Story perspectives

2026 PGA Championship Launches May 14, $19 M Purse

5/12/2026

Summary

PGA Championship Opens

The 2026 PGA Championship opens Thursday, May 14, at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania.
The 156-player field includes World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Masters champion Rory McIlroy, and Players champion Cameron Young.
The purse totals $19 million, with a $3.42 million winner’s share.
ESPN will televise rounds one and two on May 14-15.
CBS will cover the weekend rounds on May 16-17.

Summary

**PGA HOPE Boom**

The week’s economic impact is projected to exceed $125 million.
Organizers expect about 200,000 visitors, roughly 100,000 more than in 2024.
Temporary stands and structures were installed around Aronimink to accommodate the crowds.
The PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup at Chester Valley Golf Club featured 12 veteran teams, with Team Michigan winning and Philadelphia placing fifth.
Governor Josh Shapiro declared May 11 “PGA HOPE Day” in Pennsylvania.

Summary

**Spieth Mirrors Golf**

Jordan Spieth said his smoking-meat hobby mirrors his golf approach and a PGA win would give him a Grand Slam.
Betting analyst Bearman is fading Ludvig Åberg despite low odds, citing doubt about Åberg’s Sunday performance.
Handicapper Kannon avoids Jon Rahm bets outright or head-to-head because of off-course controversies and LIV distractions.
Rory McIlroy said Aronimink’s recent renovations removed tee-shot strategy, forcing players to bash the driver and improvise.

Summary

LIV Golf Crisis

LIV Golf loses Saudi funding after 2026, casting doubt on its future.
LIV players, including Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, are at Aronimink amid turmoil.
DeChambeau’s contract renewal and Rahm’s T-38 Masters finish make the PGA Championship pivotal for LIV futures.
Dustin Johnson (471st) and Martin Kaymer (1,160th) entered the field via invitations.
Elvis Smylie earned world-ranking points by winning the season opener, rising to sixth in LIV standings.

History

Historical Context

Starting May 14-17 2026, Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania will host its first PGA Championship, the first at the venue after the PGA shifted the tournament to May in 2019 to avoid Olympic and football conflicts. The event follows a history of escalating purses—from Tiger Woods’ $630,000 winner’s share in 1999—to today’s multi-million prize pool, shaping tour dynamics.

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PGA Championship Opens

The 2026 PGA Championship opens Thursday, May 14, at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania.
The 156-player field includes World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Masters champion Rory McIlroy, and Players champion Cameron Young.
The purse totals $19 million, with a $3.42 million winner’s share.
ESPN will televise rounds one and two on May 14-15.
CBS will cover the weekend rounds on May 16-17.

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