The PGA Championship Is Back at Quail Hollow — and So Are the Icons
Golf fans, get ready! The PGA Championship is back and hotter than ever. The 2025 championship is taking place at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, bringing together the legends, which means all the drama is coming along, too.
The ISH Moments We're Watching For:
Rory chasing golf history, and his Dad of the Year title with Poppy watching
Who survives The Green Mile? (aka golf’s final boss level)
A stacked leaderboard, wild swings, and maybe a playoff finish
Player fits, press conference shade, and players’ significant others
Rory McIlroy: Chasing After Major No. 6
Picture credit: Richard Heathcote / Getty Images
Just a few months ago, Rory McIlroy’s Grand Slam dream looked like it would stay just that– a dream. Today, following his triumphant victory at the 2025 Masters that seemed like the end of a movie, McIlroy will return for his 17th PGA Championship, where he is not just a contender, but the headline act. His win at the Masters tournament in Augusta was a showcase of years of “almosts” that finally paid off.
With one green jacket and four PGA Tour victories, Rory heads to Quail Hollow, where he sets his sights on a calendar year Grand Slam. When asked at a press conference if he sees himself as a scary prospect in the tournament, Rory answered, “All I can do is go out there and try to play the golf that I know that I’m capable of.”
Xander Schauffele: The Defending Champ
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Rory McIlroy isn’t the only big name headed to Quail Hollow. Last year's champion, Xander Schauffele, returns to defend the title with confidence and determination.
“I am very satisfied. I’m tired. Once I sat down in scoring, I felt a little bit more tired. But just a whirlwind of emotions,” said Schauffele after taking home the cake in Louisville, Kentucky, last year. ”
Schauffele’s ability to work well under pressure and his consistent performances make him a strong candidate to come back and win the tournament again. He’s got the steady hand built for high-stakes golf, and he’ll need every bit of it to take on the beast that is Quail Hollow.
Quail Hollow Club: Lights, Camera, Action
Picture Credit: Keyur Khamar/PGA TOUR via Getty Images
Quail Hollow Golf Course is gorgeous, but don't be deceived. It is the ultimate test of strategy, skill, and mental strength for these players. With over 7,600 yards and that infamous “Green Mile” stretch (holes 16, 17, and 18), this course isn’t here to play nice. The 16th brings a brutal approach to a tucked-away green, the 17th is all nerves with a long par-3 over water, and the 18th? Just a casual 494-yard uphill heartbreaker. Basically, she’s got looks and a bite.
Anyone hoping to lift the trophy will have to survive her sting. Who’s got what it takes?
The Field: A Stacked Lineup
Picture Credit: Imago
The contenders are coming in hot this year! The field will be loaded with tremendous talent, including renowned legends and fast-rising stars. Currently ranked No. 1 in the world, Scottie Scheffler will lead after another impressive win with no signs of slowing down. Recent LIV Golf Winner Bryson DeChambeau and two-time PGA Champion Justin Thomas are other big names that will bring the heat to this year's tournament.
The atmosphere at Quail Hollow is intense, and the talented field of players will certainly elevate the excitement of the game, making this tournament a must-watch for fans worldwide.