The prestigious PGA Championship returns this week, kicking off on May 16th, 2024, at the legendary Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky. This marks a significant return for the tournament, as Valhalla has played host to this major championship three times previously – in 1996, 2000, and 2014. Designed by the renowned architect Tom Fazio, Valhalla is notorious for its demanding layout. Players will face a relentless test of skill and endurance, navigating long, challenging holes with severe elevation changes and water hazards lurking on nearly half the course.
Valhalla boasts a rich golfing history beyond the PGA Championship. It famously hosted the 2008 Ryder Cup, where the European team emerged victorious in a thrilling competition. This year's championship promises to be equally captivating, with several compelling storylines unfolding.
All eyes will be on Jordan Spieth, who has a chance to etch his name deeper into golfing history by completing the career Grand Slam. A win at Valhalla would solidify his place amongst the game's all-time greats. Defending champion Brooks Koepka is currently facing an uphill battle. A recent slump in form has cast doubt on his ability to retain his title. While Spieth and Koepka are undoubtedly compelling figures, the field boasts an impressive roster of contenders. The recent emergence of the LIV Golf Series adds another layer of intrigue to the tournament.
LIV Players in PGA Championship
It is confirmed that there will be the same number of golf players at the PGA of America's main event as last year. The 2024 PGA Championship will occur at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, from May 16th to May 19th. Brooks Koepka, who has won three times before, will be there to defend his title. On the other hand, Andy Ogletree and David Puig, two LIV players, will debut at this season's second men's major championship.
The 16 LIV Golf players competing in the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club are:
Dean Burmester
Bryson DeChambeau - Qualified based on his US Open win in 2020
Talor Gooch - Invited despite being ranked 644th in the world rankings
Tyrrell Hatton - Qualified based on his T15 finish at the 2023 PGA Championship
Lucas Herbert - Invited despite being ranked 89th in the world rankings
Dustin Johnson - Qualified based on his Masters win in 2020
Martin Kaymer - Exempt from qualifying as a past PGA Champion (2010)
Brooks Koepka - Defending Champion and exempt from qualifying
Adrian Meronk - Invited despite being ranked 63rd in the world rankings
Phil Mickelson - Exempt from qualifying as a past PGA Champion (2005, 2021)
Joaquin Niemann - Received a special invitation in March
Andy Ogletree - Making his PGA Championship debut
David Puig - Making his PGA Championship debut and invited despite being ranked 106th in the world rankings
Jon Rahm - Won the 2023 Masters and is not affiliated with a LIV Golf team
Patrick Reed - Invited despite being ranked 92nd in the world rankings
Cameron Smith - Invited
FAQ's On PGA Championship Field 2024
A. 16 LIV Golf players are teeing off at Valhalla, including veterans Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau.
A. Some LIV players qualified for the tournament through past major wins or strong rankings. However, others received special invitations despite lower rankings than those who missed out. This has led some to question the fairness of the selection process.
A. The 2024 PGA Championship is underway (May 16th) at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky.
