entire tournament, with the winner being determined by the lowest total score after four rounds. - Stroke Play Only
The Tour Championship is a stroke play event, meaning that players compete against the course and not against each other. The player with the lowest total score after four rounds is the winner. This format allows for a more strategic and controlled approach to the game, as players must manage their strokes and minimize their scores to win the tournament.
The US Open and the Open Championship Rotation
The US Open and the Open Championship are two of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. The rotation of these two tournaments every five years provides a unique challenge for golfers, as they must adapt to new courses and varying conditions.
- Every Five Years
The US Open and the Open Championship rotate every five years, with each tournament being held in a different location. This means that golfers must be prepared to compete on unfamiliar courses, with different conditions and challenges. - World’s Oldest Championship Meets America’s National Championship
The Open Championship, also known as the British Open, is the world’s oldest golf championship, dating back to 1860. The US Open, on the other hand, is America’s national championship and was first held in 1895. The rotation of these two tournaments brings together the rich history and tradition of golf from both sides of the Atlantic. - New Courses and Challenges
The rotation of the US Open and the Open Championship also means that golfers must be prepared to compete on new courses. Each tournament is held at a different location, with its own unique set of challenges. Golfers must be able to adapt to different course conditions, such as wind, rain, and sun, as well as the unique layout and hazards of each course. This rotation ensures that the world’s top golfers are constantly challenged and must be at the top of their game to succeed.
FAQs
1. What is the highest level golf tournament?
The highest level golf tournament is the professional golf tournament that attracts the most top-ranked players from around the world. It is also known as the “Majors” and includes four events: The Masters, The US Open, The Open Championship, and The PGA Championship. These tournaments are considered the most prestigious in the sport and are highly coveted by golfers for their prestige and large prize money.
2. How do players qualify for the highest level golf tournaments?
Players qualify for the highest level golf tournaments through a combination of factors, including their world ranking, their performance in previous tournaments, and their overall reputation in the sport. The specific qualifying criteria for each tournament can vary, but in general, only the top-ranked players in the world are invited to compete.
3. What is the difference between the highest level golf tournaments and other professional golf tournaments?
The highest level golf tournaments, or Majors, are considered the pinnacle of achievement in the sport of golf. They offer the largest purses, the most media coverage, and the most coveted titles. In contrast, other professional golf tournaments, while still highly competitive, are generally considered to be of a lower level of prestige and do not attract the same caliber of players.
4. How many players compete in the highest level golf tournaments?
The number of players who compete in the highest level golf tournaments, or Majors, varies from tournament to tournament. However, the field is typically limited to the top-ranked players in the world, with around 156 players competing in each tournament.
5. Who has won the most Majors in golf history?
Jack Nicklaus is widely considered to be the greatest golfer of all time and holds the record for most Majors won with a total of 18 victories. Tiger Woods is second with 15 Majors wins, followed by Walter Hagen and Sam Snead with 8 each.
6. How can I watch the highest level golf tournaments?
The highest level golf tournaments, or Majors, are broadcast on a variety of networks and streaming services around the world. In the United States, the tournaments are typically broadcast on ESPN and CBS, while in the United Kingdom, they are broadcast on the BBC. Online streaming services such as Amazon Prime and NBC Sports also offer coverage of the Majors.
7. Where are the highest level golf tournaments held?
The highest level golf tournaments, or Majors, are held at some of the most prestigious golf courses around the world. The Masters is held at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, the US Open is held at a variety of courses around the United States, The Open Championship is held at a variety of courses in the United Kingdom, and The PGA Championship is held at a variety of courses in the United States.
8. How long do the highest level golf tournaments last?
The length of the highest level golf tournaments, or Majors, varies depending on the tournament. The Masters is traditionally played over four days, while the US Open and The Open Championship are played over three days. The PGA Championship is also played over four days.
9. What is the prize money for the highest level golf tournaments?
The prize money for the highest level golf tournaments, or Majors, is among the largest in all of sports. The total purse for each tournament can vary, but in 2021, The Masters had a purse of $11.5 million, the US Open had a purse of $12.5 million, The Open Championship had a purse of $10.5 million, and The PGA Championship had a purse of $12.5 million. The winner of each tournament typically receives a significant portion of the total purse.