The BMW PGA Championship stands as one of the premier stops on the DP World Tour, a tournament steeped in history dating back to its inaugural edition in 1955. It is often confused with the BMW Championship that caps the FedExCup Playoffs on the PGA Tour, but the two events are distinct: the BMW PGA Championship is held each September at the storied Wentworth Club in Surrey, England, while the BMW Championship takes place in the United States as part of the American tour’s season‑ending series. Wentworth Club, the permanent host venue, has a legacy that stretches back to its opening in 1922.
Over the decades the course has welcomed some of golf’s most memorable moments, including the 1953 Ryder Cup and the 1980 AIG Women’s Open. Its immaculate fairways, strategic bunkering, and challenging greens make it a true test for the world’s best players, and the setting provides a fitting backdrop for a Rolex Series event that offers both prestige and a substantial financial reward.
The defending champion this year is Alex Noren, who captured the title after a dramatic playoff victory over Adrien Saddier in the previous edition. Noren will be looking to repeat his success as the field assembles, featuring a blend of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and a handful of LIV Golf participants who have recently re‑joined the DP World Tour schedule. Among the marquee names is two‑time Masters champion Rory McIlroy, currently ranked world number two.
McIlroy, who last won the BMW PGA Championship in 2014, returns to Wentworth after a modest tied‑41st finish at the Amgen Irish Open. Despite the dip in his leaderboard position, he expressed optimism about specific aspects of his game, noting that the experience gained over the past weeks will help him regain his top‑form swing.
McIlroy’s presence adds a compelling narrative, especially given his recent comments about the long road ahead to restore his swing to its peak condition. Another headline contender is Patrick Reed, who left LIV Golf earlier in the year and has since thrived on the DP World Tour. The 2018 Masters winner currently leads the Race to Dubai Rankings, buoyed by a strong tied‑second finish at the Irish Open. Reed’s resurgence highlights his adaptability and determination to compete at the highest level after his transition back to the European circuit.
Shane Lowry, the 2022 BMW PGA champion, also arrives with confidence. After posting a spectacular seven‑under‑63 to claim an 11‑stroke victory at the Irish Open, Lowry aims to add another trophy to his résumé at Wentworth.
His recent form suggests he is in the right mindset to contend. Englishmen Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose round out the home‑grown talent expected to make an impact. Fleetwood has logged four top‑five finishes on the PGA Tour this season, including a tied‑fourth at The Open at Royal Birkdale, while Rose has enjoyed a fruitful campaign highlighted by a win at the Farmers Insurance Open and a tied‑third at The Masters. Both players possess the experience and skill set required to navigate Wentworth’s demanding layout.
The field also includes several LIV Golf players, most notably Jon Rahm, who secured his third consecutive LIV Golf Individual Championship in August and finished tied for second at the PGA Championship in May. His teammate from the Legion XIII squad, Tyrrell Hatton, is another notable entrant; Hatton has posted solid major performances, tying for third at The Masters and seventh at the US Open, though he missed the cut at the Irish Open. Financially, the tournament offers a prize purse of £6.6 million (approximately $9 million), with the winner slated to receive £1.13 million (about $1.53 million) based on last year’s payout structure.
As a Rolex Series event, the championship also awards 8,000 Race to Dubai points, making it a crucial opportunity for players chasing the season‑ending title. In addition to the main competition, Wentworth hosts a high‑profile Celebrity Pro‑Am on the Wednesday preceding the tournament. This event brings together athletes and entertainers, with former Chelsea stars John Terry and Eden Hazard, as well as ex‑Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler, confirmed to take part.
Each professional is paired with a group of amateurs, creating a festive atmosphere that showcases the sport’s broader appeal. Broadcast coverage will be extensive, with Sky Sports Golf providing live transmission of all four tournament days. The first and second rounds will air on Thursday, September 17, and Friday, September 18, beginning at 7:30 am, while the third round will be shown from 9:00 am on Saturday, September 19.
The final round will kick off at 8:30 am on Sunday, September 20. Viewers without a Sky subscription can explore the latest Sky Sports deals or stream the action via NOW without a contract. Overall, the BMW PGA Championship promises a blend of historic prestige, competitive depth, and substantial rewards.
Whether it is McIlroy seeking redemption, Reed aiming to cement his return, or a LIV Golf star looking to prove themselves against the European elite, the tournament offers plenty of storylines for golf fans worldwide. The combination of world‑class talent, a revered venue, and significant prize money ensures that the event will be a highlight of the DP World Tour calendar and a must‑watch for anyone following professional golf.