The PGA Tour is currently evaluating a comprehensive revision of its event schedule, which could see the elimination of its traditional Hawaiian stops, including the Sony Open and The Sentry. The upcoming Sony Open is set to open the 2026 season following the cancellation of The Sentry due to water rights disputes impacting the Plantation Course at Kapalua. This potential restructuring reflects a broader strategy by the tour to optimize its calendar.
Several factors contribute to the potential departure of these Hawaiian tournaments. Both events are among the most expensive for the tour to host due to their remote location and associated logistical complexities, while also typically drawing smaller attendance figures compared to other venues. Furthermore, the expiring sponsorship contracts for several tour events, including the Sony Open, coincide with the new CEO Brian Rolapp and Strategic Sports Group's plans to centralize the schedule around key markets and top courses, possibly shifting the season's commencement to after the Super Bowl.
The tour's leadership, including Tiger Woods on the Future Competition Committee, is championing a vision centered on parity, scarcity, and simplicity. This new direction may involve a reduced number of events, a tiered system for competitions, and potentially integrating second-level tournaments into an expanded Korn Ferry Tour. While The Sentry and the Sony Open have been staples on the tour for decades, their future now hangs in the balance as the PGA Tour seeks to innovate and adapt its competitive landscape for a new era of professional golf.
The ongoing discussions within the PGA Tour highlight a proactive approach to enhancing the sport's appeal and operational efficiency. By thoughtfully examining its schedule and embracing strategic changes, the tour is poised to create a more engaging and impactful experience for players, fans, and sponsors alike, ensuring golf's continued growth and relevance on the global stage.