One of the highlights of the golfing calendar arrives next week in the form of the sport’s “fifth major”, the Players Championship.
Justin Thomas will be looking to defend his crown and, with nearly all of the world's top 50 taking part in this flagship event on the PGA Tour schedule, the American will have his work cut out for him. 2019 winner Rory McIlroy will be looking to add a second win to his CV in this tournament, while the top two in the world rankings, Jon Rahm and Colin Morikawa, will reignite their battle for the number one spot.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of an incredible week at the TPC Sawgrass.
Where: TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA.
How To Watch: You can catch over 60 hours of coverage from Florida on Sky Sports’ dedicated Players Championship channel - Sky Sports The Players.
When: March 7-13. Coverage begins from 11.30am on Thursday & Friday, then 12.30pm on Saturday, before switching back to 11.30am on Sunday.
The Course: One of the most famous and recognisable (and don’t forget difficult) golf courses in the world. Designed by notable golf course architects Phil and Alice Dye, TPC Sawgrass is most well-known for its par-3 17th hole island green, which has been the site of many a winning moment in Players Championship history.
Defending Champion: Justin Thomas
Prize Money: The Players Championship will boast at least a $20 million (£15.1m) purse, the most money allotted in a single stroke-play tournament. The winner will reportedly earn $3.6 million (£2.7m), up from the $2.7 million (£2m) that Justin Thomas earned for his win in this tournament last year.
Who’s Missing: Phil Mickelson, Steve Stricker, Harris English and Tiger Woods are the only qualified players who will not be at the event.
Players Championship Schedule:
Monday
Practice day for professionals.
Tuesday
Practice day for professionals.
Wednesday
Practice day for professionals.
Thursday
First round of competition begins (three-balls off of No. 1 and No.10).
Friday
Second round of competition begins (three-balls off of No. 1 and No.10).
Saturday
Third round of competition begins (two-balls off No.1).
Sunday
Final round of competition begins (two-balls off No.1).
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