Max Homa
Changes , They ’ re a Comin ’
USGA
FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A DECADE , THE PGA TOUR SCHEDULE IS UNDERGOING A DRASTIC CHANGE . In 2013 , the Tour introduced the wraparound schedule that folded traditional fall events into the full schedule , meaning those fall events were included in the FedExCup standings . It was a positive move for some fall events , which saw better players than they had in the past . But players also felt pressured to keep a nearly year-long schedule to keep up in the race for the FedExCup .
If the introduction of rival LIV Golf did anything , it opened eyes in PGA Tour headquarters — players showed an interest in at least something that resembled a true offseason with time to unwind and spend time with family . The new schedule helps accomplish some of those goals .
THE HIGHLIGHTS :
• Only 70 players will qualify for the first of three playoff events , down from the previous number of 125 . The top 50 will advance to the second event , with the top 30 moving on to the season-ending Tour Championship .
• Six invitationals will see significant purse increases .
• This is the final year of the wraparound schedule , which began in fall 2022 . The Tour will transition to a true calendar year schedule in 2024 . Look for more information later this year on how the fall calendar will come together .
• All three FedExCup playoff events will be carried by CBS . NBC previously broadcasted the Tour Championship .
vsga . org J ANUARY / F EBRUARY 2023 | V IRGINIA G OLFER 29