AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Launches with New Format
News Summary
The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has kicked off its 80th anniversary with a revamped format, featuring 80 golfers and no cut. The tournament, set at Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill, showcases a mix of top professionals and celebrities, promising thrilling golf action and a total purse of $20 million, with the winner taking home $3.6 million.
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Kicks Off with Star-Studded Field and New Format Changes
The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is officially underway, bringing together an exciting mix of professionals and amateurs for a thrilling showcase of golf. As the first Signature Event of the PGA TOUR season, this tournament marks its 80th anniversary this year, transitioning from a fun celebrity outing to a serious competition that draws the best in the game.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, players are eager to conquer the iconic layouts. Notably, the Pro-Am features some changes to the tournament format, making this year unique. With a field size of 80 golfers and no cut, the excitement extends through all participants without the pressure of eliminating players midway through.
Format Changes and Challenges
The new format means players will now rotate only between Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill for the first two rounds, instead of the traditional three-course rotation. Following the initial 36 holes, the excitement culminates in the last two rounds being held exclusively at Pebble Beach. For those unfamiliar, Pebble Beach is a par 72 course measuring 6,989 yards, while Spyglass Hill is just a touch longer at 7,071 yards and also a par 72.
Notably, Pebble Beach poses a formidable challenge for players. With eight of its 18 holes playing over par, only the most skilled golfers are likely to excel. The average green size is relatively small at around 3,500 square feet, adding another layer of complexity to each shot. Historical data shows that the greens here have an average green-in-regulation (GIR) rate of 75.3%, which is significantly lower than the tour average by nearly seven percent, emphasizing the need for precise short game skills.
Stars Align for the Event
This year’s star-studded lineup includes every member of the current top 10 players in the world, ensuring that the competition is nothing short of electrifying. Among the top contenders is Matt Fitzpatrick, whose elite play around the greens and impressive driving accuracy position him well for a strong showing. He’ll have to outplay others like Keegan Bradley, Stephan Jaeger, and Justin Rose, who have shown exceptional skill, particularly in strokes gained around the green.
Rose notably comes into the tournament with momentum after a strong performance at the Farmers Insurance Open, alongside a history of favorable showings at Pebble Beach.
Celebrities and Amateurs Join the Fray
The tournament isn’t just about the pros; it also features 80 amateurs, including a mix of celebrities, adding to the allure. The inclusion of NFL star Travis Kelce has stirred up significant buzz, translating into $60,000 in ticket sales shortly after his participation became public knowledge.
Big Purses and Future Potential
The Pro-Am boasts an impressive total purse of $20 million, with the winner set to take home a handsome $3.6 million. Such lucrative incentives further ramp up the tension and competitiveness throughout the event. As tournament officials look ahead, there’s a willingness to explore potential changes in scheduling for PGA Tour events in the future, hinting at an evolving landscape for professional golf.
As the players take on the challenges of Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill, one thing is clear: precision in the short game and wedge play will be critical factors for success this weekend. Golf fans are in for a treat as they tune in to watch this fantastic mix of talent, competition, and star power unfold.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Mimi Rhodes Leads the PIF Saudi Ladies International
Mimi Rhodes Leads at PIF Saudi Ladies International
Rory McIlroy to Defend Title at 2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am
Mimi Rhodes Tops Leaderboard at PIF Saudi Ladies International
Chris Gotterup Emerges with 8-Under Round at Pebble Beach Pro-Am
2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Features Elite Golfers and Celebrities
2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Begins This Week
2026 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am to Feature Celebrities and Professionals
Elvis Smylie Wins LIV Golf 2026 Season Opener
Chris Gotterup Rises to Prominence on the PGA Tour