Full Breakdown
Zurich Classic of New Orleans: A Unique Team Golf Event
4/23/2026, 9:52:27 PM
Overview of the Event
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans, held at TPC Louisiana, is the PGA Tour's only team event, featuring 80 two-man teams competing in a unique format. The tournament consists of two rounds of best-ball play and two rounds of alternate shot, providing a distinct change of pace following the Masters Tournament. This year, defending champions Ben Griffin and Andrew Novak return to defend their title against a competitive field, including notable pairings such as Brooks Koepka and Shane Lowry, and Matt Fitzpatrick teaming up with his brother Alex.
Tournament Format and Schedule
The Zurich Classic employs a combination of scoring formats: four-ball for the first and third rounds, where each player plays their own ball and the lower score is counted, and foursomes for the second and final rounds, where players alternate shots using a single ball. The top 33 teams and ties after the first two rounds will advance to the weekend. The tournament runs from April 20 to April 23, 2026, with coverage available on various platforms including Golf Channel and the ESPN App.
Key Dates and Coverage
- Round 1: Thursday, April 20, starts at 8 a.m. ET
- Round 2: Friday, April 21, starts at 8 a.m. ET
- Round 3: Saturday, April 22, starts at 9 a.m. ET
- Round 4: Sunday, April 23, starts at 9 a.m. ET
Live coverage will be available on Golf Channel and CBS, with streaming options on the ESPN App and CBSSports.com.
Notable Teams and Players
This year's event features several prominent duos:
- Brooks Koepka and Shane Lowry: Both are seasoned competitors with multiple major titles, teaming up after previously competing against each other in the Ryder Cup.
- Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick: Following Matt's recent success on the PGA Tour, the brothers aim to improve upon their performance from last year.
- Other notable teams include Aaron Rai and Sahith Theegala, and Wyndham Clark with Taylor Moore.
Prize Purse and Implications
The total prize purse for the Zurich Classic has been increased from $9.2 million to $9.5 million. The winning team will share approximately $1.372 million, along with 400 FedExCup points. However, no Official World Golf Ranking points will be awarded. The champions will also gain exemptions into significant tournaments for the following season, including The Players Championship and the PGA Championship.
Official Statements & Responses
PGA Tour officials have emphasized the unique nature of the Zurich Classic, highlighting its appeal as a platform for players to achieve breakthrough victories. The event's format encourages camaraderie and strategy, making it a favorite among both players and fans.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Zurich Classic is celebrated for its unique format, some critics argue that the team aspect may dilute the competitive intensity typically associated with individual tournaments. However, many players appreciate the opportunity to collaborate and showcase their skills in a different light.
What's Next
Following the Zurich Classic, players will continue their PGA Tour journey, with many aiming to qualify for upcoming major events. The tournament serves as a pivotal moment for players seeking to solidify their standings and gain momentum for the remainder of the season.
