The PGA Tour will introduce a two-tier system in 2028 featuring promotion and relegation, a landmark change to its structure. Commissioner Brian Rolapp has likened the new format to the English Premier League, aiming to increase competitive drama and simplify the tour for fans.
The new model establishes two distinct leagues. The top tier, the PGA Tour Championship Series, will consist of approximately 120 of the world’s best players competing across 23-24 events for prize funds of at least $20 million. The bottom players in the standings at season’s end will be relegated to the Challenger Series. That second tier will feature 20 events with 144-player fields, from which at least 20 golfers will earn promotion to the top series for the following season.
Rolapp explained the changes are designed to create meaningful consequences throughout the season, not just for those competing for the title. “I think down the stretch into that season finale, there will be a lot of storylines showcasing not just the top guys, but a lot of our players and that will culminate into an amazing event in and of itself, which is the Tour Championship with match play.” The goal is to make the tour more compelling and easier to follow.
The commissioner believes the new structure will elevate the entire season. “By creating the Championship Series where the best 120 golfers are going to play together more often and crowning a regular-season winner, before then moving into match play in the postseason at an iconic course, I think that is just going to raise the excitement.”
Leading players have endorsed the move. Four-time major winner Scottie Scheffler highlighted the benefits for spectators. “I think what people want is to get the best players playing together more often. I’m not sure if the smaller fields were a huge fan favourite, so getting fields back to 120-man fields, getting a cut back, I think it’s a good change.”
Tommy Fleetwood focused on the competitive integrity of the system, stating that it correctly rewards performance. “So I don’t know which tournaments fit in where exactly, but I think it will be cool. I think it’s just that competitive aspect. I think the great thing is, wherever you sit in the game or whoever you’re playing, if you play how you want to play, you will end up where you want to be.”
