The BMW PGA Championship returns to Wentworth this week, offering fans a glimpse of one of the DP World Tour's premier events. First staged in 1955, the tournament has become a cornerstone of the European golf calendar, distinct from the PGA Tour’s BMW Championship that concludes the FedExCup playoffs.
Every September, the historic Wentworth Club in Surrey hosts the competition, drawing a mix of seasoned champions, rising stars, and even a few celebrity participants. Defending champion Alex Noren will try to repeat his success after edging Adrien Saddier in a dramatic playoff last year. Wentworth itself boasts a rich pedigree: opened in 1922, it has welcomed the 1953 Ryder Cup, the 1980 AIG Women’s Open, and countless other high‑profile tournaments. Its immaculate fairways and challenging bunkers provide a stern test for anyone daring enough to line up a tee shot.
Among the marquee names slated to tee off is two‑time Masters winner Rory McIlroy. The world number two, who captured the BMW PGA title in 2014, is back at Wentworth hoping to improve on a modest tied‑41st finish at the Amgen Irish Open. Although his recent round saw him drop down the leaderboard, McIlroy expressed optimism, noting that several aspects of his swing and short‑game feel "encouraging" as he heads into the event.
Patrick Reed, who left LIV Golf earlier this year, is also in the mix. The 2018 Masters champion currently leads the Race to Dubai rankings after a strong tied‑second at the Irish Open.
His recent form suggests he could be a serious contender for the title and for the valuable Rolex Series points on offer. Shane Lowry, the 2022 BMW PGA champion, entered the week fresh off a spectacular seven‑under‑63 round that secured an 11‑shot victory at the Irish Open. His confidence will be high, and he will be looking to add another prestigious trophy to his résumé.
English hopefuls Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose round out the British contingent. Fleetwood has posted four top‑five finishes on the PGA Tour this season, including a tied‑fourth at The Open at Royal Birkdale. Rose, meanwhile, has enjoyed a solid year highlighted by a win at the Farmers Insurance Open and a tied‑third at The Masters, indicating he can still compete at the highest level. The field also includes several LIV Golf representatives.
Spain’s Jon Rahm, who secured his third consecutive LIV Golf Individual Championship in August and finished tied for second at the PGA Championship in May, will be looking to translate that form onto the European stage. His teammate from Legion XIII, Tyrrell Hatton, arrives after a mixed recent run – a tied‑third at The Masters and a tied‑seventh at the U.S. Open, but a missed cut at the Irish Open – yet his experience at Wentworth could prove decisive.
Financially, the tournament offers a £6.6 million ($9 million) purse, with last year’s champion Noren taking home £1.13 million ($1.53 million). As a Rolex Series event, the BMW PGA Championship also awards 8,000 Race to Dubai points, making it a crucial stop for players chasing the season‑ending bonus.
Beyond the competition, Wentworth will host its annual celebrity Pro‑Am on Wednesday, the day before the main tournament begins. The star‑studded lineup includes former Chelsea icons John Terry and Eden Hazard, as well as ex‑Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler, each paired with a professional to form a team of amateurs and pros.
This charitable showcase adds a festive atmosphere and draws additional media attention. Broadcast coverage will be extensive.
Sky Sports Golf and Sky Sports Main Event will air the first two rounds live from Thursday, 17 September, at 7:30 am, continuing with the third round on Saturday, 19 September, from 9:00 am, and the final round on Sunday, 20 September, beginning at 8:30 am. Viewers without a Sky subscription can explore the latest Sky Sports deals or stream via NOW with no contract required. In summary, the BMW PGA Championship promises a compelling blend of elite golf, substantial prize money, and high‑stakes ranking points.
With McIlroy aiming to climb the Race to Dubai leaderboard, Reed defending his top spot, and a host of other top‑ranked players vying for glory, the tournament is set to deliver drama, spectacular shots, and perhaps a few surprise performances. Whether you are a die‑hard fan or a casual viewer, the week at Wentworth offers a rich tapestry of competition, celebrity flair, and the chance to witness some of the sport’s biggest names in action.