PGA Tour

The Top 5 Golfers to Watch This Season

Posted onAuthorThe Stiff Shaft

Every golf season brings fresh rivalries, breakout stars, and jaw-dropping performances. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a casual viewer, these are the top 5 golfers you’ll want to keep an eye on this season. We’ll revisit this list annually, linking to past editions for a historical look at the sport’s biggest names and rising stars.

1. Rory McIlroy

  • Why Watch: Consistently among the best, Rory McIlroy is a player who can light up any tournament. Known for his powerful drives and brilliant short game, he’s a fan favorite and a threat at every major.
  • Key Storyline: Will Rory finally secure his long-awaited green jacket at Augusta to complete his career Grand Slam?
  • Notable Strengths: Incredible ball-striking and adaptability to various course conditions.


2. Scottie Scheffler

  • Why Watch: Scheffler has proven himself as a dominant force, climbing to world No. 1 with incredible consistency and a work ethic that’s hard to match.
  • Key Storyline: Can he maintain his incredible form and add more majors to his resume?
  • Notable Strengths: Ice-cold demeanor under pressure and one of the best short games in the field.

3. Patrick Cantlay

  • Why Watch: One of the most consistent performers on the PGA Tour, Patrick Cantlay is known for his unflappable composure and strategic play. His precision and mental toughness make him a top contender.
  • Key Storyline: Can Cantlay turn his consistent top-10 finishes into more major victories?
  • Notable Strengths: Deadly accurate with his irons and one of the best putters in the game.

4. Viktor Hovland

  • Why Watch: Hovland’s meteoric rise has been impossible to ignore. With his clean ball-striking and unflappable attitude, he’s become a regular contender at top events.
  • Key Storyline: Will this be the year Hovland bags his first major championship?
  • Notable Strengths: Exceptional iron play and a rapidly improving short game.

5. Collin Morikawa

  • Why Watch: Already a two-time major champion, Morikawa’s precision with his irons is unmatched. When he’s on his game, he’s nearly unstoppable.
  • Key Storyline: Can he return to the top of the leaderboard and reclaim his dominance after a quiet spell?
  • Notable Strengths: Laser-like accuracy with approach shots and calmness under pressure.

Honorable Mentions

  • Jordan Spieth: A fan favorite with a knack for dramatic moments, especially at The Masters.
  • Justin Thomas: Always a contender, particularly when his putter gets hot.
  • Tom Kim: The young star continues to impress with his charisma and fearless play.

Why This List Is Evergreen

Each season, this list will be updated to reflect the current state of the game, while links to past editions will provide a historical perspective on golf’s evolving landscape.

Conclusion

These five players represent the pinnacle of golf heading into the new season. Whether it’s their consistency, star power, or potential to rewrite the history books, they are sure to make headlines. Check back each year to see who makes the cut and how the sport continues to evolve.