PGA Championship: What Every Golf Fan Should Know

If you love golf or just want to know why the PGA Championship matters, you’ve come to the right place. This major tournament isn’t just another week on the tour; it decides who gets to call themselves a major champion. Below, we break down the basics, look at the legends who have lifted the trophy, and give you a heads‑up on the 2024 showdown.

How the PGA Championship Works

The PGA Championship takes place every August and is run by the Professional Golfers' Association of America. Unlike the Masters, which is invitation‑only, the PGA opens its doors to a wide mix of players—tour pros, club pros, and even a few amateurs who earn a spot through qualifying events.

The format is straight‑forward: four rounds of 18 holes each, stroke play. After the first two rounds, the field is cut to the top 70 players and ties. Those who survive the cut play the final two rounds, and the lowest total score wins.

Memorable Moments and Past Winners

Since its start in 1916, the PGA Championship has produced plenty of drama. Tiger Woods holds the record with four titles, but he’s not the only name that pops up. Phil Mickelson, Jason Day, and Brooks Koepka have all won multiple times. Koepka, in particular, was dominant from 2018 to 2020, scoring three straight victories.

Every decade brings a new story. In the 2000s, the tournament moved to a tougher course setup, making birdies harder to come by. That shift helped players with power and precision shine, like Rory McIlroy, who claimed his first major at the 2012 PGA with a clutch birdie putt on the 18th hole.

Nowadays, fans tune in for the excitement of sudden‑death playoffs and the pressure of the final round on a challenging layout. Whether the champion wins by a single stroke or a comfortable margin, the PGA always delivers a nail‑biting finish.

Looking ahead to 2024, the host course is set to test every aspect of a golfer’s game—long drives, accurate iron play, and solid putting. Expect big names to clash, but also keep an eye on rising stars who could pull off a surprise upset.

So, if you’re gearing up to watch the PGA Championship, remember the format, recall the legends, and get ready for the drama that only a major can bring. Grab your popcorn, set the TV, and enjoy the match‑play‑like tension of golf’s biggest August showdown.