“It’s super sweet. But when I break it down, I’m really proud of how I handled certain moments on the course today,” said Xander Schauffele after winning the 2024 PGA Championship, and now he’s ready to defend his title. The PGA Championship has kicked off at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a stacked field of 156 players vying for the Wanamaker Trophy. Everyone’s buzzing about what this year might bring, especially with top golfers like Rory McIlroy, fresh from his Masters win, and Jordan Spieth, chasing major victories.

Well, whether they can win this major or not really comes down to one thing and one thing only: the format. And that’s what we’re here for so let’s get straight to it. The 156-player field will be whittled down to the top 70 and ties after 36 holes at Quail Hollow Club. That’s right, about half the field will be packing up their golf bags and heading home. It’s worth noting that this cut rule is similar to The Open Championship, but differs from the Masters, which cuts to the top 50 and ties, and the U.S. Open, which cuts to the top 60 and ties.

Now, let’s say someone does manage to snag the lead after 72 holes, but there’s a tie for first place. That’s when things get really interesting. A three-hole aggregate score playoff will take place on holes 16, 17, and 18 at Quail Hollow Club. If still tied after that, it’ll be a hole-by-hole playoff starting on hole 18, and if needed, rotating through holes 16, 17, and 18 until there’s a winner.

The PGA Championship has been using this stroke-play format since 1958, when it switched from match-play after its first 39 iterations. With the course playing to a par 71 this week at 7,626 yards, every shot counts. Well, given the challenging conditions at Quail Hollow, due to heavy rainfall, some might have expected the PGA of America to relax the rules. So, did they? See for yourself!

The latest rules announcement from PGA of America

In a move that’s sure to delight golf purists, the PGA of America has decided to stick to tradition despite the soggy conditions at Quail Hollow. “We do not plan to play preferred lies,” read the message from PGA of America officials, essentially telling golfers to suck it up and play the ball as it lies. This decision is a refreshing change from the PGA Tour’s regular season protocol, where “lift, clean and place” rules are often implemented after heavy rainfall.

The PGA of America’s stance is clear: “The playing surfaces are outstanding and are drying by the hour.” By opting not to allow preferred lies, the organization is embracing the unpredictable elements that define major championship golf. This decision eliminates one potential controversy and puts the focus back on the golfers’ skills. It’s a bold move that will likely be appreciated by fans who value the authenticity of the game. As the PGA of America notes, “We are looking forward to an exciting opening round to the 107th PGA Championship” – and it seems like the stage is set for a thrilling tournament. So, who do you think will win this major in 2025? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!