Major Glory and the Ultimate Golf Pool Experience

Each May, the best golfers in the world gather to compete for the Wanamaker Trophy at the PGA Championship. Unlike the Masters, which is steeped in tradition at Augusta National, the PGA Championship moves to different courses, adding an extra layer of intrigue and challenge each year. In 2025, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling action, unpredictable outcomes, and a showcase of world-class talent.

For golf fans, this is one of the biggest events of the year. For those running golf pools, the PGA Championship is an ideal tournament to bring friends, colleagues, or fellow golf lovers together for a competitive and fun experience. Let’s explore why this major is perfect for a golf pool and how to set yours up for success.

Why the PGA Championship is Perfect for Golf Pools

1. A Stacked Field

The PGA Championship boasts the strongest field in golf, featuring the top-ranked players from around the world, former champions, and rising stars. Unlike the Masters, which has a smaller, invitation-only field, the PGA Championship includes a full roster of 156 players, meaning there’s a much wider range of potential winners—and surprises. This variety makes for exciting golf pools where even deep-cut picks can pay off.

2. The Rotating Course Factor

Each year, the PGA Championship is held at a different course, meaning players must adjust to new challenges and conditions. Some years, the course favors big hitters; other years, it rewards precision and short-game mastery. This unpredictability creates an added layer of strategy for golf pools, as participants must weigh past player performances against the unique demands of the venue.

3. The Toughest Test of Golf

Many players consider the PGA Championship to be the most demanding of the four majors. The courses are set up to challenge even the best, with long rough, fast greens, and difficult pin placements. This level of difficulty often leads to high drama, tight leaderboards, and stunning comebacks—all of which make for an exhilarating golf pool experience.

Tips for Running a PGA Championship Golf Pool

1. Use the Tiered Selection System

Most golf pool formats for the PGA Championship rely on a tiered selection system, where participants choose a set number of players from different skill levels. With 1 to 12 tiers available, you can customize the number of golfers per tier to balance elite players with potential dark horses. Given the deep field, selecting wisely across tiers is crucial.

2. Consider Course-Specific Strengths

Since the PGA Championship is played at different venues, research the course layout and past player performances on similar courses. Some golfers excel on long, demanding layouts, while others thrive on shorter, accuracy-based setups. Encouraging pool participants to do the same adds an extra element of engagement.

3. Keep the Format Simple

With a large field and potential for surprising results, a straightforward format works best. A common option is to total the scores of selected players, with the lowest combined score winning. Alternatively, using cumulative earnings from the tournament can be a fun way to track success throughout the event.

4. Foster Competition and Community

Encourage friendly competition by creating a leaderboard, updating results regularly, and engaging participants with discussion threads or group chats. The PGA Championship’s unpredictable nature ensures there will be plenty of dramatic swings in the standings, keeping everyone engaged from start to finish.

5. Offer Fun, Themed Prizes

Consider unique prizes to celebrate the tournament’s prestige—PGA Championship-branded gear, golf shop gift cards, or even a replica Wanamaker Trophy for the winner. Customizing prizes to fit the event adds to the excitement and keeps participants coming back year after year.

The Thrill of the PGA Championship

The PGA Championship may not have the deep traditions of the Masters, but it makes up for it with its deep field, unpredictable nature, and the challenge of new venues. It’s a major where anyone in the field can rise to the occasion and claim victory.

A golf pool only adds to the experience, turning each round into a high-stakes event for participants. Watching your sleeper pick surge up the leaderboard or seeing your top selection fight for the win makes every shot matter just a little bit more.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 PGA Championship is set to be another incredible major, and a golf pool is the perfect way to enhance the excitement. Whether you’re an experienced pool organizer or running one for the first time, the depth of talent and unpredictability of the PGA Championship makes it a prime event for friendly competition. With the flexible tiered selection system, you can craft a format that keeps everyone involved and invested.

So gather your friends, make your picks, and get ready for four days of unforgettable golf. Will a favorite take the title, or will an underdog emerge victorious? No matter what happens, your golf pool will make the 2025 PGA Championship an event to remember.